Lancia Releases First Thema Interior Shots

Lancia is sure taking its sweet time in revealing the new Chrysler 300-based Thema as there is still only one image showing the exterior of the car available. This is not exactly a problem, as we can just look at the 300 and imagine it had Lancia badges on it, but there should be a lot more, considering it is a flagship model.

However, the manufacturer has taken the time to release a set of interior shots of their American-sourced flagship sedan. Most of the details are pretty much the same as its twin, but the Italians have chosen a brighter combination of leather and wood trim to give a more European feel.

The two models share the blue instrument panel lighting and the analogue clock as well. Yet, the Thema’s images (which we don’t think are of the highest quality possible) show a more refined trim level.

On sale from October 2011 in all European dealerships, Lancia Thema will be available in two trim levels - Gold and Platinum - and three engine versions: the 292 hp 3.6-liter V6 petrol with 8-speed automatic gearbox and the 190 hp or 224 hp 3.0-liter V6 diesel engines, both with 5-speed automatic gearbox.

Fitted as standard on the new flagship is a large 8.4 inch touchscreen with easy-to-use controls that and allows users to connect and manage their peripheral devices (mobile phones or MP3 players). Furthermore, on the Platinum trim level, Lancia Thema offers the exclusive Garmin satellite navigation system as standard, which includes TMC Premium services, plus an audio system with 9 speakers and subwoofer for a total of 506W amplification.

The Thema also offers dual-zone climate control and numerous active and passive safety features, including the electronic stability system (ESC) fitted as standard with the exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support devices.