Legendary Lancia Stratos could make a comeback

The new Lancia Delta has just entered production but the stylish hatchback is just the first of a handful of new upmarket models planned for the Italian brand. Already confirmed for production is a new MPV and minicar, but Fiat Group bosses are also considering adding a smaller hatchback based around the Delta, a flagship convertible and according to latest reports a new-generation Stratos sports coupe.

Lancia is seeking to boost its image and establish itself as Fiat’s new premium division, and in an interview with Autocar the carmaker’s CEO, Olivier Francois, told reporters that “a sports car is a great way to do this.” Francois wasn’t willing to give specifics about the new car but hinted that cars like the previous Beta Montecarlo and Stratos are a good source of inspiration, and that an official concept will be shown at next year’s Geneva Motor Show in March.

Pictured above is the Fenomenon Stratos concept, a design study created by British firms Fenomenon and Prodrive as a modern interpretation of the legendary mid-engine sports car. The concept was rolled out back at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show and was scheduled to go intro limited production next year but investors have since backed away from the project.