The Lancia Thema (LX) 3.0 V6 Multijet II, produced from 2011 to 2014, represented a revival of the iconic Thema nameplate. This iteration, built on the Chrysler 300 platform following Fiat’s acquisition of Chrysler, aimed to re-establish Lancia as a premium brand, particularly in European markets. The LX trim, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine paired with a 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, occupied the upper echelon of the Thema lineup, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and technology. It was positioned as a flagship sedan, competing with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though sales remained relatively modest.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lancia |
| Model | Thema |
| Generation | Thema (LX) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 Multijet II (190 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.5-9.6 l/100 km (24.8 – 24.5 US mpg, 29.7 – 29.4 UK mpg, 10.5 – 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg, 49.6 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.1-7.2 l/100 km (33.1 – 32.7 US mpg, 39.8 – 39.2 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 185-191 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VM A630 |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1938 kg (4272.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2472 kg (5449.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 534 kg (1177.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 463 l (16.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1996 kg (4400.43 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5066 mm (199.45 in.) |
| Width | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Height | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3052 mm (120.16 in.) |
| Front track | 1623 mm (63.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 320×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 245/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Thema LX was the VM A630 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine. This engine, developed by VM Motori (later acquired by Fiat), featured common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, allowed for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion, contributing to both power and efficiency. The engine’s DOHC valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhanced its breathing and performance. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by ZF, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. While not the most modern transmission by 2011 standards, it was well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics, providing comfortable and refined shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 horsepower and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 3.0 V6 Multijet II provided the Thema LX with respectable performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 9.3 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission options available in other Thema variants. However, the engine’s abundant low-end torque made it well-suited for relaxed highway cruising and effortless overtaking. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced feel, although it didn’t offer the all-weather capability of all-wheel-drive systems found in some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Thema LX trim came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium audio system, and automatic climate control. Standard safety equipment included ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and parking sensors. The LX trim distinguished itself with higher-quality materials and a more refined interior ambiance compared to lower-spec Thema models.
Chassis & Braking
The Thema LX utilized an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. The LX trim typically featured larger diameter wheels and tires compared to base models, further enhancing grip and stability. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lancia Thema LX, while well-equipped and offering a unique blend of Italian style and American engineering, faced an uphill battle in the competitive luxury sedan segment. Critics generally praised the engine’s refinement and fuel economy (around 33 mpg combined), but noted that the car lacked the brand cachet of established German rivals. Compared to the lower-powered 1.8-liter petrol versions of the Thema, the 3.0 V6 Multijet II offered significantly more performance and a more luxurious driving experience. However, it also came with a higher price tag and slightly increased running costs.
Legacy
The Lancia Thema LX, despite its limited production run, represents an interesting chapter in Lancia’s history. The 3.0 V6 Multijet II engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and well-maintained examples continue to be sought after by enthusiasts. In the used car market, the Thema LX offers a relatively affordable entry point into the luxury sedan segment, providing a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle with a distinctive character. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with a European car built on an American platform.
