Lancia Dedra I (835) gallery (1989–2000)
Compact executive sedan and station wagon designed as a luxurious and aerodynamic successor to the Prisma.
The Lancia Dedra (Type 835) was unveiled in 1989 as a compact executive car designed to replace the Prisma. It was engineered on the flexible Fiat Tipo 3 platform, featuring a transverse front-engine layout and fully independent suspension. Styled by the I.DE.A Institute under the direction of Ercole Spada, the Dedra stood out with clean, sophisticated lines and an impressive aerodynamic drag coefficient of just 0.29. The lineup originally consisted of a classic four-door notchback saloon, complemented in 1994 by the spacious Dedra Station Wagon. The engine range encompassed naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol units from 1.6 to 2.0 litres, a spirited 2.0-litre Turbo, the high-performance all-wheel-drive Integrale variant with an epicyclic center differential, and a reliable 1.9-litre turbodiesel. Transmissions included a five-speed manual gearbox and an optional four-speed automatic. The passenger cabin delivered true Italian luxury, offering real rosewood inserts, Alcantara upholstery, automatic climate control, and an innovative Optoelectronic digital dashboard. The vehicle underwent two major revisions throughout its lifespan: the 1994 update enhanced side-impact structural rigidity and modernized powertrains, while the 1998 facelift introduced tinted front light clusters, modified bumpers, and new Torque engines. Sold widely across European markets, the Dedra enjoyed strong commercial success before being succeeded by the Lancia Lybra in 2000.
