Check out the new Kimera Automobili EVO38

Kimera's 37 has already stunned the world - now it's getting all-wheel drive

It’s an irresistible question: ‘What would have happened if the lineage of the most iconic and successful sports cars built in Turin, from 1978 to 1992, had not been interrupted?’ That’s the one posed by Kimera Automobili about Lancia, essentially pondering what might have happened had the mid-engined, rear-drive rally cars been evolved, rather than having been replaced by the Delta. Now we have an answer.

This is the Kimera Automobili EVO 38, a development of the stunning 37 that - you’ve guessed it - introduces four-wheel drive. But this being Kimera, of course, it won't be any old 4WD system; the 38 will use a 'sophisticated system of repartition control' with an electro-hydraulic diff lock, just like a WRC from the 2000s. It means the Kimera can have its differentials adjusted on the fly, in the car, tweaking the torque split exactly as required. The front diff can be eliminated from the equation, too, for the rear-wheel drive experience back. Albeit with 600hp - yep, more traction means you must have more power, right? As well as a larger turbo than the 37 (which still works in conjunction with the supercharger), the latest Kimera benefits from new cams and valves, plus variable valve timing. So the claimed outputs are 600hp at 7,000-7,500rpm and 427lb ft. With a kerbweight kept around 1,100kg, the additional drivetrain mass offset by more carbon and titanium in the construction. And a six-speed manual with an even shorter final drive than the 37. It's going to be sensationally rapid. Those who want the full rally car feel will be able to get a sequential.

Kimera fully intends for the EVO38 to be used in the rough stuff - because every green lane has a Huracan Sterrato on it these days - which is part of the reason for the shorter ratios. the car is intended to 'find its ideal territory of use on drive mixed roads rather than fast circuits'. Additionally, there's adjustable ride height on offer for when things get really serious; track, rough tracks and 'white roads' are available alongside the normal road ride height. It'd take a brave soul to get down and dirty in a car worth so much money, but it'll be nice to know the capability is there.

That the 38 looks similar to what came before will be a deliberate move; as later Deltas spawned more advanced variants yet remained recognisable (just) as Lancia’s five-door hatch, so the new Kimera is clearly one of its jaw-dropping restomods. It’s a bit more serious - with bigger intakes, deeper vents and chunkier arches - yet still familiar. An exhaust pipe between the lights is a new touch, too. And looks brilliant. In Kimera speak, this is 'more contemporary and provides a characterful presence, with more decisive and defined lines'. Can say that again.

Having information on the EVO38 is nice, of course, because we can all dream, though presumably Kimera can let the pics do a lot of the talking to help shift the available 38 build slots. We’re told to expect improved cabin ergonomics as well as better weight distribution to go with even more power from the Lampredi four-cylinder. Still, if you’re going to call a car Ultima Evoluzione - and resurrect 'Integrale' on something sort of Lancia shaped - then it’s going to have to be pretty special.

Kimera suggests that this EVO38 is part of a ‘noble dynasty’, a car that is ‘the definitive descendent of a great lineage of cars designed for racing and put on the roads’. Which is quite some claim given the Lancias it has followed, but unlikely to be very far from the truth given how the 37 was received. It'll be shown in public at the Geneva show, where it's promising a 'truly unique stand' with some of the icons that have inspired the 38. Don't be surprised if all the cars are spoken for very soon after.