Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge

**nadepalma** · 08-08-2005, 09:16 PM

Source: http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=102900

Future Products: Chrysler group -- The plan beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive cars begins to emerge

MARY CONNELLY | Automotive News and RICK KRANZ | Automotive News
Posted Date: 8/8/05

The Chrysler group is on a roll.

So, can the company that successfully predicted America's desire for Hemi engines and rear-drive cars hit another home run?

This time the innovation is car-based Jeeps. While that may sound like an oxymoron, the automaker will introduce two car-based Jeeps in 2006. The plan is part of the Chrysler group's strategy to add derivatives to its lineup and expand into new segments quickly.

For example, the Chrysler brand receives a Dodge-based SUV, and the Dodge brand adds a Jeep-based SUV. In addition, Jeep may re-enter the pickup segment, and Dodge is eyeing a minivehicle.

Meanwhile, the Chrysler group's small and mid-range vehicles, such as the Dodge Neon and Chrysler Sebring, will be replaced starting next year. The new vehicles will be engineered on a flexible front-wheel-drive platform Chrysler developed with Mitsubishi Motors Corp. Also, as each vehicle is redesigned or replaced, it will be engineered for right-hand drive.

Here are highlights of the Chrysler group's vehicle plans for the 2006 to 2009 model years, as gathered from company and industry sources.

Click on Link above to see Product Chart

CHRYSLER, DODGE CARS

Sub-Caliber model

The Chrysler group continues to study whether, when and how Dodge could offer a small entry-level vehicle priced below the Caliber, its replacement for the Neon. The sourcing of such a minivehicle is unclear, but the company insists that China is not a possible production site. The low-cost entry is unlikely before the 2009 model year.

The Chrysler group is expanding globally, and a low-cost entry would be sold beyond North America. That strategy makes investment in a small vehicle more appealing.

One thing to consider: If the Chrysler group wants corporate average fuel economy credits that can balance its full-sized car fleet, which is heavy on Hemi engines, a North American production site would be necessary.

Dodge Caliber

Small sedans are dead, Chrysler group executives believe. So when the Neon is jettisoned late this year, the replacement will come with five doors, a highly versatile interior and a new name: Caliber.

The car will be a dead ringer for the Caliber concept that debuted at the Geneva auto show in March. It will be assembled in Belvidere, Ill., and hit dealerships next spring as a 2007 model.

Chrysler group executives will resist using the name "hatchback" or "station wagon" in ads. Why? Rather than trying to explain what the vehicle is, a strategy blamed for the disappointing launch of the Chrysler Pacifica two years ago, the company will stress styling and utility to set the Caliber apart from competitors.

The 2007 Caliber will be the first of several compact and mid-range vehicles developed on a new flexible vehicle platform. The Chrysler group developed this platform with Mitsubishi. The redesigned Chrysler PT Cruiser and larger Sebring will share this platform.

Vehicles developed on this platform will share a new family of four-cylinder engines developed with Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi.

Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Stratus

The next-generation of vehicles begins arriving in the fall of 2006 with the introduction of the redesigned 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan.

Styling of the new Sebring differs significantly from that of the Chrysler 300 sedan, an insider says. The Sebring styling was frozen a year ago, before the market's overwhelming acceptance of the 300. The redesigned Sebring convertible debuts in the spring of 2007 as a 2008 model.

But while the Sebring name is retained, Dodge is expected to drop the Stratus badge when it replaces the sedan in the spring of 2007, also as a 2008 model. No coupes are planned for Chrysler or Dodge.

The redesigned vehicles will offer four- and six-cylinder engines.

The Chrysler group's Sterling Heights, Mich., assembly plant will build the Sebrings and the Stratus replacement. For the first time, Chrysler will be able to shift production of its compact and mid-range vehicles between the Sterling Heights and Belvidere plants, responding to demand.

The Sterling Heights plant will be equipped to assemble up to five models.

The Chrysler group will build the Sebring and the replacement for the Stratus. Past-generation Sebring and Stratus coupes were assembled by Mitsubishi in Normal, Ill.

Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger

With the June launch of the 2006 Dodge Charger, the Chrysler group's full-sized car line is complete. So for the next several years, the automaker will only tweak the Charger, Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300.

For example, shortly after the launch of the 2006 models, the company will upgrade the standard automatic transmission on some models. A five-speed automatic transmission will replace the four-speed automatic in Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum models equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6. Models with the 2.7-liter V-6 will continue to have a four-speed.

The Chrysler group will expand its performance line this fall with the 2006 Charger SRT-8, equipped with a 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 producing 420 pounds-feet of torque. Also this fall, two police vehicles will begin production: the 2006 Charger with the high-speed pursuit package, and the Magnum, available as a support vehicle.

The 300, Magnum and Charger will be restyled and re-engineered for the 2010 model year.

Chrysler 300 convertible

Do convertible enthusiasts want four doors? The Chrysler group thinks so.

Chrysler's marketing and engineering groups are studying the Helios convertible concept created by ASC Inc. in Southgate, Mich. The Helios is a rarity - a four-door convertible. The vehicle, which is based on a modified 300C sedan, was shown at the 2005 Detroit auto show.

If the green light is given, the car likely would go into production late in 2006 or early 2007 as a 2007 model.

Dodge's Mustang fighter

Chrysler group executives can't ignore the success of the 2005 Ford Mustang.

They are considering developing a rwd coupe based on a shortened version of the LX platform. That platform is shared by the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Charger. It is scheduled to be re-engineered in 2009 for the 2010 model year.

The Chrysler group plans a concept showing the styling direction for such a car, an insider says. The concept may be called Challenger, resurrecting a respected name from the pony-car era. Earlier this year, Dodge trademarked the name Challenger. The 1970-74 Dodge Challenger competed against the Mustang.

A Chrysler group insider says a production version of the vehicle is not in the product plan through at least 2010. But other sources say Chrysler management urgently wants a Mustang-fighter, debuting around the 2010 model year, maybe sooner.

One major issue is where it could be assembled. The sole LX plant is filled with 300, Magnum and Charger production.

If the concept is a hit at auto shows, expect the Chrysler group to revisit its product plan quickly.

Rest of the Article here: http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=102900

DuSpinnst · 08-08-2005, 09:45 PM

The Magnum cop cars are already on the road in Auburn Hills MI (Home of DCX NA HQ and TC). As soon as they have production Chargers, I am sure they will be here as well. Finally Auburn Hills can replace the old Intrepid cop cars....

asim · 08-09-2005, 12:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DuSpinnst

The Magnum cop cars are already on the road in Auburn Hills MI (Home of DCX NA HQ and TC). As soon as they have production Chargers, I am sure they will be here as well. Finally Auburn Hills can replace the old Intrepid cop cars....

Awesome. Chargers are already on the street. Houston never had Intrepid cop cars or any DCX cop car in Modern times. After the Caprice went out we have the Crown Vic. I used to see the old gen Tahoes for Houston, but now i mostly see the old gen expedition. Maybe we'll get some dodge's, maybe.

GM_Fanatic · 08-09-2005, 12:48 AM

exciting stuff happening at DCX!

surferdude00711 · 08-09-2005, 01:03 AM

I can't wait! Hummer PR and advertising will have a field day with these new CROSSOVER Jeeps. Honestly, I'd just let Chrysler and Dodge havem all, rather than dilute Jeep. Or even bring back a dead brand? Plymouth? I think there are more...
De Soto
Hudson
Imperial
Nash
and Plymouth are all the dead DCX brands.

Boost · 08-09-2005, 01:12 AM

Huh, no Dodge Razor.....just wait till GM doubles kappa production because of demand.

boblutzfan · 08-09-2005, 07:52 AM

The next big thing to come out of DCX will be their minivans. I am also predicting a LWB LX sedan for Chrysler. It is an exciting time to sell Chrysler Vehicles.

Whirling_Dervish · 08-09-2005, 08:56 AM

The Hemi has been a real boon to Chrysler. Now they are going to steal the cop market from GM and Ford.

The upcoming Mopars look pretty interesting. The Magnum and 300 are great! The 300C is a fantastic drive. It feels very planted and surefooted with great power. I would have liked the new Impala to have gone bback to RWD to challenge it.

yukonho · 08-09-2005, 09:15 AM

This past Sunday at the Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance, Chrysler had the 300C convertible out front on display. Maybe that's a good sign this may become reality.

pkd87 · 08-09-2005, 09:34 AM

Chrysler I think has the most stylish and exciting vehicles out of the big Three.

jlt0x · 08-09-2005, 10:15 AM

Where are the AWD LX cars?

I like the 300, Magnum, and Charger. But I do want to drive an LX car in AWD form. DCX hasn't mentioned AWD for the LX cars in a while. Has there been problems?

boblutzfan · 08-09-2005, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jlt0x

Where are the AWD LX cars?

I like the 300, Magnum, and Charger. But I do want to drive an LX car in AWD form. DCX hasn't mentioned AWD for the LX cars in a while. Has there been problems?

No, infact they have been featured in a couple of car mags in the last few months. They are out and currently available. I would suspect that they will get more press as winter draws closer. Right now they are gearing up production of the AWD models while trying to meet the current demand for RWD. As October/November approaches the AWD models will gain more media attention.

Buick61 · 08-09-2005, 10:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jlt0x

Where are the AWD LX cars?

I like the 300, Magnum, and Charger. But I do want to drive an LX car in AWD form. DCX hasn't mentioned AWD for the LX cars in a while. Has there been problems?

Yes, there have been problems.

They went into production in November of last year, but production stopped sometime around the model year change over. Just recently, V6 LXs w/AWD began to trickle out of the factory. Hemi AWD LXs will follow by September. There was an engineering issue, so supply has been nil for the past 3 or 4 months.

KingElvis · 08-09-2005, 12:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by surferdude00711

I can't wait! Hummer PR and advertising will have a field day with these new CROSSOVER Jeeps. Honestly, I'd just let Chrysler and Dodge havem all, rather than dilute Jeep. Or even bring back a dead brand? Plymouth? I think there are more...
De Soto
Hudson
Imperial
Nash
and Plymouth are all the dead DCX brands.

When Hudson and Nash were around, they had nothing to do with Chrysler. It wasn't until 1988 that Chrysler bought AMC. AMC was formed in the 1950s out of Hudson and Nash. Studebaker and Packard were originally going to join in but the balked at the deal, and died quickly, while AMC lasted another 30 years.

Yes Jeep and even "Eagle" are Chrylser names. Hudson?....not so much. It's rewriting history, like saying Richard Petty won the "Nextel Cup."

Whirling_Dervish · 08-09-2005, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boblutzfan

No, infact they have been featured in a couple of car mags in the last few months. They are out and currently available. I would suspect that they will get more press as winter draws closer. Right now they are gearing up production of the AWD models while trying to meet the current demand for RWD. As October/November approaches the AWD models will gain more media attention.

I thought Magnums already offered AWD....

08-08-2005, 09:16 PM	#1 (permalink)
nadepalma GMI Staff Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: NJ Posts: 5,579	Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge Source: http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=102900 Future Products: Chrysler group -- The plan beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive cars begins to emerge MARY CONNELLY \| Automotive News and RICK KRANZ \| Automotive News Posted Date: 8/8/05 The Chrysler group is on a roll. So, can the company that successfully predicted America's desire for Hemi engines and rear-drive cars hit another home run? This time the innovation is car-based Jeeps. While that may sound like an oxymoron, the automaker will introduce two car-based Jeeps in 2006. The plan is part of the Chrysler group's strategy to add derivatives to its lineup and expand into new segments quickly. For example, the Chrysler brand receives a Dodge-based SUV, and the Dodge brand adds a Jeep-based SUV. In addition, Jeep may re-enter the pickup segment, and Dodge is eyeing a minivehicle. Meanwhile, the Chrysler group's small and mid-range vehicles, such as the Dodge Neon and Chrysler Sebring, will be replaced starting next year. The new vehicles will be engineered on a flexible front-wheel-drive platform Chrysler developed with Mitsubishi Motors Corp. Also, as each vehicle is redesigned or replaced, it will be engineered for right-hand drive. Here are highlights of the Chrysler group's vehicle plans for the 2006 to 2009 model years, as gathered from company and industry sources. *Click on Link above to see Product Chart* CHRYSLER, DODGE CARS Sub-Caliber model The Chrysler group continues to study whether, when and how Dodge could offer a small entry-level vehicle priced below the Caliber, its replacement for the Neon. The sourcing of such a minivehicle is unclear, but the company insists that China is not a possible production site. The low-cost entry is unlikely before the 2009 model year. The Chrysler group is expanding globally, and a low-cost entry would be sold beyond North America. That strategy makes investment in a small vehicle more appealing. One thing to consider: If the Chrysler group wants corporate average fuel economy credits that can balance its full-sized car fleet, which is heavy on Hemi engines, a North American production site would be necessary. Dodge Caliber Small sedans are dead, Chrysler group executives believe. So when the Neon is jettisoned late this year, the replacement will come with five doors, a highly versatile interior and a new name: Caliber. The car will be a dead ringer for the Caliber concept that debuted at the Geneva auto show in March. It will be assembled in Belvidere, Ill., and hit dealerships next spring as a 2007 model. Chrysler group executives will resist using the name "hatchback" or "station wagon" in ads. Why? Rather than trying to explain what the vehicle is, a strategy blamed for the disappointing launch of the Chrysler Pacifica two years ago, the company will stress styling and utility to set the Caliber apart from competitors. The 2007 Caliber will be the first of several compact and mid-range vehicles developed on a new flexible vehicle platform. The Chrysler group developed this platform with Mitsubishi. The redesigned Chrysler PT Cruiser and larger Sebring will share this platform. Vehicles developed on this platform will share a new family of four-cylinder engines developed with Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi. Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Stratus The next-generation of vehicles begins arriving in the fall of 2006 with the introduction of the redesigned 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan. Styling of the new Sebring differs significantly from that of the Chrysler 300 sedan, an insider says. The Sebring styling was frozen a year ago, before the market's overwhelming acceptance of the 300. The redesigned Sebring convertible debuts in the spring of 2007 as a 2008 model. But while the Sebring name is retained, Dodge is expected to drop the Stratus badge when it replaces the sedan in the spring of 2007, also as a 2008 model. No coupes are planned for Chrysler or Dodge. The redesigned vehicles will offer four- and six-cylinder engines. The Chrysler group's Sterling Heights, Mich., assembly plant will build the Sebrings and the Stratus replacement. For the first time, Chrysler will be able to shift production of its compact and mid-range vehicles between the Sterling Heights and Belvidere plants, responding to demand. The Sterling Heights plant will be equipped to assemble up to five models. The Chrysler group will build the Sebring and the replacement for the Stratus. Past-generation Sebring and Stratus coupes were assembled by Mitsubishi in Normal, Ill. Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger With the June launch of the 2006 Dodge Charger, the Chrysler group's full-sized car line is complete. So for the next several years, the automaker will only tweak the Charger, Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300. For example, shortly after the launch of the 2006 models, the company will upgrade the standard automatic transmission on some models. A five-speed automatic transmission will replace the four-speed automatic in Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum models equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6. Models with the 2.7-liter V-6 will continue to have a four-speed. The Chrysler group will expand its performance line this fall with the 2006 Charger SRT-8, equipped with a 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 producing 420 pounds-feet of torque. Also this fall, two police vehicles will begin production: the 2006 Charger with the high-speed pursuit package, and the Magnum, available as a support vehicle. The 300, Magnum and Charger will be restyled and re-engineered for the 2010 model year. Chrysler 300 convertible Do convertible enthusiasts want four doors? The Chrysler group thinks so. Chrysler's marketing and engineering groups are studying the Helios convertible concept created by ASC Inc. in Southgate, Mich. The Helios is a rarity - a four-door convertible. The vehicle, which is based on a modified 300C sedan, was shown at the 2005 Detroit auto show. If the green light is given, the car likely would go into production late in 2006 or early 2007 as a 2007 model. Dodge's Mustang fighter Chrysler group executives can't ignore the success of the 2005 Ford Mustang. They are considering developing a rwd coupe based on a shortened version of the LX platform. That platform is shared by the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Charger. It is scheduled to be re-engineered in 2009 for the 2010 model year. The Chrysler group plans a concept showing the styling direction for such a car, an insider says. The concept may be called Challenger, resurrecting a respected name from the pony-car era. Earlier this year, Dodge trademarked the name Challenger. The 1970-74 Dodge Challenger competed against the Mustang. A Chrysler group insider says a production version of the vehicle is not in the product plan through at least 2010. But other sources say Chrysler management urgently wants a Mustang-fighter, debuting around the 2010 model year, maybe sooner. One major issue is where it could be assembled. The sole LX plant is filled with 300, Magnum and Charger production. If the concept is a hit at auto shows, expect the Chrysler group to revisit its product plan quickly. Rest of the Article here: http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=102900 __________________ Email: nadepalma@gminsidenews.com "La vita è come un albero di Natale..c'è sempre qualcuno che ti rompe le palle!" "You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves" -Abraham Lincoln "Democracy is the worst form of government except for all those others that have been tried" -Winston Churchill "In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a Congress" -John Adams

08-08-2005, 09:45 PM	#2 (permalink)
DuSpinnst Starship Enterpise Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 17,209	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge The Magnum cop cars are already on the road in Auburn Hills MI (Home of DCX NA HQ and TC). As soon as they have production Chargers, I am sure they will be here as well. Finally Auburn Hills can replace the old Intrepid cop cars.... __________________ The moderation here gets an F for FAILURE.

08-09-2005, 12:48 AM	#4 (permalink)
GM_Fanatic 5.3 Liter LS4 V8 Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 3,471	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge exciting stuff happening at DCX! __________________ My thoughts and random babblings... http://perpetualanticipation.blogspot.com/

08-09-2005, 01:03 AM	#5 (permalink)
surferdude00711 5.3 Liter LS4 V8 Join Date: May 2004 Posts: 3,703	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emer I can't wait! Hummer PR and advertising will have a field day with these new CROSSOVER Jeeps. Honestly, I'd just let Chrysler and Dodge havem all, rather than dilute Jeep. Or even bring back a dead brand? Plymouth? I think there are more... De Soto Hudson Imperial Nash and Plymouth are all the dead DCX brands. Last edited by surferdude00711 : 08-09-2005 at 01:09 AM.

08-09-2005, 01:12 AM	#6 (permalink)
Boost 2.0 Liter Supercharged ECOTEC Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 142	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge Huh, no Dodge Razor.....just wait till GM doubles kappa production because of demand.

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08-09-2005, 07:52 AM	#7 (permalink)
boblutzfan 6.0 Liter LS2 V8 Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: San Antonio, Texas Drives: 2004 Mazda6s - V6/5-speed manual Posts: 4,276	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge The next big thing to come out of DCX will be their minivans. I am also predicting a LWB LX sedan for Chrysler. It is an exciting time to sell Chrysler Vehicles.

08-09-2005, 08:56 AM	#8 (permalink)
Whirling_Dervish Banned Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: DC Drives: Something New Posts: 2,019	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge The Hemi has been a real boon to Chrysler. Now they are going to steal the cop market from GM and Ford. The upcoming Mopars look pretty interesting. The Magnum and 300 are great! The 300C is a fantastic drive. It feels very planted and surefooted with great power. I would have liked the new Impala to have gone bback to RWD to challenge it.

08-09-2005, 09:15 AM	#9 (permalink)
yukonho 3.5 Liter V6 Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Michigan Drives: 2008 G6 GT Convertible 2008 Tahoe 4x4 Posts: 279	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge This past Sunday at the Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance, Chrysler had the 300C convertible out front on display. Maybe that's a good sign this may become reality.

08-09-2005, 09:34 AM	#10 (permalink)
pkd87 5.3 Liter Vortec V8 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Michigan Posts: 1,407	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge Chrysler I think has the most stylish and exciting vehicles out of the big Three.

08-09-2005, 10:15 AM	#11 (permalink)
jlt0x 3.8 Liter Supercharged V6 Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 598	Re: Chrysler Future Plans: Beyond Hemi engines and rear-drive, new cars begin to emerge Where are the AWD LX cars? I like the 300, Magnum, and Charger. But I do want to drive an LX car in AWD form. DCX hasn't mentioned AWD for the LX cars in a while. Has there been problems?

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