Chrysler Future Products Update

[nadepalma]

Source: http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dl...OTORSPORTSNEWS

Chrysler Future Products Update
Chrysler now boasts about sharing with Mercedes
By BRADFORD WERNLE | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
AutoWeek | Published 08/07/06, 10:10 am et



DaimlerChrysler CEO Dieter Zetsche has taken to the airwaves as a celebrity pitchman this summer. His main message: DaimlerChrysler products offer customers a blend of German and American expertise they cannot get from any other carmaker.

During the early years of the German-American corporate marriage, DaimlerChrysler was timid about sharing parts and systems in Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler group products for fear of compromising the vaunted Mercedes brand.

No longer. Sharing is now Zetsche's mantra.

"We can come to much more commonality," Zetsche said recently. "We're looking along the lines of components in areas where there are no issues of brand identity. It's not just about sharing parts; it's about sharing technology and know-how."

Even engines. The 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a Mercedes-Benz-engineered, 3.0-liter diesel V-6, for example. More engine sharing is expected.

In the meantime, however, the automaker's newest vehicles have a blend of U.S. and Japanese expertise and even a dose of Korean know-how. The fwd vehicle platform for such models as the 2007 Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Chrysler Sebring originated at Mitsubishi.

But after DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi went their separate ways in 2004, say DaimlerChrysler engineers, they made substantial changes to the platform.

Additionally, Chrysler, Mitsubishi and Hyundai will share a four-cylinder engine family co-engineered by the automakers.

For muscle-car enthusiasts, the big news is the Chrysler group's confirmation that Dodge will turn the Hemi-powered Challenger concept into a production car in 2008. A restyling and re-engineering also is on tap for the popular Chrysler 300.

Meanwhile, signs of trouble have surfaced at Chrysler in the form of high inventory caused in part by high gasoline prices, which slowed sales of pickups and SUVs. The company has had to offer employee pricing to everyone this summer to unload the 2006 stockpiles.

Chrysler group CEO Tom LaSorda and COO Eric Ridenour say the inventory surplus will not affect product plans. But their resolve may be tested if gas prices remain high.

Here are the Chrysler group's plans for the 2007-10 model years, compiled from conversations with analysts and company and supplier sources.



Plans by Model Year

CHRYSLER
2007
Sebring sedan redesign
Stretched 300 redesign
Pacifica freshened
Aspen SUV debuts

2008
Sebring Convertible redesigned
Town & Country redesigned

2009
300 restyled, re-engineered
Possible Imperial debut
Possible Firepower debut
Possible PT Cruiser redesigned (or in 2010)

DODGE
2007
Caliber debut
Nitro SUV debut
Ram Chassis Cab debut

2008
Avenger Sedan debuts
Viper SRT-10 restyled, re-engineered
Challenger debuts
Small Crossover debuts

2009
Charger restyled, re-engineered
Magnum restyled, re-engineered
Durango restyled, re-engineered

2010
Likely Dakota restyled, re-engineered

JEEP
2007
Compass debuts
Patriot debuts
Wrangler redesigned, 4-door model added

2008
Liberty restyled, re-engineered

2009
Commander refresh
Possible Gladiator Pick-Up debut

2010
Possible Grand Cherokee restyled, re-engineered


If the concept is approved for production, the stately Chrysler Imperial could be on the street for the 2009 model year.

DODGE, CHRYSLER CARS
Dodge Hornet

Now that Dodge is a global player, the brand lacks an important vehicle to woo buyers outside the United States - namely, a B-segment entry-level model.

Chrysler executives hope to decide by the end of the year whether to offer a five-passenger front-drive vehicle smaller than the Dodge Caliber. The Hornet concept that debuted earlier this year at the Geneva motor show shows Chrysler's intent. Executives have given no hint of a potential time frame for such a vehicle.

But Chrysler has said it will not develop a B-segment car on its own. LaSorda says it is just too expensive.

Volkswagen had been mentioned as one possible partner. But VW now has other issues on its plate, including re-engineering and slashing costs for the next-generation Golf. Other possibilities include Chinese manufacturer Chery Automobile Co. or another European manufacturer.

Dodge Caliber

The 2007 Caliber is the first of three vehicles developed on what Chrysler calls its GS platform. Caliber sales began in spring.

Coming next spring is a 300-hp model, the Caliber SRT4. The fwd car is powered by a turbocharged, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 260 pounds-feet of torque. Zero-to-60-mph performance under six seconds is promised.

The Caliber's fwd platform originated at Mitsubishi Motors for the upcoming redesigned Lancer and several other vehicles. Later Chrysler joined as a co-developer and modified such things as wheelbase, track and overall length to create the Caliber and the 2007 Jeep Compass and Patriot.

Today, Chrysler executives call the GS vehicle platform a Chrysler platform because of the extent of the modifications. The platform is engineered for left- and right-hand models.

Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger

Chrysler has high hopes for the redesigned 2007 Sebring, which is based on the automaker's new fwd JS platform. The JS is derived from the GS platform but is wider and longer.

The 2008 Avenger sedan also is based on the JS platform. The Avenger replaces the Stratus; sales begin next spring.

Because the JS platform is derived from the GS, and lots of parts are shared among vehicles on the two platforms, a high level of flexibility has been engineered into the assembly process. If demand is strong, the Chrysler group can assemble the Sebring and Avenger at its Belvidere, Ill., plant. That plant builds the Caliber, Compass and Patriot.

Conversely, Chrysler can assemble the Caliber and its Jeep siblings in the Sterling Heights, Mich., plant, where the Sebring and Avenger will be assembled.

Chrysler Sebring convertible

Chrysler plans a novel approach for the redesigned 2008 Sebring convertible. Two versions will be offered: cloth top and retractable hard top. The cloth top will be geared for budget-conscious shoppers.

German supplier Wilhelm Karmann GmbH will supply both the hard and soft tops. The current Sebring sells only in a soft-top version.

The Sebring convertible shares the JS platform.

Chrysler 300; Dodge Charger, Magnum

Why tamper with success? The big news for the 2007 Chrysler 300 is the addition of a long-wheelbase model - 6 inches is added to the wheelbase, creating additional rear-seat legroom. Such a vehicle has been sought by the livery business since the 300 debuted for the 2005 model year. Operators want a stylish sedan that is less expensive than the Lincoln Town Car Executive L. The wheelbase on that Lincoln model also is stretched 6 inches.

The 300, Charger and Magnum are expected to be restyled and re-engineered for the 2009 model year. Sources say the parts and technology sharing with Mercedes-Benz will be more widespread.

The 300, Charger and Challenger currently share about 20 percent of their parts, in terms of value, with the Mercedes-Benz C and E classes. The Chrysler group rwd cars will share global electronics architecture with their Mercedes counterparts.

They also are expected to share a new modular family of V-6 engines that can be used by both Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler group vehicles. Those engines, which are to be engineered to suit different brand and model applications, are scheduled to arrive in 2010 models.

Dodge Challenger

LaSorda surprised absolutely nobody when he flew to Daytona Beach, Fla., for the Pepsi 400 stock car race last month to announce that the popular Dodge Challenger concept will become a production model in 2008. The Challenger was last made in 1974.

The new Challenger will be built on the LY platform, which is basically a re-engineered version of the LX platform used for the 300, Charger and Magnum. The Challenger will have a wheelbase 4 inches shorter than that of the Charger sedan.

The car will be priced higher than its main rival, the Ford Mustang. It will be equipped with the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. An SRT-8 model will pack the 6.1-liter Hemi V-8. A V-6 model is not expected.

Chrysler 300C convertible

Sources say Chrysler has dropped any thought of marketing a four-door convertible based on the Chrysler 300C.

Chrysler Imperial

Chrysler is deciding whether to turn the rwd Imperial sedan concept that debuted at the 2006 Detroit auto show into a production model. Styling cues were compared to the Rolls-Royce Phantom sedan.

Insiders have said that if produced, the car might be priced $5,000 to $7,000 above the Chrysler 300C sedan. The Imperial would share the 300C's vehicle platform and components. However, the Imperial has a longer wheelbase and is longer overall. A decision is likely at the end of the year. A possible production target is the 2009 model year.

Chrysler Crossfire

The Mercedes-Benz SLK-based Crossfire convertible and coupe have been a learning experience for Chrysler. The Crossfire will be sold as a 2007 model and then dropped, sources say.

The Crossfire was always a niche car. But Chrysler overestimated the size of the niche, leaving lots of Crossfires unsold. In fact, a 2006 model was not offered in the United States because of the high inventory of unsold 2005 models. The car is built by Karmann in Osnabrueck, Germany.

Dodge Viper SRT-10, Chrysler Firepower

Dodge will continue the 2006 Viper SRT-10 convertible and coupe until the re-engineered and restyled 2008 model is ready. A 2007 model will not be produced. The 2008 Viper will pack more horsepower, likely in the 575- to 600-hp range. Chrysler is still weighing the merits of turning the two-seat Firepower concept into reality. Although it would share a vehicle platform with the Viper, the Firepower would be engineered and positioned as a high-performance luxury model. If produced, the Firepower could debut for the 2009 model year.


The Dodge Ram’s truck mix expands with the introduction of the Class 3 Chassis Cab.

CHRYSLER, DODGE TRUCKS
Chrysler PT Cruiser

The PT Cruiser got a freshening for the 2006 model year, and LaSorda says quite a few good years are left in the current Cruiser's life. But it's what to do next with the PT Cruiser that has Chrysler planners scratching their heads.

In mid-July, Ridenour said one issue that had not been resolved is whether to offer a V-6 engine, which will determine the vehicle platform. The JS platform can accommodate a V-6, but the GS is too narrow.

Another issue is styling. Retro and cutesy are out of fashion. Expect the next-generation PT Cruiser to be more of a straight-up Toyota RAV4 fighter with the retro elements played down.

Sources say Chrysler has not decided whether to use the PT Cruiser name for the redesigned model, which could debut in the 2009 or 2010 model year.

Small Dodge crossover

The automaker is planning a Dodge crossover on the same global GS platform that has spawned the Caliber, Compass and Patriot. The vehicle is scheduled to arrive in the fall of 2007 as a 2008 model. The small crossover will be assembled at Toluca, Mexico. The vehicle, code-named JC49, has been conceived to compete with the Subaru Forester and similar vehicles.

Dodge Nitro

This fall Dodge plunges into entry-level SUVs with the Nitro, built on the same platform as the Jeep Liberty. The Nitro features the same muscular styling that is Dodge's signature. Standard safety features include stability control, antilock brakes and side curtain airbags.

The Nitro will be assembled alongside the Liberty in the Toledo, Ohio, north plant. Three trim levels will be offered: the SXT, SLT and R/T versions. A 210-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 engine is standard on the base and SLT models. A 255-hp 4.0-liter V-6 is standard on the R/T. The Nitro will be offered with a diesel engine outside North America.

Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan: With the 2008 model year, the Chrysler group will make a bold effort to retain its leadership by bringing the styling of the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum to minivans.

Sources say the restyled 2008 Town & Country minivan and its Caravan/Grand Caravan sibling will have a strong "two box" shape instead of today's sloping nose and jellybean-style silhouette.

The styling of the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans will be highly differentiated, unlike today's models. The Caravan/Grand Caravan will incorporate the tall hood and cross-hairs grille treatment featured on the Magnum. The Town & Country's front-end styling will draw cues from the 300.

Short- and long-wheelbase models will be offered. The 2008 models will be developed on the current vehicle platform. That platform was re-engineered for the 2004 model year to incorporate Stow 'n Go seating.

Chrysler will also create a minivan model for Volkswagen to sell in North America. The tall hood line and grille featured on the Passat will be incorporated into the VW model.

Chrysler Pacifica

The 2007 Pacifica is freshened. Chrysler's new 4.0-liter V-6 and new six-speed automatic transmission are standard on all but the base models. Electronic stability control and side curtain airbags are added as standard equipment on all models.

Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Durango

Chrysler receives its first SUV this fall: the 2007 Aspen. The Dodge Durango and Aspen share a rwd vehicle platform.

Chrysler is positioning the Aspen as an elegant SUV, a contrast to the more aggressive attitude of the Durango.

As a styling cue, the Aspen adopts the hood strakes, or grooves, first seen on the production Crossfire and now featured on the 2007 Sebring. The Aspen's chrome grille was inspired by the Chrysler Chronos concept. Wood-grain interior accents are geared to luxury buyers. Two engines are offered on the Aspen: a 235-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 and a 335-hp, 5.7-liter V-8.

A re-engineered and restyled Durango and Aspen are due in the 2009 model year.

Dodge Dakota

The next-generation Dakota pickup probably will arrive in the 2010 model year. It will be restyled and re-engineered on the current platform.

Dodge Ram

Dodge expands its full-sized truck mix by introducing the Class 3 Chassis Cab model for the 2007 Ram line. The truck model is aimed at commercial and farm operations.

The Chassis Cab will be offered with a choice of a 330-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 or a larger, higher-horsepower Cummins turbodiesel V-8 with substantially more torque.

Single and dual rear-wheel versions will be offered in standard and Quad Cab applications; two- and four-wheel-drive models will be available.

Dodge is working hard on a redesigned Ram on the DS platform for the 2009 model year. Sources say Dodge is concentrating on making the new Ram's interior competitive with that of the segment-leading Ford F-150.


The redesigned 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited offers four-door entry.

JEEP
Compass, Patriot

The 2007 Jeep Compass and Patriot are built on Chrysler's GS platform, shared with the Dodge Caliber. The Compass arrives this month, followed by the Patriot possibly in October.

Jeep originally did not plan to build two vehicles on this platform. The decision evolved after it polled potential customers, who had sharply divided opinions on the two vehicles.

About half of those polled preferred the more traditional SUV appearance of the Patriot, which looks like a miniature version of the Commander. The Compass, with its bold flared wheel wells, is a more abrupt departure and might be the most carlike Jeep ever.

Based on research, Jeep thinks the Compass might draw a higher number of female customers than the boxy Patriot, favored by men in the research.

The Compass is expected to come with two drive configurations: fwd and awd. The Patriot will add a third : a full-time active system with a low range that Jeep will label "trail rated." No major changes are expected for several years.

Wrangler

Wrangler, Jeep's iconic signature vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2007 model year. Joining the Wrangler line is its first four-door, the Wrangler Unlimited. The Unlimited accommodates five adults.

All Wranglers will be equipped with a 205-hp, 3.8-liter V-6, producing 240 pounds-feet of torque. The inline four-cylinder and inline six-cylinder engines are no longer offered.

Both Wranglers come in three trim levels and offer new levels of comfort and luxury. The vehicles retain many core Jeep attributes, including solid axles, removable doors, fold-down windshield and removable tops. New comfort and safety options will be offered, including power windows and locks, a navigation system and an anti-rollover system.

No major changes are expected for the 2008-10 model years.

Liberty

A re-engineered and restyled Liberty is planned for the 2008 model year, featuring many of the improvements introduced in the Nitro.

Grand Cherokee

The news about the 2007 Grand Cherokee is all about engines. Additionally, the Grand Cherokee adds side curtain airbags and stability control to the list of standard equipment. A re-engineering and restyling is possible for the 2010 model year.

Commander

The timing of the seven-passenger Jeep Commander was unlucky. The Jeep SUV hit the market just as fuel prices were headed to $3 per gallon and beyond. The 2007 Commander model line is being expanded with the addition of a luxury model.

A freshening is set for the 2009 model year. If sales continue to be slow, Jeep could alter that timetable.

Gladiator

Although executives remain enthusiastic about the Gladiator pickup concept, the carmaker has yet to decide on a production version. The concept was well-received at the 2005 Detroit auto show. But the large inventory of Ram and Dakota pickups might be giving executives second thoughts about adding a third. If approved, the Wrangler-based pickup could debut for the 2009 model year. The last Jeep pickup was the Comanche, built for the 1992 model year.

[SVTKAR3]

[quote=nadepalma]Source: DODGE
2007
Caliber debut
Nitro SUV debut
Ram Chassis Cab debut

2008
Avenger Sedan debuts
Viper SRT-10 restyled, re-engineered
Challenger debuts
Small Crossover debuts

2009
Charger restyled, re-engineered
Magnum restyled, re-engineered
Durango restyled, re-engineered

2010
Likely Dakota restyled, re-engineered


Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan: With the 2008 model year, the Chrysler group will make a bold effort to retain its leadership by bringing the styling of the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum to minivans.

Sources say the restyled 2008 Town & Country minivan and its Caravan/Grand Caravan sibling will have a strong "two box" shape instead of today's sloping nose and jellybean-style silhouette.

The styling of the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans will be highly differentiated, unlike today's models. The Caravan/Grand Caravan will incorporate the tall hood and cross-hairs grille treatment featured on the Magnum. The Town & Country's front-end styling will draw cues from the 300.

Short- and long-wheelbase models will be offered. The 2008 models will be developed on the current vehicle platform. That platform was re-engineered for the 2004 model year to incorporate Stow 'n Go seating.

Chrysler will also create a minivan model for Volkswagen to sell in North America. The tall hood line and grille featured on the Passat will be incorporated into the VW model.

I wuz gonna say that they forgot to mention the Doge Caravan, but they mentioned it later on in the article. I really do hope that Daimler Chysler have a winner with their new mini-vans. To much of the mini-van market has been " dominated by Honda, Toyota, Nissian........

[Mikkoo]

Humm, no V6 planned for the Challenger? Obviously they are not intending this vehicle to sell that many units. Can't wait for the announcement on the Camaro production vehicle this Thursday. My bet is that it will be offered with a more maintream V6 option to push sales to the 100,000 level.

[kenman923]

I can't wait until the Challenger hits the streets. I also want to see how they improve on the 300. If the diesel is successful in the Jeeps, I could see them being offered across the board.

[Cassie]

I rented a Caliber recently and wow, I have never seen such a sea of cheap gray plastic in a car in a long long time. Yes I know it was a base model rental, but wow...... it was poorly put together and looked soooooo cheap. I can't imagine anyone renting one and saying "Hey I would like to own this car".

[mucker15]

Originally Posted by Mikkoo

Humm, no V6 planned for the Challenger? Obviously they are not intending this vehicle to sell that many units. Can't wait for the announcement on the Camaro production vehicle this Thursday. My bet is that it will be offered with a more maintream V6 option to push sales to the 100,000 level.

I did read the Challenger wont be a full run awhile back

[tgagneguam]

I'm a bit dumbfounded by the high regard that the Challenger [concept] continues to receive; I honestly think the Welburn-managed Camaro [concept] is so much better from just about every angle. Whereas the Challenger [concept] looks like a warmed over version of its predescessor, the new Camaro [concept] seems to take a late 60's Camaro and interpret it for the 21st Century. It's a subtle but noticeable difference. GM clearly bested Chrysler Group design in my mind.

And for what it's worth, it makes perfect sense that auto companies leverage their global resources to improve their entire line of vehicles. I never really bought the rationale behind DCX developing separate engines, suspensions, etc. for Chrysler Group and for the Mercedes Car Group; it's a waste of money and engineering effort, particularly when most of the driving public wouldn't be able to discern the difference between many of the differentiated components. Time to get competitive, folks.

Then again, I may just be trying to rationalize GM's greater use of its components in more of GM's vehicles. For instance, the Z06's engine would fit nicely in several of GM's lesser vehicles!

[boblutzfan]

Chrysler doesn't have much to get excited about except for their minivans. Even though Chrysler/Dodge is German owned - I would like to see them be successful against Honda and Toyota. Right now DCX needs their minivan to be a hit - as it is really the only big seller they have planned for the next year or so. I really doubt that the Sebring and Avenger will ever be big sellers. Right now GM is in a better position with their G6/Aura/2008 Malibu than Ford or DCX.

[cincygoblue]

As an enthusiast (not performance, but automotive), is there anything here really for anyone on this board to be excited about? The Challenger will be interesting as would the Gladiator if they ever made it. But some car based Jeeps, some new minivans, a mediocre midsize Sebring, and bunch of refreshes. No new Ram and only possibly a new Grand Cherokee? Aspen, Imperial, Avenger? DCX's American brands are sorely seeming more and more cheap and irrelevant. At least to me, as a person who loves cars and trucks.

[boblutzfan]

Originally Posted by cincygoblue

As an enthusiast (not performance, but automotive), is there anything here really for anyone on this board to be excited about? The Challenger will be interesting as would the Gladiator if they ever made it. But some car based Jeeps, some new minivans, a mediocre midsize Sebring, and bunch of refreshes. No new Ram and only possibly a new Grand Cherokee? Aspen, Imperial, Avenger? DCX's American brands are sorely seeming more and more cheap and irrelevant. At least to me, as a person who loves cars and trucks.

Agreed - The brands that once were the poster child for exciting design year over year seem to becoming very stale. DCX will be hurt more by the gas crunch than anyone. The minivans are the only relevant vehicle they have coming and it isn't exactly an enthusiast machine.

The Challenger will be the biggest gas guzzler of the three pony cars. It just looks fat. Nothing about it appeals to me.

[mucker15]

The Challenger is cool looking but its basically a 70 challenger with huge rims and to be quite honest its very un original. The Camaro to me is a new design while it pays respect to the cars history its a foward move and I dont consider it retro. DCX isnt too exciting to me these days I went to look at the Caliber when I was car shopping but it reminds me of the VW thing.The liberty is ugly and the Compass doesnt really do anything for me.

[mbukukanyau]

U have to give it to Chrysler for staying true to their concepts

[boblutzfan]

Originally Posted by mbukukanyau

U have to give it to Chrysler for staying true to their concepts

Sometimes. For their performance cars they tend to stay true to concept - but not with everything. Look at the Pacifica. It doesn't look nearly as good as the Citadel conept - which was sleek and elagent.

If they want the Imperial to be successful - they had better not stay too close to the concept - but ugly front and rear. The idea is ok - although I wonder how successful a $40-50K Chrysler sedan would be especially if it is a gas hog.

[New_Mexico_Sunset_on_Rt66]

I liked the Imperial at the 2006 NAIAS, but obviously it was a concept. The production model will probably be tamed a bit (more realistic materials, etc.).

[61695]

Originally Posted by nadepalma

The Chassis Cab will be offered with a choice of a 330-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 or a larger, higher-horsepower Cummins turbodiesel V-8 with substantially more torque.

The diesel will in fact be a 6.7L version of the current B block rated @ 305 HP.