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Chrysler’s future now…

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The 2 illustrations above show what Chrysler‘s future planned products might look like. One is an EV SUV based on the Jeep Wagoneer S. The other is a next-generation Chrysler EV Pacific minivan.

But will these ever see the light of day? Stelantis CEO Carlos Tavares had mentioned more than once that all their brands were safe. that they would all get new models and a chance to prove themselves.

In North America, even Dodge is getting in on the action with the brand-new 2025 Charger and 2 new SUVs planned. In Europe, even Lancia got a new model this year.

But Chrysler has only unveiled their Halcyon concept so far. A futuristic EV sedan that would have to be drastically toned down for production. Unlike the Wagoneer S, Recon, and Charger concepts. Which were basically exact previews of the upcoming production cars.

Now, as we all know, Mr. Tavares is gone. And so is his pledge to keep all brands alive. While Lancia does have a new model for sale, Chrysler has nothing new. Sure, a few months ago, Chrysler’s Christine Feuell confirmed last July that we all see a brand new 5-seater SUV in 2025. Which I guess would be too late to cancel. Or is it? Jaguar canceled the future XJ EV sedan just weeks before its unveiling. They had even started a teaser campaign…

Chrysler has also planned another facelift for the Pacifica, and a brand-new EV generation in a few years. Both of these could still be canceled as well I guess…

I truly hope Chrysler stays around. I really think there is room for an “affordable luxury” brand in today’s market. That’s already what Hyundai and Kia do with the Palisade and Telluride. Offering a more luxurious environment than the competition at a good price.

The main problem for Chrysler is actually the fact that Dodge and especially Jeep have already moved upmarket so much there might not be enough room for something above them. The only Wagonned S model available so far is the top-of-the-line $71,000 version. other trims will of course be quite a bit cheaper, but still pricey. Is there really room for Chrysler above this?

I really hope they find a way to keep Chrysler alive. If not, sell it to someone who can finally do something with it…

Conversation 5 comments

  1. I dont believe anything Carlos Tavares had to say. He was trying desperately to keep the American money-train rolling so he could fund his plans in the European brands electrification strategy. Though most automakers are seeing a decline in total revenue, Stellantis’s American brands have seen the worst decline – it’s the prices and backlash for bad press. His arrogance was his undoing. What they should do next: They need to stop trying to make fetch happen with EVs in the US. Immediately – they have a V6 and V8 engine, and should put retuned versions into the new sporty Charger. Also, reskin the Charger and retune the V6 engine and suspension and redesign the interior for a premium Chrysler product in the $40k-50k range. Chrysler should think “Mazda” for their “premium level” product finish, and high-end Toyota/low-end Lexus as their target; Dodge consolidate with RAM under Dodge name and target Ford (Mustang ,Bronco, Maverick, and commercial local trucking) initially. And both should do exactly the same with a 2 row SUV using an existing platform. Then, they need to bring a hybrid variant and see what models they can reskin and alter the interiors for American tastes. They already have these drivetrains in Europe at Peugeot, DS, Citroen, and Opel. Its really not that hard, but it takes leadership ability. And over the last 10 yrs, the Csuites have been filled with robber-baron types with no vision beyond their own wealth. It takes vision.

  2. Here’s a well written and researched piece from CNBC on what’s been going on with Stellantis’s problems with input from insiders and former employees. I didn’t know the Ghosn connection, but the similarities between Nissan and Stellantis now make sense. You can’t cut your way to growth. It shows an initial benefit, but essentially you undermine your future profit.

    https://www.msn.com/

  4. I’d like to see a render of a Chrysler pickup. A better looking, bigger Ridgeline type, better than Honda can.

  5. Jeep and Dodge are un very different markets so I believe there is more than enough room for Chrysler to move up market. But if it goes up market then move it UP MARKET!
    I would move Chrysler to the level of Bentley and bring back the Imperial as a halo vehicle, (Think Cadillac Escalade ESV).
    I would move to less production to increase exclusivity.
    I would generate a unique experience to Chrysler like what Lincoln has done with their interiors.
    I believe that Chrysler is a goldmine waiting to be produce by someone with the right vision.

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