Chrysler Airflow SUV Finally Revealed as Big Comeback Begins

After years of little more than a redesigned minivan front end, we finally have a few real hints about Chrysler’s future. It now seems the brand’s first truly new model in many years will indeed be called the Airflow. Reviving the name of Chrysler’s 2022 concept. However, the production model will reportedly look quite different from that sleek concept car and appear much more like a traditional SUV. That could actually be a better direction for the brand, since the SUV market continues to dominate sales. And many buyers still prefer a more upright and practical design. The illustration above offers a possibility of what the new Airflow might look like.

From the image recently released by Stellantis, the new Chrysler SUV could very well be the model we’ve been hearing about for the past couple of years. It could be the vehicle previously mentioned several times by Chrysler’s former CEO. Early rumors described it as essentially a Chrysler version of the Jeep Wagoneer S. Although with a wider choice of powertrains instead of being offered strictly as an EV. That actually sounds like a smart move in today’s market and would allow Stellantis to appeal to a much broader range of buyers.

Offering hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and gasoline options alongside EV models would instantly make Chrysler more competitive. By giving customers multiple choices, Chrysler could avoid the mistake some automakers have made by focusing too heavily on EVs too soon.

However, Stellantis also mentioned an all-new platform called STLA One, which could end up underpinning the upcoming Airflow instead. That would give Chrysler a more advanced and flexible architecture for future products. It could also allow the company to produce several different body styles and vehicle sizes more efficiently. Helping the brand expand its lineup much faster than before.

As shown in the preview image, the Airflow will eventually be joined by smaller and more affordable models called the Arrow and Arrow Cross. Stellantis even mentioned a “sub-$30,000 entry point”. Which suggests Chrysler wants to compete directly against mainstream compact SUVs from brands like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Chevrolet. At the same time, Chrysler could still position these models slightly above the mainstream market, much like Buick has successfully done with the Buick Encore GX.

Interstingly enough, there is no mention of that new “Chrysler Pronto” we heard about just a few days ago. From a rumor dating from a dealer meeting from last November. Where dealers were shown a new small Chrysler model called Pronto…

That strategy could work very well for Chrysler. Since it has in the past. There is currently plenty of room in the market for stylish, near-luxury vehicles that are more affordable than premium brands. A modern Chrysler lineup with upscale interiors and attractive pricing could easily attract buyers looking for something different from the usual choices.

The announced pricing strategy sounds promising as well, especially considering how expensive many new vehicles have become recently.

Unfortunately, there is still no sign of a new sedan. It increasingly looks like a replacement for the Chrysler 300 is not arriving anytime soon, which is disappointing for longtime fans of large American sedans. The 300 was one of the last remaining traditional American rear-wheel-drive sedans, and its disappearance left a huge gap in Chrysler’s lineup. (My old neighbor Rod Garza has not recovered yet from the 300 cancelation)

Still, the good news is that Chrysler finally seems to have a real future product plan in place. After years of uncertainty and rumors about the brand possibly disappearing altogether, these new models suggest Stellantis is finally serious about rebuilding Chrysler into a modern mainstream brand again.