When someone says rally, the iconic Mitsubishi Evolution and Subaru STI immediately come to mind. Last Wednesday Chrysler set out to prove to the entire world that it had the know-how to design rally cars too, unveiling a Dodge Avenger created in collaboration with Mopar and Magneti Marelli.

Any race car worth its salt has to be a study in lightness, and this Avenger has shed about 200 lbs.

Basically, the cabin was stripped of every non-essential element. It now features a 1-Gb data logger, a GPS and an inertial platform with real-time calculation of pitch and roll angles.

Photo: Chrysler

Engineers added a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 with a cold air intake system that boosts output from 283 to 300 hp.

The conventional transmission has been swapped for steering wheel paddles, while the hand brake has been moved and modified to allow the car to carve through corners.

The suspension has been lowered by 1.5 inches, so negotiating said corners will also be easier.

Safety is ensured by an eight-point roll rage and race seats with five-point harnesses. A diamond-plate foot well gives the cockpit a sporty feel.

Eighteen-inch wheels, black paint, Mopar/Magneti Marelli graphics, a rear spoiler and mud flaps complete the ensemble.

Described by Chrysler as a mix of American style and European tradition, the Avenger will be exhibited at the New York Auto Show from April 22 to May 1.

Photo: Chrysler