Zetsche should feel bullish considering the higher quality products coming out of Chrysler Group plants as of late. While still not considered a premium brand Chrysler's Pacifica crossover SUV, Crossfire coupe and roadster sports cars and new 300 series sedan have all the markings of top-tier players without the usual associated unreachable prices.
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| The Jeep brand is also making big steps forward, with updates of popular models on the horizon and new vehicles similar to the Compass concept (shown here) in the works. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The upcoming Dodge Magnum sport wagon shares the 300 sedan's architecture, as well as its top-line cylinder-deactivated 340-hp HEMI V8 with 390 lb-ft of torque, joining ranks with the already strong selling Ram pickup, a recently introduced updated Durango SUV and soon to arrive all-new Dakota pickup, among others.
The Jeep brand will introduce a refreshed Liberty as well as an all-new Grand Cherokee later in the year, with talk of a non-trail-rated model similar conceptually to the Compass concept introduced two years ago, and possibly even a Hummer H1 fighting Jeep Rescue in the plans.