What Does Zetsche and Company Have Hidden Up Their Collective Sleeves?
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| "In 2005, we'll bring the new Dodge Charger, Jeep Commander and at least three more vehicles to the market," said DC CEO Zetsche. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
And what are the other two models expected in 2005? Zetsche made no further comment than to say "In 2005, we'll bring the new Dodge Charger, Jeep Commander and at least three more vehicles to the market," which leaves the door open to speculation.
The most obvious need in the automaker's lineup are replacements for the aging SX 2.0 (Neon in the U.S.) in the entry-level compact range, and the midsize Sebring line, that includes a sedan and convertible model in Canada and the addition of a two-door coupe in the U.S.,
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| A replacement for the aging SX 2.0 (Neon) is expected to be one of the first new cars from Chrysler in 2005. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The SX 2.0 (Neon) replacement is expected first, a vehicle jointly developed with longtime Japanese partner Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) and using a new line of four-cylinder engines jointly developed with MMNA and South Korea's Hyundai-Kia conglomerate. Expected to be state of the art, the engine should be mated to new manual and automatic transmissions, allowing it to compete directly with new offerings from GM and Ford, as well as Asian compacts.