Chrysler spins editions from existing lines while awaiting Fiat-based cars

[articsteve]

Bradford Wernle
Automotive News -- January 8, 2010 - 12:45 am ET
 
DETROIT -- Chrysler Group will introduce several editions and variants of existing models next week while awaiting new vehicles to arrive through its alliance with Fiat.

Each of Chrysler brands issued separate announcements outlining the plans on Thursday. On emerging from bankruptcy in June under control of Italy's Fiat S.p.A, Chrysler reorganized itself into brands that serve as separate businesses.

The first Fiat-based vehicles are scheduled to begin arriving in Chrysler's lineup in 2011. In the meantime, the automaker will unveil the following at the Detroit auto show next week as it attempts to rebound from last year's 36 percent decline in U.S. sales:


Chrysler

Chrysler will introduce two special editions of its flagship 300 sedan: the 300 S6, powered by a 3.5 liter V-6, and the 300 S8, powered by a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8.

Chrysler says the vehicles will feature some touches that set them apart from the 300s seen in the past with a low key, athletic look. Full-chrome grilles, for example, will be replaced by blacked-out grilles.

Chrysler, under the leadership of brand boss Olivier Francois, is going for an upscale, more fashionable theme. Features include a “carbon weave” steering wheel “with red stitching and brushed silver spokes.” The vehicles will arrive in showrooms this spring.


Dodge

Dodge will introduce some new names and packages for its Journey crossover. The Express package on the entry level Journey will come with available 5+2 seating. Other packages include the Hero, Heat, Crew and top-of-the-line Uptown, with a price of $29,995 including destination.

The 2010 Caliber compact will come with a redesigned interior. The existing Nitro, Avenger and Charger lines will also get tweaks and upgrades.


Jeep

Jeep will introduce three new models.

The Liberty Renegade will be positioned between the Liberty Sport and Limited. The Renegade name first appeared on the inside door opening of the 1964 Jeep Wagoneer.

The Wrangler Islander option will feature a beach theme. Jeep last used the Islander name 20 years ago. The package will cost $1,120.

The Wrangler Mountain option package will feature 32-inch tires and special grill and bumper appliqués. The package will cost $1,820.

The Liberty Renegade and Wrangler Islander editions will arrive in showrooms in the first quarter. The Mountain edition will arrive in the second quarter.

[Zoo]

Part of the charm for me with the 300 was the chrome. Jeesh!

I still like a lot of the Jeep models and the minivans are still a decent deal (especially used).

[Erik]

Part of the charm for me with the 300 was the chrome. Jeesh!

So buy the one with the chrome. It is still available. These are just special editions.

[ovr50]

"Special Editions" are a stop-gap measure that fools exactly no one.

Ford has done this with the Mustang, and some of the "import" makers with "Chilcotin" Pathfinders (Nissan), "Salsa" RAV4s (Toyota), etc.

Usually means the maker has nothing new to announce, so a "SE" becomes the "new" stuff. 

[Ontariodriver]

http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/14/report-chrysler-may-abandon-damaged-sebring-nameplate/

Chrysler may abandon damaged Sebring nameplate

Remember when Ford thought so little of its longtime best-selling "Taurus" nameplate that it spent a fortune trying to push the replacement "500" badge on customers? That lasted about as long as a "Project Runway" cycle. Well, Chrysler might be going the same route in the near future. Ward's Automotive is reporting that Chrysler is about to drop its "Sebring" nameplate to shake the stink off its replacement expected later this year.

Chrysler is about to launch nine models in the coming year that are so thoroughly upgraded they are calling them "new." The Sebring is one of those models. The butt of many jokes within the industry and a slow seller to boot, the Sebring has become a symbol of Chrysler's long, slow slide into near oblivion. It's not surprising then to hear that when the heavily revamped vehicle appears at the end of 2010, it's not likely to wear the "Sebring" name.

We don't think the name had much to do with Sebring's failure, but we understand the desire to convince buyers that the replacement is a fresh start for this mid-size sedan, if not for Chrysler as a whole. A thoroughly reworked Sebring, however, might not be enough to capture new buyers if the name association is still so unpalatable. Maybe they should call it the Camry.

[Mitlov]

"Special Editions" are a stop-gap measure that fools exactly no one.

Ford has done this with the Mustang, and some of the "import" makers with "Chilcotin" Pathfinders (Nissan), "Salsa" RAV4s (Toyota), etc.

Usually means the maker has nothing new to announce, so a "SE" becomes the "new" stuff. 

Fiat is working on new stuff, but it's not ready yet.  Fiat only got the reins a few months ago.  You can't create new cars that quickly.  Let's see what happens next year.  For all we know, next year could be the start of the Chrysler turn-around, just as Ford has accomplished a dramatic turn-around recently.  We just don't know yet.