First the Dart and 200, then the Viper and now, Autoblog is reporting that FCA may kill off the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. This would leave Chrysler with one model (the Pacifica) and Dodge with three- the Challenger, Durango and Journey- none of which are expected to get a significant refresh this decade. (Note: The Challenger refresh is supposed to occur in 2024. If the Challenger hangs on this long, it will be an incredible 16 years with the same body). To add insult to injury, a new Alfa Romeo-based coup is currently in the works.
I'm not surprised. I've never thought that Fiat has any idea regarding how to design, build, or market cars in the US. At least it appears that they never have. I think they're only interested in keeping and/or developing Jeep, Ram, and Pacifica since the market is hot for cross-overs, trucks, mini-vans, and Jeeps. No different than what Mitsubishi has already done.
Not surprising. It’s been a very long time since Auburn Hills has had the in-house knowledge and experience to design and develop a large (even any car?) from the wheels up. Even our beloved Challengers and their kindred Charger and Chrysler 300 are built on a Mercedes E-class platform. This is a shame really, really, because many of the folks in Auburn Hills really do “get it.” But the current market does not justify ramping up a fully capable platform team. Perhaps the reduction in pressure from the pending roll back in CAFE standards will change the market signals. But for now, i’m Not optimistic. A convertible version of the Challenger would be a wonderful “last hurrah” for this great car!
In an April 12, 2018 USA Today article it was reported that Ford will now build its new entry-level Focus model in Chongqing, China and Saarlouis, Germany. In May, Ford's assembly plant, in Wayne, Michigan, will stop making the Focus and be retooled and devoted to the Ford Ranger midsize pickup and Bronco off-road SUV. Ford spokesman, Jiyan Cadiz, confirmed that the product portfolio shift by 2020, to trucks and utilities- including electrified versions- will account for almost 90% of Ford's volume. David Sullivan, a product analyst at AutoPacific, remarked that "the move to China, the largest market in the world, is a trend that we will continue to see for vehicles that can't make the business case for assembly in the U.S. or for tying up capacity in North America."
Just read a protracted article wherein; as sales of the SUV's and Trucks are quickly taking over market share and sedan sales are plummeting. And with oil pricing now pretty much stabilized as the US now controls its supply need, sedan type vehicle are not so slowly being phased out by the major US automakers.
FCA has been speaking of the Giulia chassis for the past several years relating to the Challenger. In addition, FCA has spoken of a twin turbo V-6 as a new starting point for all Challengers. Nothing has materialized as to the introduction of all new Challengers, while R&D has fallen by the wayside. The company continues to send out mixed, confusing messages. The bottom line remains, 'money'. As to the China trade problems with many tariffs being imposed; is only a starting point for what is yet to arrive. If any remember, the Pentastar 3.6 heads are manufactured in different countries; A.) Right side in Brazil and B.) Left side in 'China' OR vice versa. Not anything shall be forthcoming in 'new' or redesigned FCA products, unless FCA can turn a significant profit. I just never realized that many of the parts are outsourced to obtain the best (cheapest) price. * Too many sensors, computerized modules, and a continuum of plastic (polymer) parts and accessories. These are cars no longer, only pieces of "junk", designed to be navigated by a pilot or someone flying a U.F.O.
The Hemis are made in Saltillo, Mexico. Watch minute number 32:49 of the following Ultimate Factories video.
How horrible !!!! Not a singal American no not one touches the Hemi engine. But we would buy it and make it better , stronger , faster , last longer and how would we do this? With parts we buy that are built in _______. Hmmm. If they and they know who they are keep it up. The US might just be the next tourist location.