Chrysler’s Comeback

The Future Of Chrysler

A significant shift has taken place with Chrysler. Known for its century-long legacy, the brand made a bit of a pivot in the automotive world. Strange as it may sound, Chrysler effectively became a minivan maker since halting its Chrysler 300 production at the end of 2023. This news comes across as somewhat lackluster for fans of the storied brand who are used to the powerful lineup Chrysler has offered over the years. Celebrating a hundred years, Chrysler rolled out a special edition of its Pacifica minivan—complete with, well, commemorative stickers.

But wait—there might be light at the end of this tunnel. According to Ralph Gilles, Stellantis’ design boss who spearheaded iconic designs like the Dodge Viper and the Chrysler 300, the brand is gearing up for a revival. There are whispers of a sleeker, more innovative model in the works, offering a glimmer of hope for what may come next.

Optimism For The Brand

Ralph Gilles recently spoke to Road & Track stating that things are turning around: “They are back on with Chrysler.” While this does sound a bit vague, it signifies that Chrysler now has its own dedicated design studio, separating from Dodge, alongside its own product planning and marketing teams. This strategic move shows Stellantis’ intention to ensure Chrysler finds its feet again.

The focal point in this revival effort is the Halcyon Concept. This futuristic, four-door EV concept broke cover last year, catching attention with its ultra-modern doors and sleek lines. Although it won’t be a standalone model, this concept is expected to influence forthcoming Chrysler vehicles, possibly even a new iteration of the 300.

Look For A Crossover

While specific plans aren’t fully revealed, CEO Christine Fuell confirmed that a new crossover would be Chrysler’s first step back onto the scene. This makes a lot of sense, considering how crossovers are popular with those willing to invest in a new vehicle. However, Chrysler isn’t going all-in on SUVs. The company is exploring lower, more efficient models, which align well with the demands of electric vehicle designs.

Some nifty features are rumored for upcoming Chrysler models, such as a panoramic glass roof, AR head-up display, and even a “tech detox” mode that clears screens for a less distracted drive. These innovations show the brand’s commitment to making driving both fun and future-ready.

Platform Flexibility

Although specifics about drivetrain tech weren’t disclosed, it seems Chrysler will be relying on Stellantis’ flexible STLA platforms. These platforms accommodate electric, gas, and hybrid engines, giving Chrysler a versatile toolset to adapt its future lineup according to market trends and customer demands. Other Stellantis brands, like Dodge, are already benefitting from this platform flexibility in models such as the Charger Daytona EV.

In sum, while the journey back to the top may be gradual, Chrysler’s upcoming models, design innovation, and strategic use of Stellantis platforms seem to suggest that the brand is far from out of the race. Expect cars that not only harken back to Chrysler’s heyday but push the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive world.