2015 Chrysler 200 to Lead Brand's Comeback
Next year, at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler is set to debut its redesigned 200 sedan, a model that the brand hopes will lead its resurgence and become a real contender in the midsize sedan market.
The Fiat-owned automaker has mounted an impressive comeback through its Jeep and RAM brands, while CEO Sergio Marchionne has trimmed away the outdated models and slow sellers. The redesigned 200 will mark the beginning of the automaker’s car lineup transformation with the industry using it to measure Chrysler’s success.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Chrysler 200 Set for Detroit Auto Show Debut With 9-Speed Transmission
According to Chrysler dealer owner David Kelleher, “The new 200 is going to be a different car. People will wake up and come to buy that car.” Kelleher also added that Chrysler was “somewhat challenged” by the new Ford Fusion, which has done very well on the market since its debut.
According to Ralph Gilles, Chrysler’s design chief, the new 200 won’t be a derivative of the brand’s larger 300 sedan and will in fact sport its own style and look. Kelleher added that the redesigned 200 has the “strength of a very, very expensive European sedan like a Mercedes, but it’s definitely American.”
The new 200 was shown to dealers last October and was the only introduction to bring dealers on their feet.
Past reports have indicated it will get a 9-speed automatic transmission and get as much as 39 mpg highway.
[Source: Automotive News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Good luck with that . . .