Chrysler brand renaissance in full swing

Entire line-up to be rejuvenated or replaced by the end of next year
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Chrysler will replace every model in its US range through 2011 with either all-new or significantly improved vehicles.

Under the auspices of an all-new winged logo, the forthcoming revival will see models including the Chrysler 300 large sedan (known as the 300C locally) and Chrysler 200 mid-size (pictured) redefine each segment for the brand.

Other models to undergo a makeover include the Chrysler Town & Country minivan, Dodge Avenger sedan, Dodge Charger and Challenger coupes, Dodge Durango SUV, Dodge Grand Caravan and Dodge Journey people movers and recently driven family member, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which will arrive in Australia from February.

Chrysler says each of the new models will bring 'acclaimed driving dynamics and an even more befitting interior' to their respective segments when the vehicles are released to market next year.

"What the Chrysler Brand will be, and what will make it unique, is that it will give people beautiful shapes, which would otherwise be out of reach. It will always deliver a bit more than the customer expects," said Olivier Francois, Chrysler Brand President & CEO.

"At every turn, Chrysler Brand and its vehicles will deliver what people deserve, not just what they expect. It will take appointments -- design, technology, and engines, to name a few -- that were borne for a few and deliver them to the masses."

Top of that list, the Chrysler 200 medium sedan promises to deliver what Chrysler says is 'an extraordinary level of standard content, at a surprising value'. The Chrysler 200 aims to go head-to-head with market stalwarts including the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

A four-seat convertible version is also poised to follow, eventually replacing the aged Sebring.

The new Chrysler 200 sedan will feature upgrades pertaining to virtually every facet of the vehicle's design including exterior and sheetmetal upgrades, innovative and intuitive technology, thoughtful cabin decor and ergonomics plus an abundance of standard safety features.

Additionally, an all-new instrument panel, bezels, gauge face and new Chrysler steering wheel bring a new elegance to the driver's seat which is also upgraded with new cushion material and upholstery choices.

Shifting from its tradition of a softly sprung ride, Chrysler is also committing to a more agile and confident handling experience with every part of the 200's suspension retuned or redesigned for 2011.

A new and improved powertrain lineup will also debut featuring a choice of two petrol engines, including the acclaimed new Pentastar V6. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the new six-cylinder mill is designed to achieve impressive fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures (yet to be confirmed) while also producing an impressive output of 216kW and 353Nm. The 2011 Chrysler 200 will also be offered with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol.

In the US, the Chrysler 200 range will be priced from $19,995 to $24,495.

Unfortunately for the local (Australian) market a right-hand drive variant will not be produced with the current Chrysler 200 series.

Chrysler Australia's Senior Manager of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Dean Bonthorne, told the Carsales Network that  "Chrysler is focused on its reinvention within the domestic [US] market for the time being and will work to re-establish itself completely before looking overseas."

But that doesn't mean we won't see the Chrysler 200 or other models when the situation changes, possibly with the next series update in a couple year's time.

"We'd love to offer the 200 in Australia and, along with other new models, [it] is one we will continue to monitor," concluded Bonthorne.

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