Chrysler sees niche for Challenger concept as it mulls production options

[ekool]

Thanks to forum member 2007HemiCuda for pointing out the following Autoweek Article... we have some news on the Dodge Challenger.

Originally Posted by Autoweek.com

NEW YORK -- The Chrysler group thinks it has created a viable business case for turning the Dodge Challenger concept into reality. The plan relies on niche volume, V-8 power and pricing above the Ford Mustang.

A key element is the belief that escalating gasoline prices won't sway enthusiasts from lusting after the Hemi-powered, rear-drive performance coupe.

Gasoline prices are "a factor in a lot of our discussions," said Joe Eberhardt, the Chrysler group's executive vice president of global sales and marketing.

"I wouldn't say (that) with Challenger because that is going to be a car probably for the enthusiast - probably a second or third car, probably not competing with everyday transportation."

That strategy would imply total or near total reliance on V-8 engines. That would be a striking contrast to Ford's Mustang, a mass-market vehicle offered with a range of models and powertrains - vehicles intended for everyday transportation. Last year Ford sold 160,975 Mustangs, of which only 30 percent had V-8s.

A decision on whether to build the Challenger is expected this year.

Chrysler does not have capacity to build the Challenger in its Brampton, Ontario, plant alongside the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger and Magnum. The Challenger would share a platform with those models.

That means a separate production site would be needed. But, since the Challenger would not be a mass-volume product, a dedicated plant would not be required.

"Emotionally, we are all there; we all say (let's build it) tomorrow," Eberhardt said. "But sometimes you've got to sit back and put a lid on your emotions and say, 'OK, is there a sustainable business case?' Or is it going to be another one year hot and then demand trails off fairly quickly?

"I think we are fairly comfortable now that we have found a formula where we think we can sustain it" profitably for several years, said Eberhardt, who was interviewed at the New York auto show this month.

The Challenger concept, which was unveiled at the Detroit auto show in January, draws on styling cues first seen on the 1970 Challenger. In those days the Challenger went head to head with the Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro in price, size and horsepower.

The Challenger concept packs a 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemi V-8. It's also 4.7 inches wider and 10.2 inches longer than the 2006 Mustang.

Said Eberhardt, the Challenger "is a larger car, and I think it will be (priced) a little above" the Mustang.

[ekool]

Personally I see this as a mixed bag. I'd like to see the unit offered with a V6 so we have some good sales numbers... but I'd also like to see the nameplate stay pure and say hey "you dont deserve this car unless you get it with a V8" -- so I'm a bit torn.

If it comes to production, I had no plans to get it with a V6 anyway, so its a moot point for me and all I see is that its that much more likely to be produced.

All in all, it gives me renewed hope!

[Davbo]

So.....is that a "yes" to production or a "maybe"?

[77 Monte Carlo]

Let me put it this way. Can Dodge affoard not to build this car? My Unlce works at a Voss Dodge Dealership in Ohio, and he says that people come in every week, He said an average of around 5-10 a week, sometimes more, Wanting to buy the challenger, That sounds great to me, Sadly, If Dodge Doesnt build this Challenger, I'll get an 05 or 06 Mustang instead, So will a lot of people, Dodge just build it, You will sell many many many.... It looks so much better than the Mustang, Build it

[Vanishing Point]

...With a quote like this..""Emotionally, we are all there; we all say (let's build it) tomorrow," Eberhardt said. "But sometimes you've got to sit back and put a lid on your emotions and say, 'OK, is there a sustainable business case?' Or is it going to be another one year hot and then demand trails off fairly quickly?".......I think dcx has their head up their butts!! While they sit there and contemplate,...mustang is basking in the retro market by themselves,..and grabbing more and more each day,....while dcx wonders away in la-la land!!!! IMO,Just another dcx marketing blunder!! They need to be gettin' while the gettin' is good!!! Snooze,...you loose!!! Stop thinking,...and make the dang car DCX!!!!!!

[sniper226]

The message board on Autoblog is seeing quite a bit of activity regarding this article. Right now it seems like alot of ricers trying to put down the Challenger while old schoolers are trying to set them straight. I was going to get involved but I decided not to get sucked in.

http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/25/d...lity/#comments

[Manimal]

Originally Posted by ekool

Personally I see this as a mixed bag. I'd like to see the unit offered with a V6 so we have some good sales numbers... but I'd also like to see the nameplate stay pure and say hey "you dont deserve this car unless you get it with a V8" -- so I'm a bit torn.

If it comes to production, I had no plans to get it with a V6 anyway, so its a moot point for me and all I see is that its that much more likely to be produced.

All in all, it gives me renewed hope!

There's nothing pure about the original considering you could order any engine combination from a slant six to a Hemi. Let's not forget that most original Challengers were 318 cars, most current Mustangs are v6 equipped, so it makes to me to produce a modern v6 Challenger as well. But hey - what do I know?

[stewprime]

Well, that kind of seals it for me. I've been debating on whether to switch from buying a Challenger to buying a 300c. If it's not going to be priced comparable to the Mustang, I'd rather throw $35,000 into the luxury of the car, not just the look.

Plus with next years model, I can still get my 6.1 v8 . It's been fun guys...I'll see you over on 300cforums.com.

[BigDaddyWiz]

Originally Posted by stewprime

Well, that kind of seals it for me. I've been debating on whether to switch from buying a Challenger to buying a 300c. If it's not going to be priced comparable to the Mustang, I'd rather throw $35,000 into the luxury of the car, not just the look.

Plus with next years model, I can still get my 6.1 v8 . It's been fun guys...I'll see you over on 300cforums.com.

What we all need to do is email Dodge and tell them that we will not be able to afford a limited model (at least us average folk). just dont mention that you'll get another chrysler product if thats what you were planning on. I emailed them and told them that if this really is gonna be a limited model, then they lost a buyer to ford or chevy. I would much prefer the Challenger, but will buy other brands because of price. I am 100% serious when i say that. Every little bit helps.