The Future Chrysler Lineup

Chrysler is betting on style to help win over customers. Today, the automaker announced its plans for the future at a presentation in Michigan. Evoking images of the 1950s — yes, even Don Draper from “Mad Men” was shown as an example — executives hope future designs will resonate with consumers as something different in the marketplace. The company’s new logo (above) was used throughout the presentation, as well.

We’re not sure if there will be a true “upscale” move or if the company will stick to style alone — as with the 300C — to sway buyers. The company’s product timeline is below.

At the end of the product roundup, there was absolutely no mention of Alfa Romeo being sold again in the U.S. That was just one of the many points the Wall Street Journal’s sources got wrong in a report last week.

Fiat to Gut Chrysler Lineup

Update 11/5/09: Fiat and Chrysler have officially announced lineups for the future which directly counter the claims made in the Wall Street Journal story mentioned in the below post. Click on the following links for the formal lineups.

The Future Chrysler Lineup
The Future Jeep Lineup
The Future Dodge Lineup

The Wall Street Journal reported today Fiat’s future plan for Chrysler, a full week before the company is to meet in a closed-door session with analysts and media to reveal its intentions.

The article is striking in its detail and scope of Fiat’s restructuring. Nearly the entire Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep lineups will be replaced in five years by not only Fiat technology and products but also the return of Alfa Romeo as a luxury marquee slated above Chrysler.

We break down the product shifts below.

Cars.com Compares Back-to-School Minivans

Get excited, kids! It’s that time of the year when the wistful adventures of summer abruptly end, and students find themselves back in the agony of social studies and algebra. What better way to commemorate that transition than to take a look at the vehicles that will potentially transport the country’s pupils to their institutions of learning? Cars.com reviewers Mike Hanley, Kelsey Mays and Joe Wiesenfelder look at three back-to-school minivans, the Chrysler Town & Country, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

Cars.comparison: Back-to-School Minivans (Cars.com)

Cars.com Reviews the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country

When purchasing a minivan, who is it more important to please, the passengers or the driver? Cars.com reviewer Mike Hanley makes the point that if you’re in the market for a minivan, it’s probably because you want an effective way to shuttle your kids around, not because you’re looking to bask in a fantastic driving experience. In this sense, the 2009 Chrysler Town & Country succeeds with a slew of creative features. But about that driving experience — well, read his full review to find out.

2009 Chrysler Town & Country Review