Chrysler to build new sedan in U.S. based on Fiat C-Evo platform

Chrysler to build new sedan in U.S. based on Fiat C-Evo platform


December 31st, 1969 The alliance between Fiat and Chrysler still has just been finalized and with the government’s deadline for restructuring falling at the end of this month dealers understandably are nervous. Add a looming bankruptcy to the mix and stress levels for most dealers will likely be going through the roof. To settle tensions a little and offer some hope, Chrysler recently showed off several of its planned models at a special dealer presentation. Among the new models was the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan, as well as a compact sports sedan based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform. On hand at the event was Chrysler’s design chief Ralph Gilles who confirmed that the Chrysler version would use the Fiat chassis but will have unique exterior sheet metal. The C-Evo platform, incidentally, underpins the popular Fiat Bravo and it will also be used for the upcoming Alfa Romeo 149 (Milano). The information, which was first reported by Bloomberg, was acquired from a court filing issued by Chrysler. It revealed that the new sedan will be built in the U.S. but didn’t state which plant or under which brand the car will be sold. A previous bankruptcy filing also revealed that Chrysler’s agreement with Fiat includes four platforms and two engine and transmission combinations. Chrysler doesn’t have a compact sedan in its lineup at the moment and has lacked one ever since the Dodge Neon was discontinued back in 2006. With consumers in the U.S. continuing to downsize to smaller vehicles, even with fuel prices back at the $2 per gallon mark, Chrysler needs to fill the gaping void in its lineup. Chrysler, in its original viability plan submitted to the U.S. Treasury back in February, showed that it could expand its lineup for very little cost by borrowing several future Fiat models. The alliance will possibly see up to seven new Fiat and Alfa Romeo models sold in the U.S., including some that will be produced in North America for the first time.2010 Alfa Romeo 149 renderingChrysler and Fiat viabilty planAlfa Romeo Milano spy shots
Chrysler has confirmed it will launch a sedan based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, which will underpin the new Alfa Romeo 149 (Milano)

Chrysler has confirmed it will launch a sedan based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, which will underpin the new Alfa Romeo 149 (Milano)

Enlarge Photo

The alliance between Fiat and Chrysler still has just been finalized and with the government’s deadline for restructuring falling at the end of this month dealers understandably are nervous. Add a looming bankruptcy to the mix and stress levels for most dealers will likely be going through the roof.

To settle tensions a little and offer some hope, Chrysler recently showed off several of its planned models at a special dealer presentation. Among the new models was the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan, as well as a compact sports sedan based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform.

On hand at the event was Chrysler’s design chief Ralph Gilles who confirmed that the Chrysler version would use the Fiat chassis but will have unique exterior sheet metal. The C-Evo platform, incidentally, underpins the popular Fiat Bravo and it will also be used for the upcoming Alfa Romeo 149 (Milano).

The information, which was first reported by Bloomberg, was acquired from a court filing issued by Chrysler. It revealed that the new sedan will be built in the U.S. but didn’t state which plant or under which brand the car will be sold. A previous bankruptcy filing also revealed that Chrysler’s agreement with Fiat includes four platforms and two engine and transmission combinations.

Chrysler doesn’t have a compact sedan in its lineup at the moment and has lacked one ever since the Dodge Neon was discontinued back in 2006. With consumers in the U.S. continuing to downsize to smaller vehicles, even with fuel prices back at the $2 per gallon mark, Chrysler needs to fill the gaping void in its lineup.

Chrysler, in its original viability plan submitted to the U.S. Treasury back in February, showed that it could expand its lineup for very little cost by borrowing several future Fiat models. The alliance will possibly see up to seven new Fiat and Alfa Romeo models sold in the U.S., including some that will be produced in North America for the first time.

Comments (11 total)

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  1. They had me up to "Chrysler sheet metal." What a shame.

  2. Ummm, on that slide, the MiTo is described as a minivan, and is illustrated with a 149 picture?? Either this is illegitimate, or it's no wonder that Chrysler are falling apart - they would be if this is the way their research team always acts...

  3. Smooth and advanced. USA leaps forward!

  4. Chrysler-Fiat Sedan by area75

    http://www.area75.com.ar/blog/2009/05/02/chrysler-sedan-20102011-plataforma-fiat-c-evo/

    Jorge L. Fernández
    www.area75.com.ar

  5. The car in Jorge's link actually looks pretty good. Why no hatch?

  6. They had me up to "Chrysler sheet metal." What a shame.

    Actually the design of the new Ram was a step forward and according to people who have seen then in person the next 300 and Charger are gorgeous with great interiors.

  7. They should rethink and maybe revive Dodge Hornet Concept which could go against Nissan Cube and Kia Soul... also include 200 EV which looks better than 300C.

  8. They should rethink and maybe revive Dodge Hornet Concept which could go against Nissan Cube and Kia Soul... also include 200 EV which looks better than 300C.

    They were going to build it when Nissan was supposed to build them a small car, no idea where that is going now.

  9. Bring it over give it to my dad to drive for 6 months what ever breaks upgrade it and sell it! Nice!

  10. MotAuth folks, unless you have a Schulte exclusivity deal, I seriously suggest you to look at Area75's designs and consider to ask him for the ones you may need.

  11. Heard a great one the other day; New Fiat-Chrysler slogan "Fiat-Chrysler, it's supposed to make that noise."

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