More details about Chrysler's future midsize platform

Chrysler is developing a new range of vehicles for one of the most competitive automotive segments in the world, the midsize D-segment, currently dominated by the likes of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Its current offerings, the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring, are outsold by its Japanese rivals nearly four-to-one but Chrysler thinks it can crack the tough market.

We’ve previously reported that Chrysler is developing a flexible ‘global’ platform for the new lineup, and now The Detroit News is reporting that a team of more than 100 engineers are working on the project. During a recent interview, Chrysler’s head of engineering for the project, Mark Chernoby, revealed the car could come in many forms including a sedan and crossover.

Chernoby also revealed the project was the top priority at Chrysler even with the firm’s current restructuring. The midsize segment, after all, is the most popular car class in the U.S. and worldwide sales are expected to reach 8.96 million units this year.

The other key focus for Chrysler is to expand its global presence. Last year, 91% of its sales were in North America – a market that’s on the decline – so it’s vital the new model is engineered and styled to suit international tastes.

Chrysler will be facing stiff competition not only from its foreign rivals but also from the rest of the Detroit 3. GM recently revealed its new Opel Insignia sedan, the replacement for the current Saturn Aura, and Ford is currently finishing the final touches on its all new Taurus due at the end of the year.

Pictured above is the new Dodge Journey, one of Chrysler's first midsized models designed with global markets in mind.