Jeremiah 29:11

Chrysler will cut four of its models

Pedro Arrais
Times Colonist


Friday, November 09, 2007

Chrysler plans on discontinuing four models from its lineup, they include the PT Cruiser convertible, Pacifica, Dodge Magnum and the Crossfire two-seater.

Chrysler has just announced the end of the road for four models in its lineup: the Chrysler Crossfire, Pacifica and PT Cruiser convertible and the Dodge Magnum. The North American automaker says 2008 will be the last year for the four.

In the same announcement, Chrysler also revealed plans to scale back production for its remaining models due to the continuing slowdown of the U.S. economy.

"The four models slated for discontinuation did not sell well when new but are very popular as pre-owned vehicles," says Mike Wille, sales manager of Wille Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Victoria. "The Pacifica was priced a little high at the onset but is a great value now."

Chrysler offered a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel, reiterating its intention to introduce two new models, the Dodge Journey, a crossover vehicle, and the Dodge Challenger, a performance car.
Wille says the Journey, which is expected to sell in the $25,000 to $35,000 range when it appears in the spring of 2008, is an attractive vehicle about the same size as the current Caravan. "It's smaller and narrower, so it will likely be popular in our market." he says. He thinks the Journey will appeal to buyers who would normally have bought a short-wheelbase Caravan (which is no longer offered in 2008).

The Challenger is expected to compete with the Ford Mustang and upcoming Chevrolet Camaro. The Challenger will be built at Chrysler's Brampton, Ont., assembly plant. It will initially be produced in limited numbers when it appears next summer, although no pricing has been announced. "We'll probably just get one." says Wille.
Chrysler also indicated it is committed to offering hybrid versions of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango, two SUV models.