Funky Hornet points way for DCX
Partner sought for street version


Aug. 12, 2006. 01:00 AM
GERRY MALLOY


The Dodge Challenger coupe and Chrysler Imperial sedan have been the big attention-getters among the Chrysler Group's 2006 concept cars.

But the most significant of the company's concepts, in terms of potential production volume, is likely to be the Dodge Hornet, which debuted in March at the Geneva auto show.

A "B-car" in global industry parlance, it is what we call a subcompact — a market segment in which the auto maker is not currently represented.

And one where it desperately needs a presence, given the current market direction.

Chrysler Group CEO Tom LaSorda has told me that a B-car is definitely in the plans for Europe and North America — perhaps beyond.

"But," he added, "we won't build it ourselves."

Potential partners for the project include Mitsubishi and Volkswagen, as well as an unnamed European manufacturer and possibly one from China.

The winner is expected to be selected by early October.

The Hornet concept indicates the direction Chrysler thinks the production car should take.

Having driven the concept recently, I concur.

It incorporates all the elements needed to succeed in North America, including in-your-face styling that shouts urban tough. Small doesn't have to mean wimpy.

The cabin is as funky as the exterior, which should play well with young buyers, the primary focus of such entry-level cars.

Hornet's rear-hinged doors open only when the fronts are open, as on Saturn's Ion Quad Coupe and various extended-cab pickup.

Although small in external dimensions, the square profile makes maximum use of space, albeit with the inevitable choice of either people or cargo, not both, aft of the front seats.

Driver and front-passenger room is generous.

Its modest size and minimal overhangs should make for traffic-carving prowess.

Let's hope Chrysler and its partner stick close to the Hornet blueprint — and make it available here with the torque-rich, fuel-sipping diesel(s) that will surely be offered in the European version.

 

some photos, from DCX..



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