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The replacement/new version of the Dodge Caliber and Chrysler PT Cruiser were originally slated for mid-2012 and according to Wards Auto – at least the Dodge version is on track and it will meet the world at Cobo Hall next January at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. There is no real information available including what the new models would be called but rumors suggest that it will be based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform. This is the current platform of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta (shown on the right) – a sporty, sleek 5-door hatchback that could make for a great starting point for the small car class in which Chrysler and Dodge could both use some major help.
The Chrysler PT Cruiser has been gone for quite some time now and while the Dodge Caliber is alive, it isn’t doing all that well. The current Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger sedans are both doing well but with the early popularity of the new Ford Focus, there is clearly a market for a C-segment 5-door with some European flare. Take the form of the Giulietta, enlarge it to offer similar dimensions to the Avenger and 200, pack it with the 283 horsepower Pentastar V6 and you have yourself one amazing hot hatch that could fill the void created by the ending of the PT Cruiser and the lackluster sales of the current Dodge Caliber.
Again, it seems that only the Dodge version of the new 5-door hatchback is confirmed for the 2012 Detroit Auto Show but it would certainly make for a grand stage to introduce a re-emergence into a segment where the whole company could really use some help.
Source: Wards Auto
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