We Hear: Dodge Challenger Wheelbase to Shrink, Chrysler Minivan Axed in 2014

Rumors regarding the demise of Chrysler’s minivans have swirled, and now a report from Automotive News says at least one of the people-movers will either be discontinued or evolve into a crossover. Aside from changes affecting the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, the Chrysler Group has a range of updates planned for its Chrysler and Dodge brands over the next few years. Read on for a comprehensive rundown of what’s headed for Dodge and Chrysler dealerships over the next few years.

Dodge and Chrysler Minivans and SUVs

The Dodge Grand Caravan minivan will live to see a redesign for the 2015 model year, while production of the Chrysler Town & Country will end in 2014 to make way for a new crossover in 2015 that could retain the same name. The move is part of CEO Sergio Marchionne’s efforts to further differentiate the Chrysler brand, which he hopes will become more upscale. The Town & Country’s replacement will likely share a platform with the redesigned Grand Caravan, and could draw styling inspiration from the Chrysler 700C concept shown at this year’s Detroit auto show.

Though Dodge’s minivan may have been spared, the brand’s other seven-passenger vehicle, the Dodge Durango, could be sent to the chopping block by 2014. Such a move would make room for production of the upcoming Jeep Grand Wagoneer at Chrysler’s Jefferson North assembly plant. Though the Durango’s discontinuation is a possibility, Automotive News reports Marchionne said Chrysler is considering a redesign for Durango, a decision that could move it to another plant. If the Durango survives, it could share a platform with the next Grand Caravan and Town & Country replacement. The Dodge Journey will be redesigned in the 2014 model year, moving to a Fiat-sourced platform.

Dodge and Chrysler Cars

Chrysler’s flagship 300 sedan will get a refresh for the 2015 model year, along with platform-mate Dodge Charger, which is expected to get a new special-edition performance model early next year. The 300C V-8 model will receive launch control in 2013, as will the Dodge Challenger. That model will be redesigned for model-year 2015, losing 2-3 inches off its 116-inch wheelbase. An SRT version bearing the Barracuda name could bow in early 2014, utilizing a new supercharged 6.2-liter V-8.

The recently launched Dodge Dart was expected to get an R/T performance version this year, but that model has been pushed back to early 2013. Still on track for its late 2012 debut, however, is the Dart Aero model, which will challenge other hyper-miling compacts like the Chevrolet Cruze Eco and Ford Focus SFE. An SRT4 version is still in development, likely slated for a 2013 calendar year roll-out. The Chrysler 200 midsize sedan will be redesigned on a Fiat-based CUSW platform for the 2014 model year, while its Dodge Avenger twin is set to be discontinued by 2013. Also expected to utilize Fiat’s CUSW architecture are upcoming subcompacts Dodge Hornet and Chrysler 100. The Hornet hatchback is expected to arrive by model-year 2014, going up against other B-segment offerings such as the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Sonic. The Chrysler 100 is set for a 2015 model year debut, but could be bumped up if production allows.

What upcoming Dodge or Chrysler car are you most looking forward to seeing?

Source: Automotive News 1, 2 (Subscription required)