Chrysler is considering bringing its new 200 model [nee Sebring], unveiled in Detroit, to the UK as part of its product offensive.
It could line up alongside the Lancia based Delta and Ypsilon in a completely revamped range of vehicles being launched by Chrysler, now under Fiat management control.
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The US carmaker’s last attempt to compete in the D-segment in the UK failed with the Sebring and Dodge Avenger [some dealers even quit Avenger stock through a third party on two-for-one price deals] and the company has yet to decide whether to give it another try.
Insiders at the Detroit show said that, although Chrysler UK had not planned to take the 200, it is now giving it further thought.
The substantially updated model is much more elegant than the old Sebring, echoing many of the design themes of the redesigned 300, also launched at Detroit. This model comes to the UK early next year.
Before that, April will see the introduction of another Detroit debutant, the Voyager people carrier – known as the Town and Country in the US.
Design chief Ralph Gilles said the new 300 features the new ‘face’ of Chrysler with a restyled front grille and ‘jewelled’ headlamps.
“You will see these themes coming through on other models in the future,” he added.
Company president Olivier Francois also indicated that there is a lot more to come on the product front.
“We have other ‘hundreds’ in the oven,” he told reporters.
