By 2014, 12 nameplates from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram will have heavy Fiat influence. They will either be developed on Fiat Group platforms or named and imported from the Fiat Group. This co-existence will use a variety of Fiat and Chrysler transmissions.
For example, a FSD Lancia will be name-plated as a Chrysler. A subcompact Jeep will share a chassis platform with the next-generation Fiat Panda Cross. A redesigned Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger will evolve from an unspecified Fiat Group platform.
Chrysler’s newest brand, Ram, will add two renamed vans from Fiat.
Rear-drive vehicles, namely trucks and big cars, will continue to be Chrysler’s area of expertise. The next-generation Charger will woo baby boomers, with styling cues drawn from the iconic 1968-1970 Chargers.
Meanwhile, Ram executives say the model line will be expanded up to Class 5 medium-duty trucks. My understanding is It is an effort to push Ram sales over the 400,000 mark. Last year, Chrysler sold 245,840 Rams
While V-8 engines such as the Hemi will continue to play a prominent role in the automaker’s largest vehicles, Fiat’s four-cylinder engines will rule elsewhere. Displacements will range from 1.4 to 2.0 liters.
Here is what I read: Chrysler executives project that in 2014, Fiat-derived engines and transmissions will account for 42 percent of the company’s mix. Chrysler’s new Pentastar V-6 family, developed before Fiat came on the scene, will account for 38 percent.
Although this is what the future brings to us, the cars we currently drive will be on the roads for many years. With this in mind if you need some transmission advise on a one of the currently produced Chrysler transmissions, call GotTransmissions.com for a lesson in how to decide what transmission is in your best interests. Our professionals have the time to explain the details and break them down into terms you will understand. Call GotTransmissiosn.com @ 866-320-1182.