Earlier this year, Chrysler announced a plan to drastically cut its model offerings — dubbed ‘Project Genesis’ — as the Michigan-based automaker shifts its dealer structure to house all three of its brands (Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep ) under one roof. While it was widely speculated which models could be facing elimination, one of Chrysler’s executives has, for the first time, indicated which models could get the ax.
According to the Detroit Free Press, at an event at Northwood University, Steven Landry, Chrysler executive vice president for North American sales, indicated which sets of twin models were up for review. Landry said that Chrysler’s new business model would not include building vehicles that have “the same DNA” and gave the examples of the Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro, the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango and the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring.
“We’re not going to have vehicles like that,” Landry said. “We’re not going to have twin vehicles, one for one brand and one for another.”
However, at a separate event Frank Klegon, Chrysler executive vice president for product development, indicated that the Dodge Durango was safe, meaning the Chrysler Aspen is probably on life support.
Chrysler president Jim Press has also stated that he would like to see similar changes at Chrysler and also questioned the need for two minivans that are essentially identical.
Chrysler has already confirmed that it will discontinue the Dodge Magnum, the convertible Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler Pacifica and Chrysler Crossfire.
