Dodge Believes There’s an ‘Opportunity’ for a Basic Sports Car Priced Under $30K

      Dodge

      Stellantis is undergoing significant transformations. Major leadership changes are reshaping the direction of each brand, with Dodge CEO Matt McAlear stating, “V8 is no longer a bad word around the company.” This shift came after the launch of the electric Charger Daytona, which has faced criticism from those who prefer large-displacement gasoline engines. McAlear acknowledges that the criticism “stings,” but believes it’s the right direction, suggesting a possible return of the V8 for the beloved model. Yet, what about vehicles other than the Charger?

      Dodge used to manufacture a remarkable—if not world-class—sports car, but that is no longer the case. Meanwhile, Chevy has recently delivered one of the most absurd rear-wheel drive vehicles ever created (especially considering its price), and Ford is introducing a Mustang that has shattered a record previously held by Dodge.

      This raises the question: What’s the future for the Viper? McAlear's response was intriguing. He revealed multiple angles that hint at an unexpected opportunity, such as Dodge potentially recreating the original Viper experience with a vehicle that is more affordable for consumers.

      “One of my favorite cars,” McAlear said when we mentioned the long-hood icon.

      It was a straightforward comment, not a definitive answer. So we asked a different question: Is there a necessity for a halo model beyond what Dodge can accomplish with the Charger platform? Is there a need for something akin to the legendary V10-powered monster?

      “Is there a need? I don’t know if there’s a need,” the CEO replied. “But is there a want, a desire, and a market? I believe so. I think there’s a market for two kinds of halo models: an entry-level halo and a top-tier halo.”

      With this, McAlear introduced a new concept into the discussion—the idea of an “entry-level halo.” Naturally, we pressed for more details. What might that entail for Dodge?

      “I’m not sure what I’d compare it to,” he mentioned. “There’s inspiration to be drawn from what some powersports companies have done—not just the wild side-by-sides but also three-wheelers like the Slingshot. I think there’s something to explore there.”

      “Nowadays, everyone engages in various hobbies, wanting to spend on different interests,” McAlear continued. “It’s challenging to fully commit to one thing, putting all my resources into one car.”

      “It’s fantastic for those who can afford it, but not everyone has that capacity or desire.”

      Currently, the least expensive “fun” car in a Dodge showroom is the Charger, and until new models are launched, the term “cheapest” hardly equates to “affordable.” After factoring in destination fees, the most budget-friendly option exceeds $60,000. So what can consumers genuinely afford?

      “I believe there’s a chance to create something entry-level, back around the sub-$30,000 range,” he suggested. “There’s a market for those who want a weekend car, who would like a Viper but aren’t ready to spend $100 or $120K. A car that doesn’t require all the safety features or heated seats—just a car.”

      Am I imagining things, or is McAlear potentially hinting at a Miata? Or, delving into the company’s history of performance concepts, could it be the Dodge Demon? Long before that name was given to a line of drag-focused Challengers, it was associated with a two-seat roadster that briefly surfaced during Chrysler’s Cerberus era.

      We’re captivated by the idea alone, but it has been 18 years since we last saw this compact sports car, making it a long wait. So what must happen for a project like this to receive approval?

      “I see potential. That’s a consideration with the Charger. It functions as a utility vehicle, able to tackle winter conditions with AWD, serving diverse needs,” McAlear noted. “However, for future products, we must return to originality like the Viper. It has to come to market as something unique and distinctly Dodge—not a Corvette competitor or Mustang rival. That’s why we’ve never aimed to directly challenge Mustang or Camaro, right? We’ve always focused on straight-line, distinctive performance.”

      That’s fantastic for buyers seeking fun cars, but what about others? Dodge showrooms are notably sparse, and while trucks are currently dominant at Stellantis, McAlear and other executives recognize the lack of economical options. The majority of car buyers simply want to travel from point A to point B without needing specialized equipment like drag radials or locking differentials. At present, the Hornet is the only truly accessible vehicle at a Dodge dealership, and while Dodge is striving to reduce its price, it remains just one model. Will we see more affordable commuting options added to the lineup?

      “Offering a value play to attract customers to the showroom is crucial, and we