Chrysler Celebrates 100 Years and Promises Three New Models Will Solve All Issues | Carscoops

      An updated version of the Pacifica is set to debut next year, with an all-new crossover to follow shortly after.

      Chrysler is preparing to commemorate its 100th anniversary on June 6.

      Once a popular brand, Chrysler's sales have declined by almost 60% over the past decade.

      Three new models are anticipated, including a much-needed crossover.

      Milestones like a 100th anniversary are significant, but sadly, Chrysler has little to celebrate. Over the last ten years, sales have dropped nearly 60%, and the current lineup is primarily comprised of an aging minivan and an older variant of that same model.

      The situation has deteriorated to the point where Stellantis has had to reject a purchase offer for the brand and assure that it is not under threat of closure. Furthermore, promised models, such as the Chrysler 100, have yet to materialize. Additionally, the once-popular 300 model has become a thing of the past.

      While we could elaborate further, Chrysler prefers to remind us of its past successes. This history begins with the Chrysler Six, which debuted at the 1924 New York Auto Show, and coincidentally, the brand showcased the same car at this year’s event.

      This is a commendable gesture that launches Chrysler’s Century of Innovation celebration. The culmination of this celebration will occur on June 6, marking the day Maxwell Motors transformed into the Chrysler Corporation, with Walter P. Chrysler as its president.

      The Chrysler Six was priced at $1,565 and came equipped with a 3.3-liter inline-six engine that reportedly delivered 68 hp (51 kW / 69 PS). Other notable features included hydraulic brakes, aluminum pistons, replaceable oil and air filters, shock absorbers, and “full pressure lubrication.”

      One of Chrysler’s most renowned models, the 1934 Airflow, was introduced about a decade later but turned out to be a significant disappointment. It boasted a groundbreaking design as the first production vehicle aerodynamically shaped in a wind tunnel. Unfortunately, it was released during the Great Depression and failed to resonate with consumers.

      In 1955, the 300 made its debut with a 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) Hemi V8 engine. This name was revived decades later when a rear-wheel drive flagship returned for the 2005 model year.

      Between these two points, Chrysler launched the first minivan in the 1980s, introduced automatic speed control in 1958, an in-vehicle record player in 1956, and Stow ‘n Go seating in 2005.

      Looking Forward to a Brighter Future

      Despite the lack of celebrations for Chrysler over the past twenty years, executives are optimistic about the future. CEO Chris Feuell has mentioned “exciting new releases” on the way, which include “a refreshed Chrysler Pacifica in 2026, a new crossover soon after, and a third product inspired by the Halcyon concept.”

      Feuell has been promoting these models in recent months, previously stating that the Halcyon showcases their new styling approach, which is modern and elegant, yet not overly complex.

      The updated Pacifica is expected to feature a revised plug-in hybrid powertrain, with an electric version also in the pipeline. The upcoming crossover is likely to be available in both hybrid and electric variants.