At the time, we thought this new, redesigned Chrysler 200 would be introduced for the 2014 model year.
According to Autoweek, Chrysler is waiting until the 2015 model year to introduce its redesigned 200.
Normally that would mean a launch in the summer of 2014, at the earliest, but the report claims the 2015 Chrysler 200 could be introduced as early as January. This suggests a world debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
The redesign was originally pegged to be introduced for the 2014 model year but delays in development, brought about mostly by the new design and a switch to the Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) platform, meant the car couldn’t be ready on time.
Instead, the 2014 model year will be the final year for the current 200, which is essentially an update of the last Sebring model introduced for 2007. The 2014 Chrysler 200 will be launched this summer and will have a shortened run, making way for the redesigned 2015 model early next year.
Last year, Chrysler managed to sell 125,476 200 sedans and convertibles, making it the brand’s top-selling passenger car and its fifth most popular nameplate. Getting the design right for the new model will be crucial. Front-wheel drive will remain, but a more efficient nine-speed automatic will be available.
At this time, it’s not clear what the plans are for the Chrysler 200’s Dodge cousin, the Avenger, though it’s likely it, too, will be renewed within the next 12 to 18 months.
