The expected shake-out at Chrysler LLC has begun with the announcement overnight of the automaker’s plan to drop four models from it’s line-up, along with a corresponding 12,000 jobs. Getting the axe are the Chrysler PT Cruiser convertible, Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler Crossfire, and the Dodge Magnum.
Chrysler have cunningly announced the model culling and the lay-offs together although the reality is somewhat different. Over 1,000 management positions are being terminated and the outgoing models are being replaced by new models including the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Journey and Aspen/Durango Hybrids.
The PT Cruiser remains Chrysler’s third best selling model despite sales for September being down 27 percent. While the convertible is being axed Chrysler claims to have listened to the fans of the wagon variant who ran online petitions against it being dropped as a model.
The Crossfire has been sold in Australia by Chrysler but at best received a luke warm reaction so its end comes as no real surprise.
The big news here is not the axing of the largely out-of-date models but the job cuts. Chrysler LLC have made it known that they intend to reduce their workforce by 20 percent by the end of 2008 and they are doing it in an effort to remain viable as a business against the likes of the Toyota juggernaut.
Steane
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I really did enjoy driving Chrysler’s Crossfire. The car’s critics were too many and too harsh.
It has its fans Gunnar. I personally know two car buffs who have driven one and given it the thumbs up. Not my “cup of tea” though.
With the Dodge magnum getting the axe could this also mean the end for the [hideous] 300C.. I believe that apart from the grille/facia they’re the same car- and we aussies go the ugly one..
Mind you the yanks have the ability; like no other; of taking a great looking car and making it look U-G-L-Y
[Pontiac G8]
If so could they replace it with the Dodge Challenger coupe? afterall we’re reportedly getting the Camaro; Monaro and Mustang in Oz within a couple of years.
I’m no big fan of the 300C’s styling either, but having driven the SRT8 I can tell you they are quite a nice machine. A 6.2 litre Hemi can have that effect on you…
I just bought a Pacifica & am a litte distressed as to why? Is it just a low selling model? I absolutely love the car–it’s pearl black & LOADED. I found it to be the best value–although I did take advantage of the year end incentives that made it so.