Chrysler-Fiat anticipates that by 2014, V8 engines will account for only 11 percent of its mix (and that's including the new Ram brand), down from 18 percent in 2010.
At the same time, the company anticipates anticipates that four-cylinder engines will make up 38 percent of its mix in 2014 -- up considerably from 19 percent in 2010. And there will be more diesels, too. Look for them to make up 14 percent of the mix in 2014, compared to only 9 percent today.
-- Dan Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit
zoomzoomn says:
08:28 AM, 11/ 4/09
I think that it is fair to ask to see what it is that Tony is planning to sell as Dodges and Chryslers. Seeing IS believing and there has not yet been alot to see from this merger. Public acceptance, in turn, is yet to be seen. I find it quite sad and do not hold very high hopes for Chrysler's future.
altimadude00 says:
08:34 AM, 11/ 4/09
11%? Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challanger/Charger V8s, Dodge Ram and Dakota/Durango V8s will only account for 11% of sales? What is it now? (I'm guessing closer to 15-20%.)
Some people here will be happy to hear (no pun intended) that the diesels are coming. I'm not sure the general buying public will though. Diesel fuel is still more expensive than unleaded and it's not available at all stations. Fiat/Chrysler will need to persuade a lot of people with a very convincing arguement to sell diesels to the American public I think.
altimadude00 says:
08:35 AM, 11/ 4/09
Duh, read the article stupid. Disregard my estimate.
oscarmv says:
09:04 AM, 11/ 4/09
For trucks the diesel argument shouldn't be that hard to make as it's already there, and moving them downmarket (not just giganto-V8 diesels) could prove a good move as it means a mid-size truck that makes too much sense.
As for cars we'll see. It'll be the duty of us who spend our lives looking at auto sites to spread the word :P
the_big_al says:
09:28 AM, 11/ 4/09
Sound's like 1984 all over again when the only rear drive V8 powered vehicle Chrysler had in it's lineup was the Dodge Ram and Ram Charger. (was the Ram Charger around in 1984?) Anyway, it sounds like we are all headed for that era again when all you could get was a front driven, 4 bangin K car. Hopefully this time around it won't be as disastrous as last time.
cr_driver says:
10:14 AM, 11/ 4/09
Better for them, I mean, necessary. Its all about the time we are living now. At least V8 options will remain....:)
hondacura4 says:
02:39 PM, 11/ 4/09
Why did it take Fiat to make these obvious decisions?