Dodge Hornet headed to production after partner decided.

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08-07-2006, 11:15 PM

guionM

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Dodge Hornet headed to production after partner decided.

Chrysler is going to produce the Hornet. It's just a question of 'Who's going to be a partner in making it'?

According to Autoweek, Chrysler is giving itself a little more time in finding another company willing to go in with them on the project which will be sold both here and in Europe.

Chrysler was originally to make a decision by the middle of this year, but has extended their timeline to the start of the 4th quarter (October) 2006, according to Tom LaSorda, Chrysler CEO.

Currently, Chrysler is in talks with Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, and Chery, a Chinese manufacturer.

Chrysler has no quality concerns about working with the Chinese manufacturer, indicating that Chrysler may look to Chery as a manufacturer of the car.

Volkswagen is considering the sharing a platform with Chrysler's Hornet for it's next Polo (one of the lowest priced Volkswagens), keeping development costs low.

Although no date or pricing has been announced, the Dodge Hornet could be on the road within 24 months after an allience is decided.

Hornet is expected to be the lowest price Dodge.

Autoweek story:
http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dl...TOKEN=78599311

08-09-2006, 01:06 AM

Good Ph.D

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Re: Dodge Hornet headed to production after partner decided.

At least it makes more sense then the Smart cars.

08-09-2006, 10:35 AM

johnsocal

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Re: Dodge Hornet headed to production after partner decided.

The Hornet is a good looking little car and it should sell well especially if its price is low and if its easy to modify. The MINI Cooper needs some good spirited competition so magazine covers could read 'Cooper Vs Hornet'. Every iconic car needs a nemesis like the 'Vette z06 Vs Viper', 'Camaro Vs Mustang' and even 'WRX STi Vs Mitsu Evo'.

Competition not only makes cars better, but good old fashion rivalry helps sell cars as well.

Last edited by johnsocal; 08-09-2006 at 10:44 AM.

08-10-2006, 11:19 AM

stereomandan

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Re: Dodge Hornet headed to production after partner decided.

Wow, that's an ugly car, at least to me. Doesn't have any of the pazzaz of the mini cooper. Looks more like an Aveo to me.

The closest I can think to compare to the mini cooper right now is the Audi TT (although a lot bigger, it brings to mind the same demographic to me). Also, any of the really small two seater coupes, S2000, Miata, maybe even the Solstace and Sky. Sorry, off topic a little.

Dan