For the past few years, it was widely assumed and even hinted at by some Dodge executives that the next generation Challenger and Charger would switch to the same rear-wheel drive platform that underpins the Alfa Romeo Giulia. It would make sense financially speaking, especially given the huge sum of money FCA invested in the Giorgio architecture. However, that no longer appears to be the case. Motor Authority has comments made by FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne stating the next coupe and sedan will continue with the existing platform.
"We may not necessarily have to go as far as the Giorgio architecture for Dodge as long as we are willing to commit to a significant upgrade to the current architecture to make it competitive. That's something that's already started," Marchionne said. Now, it's important to note that current platform dates back to the 1990s when it was originally used to underpin the Mercedes-Benz E-Class of that era. Remember Daimler-Chrysler? Over the years, that large RWD platform has been updated, most recently in 2011. So why does Marchionne and team believe this years old platform should stick around for even longer?
The problem with Giorgio is from size and capability standpoint it reflects much more of a European performance requirement than it does the American heritage of Dodge," Marchionne added. "Certainly by the time we finish with that architecture, you will not recognize its origins. We may maintain its bare-bones structure." But here's where Marchionne absolutely nailed it: "The problem with Giorgio is from size and capability standpoint it reflects much more of a European performance requirement than it does the American heritage of Dodge." Translation: the Giorgio platform is not ideal for large Hemi V8s, but rather smaller, turbocharged engines, like the Ferrari-derived twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 in the Giulia Quadrifoglio.
As for the future of the Chrysler 300, the Charger's cousin, well, that still remains uncertain. Considering Dodge will continue to grow as a performance brand while Chrysler will become further ingrained with Waymo and self-driving tech, the 300's future isn't looking bright. But hey, the Challenger and Charger are only going to get better, V8s and all.
