Maserati Platform To Underpin Next-Gen Dodge Charger And Challenger From 2021

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Maserati Platform To Underpin Next-Gen Dodge Charger And Challenger From 2021

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Maserati Platform To Underpin Next-Gen Dodge Charger And Challenger From 2021
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/mase ... 20495.html
After finding out that the LX-based Chrysler 300 will live on through 2019 with a major refresh, word has it Dodge will borrow the Maserati vehicle architecture for the future Charger and Challenger. More specifically, the backbone of the Ghibli luxury mid-size sports sedan is expected to serve as the building block.

Automotive News reports that “Dodge has ditched plans, for now, to move the Challenger and Charger onto Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' new Giorgio platform.” That’s an interesting scenario if it will be proven correct, but the real curiosity is, there’s no reason given for the change from Alfa Romeo to Maserati technology. Most probably, Alfa Romeo’s Giorgio can’t be stretched enough to accommodate the body shell of the Dodge Charger and Challenger.

Like the Charger, the Challenger will see one more freshening in 2019 before a full redesign in 2021 onto the Ghibli's platform,” highlights the cited publication. The timing appears to be right for both models, which were last updated in 2014 for the 2015 model year. Provided FCA doesn’t run out of cash until then, a bit of nip and tuck would keep things nice and fresh.

At this point, it’s important to talk about engine options. Maserati uses the platform for every model in its range, excluding the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. That’s the Ghibli, Quattroporte, and Levante, and all of them are available with Q4 all-wheel-drive. Then there’s the get-up-and-go, with all three models relying on force-fed V6 and V8 motors, including a diesel.

Does this mean the days of the good ol’ HEMI V8 are numbered? Whatever happens to the HEMI, the flip side is that the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 currently used by Maserati is related to the Ferrari F154 family of engines. And in its range-topping tune, it also packs 523 hp (530 PS) and 524 lb-ft (710 Nm).

In related news on Fiat Chrysler, forever troubled Alfa Romeo has reportedly delayed the long-rumored Alfetta mid-size sedan to 2021.
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