Chrysler Eyes Two Sub-$25,000 SUVs

Things are quiet on the Stellantis front these days. That calm is deceiving, though, because the group is juggling several projects behind the scenes. And we’re not talking about tacking on new trims or dropping a bigger engine into an existing model here and there — this is about the next generation of vehicles that will help strengthen the company’s position. Word now has it that the plans include two SUVs with a base price under $25,000 US.

• The Chrysler Arrow and Arrow Cross are targeting a starting price near $25,000 US

• Both models would be based on the Fiat Grizzly, built in Morocco

• Stellantis is planning nine new models priced under $40,000 US by 2030

According to a report from Automotive News, the two upcoming SUVs would carry the Arrow and Arrow Cross names. For the Chrysler brand, this would amount to a breath of fresh air, given that it’s been getting by on the Pacifica minivan (and the Grand Caravan) for the past several years.

One Platform, Two Models

The Arrow would take on a fastback-style silhouette with coupe-like lines, while the Arrow Cross would go for a boxier shape, closer to a traditional SUV. Both would ride on the Fiat Grizzly, a vehicle built in Morocco on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform.

Recall that Tim Kuniskis, who heads up Stellantis’ American brands, had initially promised a price tag under $30,000 US for these models. The latest reports suggest the company plans to be even more aggressive on pricing, which would make Chrysler the most affordable American nameplate in the entire portfolio.

Sitting above this duo would be the Airflow, an electric SUV also expected to stay under $40,000 US, a price point that would keep it competitive in that category. No launch date has been set for any of these models, though the target appears to be the back half of this decade.

It’s worth remembering that Chrysler unveiled the Airflow concept a few years back, though that version leaned more upmarket. The brand has clearly recalibrated its approach since then. As for the Airflow name, it dates back to the mid-1930s, when Chrysler used it for a model boasting a strikingly aerodynamic look for its era.

Building a New Lineup

Stellantis‘ North American plan calls for nine new models priced under $40,000 US by 2030, two of which would fall below the $30,000 US mark, as part of a broader offensive covering eleven vehicles in total. Chrysler will clearly play a major role in that push.

As a sign that the thinking extends beyond simply adding SUVs, a Stellantis North American design executive has referenced vehicles that would blend SUV practicality with sedan efficiency. However, nothing concrete has been confirmed yet.

The brand is clearly looking to step outside its comfort zone. Whether buyers follow along remains to be seen.