Chrysler prepares its return: a new crossover priced under $40,000
For many years, Stellantis left the Chrysler brand without proper attention, and this is clearly visible in showrooms: the model lineup has shrunk to a single model — the Pacifica minivan and its twin, the Voyager. However, the situation will change by the end of the decade. The company has confirmed that three crossovers will be added to the lineup by 2030, and the first one could look exactly like this.
From concept to reality
Chrysler has been discussing the idea of new models for some time, with the highlight being the elegant Airflow concept — a hybrid of a sedan and an SUV, unveiled in early 2022. The company abandoned this model but kept the idea itself. The car that can be considered the next step appeared earlier this month in a Stellantis video about powertrains. It is this mysterious car that became the basis for the renderings created by Nikita Chuiko for Kolesa.
It is clearly visible that this electrified crossover, which could potentially become the production version of the Airflow, does not resemble any other Chrysler model. The only thing linking it to today’s Pacifica is the LED strip at the front with the illuminated Chrysler wings badge. Below it is a large darkened grille.
Retro style and modern lines
Overall, the shape of the tall hatchback resembles what was previously described as a Hyundai Ioniq 5 with sharp Cadillac design cues, which is not bad at all. The side windows have sharp angles, and there are noticeable cutouts on the front and rear doors. Chuiko also “fitted” the new model with wheels featuring tightly spaced spokes, giving it an elegant look.
As for the rear, it features distinctive LED taillights stretching along both sides of the rear window, somewhat reminiscent of the lights on the new Renault 5. They are complemented by a light bar and an illuminated Chrysler inscription, located above the darkened bumper.
Technical platform and price
Regardless of how the Airflow looks, it will be based on the latest Stellantis STLA One platform, which supports hybrid, all-wheel drive, and fully electric configurations. In the teaser video, the Airflow appears to use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which aligns with the architecture’s capabilities. Chrysler has separately confirmed an electric version, while a hybrid or plug-in hybrid seems quite likely.
Stellantis is keeping the technical details under wraps for now but has confirmed that the crossover’s price will be under $40,000 when it arrives at dealerships within two years as a 2028 model.
Entry level: Arrow and Arrow Cross
After the Airflow, Chrysler has planned two more models: the Arrow and Arrow Cross, based on the recently unveiled Fiat Grizzly SUV and Fastback. This pair uses the group’s Smart Car platform and measures approximately 177.2 inches (4.5 meters) in length, placing them in the subcompact class and on par with the new Toyota C-HR.
Buyers will be able to choose between gasoline, mild hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Chrysler positions these two rebranded vehicles as a new starting point, confirming that their price will be under $30,000.
Thus, Chrysler is betting on affordable crossovers to revive the brand. The first one, the Airflow, is set to be a technological and stylish step forward, while the Arrow and Arrow Cross will cover the mass segment at a competitive price. This indicates a strategy of gradually updating the model lineup, where each new car fills a specific niche: from a premium electrified crossover to budget subcompacts. Given that Chrysler now has only one model left, such a plan seems logical and necessary for the brand’s survival in a rapidly changing market. Whether these cars will win back customer trust remains to be seen, but the first steps have already been taken.