Chrysler to take on Territory

The Chrysler Group looks set to wade into the seven-seat crossover arena with Chrysler and Dodge-branded "Territory-sized" crossover wagons.

These exclusive pictures show the American giant's upcoming model codenamed JC49 and JZ49 (depending on the version). To be built at the Dodge factory in Toluca, Mexico, and sold as a worldwide product, the vehicle is based on aspects of the platform that has spawned the Sebring and Avenger midsizers.

The vehicle pictured has been earmarked by some outlets as a CR-V or X-TRAIL competitor. Carsales Network sources have confirmed, however, that the vehicle will be a class larger than the above class standards and the group's own Jeep's Compass (more here) and (upcoming) Patriot.

"Territory-sized" is the description allocated to the JC/JZ by one insider. Indeed, the JC/JZ49 will be a full seven-seater.

Dodge will be the first brand to launch the five-door which will be built in both left and right-hand drive and front and all-wheel drive versions. Production of the car (pictured) is scheduled to start in December 2007, and a US on-sale date of early 2008.

Chrysler's version is not likely to arrive before the 2010 US model year (mid-2009) although the carmaker is known to be keen to bring that launch date forward.

The Chrysler-badged JC/JZ will be the replacement for the retro-styled PT Cruiser. It will therefore wear unique sheetmetal (continuing some elements of the PT theme) but will only account for an estimated 25 per cent of the total units built.

There's much speculation regarding engines and transmissions (we could provide you with a l-o-n-g list!) but the 3.5-litre V6 (from the Sebring) is guaranteed to be one of the several offerings.

-- with Carparazzi

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