High-performance Dodges closer

The local chief of US brand Dodge says high-performance models are on the wish-list for Australia. And that’s beyond the already stated desire to add RAM to his group’s portfolio Down Under.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Australia boss Pat Dougherty yesterday confirmed his desire to add more Dodge models to the local offering and telegraphed the company’s intention to pursue new models as US market products are “refreshed”.

“I think there are certain products that will really resonate here,” Dougherty told motoring.com.au.

“While we haven’t been talking about it, because they are further out in the scope [of our model line-up], we do plan to have more Dodge products in-market [in Australia]… But it is kind of dependent on the long-range planning and the timing of the development of the new products," he said.

"Coming in after a left-hand drive product is developed and trying to make it right-hand drive brings with it more cost than developing it up front.

“So, on the refreshes on some of the Dodge product you can imagine [will sell well here] -- and light-duty RAM type products -- as those products move forward, the plan would be to include Australia in the mix."

Dougherty did not name the products but it’s widely understood he is a fan of the Challenger and Charger’s prospects Down Under – up to and including the 500kW-plus Hellcat versions.

FCA Australia product strategy and marketing boss Zac Loo acknowledged Ford's success with the new Mustang in right-hand drive markets is a factor in the company’s deliberations.

“It’s a good example of something that’s been done quite well… [But] We believe we have some pretty emotional, passionate product in the Dodge portfolio, which we’re very interested in getting our hands on,” he stated.

When queried on whether the Ford pony car’s success had changed the dynamic between FCA Australia and its Auburn Hills headquarters on products like Challenger, Loo said: “They’re well aware of [the local success of] Mustang.”

“For us it’s finding the opportunities that resonate most strongly with Australian consumers,” he added.