The word comes from the top of Chrysler's management team. Appearing on Michael Eisner's CNBC talk show, Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli confirmed that new versions of both vehicles are currently under development.
"In the pipeline for 2010: a brand new 300, a brand new Charger," Nardelli said. "I think the product cadence at Chrysler is coming back strong."
Good thing, too - sales for the 300 thus far in 2008 are down 43 percent, while Charger sales slid a noticable ten percent.
We'd expect the next-generation Charger and 300 to still carry Hemis and bold styling, but use designs that carry more sophistication than the current examples. In taking over the reigns at Chrysler's design studio, Ralph Gilles expressed interest in focusing on "organic design" and improved interiors - we hope to see both in the next 300 and Charger.
Nardelli claimed that Chrysler, which drew criticism early this year for a lack of forthcoming product, has been working on several programs - including the new rear-drive cars - in secret. Though we know a replacement for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a Nissan-sourced small car, and (possibly) some electric vehicles, Chrysler's reportedly planning to launch seven to nine new vehicles by 2010.
Source: Detroit Free Press