I was just responding to a different thread and this thought crossed my mind - what type of effect will the G8 have on the sport sedan marketplace?

The Charger is going to be mildly revamped in a couple years, with the second generation Hemi 5.7. Do you think they might make the car look a little more lithe like the G8 instead of so bulky as it is now? I think Chrysler will be closely watching the success of offering it with a manual transmission as well, and we might ultimately see the option of a manual transmission in the Charger. The Challenger will have a manual option with both the 5.7 and 6.1 Hemis (from what I've heard), so it would be simple enough to carry it over to the Charger...

Also, will Ford enter the fray? Maybe the success of the G8/Impala/RWD G6 replacement/whatever will finally prompt them to bring over a Falcon...

These are interesting times indeed... kudos to GM for taking the first step in resurrecting the quintessential RWD American V8 sedan.

:patriot:

The first step was a long time coming.

I hope GM has finally turned the corner and will start building more cars people will buy. Keep the models fresh, well optioned, and value priced.

i think i heard something about ford making a RWD sedan based on the mustang platform just stretched out. either that or it was going to look like a 4 door mustang. I can't remember exactly. but i know i heard something about that.

Aussie made Fords are a possibility. The next few years are going to be good times for car buyers.

Aussie made Fords are a possibility. The next few years are going to be good times for car buyers.

I thought I read something about the Falcon might be coming over. I will have to go through my car mags to trace it down.

With Ford's chief, Alan Mulally, getting more comfortable with his position he has begun to look globally for chassis and architecture that can be shared to cut costs significantly. They would change the bodies and engines to suit individual regions rules and regulations. The Falcon is a definite possibility, especially if they can get the timing right for a new Mustang. Ford is looking to do alot of platform sharing in the future. They will be in a good position to do so after they sell Jaguar, Land Rover, and Volvo.

Road and Track is also reporting that GM is looking at bringing the Ute over to America as a new El Camino in 09. With the slower sales of small trucks it is almost believable. An LS3 powered SS version is planned. Good news for GXP G8 buyers. Good time to be a car buyer indeed.

I really hope it will spur Chrysler to produce a better Charger/300 duo as well as put the pressure on Ford to bring their European and Aussie models stateside. There is a reason their foreign divisions are turning a profit and North America isn't. They actually produce nice vehicles people want to own overseas. Just look at the European Focus and Mondeo. Or the Aussie Falcon. Amazing what can happen when you don't focus on stupid trucks and SUVs.