FCA Australia, a subsidiary of Stellantis, has confirmed the departure of the Chrysler brand from Australia; the sole remaining right-hand-drive market selling Chrysler vehicles. The global push towards electrification and focus on SUVs has resulted in a consolidation of the overall product lineup in Australia.
Australian motoring enthusiasts have historically been fond of V8-powered sedans, which helped cement the Chrysler brand as a foundation for those craving performance vehicles for decades. Chrysler Australia opened the Tonsley Park Assembly Plant in the suburbs of Adelaide in 1964, and from there it became a celebrated brand manufactured in Australia.
The Hemi six-cylinder engine, made exclusively for Australia, went on to become the most powerful six-cylinder engine produced domestically. Though the engine was based on a U.S. design, it was never produced for North America.
The 1970s saw the arrival of the highly respected Valiant Charger, which became Chrysler Australia’s 'muscle car', and is still considered one of the brand’s most collectable automobiles. Some 50 years later, the legendary Hemi has continuously upped the ante and in its latest 6.4 litre V8 configuration delivers 350kW and 637Nm of torque in the Chrysler 300 SRT.
The 300 SRT is offered alongside the Chrysler 300C Luxury, both available in limited quantities at Chrysler dealerships.
In addition to offering the Wrangler, Gladiator, Cherokee and Compass in its lineup, Jeep Australia will also be introducing two firsts for the brand in 2022: the three-row Jeep Grand Cherokee L and plug-in hybrid Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe.
Stellantis intends to become a leader in low-emission vehicles and committed to developing the most capable and sustainable high-performing and four-wheel drive vehicles in the world.
FCA Australia has committed to the supply of parts and authorised servicing for Chrysler vehicles; all Jeep dealerships across the country will continue to service Chrysler vehicles.