Here’s Why Fiat Should Launch the Dodge Challenger in India: An average consumer does not know that the Dodge brand is a part of the Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles and is one of the most popular muscle cars around the world. Dodge cars have been used numerous times in the Fast and the Furious franchise, first made famous by the iconic 1968 Charger driven by Bill Hickman in Bullitt.
Ever since then, the muscle cars made by the company have been long-desired by petrol-heads around the world. Indian customers have not seen the cars since before Independence and are longing to get their hands on the wheel of one. The company should consider coming back to the country and here’s why:
1) Rich Heritage
Dodge had long been a part of the Indian markets before Independence and was a preference for the people who wanted a good car back in the 1960s. Dodge and Chrysler were among the first brands to agree to begin sales in India under an independent unit. Due to the heavy import duties and low sales at the time, the companies pulled back from the Indian market. Since the regulations are now in control, the companies could start sales in India again, harboring to the emotional connection that people have with them.
2) Lack of Muscle Cars
The Ford Mustang is the only muscle sports car that is available in India today. Since it has no competitor in the market, a two-year-old model of the car has seen an increase in the price of almost INR 10 lakh in the past two years. At present, Mustang GT is available in India for INR 64.72 Lakh.
The car has been awarded the best-selling sports car in the country due to the lack of any other competitor. Fiat should bring their Dodge Challenger to Indian shores and give Ford a run for its money.
3) Brand Awareness
Before Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles brought the Jeep brand in India, the sales were struggling and it seemed like the end of the company in the automobile segment. However, Jeep revolutionized the scenario and was an instant hit with the Compass proving to be a hit in the market. This helped the dealerships in the country to come back to profits after almost being at the brinks of a shutdown. Introduction of a sports segment like Dodge would further improve Fiat’s brand and bring it to the premium segment.
4) Established Dealership Network
The Fiat-Chrysler Group already has an established network of dealers around India. Bringing in the Dodge brand would only require a small tweak to the boards outside the dealership and with the trust levels already maintained by the dealers, Fiat would have no troubles trying to recruit new dealers to bring in the Challenger. Bringing in the Dodge would also prove to be a future platform in case the company wishes to bring the even more premium and luxurious Chrysler brand to butt heads with the German automobile manufacturers.
5) Powerful Engine Options
The last but not the least appealing feature of the Dodge Challenger. The V8 engine producing at least 372 hp is something that everyone wishes to drive once in their lifetime. Fiat should consider the wishes of the public and bring the car to the Indian markets.
In the United States, there is a wide variety of engines and trims on the Challenger. Starting from $27,295 with an engine producing 305 hp, the Challenger goes all the way up to $71,495 with an engine producing 707 hp. There are also wide-body options available in the United States, which could resonate well with the Indian customers who want added muscle to their cars.
6) Impressive Exterior & Interior
There is a retro touch to the exterior of the Challenger, with the signature twin headlamps up front, one of which serves as an air intake, and the tail-lamps at the rear which have not changed for decades. Only the components of the lights have been changed but the overall design reminds you of the good old days. The muscle of the car is not lost with time and the company opted to go for a wider and more muscular trim rather than make their cars sleeker.
Inside, it is a completely different story. The interiors are surprisingly modern and have the most advanced features. The design of the cabin is surely going to take your breath away with its ergonomic gear lever that fits right into your hand, and the racy bits that you find here and there. The steering features a metal finish at the bottom which makes it even more special. There is a huge touchscreen infotainment system in the center which draws your attention to itself immediately as you step inside.
