2007 Dodge Demon Concept

2007 Dodge Demon concept

February 13, 2007

SLIDESHOW:

Does Dodge have a Caliber-based roadster on its mind?

That’s the easy question to ask as the Chrysler Group brand drops the veil on a new two-seat roadster coming to the Geneva motor show next month. The Demon, Chrysler says, is a “nimble roadster with an attitude” – a roadster that shares its world four-cylinder powertrain with the new hatchback introduced last year.

The Demon, unlike the Caliber, is driven by its rear wheels. But like the Caliber, the Demon sports a 172-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 165 pound-feet of torque. Here, the engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

The package sounds a lot like the Miata and the roadsters it’s spawned in the past decades. Chrysler says the Demon is a balance of classic proportions and modern design. The overall shape has echoes of both the company’s own Viper and the less pricey Honda S2000, with a surfaced body, trick LED backup lamps and a signature Dodge crosshair grille. Big 19-inch wheels accentuate the Demon’s kicked-up tail and tough stance.

Inside, Chrysler says the Demon has a no-frills interior with an emphasis on performance. Aluminum trim frames all the essential controls – gauges, air conditioning, and radio – while the separate console houses the shifter, e-brake, and power outlets and cupholders. A three-spoke steering wheel evokes the proper sports car themes.

Chrysler doesn’t admit to any production plans for the affordable sports car concept – but then again, the car hasn’t even been seen in public. Stay tuned as TheCarConnection reports from the Geneva show floor in March.

Preliminary Specifications

Engine 2.4-liter gasoline World Engine

Maximum Power 172 hp SAE (128 kW) @ 6000 rpm

Maximum Torque 165 lb-ft (224 N-m) @ 4400 rpm

Transmission Six-speed manual

Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive

Overall Length 156.5 in (3974 mm)

Overall Width (max. @ body) 68.3 in (1736 mm)

Overall Height 51.8 in (1315 mm)

Wheelbase 95.6 in (2429 mm)

Overhang, Front 30.6 in (777 mm)

Overhang, Rear 30.3 in (769 mm)