- by Tom Hamilton
Chrysler luxury concept for show
28 February 2003: The Chrysler Airflite concept will be revealed next week at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, featuring the styling of a coupe and the practicality and function of a saloon car.
The long, tapered roof line, uninterrupted glass and body side forms of Airflite’s exterior evoke the emotion of the Crossfire, Chrysler Group’s sporty, two-passenger coupe. Exterior designer Greg Howell and interior designer Simeon Kim drew on influences from sources as diverse as contemporary furniture design, classic marine architecture, and the Chrysler building, an Art Deco icon of the New York City skyline. The result is a sedan-coupe hybrid that offers five doors and full-size seating for four in a vehicle that resembles a piece of uniquely American sculpture.
Rear fog lamps, centre high-mounted stop light and repeater lamps set into the side vents contribute unique elements to the Airflite design. The tail of the car is finished off with a bold chrome wing badge, and seven-spoke road wheels recapture the theme used on the Crossfire and Chrysler Pacifica, two of the brand’s latest products.
The most striking interior element is the dominant centre spine that connects the interior from front to back. The floor is stepped up behind the rear seats to create a raised cargo area. Leather seats enhance the natural look and broaden the range of materials of the interior space.
The engine is a 3.5-litre V-6, driving the rear wheels.
©2003 irishcar.com