Sergio Marchionne Calls Chrysler 200 Designers 'Dummies'
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) CEO Sergio Marchionne isn’t one to sugarcoat words.
Speaking at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show, Marchionne spoke about why the Chrysler 200 hasn’t received a recommendation from Consumer Reports. According to Marchionne, the main issue is the sedan’s rear-seat entry point, admitting that it’s the fault of the American automaker’s and that it “is not up to snuff.” He elaborated, explaining how the slope of the roof crimps the entry portal, saying that the company copied a Hyundai model, likely the Sonata, which has the same problem.
“We didn’t copy the car, we copied the entry point to the rear seat,” he said. “Dummies. I acknowledge it. Some people from design left some of their private parts on the table after we came up with that determination. But I think we’re learning from this process.”
SEE ALSO: 2015 Chrysler 200S Review
The new Chrysler 200 competes in the same segment as popular models like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. In Consumer Reports‘ Quick Drive of the model, the publication noted how passengers have to duck to get inside while rear seat room takes a hit. It also called the interior stylish and found the exterior attractive.
[Source: Automotive News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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FIAT was rated the worst auto manufacture...Just saying! lol! I drive a VW R-Line Beetle and FNA...I love it!
I found the duck-in on the front doors to be ridiculous. Once inside, it was a nice, roomy car, but the entry/exit is silly. I'd rather a 2006-14 Sebring/200 that I can navigate, although with the right offer, I'd consider a new 200, too.