This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler.

This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler.

      Stellantis

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      The Chrysler Pacifica has been supporting what’s left of the once-respected American brand for far too long. However, Stellantis has consistently indicated that it won't be alone for much longer. While we are still anticipating the arrival of a second model, we now have a clearer idea of its appearance, thanks to a brief and oddly quiet video that Stellantis shared on YouTube promoting the company’s powertrain lineup.

      On the left side of the video, we see the forthcoming Airflow SUV driving in formation. It’s anticipated to start below $40,000, and although Stellantis officially states that it will be available at dealerships by 2030, we believe it will actually debut in 2028.

      The video does not specifically name the boxy SUV referred to as “Airflow,” but vehicles presented at Stellantis’ recent investor day, observed by media outlets like The Drive, confirm they are indeed the same model. Tim Kuniskis, the Head of American Brands for the automaker, mentioned on The Drivecast that the Airflow will feature a gasoline-powered inline-four engine, although hybrid and battery-electric variants could also be available.

      This new Airflow is quite different from the version Chrysler initially showcased years ago. The original concept had a much sleeker design—more reminiscent of a crossover coupe than an SUV—and was intended to be an electric vehicle only. The updated model resembles a blend of design elements found in Polestar vehicles, along with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Cadillac Lyriq.

      I would argue that it appears sharper than the first design shown below, yet still rather plain and certainly not slender or aerodynamic enough to justify the name “Airflow.” But why should we expect car names to actually make sense these days?

      The 2022 Chrysler Airflow Graphite Concept. Stellantis

      In addition to the Airflow, Chrysler plans to introduce two smaller SUVs by the end of the decade: the Arrow and Arrow Cross. The Arrow will be Chrysler’s version of the upcoming Fiat Grizzly Fastback, while the Cross will be an adaptation of the high-roof Grizzly. Ideally, these three upcoming models will revitalize the brand sufficiently to make the Halcyon a reality, but based on Chrysler's performance over the past two decades, we shouldn’t get too carried away with that hope.

      The Fiat Grizzly, on the left, will be marketed as the Chrysler Arrow Cross. The Grizzly Fastback on the right will be transformed into the Arrow. Stellantis

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This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler. This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler. This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler. This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler.

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This is the SUV priced under $40,000 that aims to rescue Chrysler.

The forthcoming Chrysler Airflow SUV has undergone a complete redesign, and Tim Kuniskis informed The Drive that it will feature a gas inline-four engine.