Every car maker and their ten subsidiary brands are releasing new model after new model. Or they're at the least totally redesigning tried and true winners. Chrysler of all companies has a bright future ahead in the U.S. behind the 300 sedan and Dodge Magnum. GM seems to be doing some things right with the Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Solstice, while still flubbing on models like the Pontiac GTO.
The venerable blue oval however seems to be rudderless. With the exception of the new Mustang in the fall, there is simply nothing to look forward to in their future. You would think getting J Mays on board would shake things up, but everything seems aimed at the status quo more than ever. The recent hiring of Peter Horbury to head design may turn things around. He was the man that helped Volvo start thinking outside the "box" after all.
In other parts of the world Ford has some interesting models. The current mini-roadster Streetka would probably be too small for American safety standards but at least shows some bold styling. And in Australia there's the Falcon sedan that is much more appealing to the eye than the Taurus. Granted we haven't seen what the new Taurus replacement will be, but if it's anything like the Ford 500 prepare to be unimpressed. Does Ford think anyone would buy a 500 over a Chrysler 300C? Ford Freestyle vs. Chrysler Pacifica is much more debatable but still seems like even money.
Every Ford vehicle has the same sedate front end with mesh grill, whether it's the Freestyle, 500 or re-freshened Focus. Ho hum. Sure the huge cross-bar Chevy uses can be ghastly on something like the new Malibu, but it works on their trucks and SUVs. At least it's bold. Hopefully the designs like the one here, of a new Focus for Asia and Europe, will come to the U.S. But by then it might be too late, even if Horbury works out.
Which would Autoblog readers buy? Ford 500 or Chrysler 300C? Speak your mind in the Comments section.
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