Dodge returns to the Land of the Rising Sun

While (potential) buyers sniff around The Chrysler Group, DaimlerChrysler is still working to keep the brand in fighting shape for its (potential) future owner, announcing that Dodge will return to Japan after a 5-year absence. Four models have been announced to go on sale through its local subsidiary, DaimlerChrysler Japan Co: the Caliber, Avenger, Charger, and Nitro.

Since 2002, when Dodge shipped its last Viper to Nippon, independent importers have maintained the Chrysler Group flag. Even though fewer than 1,000 Chrysler-brand vehicles were sold in the first quarter of this year, the president of DaimlerChrysler Japan, Hans Tempel, declared "No matter what the outcome of Chrysler is, we will continue making our business more profitable in Japan."

Diesel-powered Jeeps and Dodges are also being considered for the Japanese market, though no sales goals have been quoted.

[Source: Detroit News]