An all-new Dodge Viper set to be launched in 2012 was shown at a private Chrysler dealer conference this week.
Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne presented next year’s model offerings from Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Fiat to dealers, before showcasing the new Viper as a ‘surprise’ at the end of the presentation.
Insiders at the event told The Wall Street Journal the next Viper’s design is “aggressive”, featuring all-new bodywork painted 25 times in candy-apple red. Insiders also said the car’s look had moved away from its race-car roots and evolved into a more traditional sports car.
Andrew Frankel blog: Farewell to the Dodge Viper
Dealers at the event were told the Viper’s product team had unanimously approved the design within just five minutes of seeing it.
It is expected to use an 8.4-litre V10 engine incorporating Fiat’s innovative Multiair technology; an entry-level V8 engine is also rumoured to be under consideration.
Dodge is said to be working alongside Ferrari to develop the next Viper.
Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO, confirmed the launch of the new Viper for 2012 when revealing production of the current car would end this year.
