Chrysler's need to find the appropriate replacement for the Dodge Challenger will spawn a family of rear-drive Alfa Romeos. The hottest rumor coming out of January's Detroit auto show is that Chrysler design chief Ralph Gilles is designing a new-age Barracuda to replace the Challenger.
Challenger's two key competitors, the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, are both due for major updates in the 2015 model year. Mustang will continue on Ford's last remaining rear-drive car platform, and is widely expected to replace its current live rear axle with an independent rear suspension. Camaro's new Alpha platform is previewed in the Cadillac ATS on sale later this year, and on the Chevy Code 130R concept.