Full-size Wagon Revival, Anyone?
Blame it on SUVs and crossovers, but most automakers are reluctant to produce wagons these days. At least there are the Europeans who still make them, but it’s really more for the continent. The wagon situation in America is bleak, and we haven’t even had a large wagon in decades.
Genesis surprised us by showing the G90 Wingback concept recently, but a homegrown American full-sized wagon hasn’t existed for decades. Dodge did give it a shot with the Magnum in 2005, but that fell victim to Chrysler’s restructuring plans in 2008. Oh, and a little fun fact, there was also a 300C Touring back in the day that served as the Magnum’s counterpart in international markets.
Good Time For a Comeback?
While regular wagons aren’t really selling in North America, the performance versions have gained footing here. Okay, it’s baby steps, but there is progress in the form of the Audi RS6 and BMW M5 Touring. With that in mind, shouldn’t America make one, too?
The last hot wagon sold here by a domestic manufacturer was the Cadillac CTS-V. That said, we think Dodge can re-enter the game by reviving the Magnum. Digital artist Kelsonik renders what it could look like.
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Muscle Wagon
The (virtual) wagon is based on the eighth-generation Charger, and it seems to wear the body quite well. Perhaps that’s no surprise given that the Magnum and previous-generation Charger were the same under the skin.
This modern interpretation keeps the retro-inspired front end, and the same goes for the taillights. Of course, the roof is longer, and some digital alterations were made to the flanks. There’s the classic Coke-bottle line as a nod to the past, while the roof tapers downwards towards the tailgate.
As this is a product of fantasy, we might as well have a wishlist for the powertrain option. Let’s be honest, the thing needs a Hemi, and the same goes for the Charger. The straight-sixes can serve as the base engine options, and the HEMIs for the higher trim levels. Perhaps a plug-in hybrid can join the ranks, and while we’re on the subject of electrification, it could transplant the same hardware from the EV Charger.
Truth be told, we’re not expecting Stellantis to even consider building a Charger-based wagon. Sure, we can say we want it, but it doesn’t necessarily mean people will actually buy it. Just take a look at the CTS-V wagon.
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