Just two days before DaimlerChrysler unveils its "Project X" restructuring plan, Dodge has taken the wraps off its Geneva surprise: the Demon Concept, which will debut at the 77th International Motor Show in Geneva next month.
The Demon's compact, forceful lines consciously evoke the Mazda MX-5 — but with the signature Dodge crosshair grille either (a) boldly taking the lead or (b) completely out of place, depending on your aesthetics and/or brand loyalties. The grille aside, the lines up front are clean, and the headlamps, vents, and assymetrical wheels add well-placed accents. But instead of a crisp coda, the rear view is a mess of clashing planes that spoils the ending.
The interior is another story. "In the manner of timeless British sports cars, the interior of the Dodge Demon is purposely functional, not frivolous," said Dan Zimmermann, principal interior designer for the Dodge Demon Concept. "Everything relating to the driving experience is emphasized, while that which is not is made visually secondary." That goes for everything from the instrument panel to the floor console, and it looks as good as it sounds — as you can see in the photos after the jump.
Under the hood: the 2.4L four-cylinder World Engine, with 172 horsepower and 165 feet-pounds of torque that flows to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.
[Source: DaimlerChrysler]
