By Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor | EDMUNDS - - Don't worry. This new crossover from Dodge won't get saddled with a name like NCC when it goes into production next year. It stands for New Concept Crossover and it's merely an internal designation tossed out by a Chrysler executive during the course of an interview some months back. We've heard "Crew" mentioned as one possible name and JC49 is apparently the program code, but these sound lame, too, so we'll just stick with NCC for now.
Built on the same platform that underpins the current Dodge Avenger sedan, the NCC is Dodge's answer to crossovers like the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-9 and Toyota Highlander. A step up in size from the Dodge Caliber, the NCC features a less aggressive shape compared to the macho-man Dodge Nitro SUV. The signature crosshair grille is there, but the Nitro-esque headlights have been tamed down and the overall shape is closer to that of its Japanese competitors.
Expect to see the NCC utilize the same range of four- and six-cylinder engines as the Avenger. This means base models will get a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with roughly 172 horsepower, while higher trim levels will get a 3.5-liter V6 with 235 hp. An automatic transmission will be the only available gearbox; four-cylinders get four speeds, six-cylinders get six. And like the Avenger, both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive models will be offered.
With no clear shots of the interior, we're left to speculate on the cabin design. Given that the rest of the vehicle is basically a rehashed Avenger, however, we don't even have to go out on a limb to suggest the NCC will look pretty much the same inside. There will be more room in the second row of seats plus, no doubt, the addition of a third row of seats, but the dash layout and feature content should mimic the Avenger option for option.
Production is expected to start early next year so the official debut of this new Dodge crossover could happen at any time. Assume the L.A. auto show in November at the latest, with a Frankfurt debut in September the most likely venue.
out on a limb to suggest the NCC will look pretty much the same inside. There will be more room in the second row of seats plus, no doubt, the addition of a third row of seats, but the dash layout and feature content should mimic the Avenger option for option.
Production is expected to start early next year so the official debut of this new Dodge crossover could happen at any time. Assume the L.A. auto show in November at the latest, with a Frankfurt debut in September the most likely venue.
Photos
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With its single tailpipe and relatively tall tires, this NCC prototype is most likely one of the base four-cylinder models. (Photo by KGP Photography)
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Judging by its considerable length, the NCC will have a slightly longer wheelbase than the Avenger sedan it's based upon. This should help to accommodate the third row of seats necessary to compete in the midsize crossover class. (Photo by KGP Photography)
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