5 Minutes
a virtual revival that sparks debate
The wave of digital reconstructions of lost nameplates continues, and the latest CGI concept to grab attention is a reimagined Chrysler Imperial. Pixel artist @vburlapp has shared a fresh rendering that positions the Imperial as a compact luxury convertible — a potential alternative to rivals such as the Mercedes CLE. While purely virtual, the design invites a closer look at heritage, packaging, and how Chrysler could re-enter the premium compact convertible segment, possibly as an EV.
Historical context and brief lineage
The Imperial badge has a nearly century-long history. First used almost 100 years ago, the name evolved through numerous iterations and even became a separate marque in the 1950s. Chrysler revived it in the late 1980s as a successor to the Fifth Avenue, building the model on the Y-body platform alongside the New Yorker Fifth Avenue at the Belvidere, Illinois plant.
Classic specs that shaped expectations
The late-'80s Imperial measured 109.6 inches (2,784 mm) in wheelbase — roughly the footprint of today’s Mercedes-Benz CLA — and was powered by one of two V6 engines mated to a four-speed automatic. Chrysler kept this iteration in production from 1989 to 1993 and briefly teased the badge again with a 2006 Detroit concept that hinted at a possible comeback.
Photo: Instagram | vburlapp
Design: what the rendering gets right
The new CGI takes classic Imperial cues and translates them into a sleek compact convertible profile. The rendering emphasizes long hood proportions, sculpted flanks, and a low-slung windshield line — traits that help it sit convincingly alongside premium compact convertibles. Clean LED lighting, a modern interpretation of Chrysler’s grille, and a compact rear overhang give it a contemporary yet retro-inspired stance.
Vehicle specifications (rendering-based estimates)
- Platform: compact/luxury compact architecture (comparable to CLA class)
- Wheelbase: likely in the 2,700–2,800 mm range (historic Imperial: 2,784 mm)
- Powertrain options (speculative): efficient turbocharged 4-cylinder, V6, or fully electric powertrain
- Transmission: automatic or single-speed EV setup in an all-electric variant
- Body style: two-door convertible/compact convertible
Performance: potential and platform choices
Because this is a rendering, performance numbers are speculative. If Chrysler rebooted the Imperial on a gasoline platform it could offer turbocharged four-cylinder or V6 options with 250–350 hp targeting sporty compact-luxury buyers. Alternatively, positioning the Imperial as an EV convertible would allow instant torque, lower center of gravity, and competitive 0–60 mph times versus ICE rivals. The choice of drivetrain would determine whether the Imperial competes on sportiness, efficiency, or both.
Market positioning and commercial reality
Today Chrysler’s U.S. lineup is limited to three minivans — the Pacifica, Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid, and Voyager — and the brand appears to have deprioritized mainstream passenger cars and SUVs. Rumors of a Chrysler SUV have stalled, and corporate focus has shifted toward electrification under parent Stellantis. That context makes a factory-produced Imperial unlikely in the short term; digital renderings and enthusiast interest are keeping the dream alive.
Comparisons: Imperial vs. Mercedes CLE and other compact convertibles
Compared with the Mercedes CLE convertible, the imagined Imperial would need to blend upscale design, agile handling, and modern tech to be a true alternative. The Mercedes CLE targets premium buyers with refined interiors and established brand cachet. Chrysler’s advantage would be heritage-driven styling and potentially sharper value pricing, while an EV Imperial could appeal to buyers seeking an electified compact convertible not currently offered by mainstream automakers.
Conclusion: why the rendering matters
This CGI Imperial is more than fantasy — it’s a vision of what Chrysler could do to re-enter the compact luxury convertible market. Whether ICE or EV, a revived Imperial would need contemporary powertrains, premium materials, and competitive driving dynamics to challenge the Mercedes CLE. For now, fans must rely on talented render artists like @vburlapp to imagine an Imperial reborn; until Chrysler decides otherwise, the brand’s real-world lineup remains focused on minivans and electrification strategy.
Source: autoevolution
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