In a celebration as storied as the brand itself, Chrysler is gearing up to mark a momentous milestone — 100 years of automotive excellence, cultural influence, and innovation that has helped define the American driving experience. Officially ringing in its centennial on June 6, 2025, Chrysler is launching a year-long celebration titled “Century of Innovation”, beginning with a dazzling three-vehicle showcased at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) this month.
As NYIAS celebrates its own 125th anniversary, Chrysler’s exhibit provides a fitting tribute — blending the past, present, and future through three distinctive models that reflect the brand’s legacy and vision: the original 1924 Chrysler Six, the 2025 Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid, and the futuristic Halcyon Concept.
A Journey That Began With Chrysler Six
The centennial celebration is anchored in history with the 1924 Chrysler Six, the very vehicle that founder Walter P Chrysler debuted at the National Automobile Show in New York City. At a time when four-wheel hydraulic brakes were a rarity, the Chrysler Six delivered advanced engineering in a sleek, lightweight package, complete with features like full-pressure lubrication, aluminium pistons, and indirect interior lighting. It was not just a car — it was a signal of a brand ready to challenge convention.
Leading Today With Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid
Fast forward a century, and Chrysler is still setting benchmarks. The 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid carries the torch as the only plug-in hybrid in its segment and the most awarded minivan ever. With over 15 million minivans sold since Chrysler created the category in the 1980s, the Pacifica remains a symbol of family-friendly functionality and forward-thinking design. Segment-exclusive innovations like Stow 'n Go seating, which celebrates 20 years in 2025, continue to demonstrate Chrysler’s commitment to practical innovation.
The Halcyon Concept: A Glimpse Into Tomorrow
Completing the trio is the Chrysler Halcyon Concept, a bold design statement for the brand’s future. Making its first NYIAS appearance, the Halcyon embodies “Harmony in Motion,” blending sustainable materials with cutting-edge technology and autonomous driving capabilities. With its sweeping aerodynamic form, panoramic views, and features like an advanced head-up display and SmartCockpit, the Halcyon signals the direction Chrysler is heading — sleek, sustainable, and deeply intuitive.
Celebrating a Legacy Of Firsts
Chrysler’s 100-year history is a tapestry woven with landmark innovations and cultural milestones. From the 1934 Airflow, the first production car designed using wind tunnel testing, to the 1951 HEMI V-8, and the 1963 Turbine Car programme, Chrysler’s engineering breakthroughs have often been ahead of their time.
Other standout innovations include:
- 1955 Chrysler 300: Among the earliest muscle cars with a 300-horsepower HEMI V-8
- 1958 Cruise Control: One of the first systems of its kind
- 1983 Minivan Introduction: Pioneering a new category still led by Chrysler today
- 1996 Driver-side Sliding Door: A practical innovation that became industry standard
- 2005 Stow ‘n Go Seating: Revolutionary for interior space management
- 2022 Rear-seat TV in Pacifica: Bringing entertainment to the backseat with subscription-based services
The Chrysler centennial won’t be limited to the NYIAS. The brand will commemorate its heritage and future with a series of events, digital activations, and merchandise releases throughout the year. A special social media campaign will roll out a multi-part video series highlighting iconic models, engineering milestones, and behind-the-scenes stories that shaped Chrysler’s identity.
Looking Ahead
For Chrysler, this centenary isn’t just about looking back — it’s a springboard for the future. As CEO Chris Feuell puts it, 'Reaching 100 years is an accomplishment we want to both celebrate and use as an opportunity to declare our commitment to a future that honours Walter P Chrysler's legacy of innovation, engineering excellence, and beautiful, affordable design.'
With a refreshed Pacifica arriving in 2026, a new crossover on the horizon, and a third vehicle inspired by the Halcyon Concept in development, Chrysler’s next chapter is already in motion.
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