The Chrysler Concorde II 3.5i V6 24V, produced from 2002 to 2004, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the LH platform Concorde. Positioned as a near-luxury, full-size sedan, it aimed to offer American comfort and space with a focus on a more modern aesthetic than its predecessor. This variant, equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground in the Concorde lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It sat above the base 2.7L V6 models and below the more performance-oriented, though less common, versions with optional features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Concorde |
| Generation | Concorde II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 i V6 24V (237 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 197.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 237 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 327 Nm @ 4400 rpm (241.18 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3518 cm3 (214.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1652 kg (3642.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 5310 mm (209.06 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2870 mm (112.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/60 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Concorde II 3.5i was the 3.5-liter (3518 cc) EER V6 engine. This engine, part of Chrysler’s modular engine family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine code is often associated with variations within the broader 3.5L family, but specific identifiers for this configuration are less commonly documented than for earlier Chrysler engines. The 24-valve configuration contributed to a relatively broad torque curve. Paired with this engine was a four-speed 42RE automatic transmission, a common and generally reliable unit in Chrysler vehicles of the era. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts, but lacked the efficiency of more modern transmissions with additional gears.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5L V6 and four-speed automatic combination delivered adequate performance for a full-size sedan. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in around 7.6 seconds, making it reasonably quick for its time. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty vehicle. The automatic transmission, while smooth, prioritized comfort over aggressive shifting. The gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising and highway driving. Compared to the base 2.7L V6, the 3.5L offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and passing power. It didn’t match the responsiveness of a manual transmission equipped model (if one were available, as they were rare), but provided a more effortless driving experience. The front-wheel-drive layout contributed to predictable handling, but didn’t offer the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Concorde II 3.5i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Upholstery was generally cloth, though leather was available as an option. Higher trim levels included features like upgraded sound systems, power-adjustable seats, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, remote keyless entry, and a navigation system. The interior design was characterized by a spacious cabin and comfortable seating, reflecting Chrysler’s focus on providing a comfortable and practical vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Concorde II utilized a traditional front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with an independent front suspension featuring coil springs and a multi-link rear suspension, also with coil springs. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering, though the car’s weight and size limited its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Concorde II 3.5i was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and spacious family sedan. However, it wasn’t considered a standout performer in its class. Fuel economy was average for a V6-powered full-size sedan, with EPA estimates around 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Reliability was generally good, though some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission and various electronic components. Compared to the 2.7L V6 models, the 3.5i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. It competed with other full-size American sedans such as the Ford Crown Victoria and the Buick LeSabre.
Legacy
The Chrysler Concorde II, and specifically the 3.5i variant, represents a transitional period for Chrysler. While the LH platform was innovative for its time, the Concorde II was nearing the end of its lifecycle. The 3.5L V6 engine proved to be a relatively durable powertrain, and many examples remain on the road today. However, age and mileage are taking their toll, and finding well-maintained examples is becoming increasingly difficult. In the used car market, the Concorde II 3.5i is often valued for its spaciousness, comfort, and affordability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a large American sedan.
