Chrysler LHS

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Chrysler LHS
File:LHS 1995-97.JPG
Chrysler LHS (1995-1997)
Overview
Manufacturer Chrysler (DaimlerChrysler)
Production 1993–2001
Model years 1994-1997
1999-2001
Assembly Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Body and chassis
Class Full-size luxury sedan
Body style 4-door sedan
Layout Longitudinal front-engine, front-wheel drive
Platform Chrysler LH platform
Related
Powertrain
Engine 3.5 L EGG V6
Transmission 4-speed 42LE automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 113.0 in (2,870 mm)
Length 207.4 in (5,268 mm)
Width 74.4 in (1,890 mm)
Height
  • 56.0 in (1,422 mm)
  • Special: 55.5 in (1,410 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor Chrysler Imperial
Successor Chrysler Concorde Limited

The Chrysler LHS is a full-size luxury four-door sedan that was produced by Chrysler for the 1994 through the 2001 model years,[1] with a one-year hiatus for 1998. It replaced the Chrysler Imperial as the division's flagship model. The LHS was continued for the 2002 model year as the Concorde Limited.[2]

First generation (1994 to 1997)

Introduced for the 1994 model year, the Chrysler LHS was the top of the line model for the division, as well as the most expensive of the Chrysler LH platform cars.[3] The all the LH series shared a 113.0-inch (2,870 mm) wheelbase and were developed using Chrysler's new computer drafting system.[4]

The car was differentiated from the division's New Yorker sedan by its bucket leather seats (the New Yorker had a bench seat) and standard features such as alloy wheels that were options on the New Yorker.[5]

The five-passenger Chrysler LHS was differentiated its New Yorker counterpart, by a floor console and shifter, five-passenger seating, lack of chrome trim, an upgraded interior and a sportier image. For the 1997 model year the New Yorker was dropped in favor of a six-passenger option on the 1997 LHS. The LHS received a minor face change in 1995 when the corporate wide pentastar emblem was replaced with the revived Chrysler brand emblem.

Standard features of the LHS included a 3.5 L EGE 24-valve 214 hp (160 kW; 217 PS) V6 engine, body-colored grille, side mirrors and trim, traction control, aluminum wheels, integrated fog lights, 8-way power adjustable front seats, premium sound systems with amplifiers, and automatic temperature control. Unlike the New Yorker, leather seats were standard.

Annual changes

  • 1995 - The headlamps on the 1994 models were very poorly designed and many owners complained about their poor brightness. Chrysler rushed the redesign into the production for
  • 1995 - Redesigned a projector-style headlight beam, which was rather uncommon for its time. A new Chrysler logo on the grille replaced the pentastar.
  • 1996 - Body color mirrors were no longer available, as well as the optional carphone, and bench seats became optional. Homelink garage door opener and a hidden antenna became standard equipment.

Second generation (1999 to 2001)

After a one year hiatus, a redesigned LHS was introduced for 1999.[4] It featured the new winged emblem of the Chrysler division. With the introduction of the 300M and the discontinuation of the New Yorker, the second generation LHS competed with traditional large luxury sedans such as the Lincoln Continental and Toyota Avalon while the shorter and sportier 300M competed in the performance luxury market.[3]

The new generation of the LHS was much more refined than its predecessor and the 3.5 L SOHC 24-valve V6 produced 253 hp (189 kW; 257 PS) @ 6400 rpm and 255 pound force-feet (346 N·m) of torque @ 3950 rpm.[4]

Europe

The first-generation LHS sold in Europe featured rear amber turn signals, rear fog lights, side turn signal repeaters, lack of side markers, and headlamps that incorporated different lens geometry and bulbs.

Legacy

The first generation LHS was praised by motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson, who is well known for criticizing American automobiles, described the LHS as "by global standards, right up there with the best."[6]

The LHS nameplate was discontinued after 2002, but the design continued as the Concorde Limited.


References

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External links

Media related to Chrysler LHS at Wikimedia Commons