In 1993, after some very lean years for
Chrysler - it had a bad case of the all new-model snoozes at the time - America's No. 3 automaker turned quite a few heads with its smartly designed, well-appointed LH sedans: Eagle Vision,
Dodge Intrepid and
Chrysler Concorde.
It has now been two years since the LHs grabbed a firm toehold in a market segment that includes America's two hottest-selling models: Honda Accord and Ford Taurus.
Based on the LH record thus far, Chrysler has stuck to the "if it ain't broke, do not fix it" theme for the 1995 edition of the Vision. That is, Eagle didn't feel compelled to flaunt its engineering sass with massive overhauls of the Vision's design or function, choosing instead to dance with what brought it success.
Oh, there are a few new standard features for 1995 - heated power mirrors, power windows and an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player - but in general, the Vision retains the same velvety ride, responsive handling, ergonomic smarts and aesthetic pleasures as the '93 and 1994 versions.
There are two models available: the base ESi and the upper-level TSi.
Our Vision ESi test car included standard features such as 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wheel independent touring suspension, delayed-shutoff headlamps, 4-door courtesy lamps, power door locks, heated dual-power remote mirrors, electronic message center, and solar-control windshield and rear window.
Our tester was also decked out with a customer-preferred option package, comprised of an 8-way power seat, remote entry, an illuminated entry feature, dual illuminated visor mirrors and passenger grab handles.
The Vision's long (113 in.) wheelbase, double-scooped grille and imperious, catlike headlamps enhance a stance that's aggressively sporty for a midsize sedan.
It is one example of how the Vision cuts both ways: Although technically a midsize, the LH sedan's interior spaciousness and generous outer dimensions lead it into battle with full-size entries such as the Ford Crown Victoria and Chevrolet Lumina.
Reversing to its sporty side, There is the Vision's loudly ballyhooed cab-forward design, rear-wheel setback and dramatically swept windshield. Likewise, Eagle designers have achieved a smartly two-toned visage: In our case, gray lower body panels and fascias contrasted crisply with the dark blue-green paint job.
Meanwhile, the black hard-plastic windshield and roof-pillar trim provide contrast, as well as a dash of drama. Housings for the heated rearview mirrors are also sleek black. Around back, the trunk lid pops open to reveal enough room for maybe six grocery bags and two medium-size suitcases - 16.6 cu. ft. of cargo space, to be exact.
