Eagle Vision
The Eagle Vision is a full-size, front-wheel drive four-door sedan produced from 1992 to 1997. Marketed by the Eagle division of Chrysler Corporation as a replacement for the Eagle Premier, it was the division's flagship model and shared the Chrysler LH platform with the Chrysler Concorde, New Yorker, LHS, Dodge Intrepid, and Dynasty. Available in two trims—the base ESi with a 3.3 L V6 engine (153 hp initially, updated to 162 hp for 1994–1995) and the performance-oriented TSi with a 3.5 L SOHC V6 (214 hp)—the Vision emphasized sporty handling and luxury features. It was offered with a standard four-speed automatic transmission, with overdrive. Production totaled 115,699 units before the model's discontinuation in 1997 alongside the Eagle brand.[1]Development and Design
Origins and Platform
The Eagle division was established by Chrysler Corporation in 1988 as an "import-fighter" brand, stemming from the 1987 acquisition of American Motors Corporation (AMC) and its partnership with Renault, which provided Chrysler with new engineering resources and the Jeep lineup.[2][3] Development of the Eagle Vision began in 1988 as part of Chrysler's LH platform project, led by former AMC engineering vice president François Castaing, with the goal of creating a new generation of full-size front-wheel-drive sedans to succeed aging models such as the Eagle Premier.[4][3] The LH architecture featured a 113-inch wheelbase, independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the front (including a rubber-isolated fore/aft tension strut) and a multi-link setup at the rear, prioritizing responsive handling and interior space efficiency through a cab-forward design that positioned the passenger compartment ahead of the front axle.[5][6] Production of the Eagle Vision commenced in June 1992 at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, enabling a debut as a 1993 model year vehicle.[7] In its inaugural year, approximately 28,700 units were produced. The platform was shared with the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid, forming a family of sedans that revitalized Chrysler's large-car segment.[6]Styling and Features
The Eagle Vision employed Chrysler's innovative cab-forward design philosophy, which shifted the passenger compartment ahead of the front wheels to maximize interior roominess and driver visibility while creating a more dynamic road presence. This styling was complemented by a rounded nose and fastback rear profile, contributing to an aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.31 that enhanced highway fuel efficiency and stability.[8][9] Measuring 201.6 inches in overall length, 74.4 inches in width, and 55.8 inches in height, the Vision provided generous interior accommodations with approximately 104 cubic feet of passenger volume, allowing comfortable seating for five adults.[10] The LH platform's architecture facilitated these cab-forward proportions, distinguishing the Vision's proportions from more conventional sedans of the era. Inside, the cabin featured options for leather or cloth bucket seating upholstery, an analog instrument cluster with tachometer, and an available touring suspension tuned for sharper handling without sacrificing ride comfort. Safety equipment included standard dual front airbags, along with anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes.[11] Unique Eagle branding elements, such as the talon-shaped grille emblem and performance badging on the trunk and sides, emphasized its sporty positioning relative to platform-mates.[12] Buyers could enhance the Vision through optional packages that included a power sunroof for open-air driving, a premium Infinity spatial imaging sound system with up to 10 speakers for superior audio quality, and 16-inch alloy wheels for improved aesthetics and grip.[13][14] These features underscored the Vision's appeal as a versatile, performance-oriented sedan aimed at enthusiasts seeking European-inspired flair in an American package.Models and Powertrains
Trims and Configurations
The Eagle Vision was offered in two primary trim levels throughout its production run: the base ESi, which emphasized value-oriented features such as cloth upholstery and essential amenities, and the upscale TSi, which included performance enhancements like leather seating surfaces, fog lights, and a sport-tuned suspension as standard equipment.[15][16] For the 1993 model year introduction, the ESi carried a base MSRP of approximately $17,700, while the TSi started at around $21,400, reflecting the added luxury and sporty elements of the higher trim.[9] The Vision was available exclusively as a four-door sedan body style, with no coupe, wagon, or other variants produced.[17] All configurations featured front-wheel drive, seating for five passengers, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility.[17] Over its five-year production from 1993 to 1997, the Eagle Vision achieved total output of approximately 105,000 units, with the ESi trim representing the majority of sales due to its lower price point and broader appeal.[18] The ESi was typically paired with the base engine option, while the TSi received the more powerful V6 as standard; however, the 3.5 L V6 became optional on the ESi starting in 1997, as detailed in the engines and transmissions section.[19][18]Engine Changes by Model Year
Engine specifications for the 3.3 L varied across years:- 1993: 153 hp at 5,000 rpm, 177 lb-ft at 4,400 rpm
- 1994–1995: 162 hp at 5,000 rpm, 194 lb-ft at 3,650 rpm
- 1996–1997: 158 hp at 4,800 rpm, 190 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm