Dodge Kahuna: Blending Function, Performance with Equal Parts of Cool

Where minivan function and convenience meets Next Wave cool, you'll find Dodge Kahuna.

That Next Wave of fun and function blew in like a warm Pacific breeze at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in the form of the all-new concept vehicle, Dodge Kahuna. It is intended for those looking for a free-spirited approach to a vehicle that meets many needs without bowing to convention.



The six-passenger Dodge Kahuna features an exterior design that conveys an athletic, capable image that is readily associated with the California coastal culture. But it is far from laid back. This is about pushing interior volume and flexibility to the max to allow its owners to work or play hard - all surrounded by an exterior that lends an element of sophistication and attention to detail. The retractable top allows the outside to become part of the interior as it folds back in accordion-like fashion.

A roof system that opens from the B-pillar to rear bumper allows for extreme function and enjoyment. In addition, all exterior windows are frameless, with all door glass having the capability to completely retract into the doors.



Inside, the "big wave" theme continues, as Kahuna blends Pacific Blue two-tone colors. In addition, a flowing wave design can be seen in the shaping of the instrument panel as well as its switches, door panel detailing and seat forms. There are three rows of flexible seating, two of which can be turned into tables if needed, and a Sto & Go® load floor, complements the full capability and flexibility of the system.

Under the hood there is nimble performance from a 2.4-liter turbocharged, 215 horsepower engine and a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Suspension is independent in the front, with a beam axle and coil leaf springs from the company's award-winning minivan.



Dodge Kahuna Concept Key Specifications:
Length: 185.6 inches (4,714 mm)
Wheelbase: 122 inches (3,099 mm)

Overhang
Front: 28.9 inches (734 mm)
Rear: 34.7 inches (881 mm)
Width: 77.8 inches (1,976 mm)
Height: 67.0 inches (1,702 mm)

Track
Front: 65.3 inches (1,659 mm)
Rear: 65.3 inches (1,659 mm)

Tires
Front: 255/SOR22-inch; wheel size: 22 inches; outer diameter, 32 inches
Rear: 255/SOR22-inch; wheel size: 22 inches; outer diameter, 32 inches



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redriderbob

 

Wonder what ever became of this mini-van concept? The Kahuna is one of the coolest mini-van designs ever (along with that VW micro-van concept of a couple of years ago). I would be more than happy to own one of these things. It looks great and has some svelte proportions and timeless styling.

Why is beauty so fleeting?

 

Is the Kahuna back? I saw it on Speed or Spike a long *** time back.
Doesn't look half bad.

 

Well this thread is back if nothing else... heh. I don't think the Kahuna is back, I'm just wondering about it. You see since I bought the Caliber my wife is now wanting a mini-van... sigh. SO I started thinking about a well designed mini-van and since the mod-VW-micro-bus has been canceled I wondered about this Kahuna... which is about the only other cool mini-van out there. I mean the Caravans are OK, but "OK" is not fantastic. I want something really cool.

 

The Kahuna never impressed me. I think it was pretty ugly. A Caravan/PT Cruiser/Magnum mix, with a pig nose... I'll take a Pacifica over it...

 

dont fret about the v-dub vans they are working w/ chrysler on minivans and DCX is building V-dub vans based off the redesigned T and C and Caravans...SO the wifeys will be happy

 

+1... way too much crappy creativity went into that.

 

I'm curious to see what they come up with... hope it looks cool.

 

Yuck!

 

Simply.....I like it!