Travis Smith On Dreaming Of A New Chrysler

03.20.07, FORBES | 9:44 AM ET - - I just started as a car salesman for the Chrysler Group in Arkansas, and I couldn't agree with you more.

The Chrysler brand has such name potential, especially with middle-class Americans that remember the glory days of the brand.

There are questions that almost all customers ask pertaining to interior quality and chassis quality that have no honest response that shows Chrysler in a positive light compared with the competition.

A prime example is the Crossfire sports coupe. There is a manual version of the sports car on our lot, and the gearshift is a large, gray piece of plastic! The single most important aspect of the sports car experience is covered in the same material that lines truck beds across the country. Disappointing, to say the least.

We have so many customers that want to invest in the brand because of its American roots, but the justification is not there if they are looking for quality for their money.

I sincerely hope this changes in the future. Chrysler could be a world-class group. I hope that someone with the resources necessary takes your advice to heart.

Travis Smith