It's odd to see concept cars actually moving, but we happened upon the Chrysler Imperial concept at the Detroit Show this week while it was being driven from one part of the show to another. Even its brake lights worked. This perhaps makes one wonder if Chrysler is actually serious about producing a range-topping saloon based on the show car.

The Imperial name is synonymous with big Chrysler saloons, and boy is it big! At nearly 5.5 metres long, the Imperial is 17 inches longer than the already large 300 saloon. Pictures disguise this well as the show car is actually quite tall. The designers wanted to add grandeur to the design, and sitting its occupants up high was a priority. The effect is certainly imperial, with distinctive creases front and rear. From certain angles there is more than a little of the Rolls-Royce Phantom about the concept, which I suppose Chrysler won't be too unhappy to read.

Performance figures are supplied for the concept car, though 5.5 seconds to 60mph seems massively optimistic given the proportions of the car and its luxurious four-seat interior, 340bhp 5.7-litre Hemi V8 aside. The concept car's interior is deliciously detailed, with exuberant use of supple leather, suede and California burl wood in brown tones. Entrance is suitably grand with the omission of a B-pillar and a 'suicide' rear door. Don't be too surprised if Chrysler actually produce the Imperial; the company has a habit of turning cool concepts into production models.

• More news and reviews from Chrysler
• Buying Guide : All models Chrysler
• New & Used Car : all offers Chrysler
• Picture Gallery Chrysler
• More motoring news
• Message Boards - Talk about it

More pictures

Related Videos for chrysler