2003 Dodge Kahuna
The Dodge Kahuna was a concept car created by Dodge — a minivan variant targeted at the surfer — and introduced at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show with the Dodge Avenger Concept.
Designed in the DaimlerChrysler Pacifica studio, the six-passenger Dodge Kahuna features an exterior design that conveys an athletic, capable image that is readily associated with California.
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
- 2003 Dodge Kahuna Concept
“Kahuna means ‘Master’ in Hawaiian” according to exterior designer Jordan Meadows. “This car represents coastal culture, a Californian frame of mind. The grooves along the side represent waves while the real lacewood sides are reminiscent of an open stagecoach”.
Key themes of the design include a long wheelbase stance with a very short rounded hood. Strong convex wheelarches sit on top of a simple lower body ‘chassis’ with the impression of a big step-over sill. However, the door shutlines run unobtrusively through this lower body and provide a conventional deep door aperture. Finally, the front end appearance with round lamps represents an all-new and bold interpretation of the Dodge face.
Inside, the “big wave” theme continues, as the Kahuna blends Pacific Blue two-tone colours. In addition, a flowing wave design can be seen in the shaping of the instrument
panel as well as the switches, door panel detailing and seat forms. The floor is covered in sisal-like natural fibre.
The retractable top allows the outside to become part of the interior as it folds back in accordion-like fashion. The roof is a silver/grey water resistant see-through canvas. “This was a very challenging concept to build, not least because of the 20mm real wood sides and three dropping side glasses” continues Meadows. “ The folding roof is an added complication”
Key dimensions are: length 4714mm, width 1976mm and height 1702mm.