Stellantis is aggressively promoting a range of new electrified models in the US, starting with the new Charger coupes and sedans. Clearly, the automaker is using the rich past of its brands to smoothly usher customers into the future. And the next step in this endeavor could be the revival of a legendary muscle car.
On April 30, 2024, Stellantis filed to register the Cuda trademark in the United States. While this doesn't confirm the return of the legendary Plymouth, it's worth noting that the automaker ditched the brand in 2020, and this is its first attempt to bring the name back.
As noted by Motorauthority, who first reported the trademark registration, it is interesting that Stellantis' application specifically states that the name will apply to “motor vehicles, namely concept cars”. This could mean that the automaker is planning to unveil a new version of its legendary car in concept form at one of the upcoming auto shows.
Although the Cuda name is sometimes used to refer to the Plymouth Barracuda, it first officially appeared in 1969 and was available with the 340, 383 or 440 Super Commando V8 engines. A year later, the car changed generations and the Cuda configuration returned as a sports version. Then the model was closely related to the Dodge Challenger.
Bringing back the Cuda will be a difficult task from the brand's point of view, as Plymouth was officially closed in 2001. However, Dodge has already shown it's willing to creatively rethink old names, as is the case with the new Hornet.