I pointed out its functional utility in preventing parking lot dings and scratches, but to no avail. Apparently, this has been modified somewhat for 1997, but the cladding has not been eliminated. Revising plastic cladding, front and rear fascia is far less expensive than redoing body metal. Changes for 1997 I was able to locate a sales brochure at my dealer's, It is not a large book as was available in 1995 and 1996, but rather a 1 page foldout, apparently designed for mailing. Whether a larger sales brochure is out yet, I do not know, but I have not seen one.
Exterior changes The biggest news is the revised front and rear fascia.
In fact, all of the plastic pieces below the belt line are changed somewhat. Larger and more prow shaped, the black area appears to have pleats similar to the 1995-1996 design. The grille is now integral with the lower fascia, instead of two separate pieces as in the 1995-96 design. In its replacement is a Chrysler blue- ribbon logo with chrome wings that evoke Chrysler grille trim designs of the 30s and 40s. In fact, in looking over photos of the 1934 Chrysler Airflow and other Chryslers built prior to World War II, the new grille evokes images of a similar art deco design.