Chrysler to Pay $50 if Test Driver Buys Car--No Matter the Make

HIGHLAND PARK, Mich. — Chrysler Corp. is extending many guaranteed incentive programs through February and adding a $50 offer to consumers who buy vehicles they test drive--even if it’s not a Chrysler.

The No. 3 auto maker is letting incentives on its industry-leading minivans expire.

The test-drive offer aims at getting consumers to shop around, trying Chrysler vehicles against other makers’ cars. Chrysler said it will pay consumers $50 if they buy a vehicle they tested, even if it is not a Chrysler.

Chairman Lee A. Iacocca revealed the rebate extensions Sunday in commercials broadcast during the Super Bowl on CBS and the Senior Skins golf tournament on NBC.

In December, Chrysler guaranteed that the incentives on eligible 1990 models purchased or leased would stay the same until Sept. 30.

Although some incentive programs slated to end Wednesday have been extended, the first-time rebate offers on Chrysler minivans, including the Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager and Town & Country, will end. Chrysler controls more than 50% of the minivan market.

The 1990 models and rebates added to the Jan. 28-through-Feb. 28 guaranteed program include: $2,000 on Dodge Ramcharger; $1,500 on Dodge Monaco ES and some full-size Ram Van conversions; $1,000 on Plymouth Horizon, Dodge Omni, Chrysler LeBaron sedan, Dodge Monaco LE, Dakota S, two- and four-wheel diesel pickups, full-size Ram Van and Ram Wagon, Comanche and Grand Wagoneer; and $500 on Wrangler.