The replacement for the aging Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger is badly needed for the company to compete with the likes of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in the most popular part of the U.S. auto market.

Chrysler officials gave few details about the new car. It will be built at a factory in Sterling Heights, Mich., north of Detroit, where the 200 and Avenger are now built. The officials confirmed the timing of the car Tuesday while taking reporters on a tour of the factory's new paint shop.

Chrysler's current midsize cars were unveiled in 2006 and updated three years ago. Their designs are the oldest in the midsize car market, and buyers pay far less for them than nearly all competitors.