Plymouth Horizon TC3 / Turismo
The Horizon TC3 was a lower, sportier 3-door hatchback version of the Plymouth Horizon, a similar concept to the Volkswagen Scirocco. It was a rebadged version of the Dodge Omni 024. From the 1981 model year, the model year, the Horizon name was dropped and the car was renamed simply Plymouth TC3 and for the 1983 model year, it was renamed again to Plymouth Turismo. Similarly, the Dodge version was first renamed to simply 024 and later became the Dodge Charger.
Plymouth Horizon TC3 / Turismo Overview
The Plymouth Horizon TC3, later renamed the Plymouth Turismo, was a compact two-door hatchback derivative of the original Plymouth Horizon. Introduced in the late 1970s and produced through the mid-1980s, the TC3/Turismo aimed to offer a sportier, more stylish alternative to the standard Horizon. Its twin under the Dodge brand was known as the Omni 024, which later became the Dodge Charger for a period.
The Horizon TC3 was launched in 1979 as a sportier, coupe-like version of the standard Plymouth Horizon. Its design was more aerodynamic, featuring pop-up headlights and a sloping rear end. In 1983, the Horizon TC3 was renamed the Plymouth Turismo. The Dodge Omni 024, on the other hand, took on the Dodge Charger nameplate for a while.
The Turismo/TC3, with its sleeker design compared to the regular Horizon, targeted younger buyers and those seeking a sporty compact car. Over its production run, the car received various updates to its exterior and interior, reflecting the design trends of the 1980s. The Turismo was available in multiple trim levels, including a performance-oriented Duster variant that offered sportier cosmetics and sometimes performance enhancements.
The Turismo was initially available with the same 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine that was in the base Horizon. However, as the years went on, it also received Chrysler’s 2.2-liter inline-four engine, which improved performance. The car was front-wheel drive, consistent with the Horizon and the broader industry trend towards FWD configurations.
The Turismo and its Dodge counterparts were received reasonably well in the market, offering an affordable and stylish option for those looking for a compact sporty car. However, as with many cars of its era, it faced stiff competition from both domestic and international manufacturers in a crowded compact segment.
The Turismo was discontinued after the 1987 model year. By that time, Chrysler’s compact car offerings were evolving, and new models and nameplates were emerging to replace older ones. The Plymouth Turismo, along with the Dodge Omni 024/Charger, holds a place in the pantheon of 1980s compact cars. While perhaps not as iconic as some other vehicles of its era, it’s fondly remembered by enthusiasts who appreciate the unique automotive styles and trends of the 1980s.
Plymouth Horizon TC3 / Turismo US Sales Data & Charts
US Annual Sales
| Year | Sales Units |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 53,971 |
| 1981 | 51,815 |
| 1982 | 39,704 |
| 1983 | 36,497 |
| 1984 | 47,109 |
| 1985 | 52,817 |
| 1986 | 44,742 |
| 1987 | 16,991 |
| 1988 | 0 |
