2008 Dodge Viper SRT 10
Thursday, March 1st, 2007Dodge racing driver Kurt Busch drives the 2008 Dodge Viper onto the stage at the Chrysler Group unveiling at Cobo Center in Detroit Tuesday.
Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford
2010 Ford Mustang Boss 302R - Click above for high-res image gallery
Last week in The Wall Street Journal, writer Ben Austen publised an article in which he ruminates on why no one appears to be racing the Detroit Three's neo-muscle offerings - the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. That the piece succeeds overwhelmingly at, however, is highlighting the myopia of America's mainstream press when it comes to motorsports. Many people in media seem to be completely unaware that there are forms of automotive competition other than NASCAR, because the cars the WSJ article focuses on most assuredly are involved in active competition.
NASCAR may be the big dog in terms of the number of races, sponsor participation, and even people at the track. But by no means is anything about modern stock car racing in any way relevant. A more important question might be why automakers continue pour hundreds of millions of dollars into NASCAR every year, but we'll leave that for another day.
All three of the current crop of pony cars compete in a wide variety of racing, from drags to ovals and road courses. Ford in particular has offered turnkey Mustang race cars for several years, and they've been very successful in a number of classes, including the NASCAR-owned Grand-Am series. In fact, fans watching the 2010 Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge will see Mustangs, Camaros, and at least one Dodge Challenger slugging it out on a regular basis.
Pratt & Miller racing currently runs a program in which it converts Grand-Am Pontiac GXP.Rs to Camaro bodies. Dodge Challengers can be found at many drag strips (along with innumerable Mustangs and Camaros). And let's not forget that NASCAR is running Challenger- and Mustang-branded stockers in a few Nationwide Series races this year as part of its own "Car of Tomorrow" program.
Admittedly, it would be nice to see a revival on the level of the old Trans Am series, with all three of these machines running in force, but journalists like Mr. Austen would do well to remove the NASCAR blinders before summarily dismissing the modern pony cars as being absent from today's racing scene. It's just not so.
Gallery: 2011 Ford Boss 302R
[Source: The Wall Street Journal]
Who says Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers don't race each other? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Mar 2010 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chrysler, Dodge, GM, Jeep
Just about every automaker posted February sales gains compared to the same month in 2009, and industry-wide sales were up 13 percent for the month. Even Chrysler posted its first year over year gain for the first time in 25 months, albeit by a mere 399 units. So is everybody at the company's Auburn Hills, MI headquarters celebrating? We're guessing the answer is no... due to the fact that a knee-wobbling 58 percent of those sales came to fleet customers.
Automotive News is reporting that only 35,832 of those 84,449 sales were made to retail customers. That's not good, folks. In better times, Toyota would be disappointed if it only sold 35,000 Carmry sedans to retail customers. When AN asked Chrysler about its low sales for the month, a spokeswoman reportedly said, "Fleet sales were very strong this month, and our company sales reflect that." Big fleet sales will reportedly be temporary, though, as the company still eventually plans to allocate only 25 percent of its sales to fleets.
But while that's bad news for Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep dealers, the company is likely at least happy that fleet customers are buying again. When the economy hit the skids in the fall of 2008, the fleet market went from a sales oasis for domestic automakers to a discount desert. Chrysler isn't the only automaker to rely on fleet sales in February, either. General Motors allocated 45,000 of its 144,000 vehicles to fleets, about 31 percent of its total sales.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]
Report: Chrysler ends 25-month sales skid by sending 58% of new vehicles to fleets originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Coupe, Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep
Chrysler, now led by Sergio Marchionne and the rest of the management crew brought in by Italian automaker Fiat, has big plans in place that will replace just about every single vehicle the American automaker currently offers. Judging from the purported list of new vehicle launches secured by the Mopar fanatics at Allpar, it would seem that new Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles will be hitting the market all through 2010 and well into 2011.
Looking over the list of 2010 production start dates, the first date to get excited about (barring the March 29th Viper production launch, of course - we're talking about for the mainstream market), is May 10th, which is when the thoroughly recreated Jeep Grand Cherokee will begin rolling down the assembly line. In mid-August, the 2011 Wrangler will make its initial appearance, and we're really hoping for a new powertrain combination for the venerable off-roader.
Towards the end of 2010, we should begin seeing the heavily revised Pentastar minivans along with the new Avenger and Sebring replacements, though the Chrysler midsizer seems likely to get a new moniker to erase memories of the current car. Finally, the three LX-based cars - those being the Challenger, Charger and 300 - will go into production in November, followed closely by the North American 2012 Fiat 500. Keep it together, Chrysler.
[Source: Allpar]
Future Chrysler production plans reportedly leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Plants/Manufacturing, Dodge
2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X - Click above for high-res image gallery
Typically, when a product line is discontinued, owners of the deceased model can still acquire spare parts for their vehicles from the manufacturer. But in this case, Dodge Viper owners will apparently have an alternative venue for replacement parts.
A deal has reportedly been struck between Chrysler and the Viper Club of America to transfer a quantity of excess and blemished parts, as well as some collectibles, to the non-profit association that serves some 25,000 owners. The inventory includes everything from body panels painted in discontinued colors to scratched wheels the factory couldn't sell. Also included are the tooling to reproduce certain parts in the future and memorabilia like the body panels from the Viper Competition Coupe that raced a U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jet.
Some parts will be kept in museums, but the spare parts will be sold through a new company founded by the club called Viper Parts of America, Inc., the proceeds from which will go towards supporting club activities.
Gallery: 2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X
Continue reading Viper Club of America acquires spare parts from Chrysler
Viper Club of America acquires spare parts from Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Minivan/Van, Recalls, Safety, Chrysler, Dodge
Just because Toyota may be garnering the most attention for its current recall crisis, it isn't the only automaker having issues. Chrysler has just released its own recall which affects more than 312,000 2005-2006 Town and Country, Caravan, and Grand Caravan models.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the minivan's front crash sensors may crack "under certain environmental conditions," which can then cause water to seep into the sensor. We're guessing that these environmental conditions refer to cold temperatures, since the list of states affected by this recall are mostly in the northern half of the U.S. If water does enter the sensor, it can trigger the airbag fault warning light and may hinder the performance of the overall airbag system.
In the event of airbag warning light illumination, owners are asked to have their vans serviced immediately to correct the problem. The full recall campaign will begin in June of this year, and owners can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for more information. Click through the jump to read the official NHTSA statement.
UPDATE: Chrysler informs us that this is not an official recall, but rather a "safety improvement campaign" that was reported in early January.
[Source: NHTSA]
Continue reading Chrysler recalls 312,000 2005-2006 minivans over airbag issue *UPDATE
Chrysler recalls 312,000 2005-2006 minivans over airbag issue *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Dodge, Racing
2009 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak driven by Don Garlits - Click above for high-res image gallery
The "more power" guys over at Mopar have released details about the 2010 Dodge Challenger Drag Pak, and you better get your order in soon because these suckers are gonna go fast. Last year the company offered 100 Drag Pak Challengers and all were sold rather quickly. Heck, even legendary drag racer Don Garlits took the keys to one, coming out of a six-year (most recent) retirement to run his Drag Pak Challenger at the U.S. Nationals last year.
For 2010, Dodge is offering another lucky 100 folks the chance to get behind the wheel of a Challenger Drag Pak racer, which is built to compete in sanctioned NHRA Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator classes. The Drag Pak isn't street legal, but it should be worth every penny of its $39,999 pricetag. Underhood you'll find the ubiquitous 6.1-liter Hemi V8 mated to your choice of a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.
The Stone White Drag Pak cars are based on the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and in Stock Eliminator configuration, they're almost 1,000 pounds lighter than the street car. Imagine if the street SRT8 weighed just 3,200 pounds! To help pare that weight and make it more race-ready, the package includes a "composite lift-off hood with functional scoop, Dodge Viper-style front seats, polycarbonate door windows, a light-weight cooling module with electric fan, manual rack-and-pinion steering, a special cable-operated deck-lid release, special light-weight front-brake assemblies and special cable-operated throttle linkage and pedal assembly."
If you'd like to get a Drag Pak for yourself, you need to submit a Dodge Challenger Drag Pak Application, which is available at www.mopar.com or from the Mopar Direct Connection Tech Line at 888-528-HEMI (4363). The full press release can be found after the jump and you can check out a gallery of the 2009 Drag Pak below.
Gallery: Don Garlits Dodge Challenger Drag Pak
Gallery: 2009 Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package
[Source: Chrysler]
Continue reading Dodge announced 2010 Challenger Drag Pak availability, 2009 sold out
Dodge announced 2010 Challenger Drag Pak availability, 2009 sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, Dodge, UAW/Unions
When General Motors and Chrysler were going through bankruptcy proceedings last spring and summer, we learned of several plants that were tagged for closure. Any time a plant closes, it's a huge blow to the area around the plant, as UAW factory jobs provide a good standard of living for thousands of area residents. Among the plants scheduled for moth balls was the Sterling Heights, MI facility that currently produces the Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring, but a report from Automotive News shows that the plant may have new life.
Chrysler is reportedly buying the Sterling Heights plant back from the shell company set up to sell off Team Pentastar's bad debt. According to bankruptcy court documents, the facility reportedly fetched a sale price of $20 million; a mere fraction of the cost of a new plant, which can siphon a billion dollars or more. Old Carco, LLC reportedly didn't have any other offers for the plant, which was valued at up to $21 million. The move will likely ensure that the Avenger and Sebring will receive their purported major refresh and continue on the market for the foreseeable future. Also relieved are the 1,200 union and salaried employees who work at the plant.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]
Welcome Home: Chrysler buys back plant from itself for $20M originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Truck, Government/Legal, Chrysler, Dodge
About the same time Chrysler and Fiat executives were running through a marathon eight -hour look into the future with the world's automotive journalists, Pentastar lawyers were working over the principal at Lake Mary High School in Lake Mary, Florida. You may be asking yourself what Chrysler lawyers would want with principal Michael Kotkin when, just six months earlier, The Pentastar needed billions of taxpayer dollars to exit bankruptcy. Good question, for sure, but the answer appears to be pretty lame.Moto Bullet reports that Chrysler's legal department has been all up in Kotkin's grill because the school's logo is a near-perfect match for the Dodge Ram logo. Team Pentastar ordered has the school to replace the company's favorite goat head as the school logo or risk having to drive a Sebring head into court. Chrysler lawyers even have several photos of the logo being used at the school in several different spots. The Seminole County School District has decided that the logo isn't worth an expensive legal battle, so the school, ranked in the top 1.4 percent nationally for academics, reportedly has until June 15 to remove it from the premises. But while avoiding court will likely save the district plenty of money, the school won't get out of this mess scot-free. Removing the horned-head from the school's gym floor alone will reportedly cost the school (read: local taxpayers) $15,000, or roughly the cost of a new science book for about 300 kids.
We don't want to pretend that we're experts on branding rights and corporate logos, but we just can't see what the harm is to Dodge if the brand and the school share the logo. After all, we're assuming the school isn't going to start making a competitive truck in wood shop. Principal Kotkin is still putting a positive spin on the situation, saying that Chrysler's actions have "galvanized my school," but unfortunately for Team Pentastar, the school's new battle cry sounds something like "I'll never buy a Chrysler as long as I live."
UPDATE: The Chrysler Group got in touch with Autoblog to tell its side of the story, which you can read after the jump.
[Source: Moto Bullet]
Continue reading Report: Chrysler legal turns into schoolyard bully over use of Ram logo *UPDATE
Report: Chrysler legal turns into schoolyard bully over use of Ram logo *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge
2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 - Click above for high-res image gallery
According to Pietro Gorlier, (deep breath) President and Chief Executive Officer of Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC., (whew) the average Dodge Challenger owner spends about $600 on accessories and performance parts from Chrysler's Mopar catalog. Interestingly enough, the most popular single piece of aftermarket kit for the Challenger are Mopar's brushed stainless steel door sill guards. These bits add at least 10 extra horsepower, we're told.
Second on the list is Mopar's vehicle cover (an accessory we can wholeheartedly recommend), which is designed specifically to fit the Challenger. Consider us unsurprised that the chromed fuel-filler door and rear deck-lid Go-Wing Spoiler grab slots three and four - doesn't every single Challenger you see on the road have these installed?
And now for the Mopar pieces that actually improve the straight-line performance of the Challenger: cold-air Intake systems and cat-back exhaust systems for both the 5.7- and 6.1-liter Hemi V8s. Don't forget the stage 2 coilover suspension kit and Mopar strut tower brace to make the big musclecar handle and performance brake pads to haul it back down from speed. See the complete list of Mopar's best-selling Challenger parts and accessories after the break.
Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed
[Source: Chrysler]
Continue reading Mopar's 15 ways to make your custom Dodge Challenger look just like everyone else's
Mopar's 15 ways to make your custom Dodge Challenger look just like everyone else's originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Sedan, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat
2010 Chrysler Sebring - Click above for high-res image gallery
New products seem to be a scarce commodity at Chrysler, but a recent raft of reports emanating from Auburn Hills and, perhaps more importantly Turin, Italy, shows that storm clouds are gathering near The Pentastar's new product desert.
Chrysler brass recently gave members of the Economic Club of Chicago luncheon a sneak peak at the new Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, along with information about the arrival of the Fiat 500 by the end of 2010. Now the Detroit Free Press reports that Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is talking major refresh for the Dodge Avenger and the Chrysler Sebring by the end of the year. And that's not all.
The Freep quotes Chrysler's multi-tasking CEO as saying that the Avenger/Sebring architecture has been torn apart and "You'll see a completely different animal. We're having a discussion about what name this animal should have. The jury is still out." The report goes on to say that it will be the Sebring that receives the name change, which makes sense considering the fact that Avenger sales have held up considerably (and relatively) better than the Sebring since both vehicles launched. Chrysler claims that the goal is to make changes where midsize customers will notice.
Stephanie Brinley at AutoPacific Group in Troy reportedly told the Free Press that Chrysler is somewhat limited in what it can accomplish with a refresh, but changes to ride and handling could be significant - and there's plenty of room for improvement. Another positive change could come under the hood of both vehicles, as Chrysler is working with Fiat on new engine technology, including the Italian automaker's Multiair tech, which may or may not find its way into the downtrodden sedans.
We have no idea if changing the name of the Sebring will wash away all the pain inflicted by a truly bad sedan, but we're thinking that at this point no changes could hurt more than the status quo. We're hoping the refresh is thorough enough to get us interested in The Pentastar's midsize offerings, but we're going to have to take a Missouri-style "show me" stance before believing it.
Gallery: 2010 Chrysler Sebring
[Source: Detroit Free Press]
That'll Fix It: Chrysler may drop Sebring name at next refresh originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Podcasts, Geneva Motor Show, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Lincoln, Mercury, Toyota
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
It's Chris² as both Shunk and Paukert join Dan and for Episode #166 of the Autoblog Podcast this week. First up, as usual, is the Autoblog Garage, housing a Suzuki Grand Vitara and a Kia Soul this week. From there, we take a quick trip through the Chicago Auto Show's highlights. The 2011 Ford Edge, Toyota Avalon, Honda Odyssey concept, and Hyundai Azera all figure in the conversation.
We leave the stockyards for the land of fantastic chocolate and mull a few of the things we're likely to see at the Geneva Motor Show. Toyota's updated RAV-4 and the 5 by Peugeot garner mention before we return stateside to talk about Chrysler's refreshed LX cars and Fiat-based Caliber replacement. On the entertainment tip, Adam Carolla's Top Gear USA revelation catches our attention, and then we entertain ourselves by beating up on Mercury's choice of the Tracer name for its upcoming version of the Ford Focus.
Check out our listener's awesome photo gallery below, and direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey, or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!
Check out Matt's sweet Volkswagen GTI, which he was lucky enough to win from VW and then send pictures to us in triumph.
Gallery: Podcast listener Matt's GTI
Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #166 - Chicago recap/Geneva preview
Autoblog Podcast #166 - Chicago recap/Geneva preview originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Fiat
Late last year, Alfa Romeo previewed the all-new Giulietta ahead of its reveal at next month's Geneva Motor Show. While the five-door hatch is enough to make Stateside consumers weak in the knees - particularly in Quadrifoglio Verde trim - the impact in the U.S. figures to be much more substantial.
According to a new report by Automotive News, the underpinnings of the Giulietta are set to proliferate throughout Fiat's range in the coming years, and of the one million vehicles the automaker plans to build off the new architecture annually, the Chrysler group will account for around 700,000.
Fiat and Chrysler are currently working on a widened version of the platform - appropriately dubbed "Compact Wide" - and seven new models for Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep will use the new underpinnings, including the replacement for the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Dodge Caliber in 2012. And judging by Fiat's description, it's a helluva platform.Aimed to compete with the new Audi A1 and BMW 1 Series, the platform uses 84 percent high and ultrahigh strength steel, a McPherson front and a dual-link rear suspension, both of which will use aluminum components (front and rear arms, along with the crossmember).
The platform comes in around 10 percent lighter than its predecessor thanks to the use of aluminum and magnesium, and is designed to fit a transverse engine and can be adapted for either front- or all-wheel drive applications.
On a related side note, during last week's Economic Club of Chicago luncheon in which Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO and Chrysler Group design head, dropped a a handful of interesting tidbits about the future of the automaker, he also showed a few teasers of upcoming products. Included in the presentation were images of the new 300C and Jeep Grand Cherokee, along with the the rendering above, a new subcompact product from Dodge, almost assuredly the next Caliber. Combined with the new platform and Fiat's Multiair engines, we may finally have a credible contender in the compact arena from Chrysler. And it's about damn time.
Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta
[Sources: Automotive News, AutoBird]
Report: Two Fiat-based small cars to replace PT Cruiser, Caliber in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Budget, Videos, Dodge, Humor
This'll end well. Follow the jump to watch the video.
Via the legitimately awesome cats at Hooniverse (bookmark those guys if you haven't already) comes today's humor interlude, captured on video for the Internet to enjoy forever and ever, Amen. In brief, it's a dude, his Dodge Neon, and a burnout gone horribly, irreversibly wrong. Prepare yourselves for wildly overwhelming feelings of schadenfreude after the jump.
[Source: eBaums World via Hooniverse]
Continue reading Video: Dodge Neon burnout ends in relentless fail
Video: Dodge Neon burnout ends in relentless fail originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Feb 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Coupe, SUV, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat
Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO and Chrysler Group design head, has just wrapped up an address to the Chicago Economic Club that was peppered with several choice quotes and quips. You can read the Chrysler's PR-filtered version on its Twitter feed, but here are our favorites:
From the true: "Brands and companies don't die. They are victims of homicide."
To the sublime: "Viper important to image of "my brand" [Dodge]"
To the ridiculous: "The further away you are from Detroit the less you know the facts about the auto industry."
To the more ridiculous: "I liken management to X-Men... all have special abilities."
To the funny/creepy: Ad agency interviewed him before creating Super Bowl spot. "I had to smoke a cigarette," afterwards, he joked.
To the important: "Fiat 500 on sale in U.S. at end of the year"
That last bit coincides with earlier reports that the Fiat 500 could reach the States as early as this year as a 2011 model. Although the 500's importation into the U.S. has been fast-tracked, there's still some question about whether it will meet U.S. crash and safety standards. We expect to have an exact on sale date soon, and Gilles also said that the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is due to go on sale within the next three months.To the sublime: "Viper important to image of "my brand" [Dodge]"
To the ridiculous: "The further away you are from Detroit the less you know the facts about the auto industry."
To the more ridiculous: "I liken management to X-Men... all have special abilities."
To the funny/creepy: Ad agency interviewed him before creating Super Bowl spot. "I had to smoke a cigarette," afterwards, he joked.
To the important: "Fiat 500 on sale in U.S. at end of the year"
Gallery: Fiat 500
[Source: Chrysler via Twitter]
Gilles: Fiat 500 on sale in U.S. by the end of 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsFiled under: Minivan/Van, Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler, Dodge
Dodge Caravan - Click above for high-res image gallery
Chrysler invented the minivan, and Team Pentastar is so confident that you'll like its newest people mover that the automaker is giving you 60 days to try a Dodge Grand Caravan or Chrysler Town and Country for yourself. Chrysler's new 60-day "Minivan Pledge" is open until March 31 to owners of competitive makes. Fred Diaz, President and CEO of the Ram brand and lead executive for sales, said in the company's press release that Chrysler and Dodge minivan owners love their boxy rides and he wants the rest of the world to know why.
"Roughly 67 percent of our minivan buyers are previous owners, and the Chrysler Town & Country has won the R.L. Polk Owner Loyalty award in the minivan category nine years in a row. That's a testimonial that is earned by building the best minivan year in and year out,"
Chrysler's 60 day pledge is very similar to a program offered by General Motors in late 2009. The General claims its program was a success in part because relatively few customers brought their vehicles back because they were dissatisfied. Chrysler's program is unique in that only minivans are covered by the pledge. Hit the jump to read over the Chrysler press release.Gallery: 2008 Dodge Caravan
[Source: Chrysler]
Chrysler offering 60-day return policy with "Minivan Pledge" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsArchive for the 'DODGE' Category
Dodge Magnum SRT8 and Magnum R/T
Tuesday, February 27th, 2007The newly restyled 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup — including SRT8, R/T, SXT and SE models — continues the boldly-styled theme of American muscle, with its unique profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI® power, fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive performance.
New 20
08 Dodge Magnum SRT8 includes race-inspired, aggressive hood, functional performance hood scoop, new grille, headlamps, front fascia design and interior appointments
Restyled 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T continues to defy comparison in the marketplace with functionality, HEMI® power and fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS)
Sophisticated exterior and interior enhancements combined with bold Dodge attitude create a modern Magnum lineup for 2008
Advanced technologies, flexible and functional cargo space and integrated safety and security features combine to provide a powerful, capable family vehicle with the ride and handling of a sports car.
A package unlike any other in the marketplace, the 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup is an evolution of the bold, powerful and street-smart philosophy of the Dodge brand.
2008 DODGE MAGNUM SRT8
The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is more menacing than ever with a completely redesigned hood, grille, front fascia and functional performance hood scoop. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 remains true to the SRT credo of “Race inspired, street legal” with 0–60 mph performance in the low 5-second range while, at the same time, maintaining all of the utility and convenience features the entire 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup has to offer.
“The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is the ultimate package for drivers seeking complete, sports-car performance without compromising family-vehicle convenience and functionality,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Motorsports and SRT Marketing and Product Planning, Chrysler Group.
Aggressive Performance-inspired Exterior and Race-inspired Interior
A redesigned hood, front fascia and new grille highlight the extensive changes on the new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8. A functional performance hood scoop has also been added.
The black honeycomb insert of the crosshair grille and air inlet of the front fascia increases brake cooling. The front fascia itself provides an aerodynamic benefit by reducing lift. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 rides on 20-inch aluminum, SRT-designed wheels wearing 245/45/ZR20 (front) and 255/45/ZR20 (back) F1 Goodyear tires.
Available exterior colors for the 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 are Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat and TorRed.
On the inside, the new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 maintains its race-inspired environment. Enhancements for 2008 include agate-color accent stitching, carbon-fiber leather-trim door handles, and LED lighting in the cup holders and door-map pockets.
The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 continues to feature power-adjustable, deeply sculpted and highly bolstered sport seats with performance suede inserts in the front, an improved grip-enhancing carbon-fiber leather-trim steering wheel, and full-performance instrumentation, including a 180-mph (300-kph) speedometer, a tachometer and a temperature gauge.
“That Thing Gotta HEMI?”
Under the newly designed hood of the 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8, delivering 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 N•m) of torque, contributing to a performance roster that includes a 0–60 mph time in the low 5-second range and 0–100–0 mph in under 17 seconds.
New for 2008, drivers can receive instant feedback on their personal performance numbers from a newly available ReConfigurable Display (RCD) in the cluster. Power for the SRT 6.1-liter HEMI is channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission with specially calibrated, driver-selectable Auto Stick, which offers fully automatic or manual shifting selection.
All-around SRT Driving Performance
The new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 provides all-around driving performance with SRT-tuned dampers, tailored spring rates and suspension bushings and large-diameter anti-sway bars. For added stability and aerodynamic benefit, the ride height of the Magnum SRT8 is one-half inch lower than the Dodge Magnum R/T, SXT and SE models, while the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) has been specially tuned for the 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8’s performance-handling characteristics.
Benchmark braking is a hallmark of SRT performance and design. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 features tried and true Brembo performance calipers, finished in red. Each is equipped with four pistons, gripping 360 mm x 32 mm vented rotors up front, with 350 mm x 26 mm vented rotors in the rear. The results: 60–0 mph stopping distance of approximately 110 feet.
Street and Racing Technology
SRT creates some of the Chrysler Group’s boldest, most distinctive products by single-mindedly following its core vision: Deliver benchmark performance at the lowest price, and deliver it with absolute integrity and credibility.
Every SRT vehicle showcases five key aspects: Exterior styling that resonates with the brand image; race-inspired interiors; world-class ride and handling characteristics across a dynamic range; benchmark braking; and standout powertrain.
2008 DODGE MAGNUM R/T, SXT AND SE
The 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T, SXT and SE charge into the future with a sophistication and refinement noticeable throughout its new bold front exterior design and a brighter, more upscale look and feel to the interior.
“The 2008 Dodge Magnum offers interior and exterior refinements in a boldly-styled package that delivers comfort, functionality and performance,” said Tom Loveless, Director – Dodge Marketing and Global Communications. “Dodge Magnum is a one-of-a-kind family transportation vehicle that continues to defy comparison in the marketplace.”
Refined Exterior Enhancements
Design changes to the 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T, SXT and SE can be seen in the signature Dodge crosshair front grille which has been lowered and stretched horizontally to create a more aggressive look. Chrome elements added to the front fascia and grille and extra detailing around the fog lamps provide additional interest and refinement to the face of the new Magnum.
The Magnum R/T features optional Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) elements in the headlamps for greater visibility while adding a sophisticated, high-tech look to the exterior.
The hood of 2008 Dodge Magnum models features expressive accent lines that run from the leading edge toward the windshield, highlighting its muscular character and hinting at the power beneath. Optional chrome-clad aluminum wheels and 245/45R20 all-season performance tires contribute to the bold, powerful image that is pure Dodge.
New exterior paint colors include Light Pebble Beige and Titanium.
More Upscale, Bright Interior
The 2008 Dodge Magnum continues to offer a no-nonsense functional interior with well-appointed upgrades including soft-touch surfaces on the arm rests and the top of the center console, a new cruise control stalk and optional LED lighting, which illuminates the cup holders and door-map pockets. Brighter, chromed highlights have been added to the interior cabin of the R/T and SXT models.
The instrument panel has been redesigned to offer a more driver-oriented layout. The clean lines and easy-to-read gauges are highlighted with chrome bezels to deliver additional interest.
Most Powerful Engine Options in its Class
The 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T is equipped with a modern 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine featuring MDS. MDS seamlessly alternates between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is demanded, increasing fuel economy as much as 20 percent without sacrificing vehicle performance. Drivers may be informed when four-cylinder mode is active by selecting the new fuel-economy display available through the optional Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).
The 5-7-liter HEMI V-8 engine provides 340 horsepower (254 kW) @ 5000 rpm and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (525 N•m) @ 4000 rpm and offers an EPA fuel economy rating of 17/25 (city/hwy)*.
Also available in the 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup is the 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine, which provides 250 horsepower (186 kW) @ 6400 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque (340 N•m) @ 3800 rpm and a fuel economy rating of 19/27 (city/hwy)*.
In addition, the durable 2.7-liter V-6 engine is offered, providing 190 horsepower (142 kW) @ 6400 rpm and 190 lb.-ft. of torque (258 N•m) @ 4000 rpm and a fuel economy rating of 21/28 (city/hwy)*.
* Fuel economy numbers are based on 2007 EPA figures. Due to changes in EPA requirements, 2008 numbers are not yet determined.
Rear-wheel-drive Architecture
The 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T, SXT and SE models come standard with rear-wheel-drive performance.
Rear-wheel-drive performance offers the best vehicle balance and handling by separating the steering and acceleration duties
Available advanced automotive technologies include an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist, all-speed Traction Control System and four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), which combine to enable the rear-wheel-drive Dodge Magnum to perform with all-season confidence
All-wheel-drive Architecture
The 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T and SXT also are available with all-wheel drive.
An all-wheel-drive system adds a front differential and transfer case to provide the best in passenger-car four-season traction
By driving continuously through all four wheels, the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent cornering balance under all driving conditions, and better traction in snow
SAFETY AND SECURITY
The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8, R/T, SXT and SE all have a full range of available active and passive safety systems. In addition to the accident avoidance features including ESP and Brake Assist, all-speed traction control and ABS that help the driver maintain directional stability, enhance mobility and prevent wheel slip, the Dodge Magnum offers myriad crash protection features. Among the vehicle’s safety equipment are:
Advanced restraint systems and low-risk deployment air bags
Crumple zones
Energy absorbing steering column
Interior head-impact protection
Available front and rear side-curtain and front seat-mounted air bags
Available auto-reverse windows, power adjustable pedals, self-sealing tires and tire pressure monitor system additionally provide a total package of engineering and technological advancements designed to protect as well as perform.
ENTERTAINMENT AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
The 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup offers the latest entertainment and communication technology available in the automotive industry while maintaining simplicity, safety, freedom and flexibility.
UConnect® Hands-free Communication System using Bluetooth technology with iPod interface for safer driving habits
Factory installed SIRIUS Satellite Radio with streaming video option entertains without commercials
Full-map DVD-based Navigation System using Global Positioning System (GPS) provides easy destination routing
Rear-seat DVD Video Entertainment System (VES) conveniently located in center console storage bin to provide easy access to rear-seat passengers
MANUFACTURING
The 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup will be built at the Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario (Canada) along with the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. Production of the 2008 Dodge Magnum begins late summer of 2007 and will arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter.
Dodge Caravan
Tuesday, October 18th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Dodge Caravan Grand
Sales Company:
Available version:
Previous version:
Variation:
MPV (Grand)
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Chrysler - Town & Country
Chrysler - Voyager
Dodge Charger
Tuesday, October 18th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Limousine 4d
Sales Company:
Available version:
3.5 V6 24v
5.7 V8 16v HEMI
SRT8 - 6.1 V8
Previous version:
Variation:
Limousine 4d
Assembly Plants:
Donors:
Dodge Dakota Quad Cab
Monday, October 17th, 2005
Details info: Alternative names:
Sales Company:
Available version:
3.7 V6 4wd
3.7 V6 4wd aut.
3.7 V6 aut.
3.7 V6
4.7 V8 4wd
4.7 V8 4wd aut.
4.7 V8
Previous version:
Variation:
Pick-Up CrewCab+
(Club Cab)
(2004 - )
Pick-Up Double Cab
(Quad Cab)
(2004 - )
Info: New pick-up
Assembly Plants:
Donors: