Dodge Cars

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee

2011-11-17T08:24:00.001-08:00

Designed and built for the core performance enthusiast, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee makes its public debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

There is no mistaking the unreserved performance attitude of the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee. Available in either Stinger Yellow or Pitch Black exterior paint with special Super Bee graphics, the exclusive models reflect a specially designed modern and extroverted interpretation of the legendary Super Bee performance built for the enthusiast who enjoys a vehicle with one mission in mind - to go fast.

"The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee is a salute to the fun-loving past of Dodge muscle cars powered by the legendary 392 HEMI® V-8 in a back-to-basics performance machine," Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - SRT and Motorsports said.

Exclusive Super Bee Content Inside and Out

The race-inspired interior of the 2012 Charger SRT8 Super Bee features the SRT exclusive three-spoke contoured performance steering wheel, exclusive Z-stripe cloth performance seats with amped yellow and silver striping in both the front and rear as well as silver accent stitching and embroidered Super Bee logos on each of the front seat headrests.

The instrument panel also features the Charger Super Bee logo on a unique dash plaque.

Newly modified software includes the appearance of the Super Bee logo in the center instrument panel's Electronic Vehicle Information Center at vehicle start up.
2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee

On the exterior, the Dodge Charger Super Bee features a unique SRT badge with a 3-D helmeted bee mascot on the new split crosshair grille finished in Gloss Black.

Satin black hood graphics mirror the black decklid stripes with a solid wide center line flanked by solid dual tracer lines on the Stinger Yellow model, while charcoal gray graphics are used on the hood and decklid of the Pitch Black model. Standard rear decklid spoilers are matte black on the Stinger Yellow model or matching body color on the Pitch Black model.

Both front fenders tout the historically significant V-8 engine with "392 HEMI" badges first seen on the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392. Flanking both rear fenders are the legendary round Super Bee graphics, which now include the wording "Powered by SRT" to commemorate the modern incarnation of this celebrated performance icon.

New 20 x 9-inch, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels with black painted pockets developed specifically for the Super Bee models provide a unique performance look.

Available Goodyear F1 Supercar three-season, ultra high performance tires give the Super Bee tenacious grip on the road or track. Also available are Goodyear Eagle RS-A 2 all-season tires that make the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee an all-season performance machine.

Braking power for the Super Bee comes courtesy of SRT engineered Brembo brakes with vented and slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo calipers painted anodized black.

A limited number of 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee units will be built for the U.S. market. All Dodge Charger models are built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Both Stinger Yellow and Pitch Black Super Bee models will be available for ordering in December at Dodge dealerships nationwide and will be arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the first quarter of 2012.

SRT's legendary performance

The 2012 Dodge Charger Super Bee is powered by the new 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that delivers 45 more horsepower and 50 more lb.-ft. of torque than the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces - up 11 percent to 470 horsepower (351 kW) and up 12 percent to 470 (637 N•m) lb.-ft. of torque.

The new for 2012, exclusive SRT heated steering wheel features available mounted paddle shifters for hands on the wheel shifting both on road and at the race track

World-class stopping power from 60-0 mph in 120 feet comes through 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo calipers. Improved brake cooling and fade performance at all four corners comes courtesy of a new underbody belly pan with integrated brake ducting.

Performance numbers include 0-60 mph acceleration in the high 4-second range; quarter mile in the high 12-second range; 0-100-0 mph in less than 16 seconds; top speed of 175 mph and stopping power from 60-0 mph in 120 feet.

Super Bee history

The Dodge Super Bee, first introduced in 1968 as a member of Dodge's Scat Pack performance group, brought a high-performance vehicle to the low price class.

Based on the mid-sized Coronet model, the standard engine for 1968 was the 335 horsepower version of the 383 cubic-inch V-8 while the legendary 426 HEMI V-8 also was available.

The standard transmission was a heavy-duty four-speed manual with a Hurst Competition-Plus floor shifter. The power bulge hood let everyone know this was no ordinary car. The Super Bee could accelerate to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds and cover the quarter mile in 15 seconds. Not bad for a car that you could buy for a little more than $3,000.

In 1969, the radical 440 Six-Pack was added to the Super Bee's list of engine options. By placing three Holly two-barrel carburetors on top of the 440 Magnum V-8, the Super Bee generated 390 horsepower and 490 lb.-ft.of torque.

The Super Bee was switched to the Charger model for 1971 but continued to offer its impressive engine line-up, as well as its heavy duty suspension. The Hemi-power '71 Super Bee could reach 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and ran the quarter mile in only 13.7 seconds.

In its brief original four year run, the name Super Bee reached legendary status by giving the customer an ultra-high performance vehicle that they could drive to work during the week, yet take to the track on the weekend and outperform the competition.

For the 2007 model year, Dodge and SRT revived the Super Bee nameplate with the limited-edition Dodge Charger SRT8. It featured "Detonator Yellow" exterior color with black hood and deck-lid face, unique "hockey stick" stripes on the rear fenders, Super Bee logos on front and rear fenders, and contrasting yellow stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob. The wheels were fully polished versus the stock SRT8 Charger which featured wheels with silver painted areas.

Powered by the 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 producing 425 hp and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2007 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee was the first special edition Charger from SRT. Only 1,000 units were built for the 2007 model year.

The 2008 Charger SRT8 Super Bee package featured a B5 Blue Pearl Coat exterior reminiscent of the blue used by Chrysler vehicles in the 1960s and 1970s. Instead of fully polished SRT8 Charger wheels, the "pockets" were painted black. Blue accent stitching inside replaced the yellow found on the seats and steering wheel from the previous model year. Only 1,000 units of the Charger SRT8 Super Bee were built in 2008.

In 2009, the Super Bee package featured Hemi Orange Pearl Coat paint with decals on the hood and rear quarter fenders; new Super Bee wheels with black anodized pockets with silver Brembo brake calipers. On the inside were orange accented seats and a serialized dash plaque. Only 425 units of the Super Bee were built in 2009.

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket

2011-11-17T08:13:00.001-08:00

The Chrysler Group's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team announced an exclusive production run of special-edition 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8® 392 Yellow Jacket models featuring Stinger Yellow exterior paint and interior appointments.

Based on the 2012 Challenger SRT8 392, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 Yellow Jacket features a Stinger Yellow body color and black grille surround to match the standard black body-side stripes that highlight the newly developed Yellow Jacket logo on the rear fender. New 20 x 9-inch, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels with black painted pockets provide a unique performance look.

Inside, the standard leather seats feature an exclusive Stinger Yellow accent band with embroidered Yellow Jacket logo and silver accent stitching. The driver's seat also features a full adjustable lumbar position with seatback tilt, memory and an easy-to-reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat adds tilt and slide with memory, which makes it even easier for passengers to get in and out of the back seat.

"The Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket adds another piece of performance car nostalgia to our rear-drive muscle coupe lineup in 2012," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - SRT Brand and Motorsports. "The Stinger Yellow paint and interior accents speak directly to the performance enthusiast who appreciates a memorable and collectible color that helps deliver even more excitement and exclusivity."

The original Dodge "Yellow Jacket" show car, which evolved from the 1970 Challenger, was shown at various auto show exhibits beginning in late 1969. Painted pearlescent Honey Gold, the roadster was powered by the 426-cubic inch HEMI V-8 and carried a number of the famous Dodge "Scat Pack" performance features, such as a unique front spoiler, wider tires, heavy-duty suspension and brakes, and manual transmission, along with the Rallye instrument cluster and shaker hood.

A limited number of 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket models will be built for the U.S. market. All Dodge Challenger models are built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

The Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket will be available for ordering in December 2011 at Dodge dealerships nationwide and will be arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the first quarter of 2012.

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

2011-09-02T09:37:00.001-07:00

For 2012, the Dodge Challenger SRT8® 392 adds even more high-tech performance features to solidify its place as the brand's ultimate modern American rear-wheel-drive muscle coupe. This 470 horsepower machine promises a balanced performance approach with outstanding straight-line acceleration, world-class ride and handling, high-performance braking and the most up-to-date technologies that deliver more driver excitement and control. And it still gets 23 miles per gallon on the highway.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 accelerates from 0-60 mph in the high 4-second range; runs the quarter mile in mid-12-second range with the automatic transmission (high 12-second range with the manual); goes from 0-100-0 mph in the low 15s, reaches a top speed of 182 mph with the manual transmission (175 mph with the automatic) and stops from 60-0 mph in just 117 feet.

Awe-inspiring powertrain

The 392-cubic inch (6.4-liter) HEMI® V-8 delivers 470 horsepower (351 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. (637 N•m) of torque. The torque band is extremely flat allowing for strong standing starts and improved straight-line performance throughout the rpm range. An advanced active intake manifold along with high-lift cam with phasing provides maximum low-end torque and high-end power while still delivering 23 miles per gallon on the highway with both the standard manual transmission or available automatic transmission. Performance-tuned engine mounts improve idle stability and ride control at all speeds.
2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

Standard Fuel Saver Technology (four cylinder mode) in automatic transmission equipped models allows the engine to operate economically on four cylinders or use the power of all eight cylinders when needed. The EPA fuel economy miles per gallon (mpg) (City/Hwy) ratings for the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 are 14/23 for manual or automatic transmission models.

A look under the hood reveals unique valve covers with painted silver ribs and the "392 HEMI" logo, which gives the engine a unique, clean and aggressive look.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 features a standard Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission and a dual-disc high performance clutch - a proven performer that was first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10®.

The optional five-speed automatic transmission features new, standard steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that join the center console mounted Auto Stick, allowing for a choice of spirited shifting on both the road and the race track. Both methods give the driver the ability to manually select specific gears on the transmission.

In "Drive," the transmission controller will automatically shift the vehicle. The aggressiveness of the shifting is defined by the mode chosen - either "Normal" or "Sport." Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

In "Manual," the shift method is defined by the driver choosing to use either paddle shift or Auto Stick. The "Sport" mode adds a hold function to the calibration in all gears, allowing the driver full control of the shifting schedule.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability

The adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system is new for 2012 and tuned specifically for the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392.

In "Auto" mode, a wide range of on-road and driver inputs - such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral/vertical accelerations - automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions. In "Sport" mode, the damping system rebound and compression is locked to the higher damping rate. Drivers can easily choose between settings to quickly change the shock damping and harshness characteristics from "Auto" for everyday commuting to "Sport" for more spirited driving situations.

The ADS system on the Challenger SRT8 392 features the fastest turn-in and most nimble handling characteristics of any SRT product. In the "Sport" setting, the system provides the highest damping rates allowing the driver to push the handling envelope like never before.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system features a heavy-duty pump combined with a damped steering gear to give drivers more direct response and on-center feel.

Sitting a half-inch lower than non-SRT models, the 2012 Challenger SRT8 392 rides on either the standard five-spoke, 20 x 9-inch fully forged aluminum wheels or available seven-spoke, 20 x 9-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with satin black painted pockets. Standard Goodyear RSA All-Season tires or available Goodyear F1 Supercar Three-Season complement the performance design cues and deliver serious gripping performance and handling.

The handling result is .90g capability on the skid pad - the most of any production Challenger and on par with some of the world's best-handling performance coupes.

Benchmark braking

The standard SRT performance brake package produces world-class stopping power of 60 to 0 mph in just 117 feet from 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo fixed calipers painted red. The three-mode electronic stability control system with knockback mitigation also includes four-wheel ABS, all-speed traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, Brake Assist and Hill-start Assist (HSA).

The Ready Alert Braking system anticipates when the driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal and may initiate an emergency brake stop, after which the electronic stability control pump engages to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application.

Improved brake cooling and fade performance comes courtesy of wind-tunnel designed brake cooling ducts that direct airflow to the vented rotors for consistent stopping power.

Aggressive and functional exterior

Exterior styling of the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 remains unmistakably Dodge, with proportions that continue to evoke a bold, instantly recognizable performance coupe that has a wide, stable stance on the road.

The large front splitter and integrated front fender spats and body color rear decklid spoiler provide stable high-speed aerodynamics and overall balance while the front fascia chin spoiler also improves aerodynamics and is accented in black for a more aggressive look. The front grille features a bright grille surround.

For 2012, available exterior colors include: Bright Silver, Bright White, Header Orange, Pitch Black, Redline Red and Tungsten Metallic. Dual, full-body stripes are available in black, grey metallic, red and silver metallic.

Unique "392 HEMI" badges flank both fenders touting the historically significant V-8 engine that remains true to its high-performance roots and powers the highest rated Challenger in terms of horsepower and torque ratings. From the rear, the 4-inch rectangular exhaust tips deliver the 392's performance exhaust note while adding the styling cue of a serious muscle car.

Race-inspired and high-performance interior

The race-inspired interior begins with a new, leather wrapped, heated, SRT-exclusive steering wheel that features a unique satin chrome rim section with a flattened bottom surface that showcases the SRT logo. The optional automatic transmission includes paddle shift controls on both sides of the new contoured palm rests. All audio and Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) controls are accessible from the horizontal spokes on the steering wheel.

The trapezoidal instrument panel features a four-bomb gauge cluster with chromed accent rings and unique SRT graphics. Inside the cluster, the SRT-exclusive Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with performance pages provides the driver with trip information, multimedia information from the Media Center radio, along with instant feedback on 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking, G-forces, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times.

Power lumbar-equipped front seats are standard. The driver's seat features seatback tilt with memory and an easy to reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat adds tilt and slide with memory, which makes it even easier for passengers to get in and out of the back seat.

Interior color combinations include Dark Slate Gray, and new for 2012 Radar Red/Dark Slate Gray, which adds color to the seats, door bolsters and rear seat armrest.

Safety and security

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 features more than 35 advanced safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance.

In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver's knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Connectivity and Infotainment

For maximum convenience and to keep passengers connected, a wide array of connectivity, infotainment and mobile multimedia options are available on the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8.

The innovative Uconnect® Media Center 430, 430N and 730N radios integrate a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, with a hard drive where more than 150 hours of music and photos can be stored. Uconnect Media Center radios also offer two navigation options, including: segment-leading Garmin® Navigation guidance and mapping (Uconnect Media Center 430N), or premium GPS Navigation with SIRIUS Traffic (Uconnect Media Center 730N). Both navigation solutions feature SIRIUS Travel Link, providing real-time weather, fuel prices and more while on the go.

New for 2012, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 features an available 900-watt, 18-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon. The system offers world premier innovation, featuring a 32-volt TPS (Tracking Power Supply) 12-channel Class D amplifier that delivers outstanding acoustics and brings multi-dimensional, quality sound for all interior occupants.

The new system uses GreenEdge® speaker and amplifier technology to offer superior sound quality and high Sound Pressure Level outputs with minimum energy consumption. GreenEdge amplifiers alone outperform traditional amplifier efficiency by up to 55 percent, representing a net efficiency of more than 90 percent in some cases. The speakers are tuned for maximum efficiency and perfectly matched to the amplifier output.

The system's 18 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers include:
Seven 3.5-inch Unity coaxial mid-range speakers with seven integrated tweeters located in the front dash, rear doors and rear deck
Two 6 x 9-inch subwoofers located in the front doors
Two 10-inch subwoofers in a trunk mounted enclosure

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

SRT Track Experience

Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Driving Experience as part of the SRT Track Experience, designed to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track. Sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks.

392's Storied History

The original 392 HEMI engine was introduced in the new 1957 model year Chrysler and Imperial products. It replaced the 354 cubic-inch version of the original HEMI launched in 1951.Compared with the 354 engine, the 392 was completely revised and improved, with larger valves and ports, a beefier block and crankshaft and improved bearings. In short, the 392 HEMI, often affectionately referred to simply as the "92," was perfect for drag racing.

More than a few racers at that time immediately enhanced the performance of the newest HEMI by bolting on six or eight carburetors, installing new camshafts, etc., and went racing.

Racing legend Don 'Big Daddy" Garlits ran a 392 in his infamous Swamp Rat I dragster at record speeds of faster than 180 mph on nitro with no supercharger. Garlits also used a 392 HEMI to officially break the 200-mph barrier when his Swamp Rat went 201.34 mph at Atco, N.J., in 1964.

But the 392's success went beyond the drag strip. It also set records at the Bonneville Salt Flats and in boat racing. Drag racing boats were no different than their land-based counterparts in the use of the 392. Famous HEMI engine builder Keith Black was better known on the water than on the land, until he teamed up with Tommy Greer and hired Don "The Snake" Prudhomme to dominate Top Fuel in California in the early 1960s using a 392 HEMI.

After 1958, the 392 HEMI was gone as a production engine, but it still remains a legend. Collectors are now preserving many historic 392-powered race cars and hot rods and proudly displaying them on show car circuits.

In 2007, Mopar - Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand - helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original 392 by launching a modern, crate engine version of the 392 HEMI.

2011 Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept

2011-05-04T00:16:00.001-07:00

They don't get much bigger, have more range or more pulling power than the Ram Long-Hauler Concept truck.

On display at selected events across the country, the Ram Long-Hauler is based on a Class 5 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab, and is designed to suit the needs of anyone that tows multiple or heavy trailers, drives long distances or small business owners looking for a "work horse" at the job site.

Designers started with a Class 5 Ram 5500 Crew Cab and converted to a Mega Cab passenger compartment, added an 8-foot box and upped the range between refueling stops with a mid-ship fuel tank. Combined with a second frame-mounted tank and a third, optional, bed-mounted auxiliary tank, total fuel capacity is 170 gallons.

With a 197.4 - inch wheelbase and 37,500 Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), the concept Long-Hauler from Ram is just the truck for those wanting to step up from a traditional Class 3 (one-ton) or Class 4 truck. Overall length of the Ram Long-Hauler is 24 feet, height is 79.1 inches and estimated curb weight is 9,300 lbs.

The powertrain for the concept truck includes an inline six-cylinder 6.7-liter High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel engine rated at 800 lb.-ft. of torque. The Ram's legendary diesel engine is mated to a six-speed, Aisin AS68RC automatic transmission with four-wheel-drive transfer case coupled to a 4.88 Dana 110 axle with dual rear wheels.

Riding on a full Kelderman Air Suspension front and rear and 19.5-inch Alcoa aluminum wheels, on-road driving dynamics are civilized and even the toughest road surfaces are easily absorbed providing the driver and passengers with a smooth, comfortable ride. In fact Ram Long-Hauler's ride qualities are more inline with those of a 3/4-ton truck. The suspension package also is self-leveling with kneel feature.
Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept (2011)

On the exterior, brilliant black paint is accented by white gold metallic lower two-tone including body side moldings and wide wheel flares at the front and rear. Up front, a bull bar extends the entire width of the vehicle. For full use of the bed, the spare tire is located under the box. To help make trailer line-up easier on the fifth wheel, a separate back-up camera provides a full view of the bed.

A custom hitch-access tailgate allows easy hook-ups without the need to open or remove the entire tailgate.

Inside, interior noise levels have been heavily dampened with an upgraded NVH package that ensures a quiet cabin environment. The Ram Long-Hauler Concept includes 2+2 leather seating with a specific, high comfort driver seat. Rear passenger comfort is assured with power-adjustable footrests and a rear center console that includes a refrigerator, cup holders and tray tables.

In-cabin power includes 115V and 12V outlets front and rear. With the interior Wi-Fi enabled, passengers can easily work on laptop computers connected to the Internet during long drives.

Additional cabin features also include a laptop storage area and a safe for valuables. Interior items designed to keep the driver monitoring of vehicle performance will include a tire pressure monitoring system, rear axle temperature gauge and exhaust gas temperature and boost gauges. Convenience features also include an inductive charger and DVD player with overhead screen for rear seat passengers to enjoy their favorite programs and entertainment.

The rear seats and console also fold flat for additional storage or as a berth for resting.

Ram Truck has identified a potential market for a Class 5 pickup, including race car teams, car haulers, RV owners, ranchers and rodeo competitors, boaters and commercial expediting operations.

The Ram Long-Hauler, while only a concept, will be seen across the country in the next eight months to help gauge public opinion on the appeal of a vehicle that provides an upgrade from a 1-ton truck without moving up to a full Class 6 truck.

2012 Dodge Avenger RT

2011-04-19T02:04:00.001-07:00

The new 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T makes its worldwide auto show debut at the 2011 New York International Auto Show.

With exceptional V-6 fuel economy, the new Dodge Avenger is the perfect sedan for the customer who wants an enthusiastic driving performance at a great value. With a stiffened suspension, best-in-class 283 horsepower engine, center-mounted tachometer and performance-inspired interior and exterior design, the 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T ups the driving fun factor.

"The Dodge Avenger R/T makes driving a mid-size car a really fun, engaging experience," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand — Chrysler Group LLC. "The Avenger R/T offers performance design cues both inside and out, as well as unique handling characteristics and a sport-tuned suspension. It's a vehicle that is ready to earn its stripes as part of the Dodge performance family of vehicles."

In 2011, Dodge introduced the new Dodge Avenger mid-sized sedan. With more standard features than other vehicles in the segment - an all-new interior, a new powertrain, including one of Ward's "10 Best Engines," the best-in-class 283 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transaxle, a significantly updated suspension that results in exceptional driving dynamics and an updated design - the Dodge Avenger is a vehicle packed with value and a style all its own.

The new for 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T model builds on all the improvements made to the 2011 model giving mid-size sedan customers an unmatched driving experience along with Dodge attitude.
Dodge Avenger RT (2012)

Dodge engineers amplified the driving experience by giving the Dodge Avenger R/T a superlative powertrain and performance-tuned suspension. The 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has an EPA fuel economy rating of 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

To make it stay true to the Dodge R/T DNA, engineers tuned the Avenger's suspension specifically to the R/T model. They increased roll stiffness by 18 percent, and spring rates by 17 percent in the front and more than 12 percent in the rear. Front strut damping rates are increased 15 percent, rear strut damping rates are increased almost 20 percent and the rear stabilizer bar diameter is 2 mm larger, increased from 19 mm to 21 mm. The suspension changes result in a spirited, performance sedan driving experience. With best-in-class 283 horsepower, and still delivering 29 miles per gallon on the highway, the Dodge Avenger R/T is unmatched in its class.

The Dodge Avenger R/T model exterior has unique exterior design elements, including a unique body-color grille with the Dodge badge, menacing black headlamp background, the "war paint" R/T decal on the front quarter panel and unique 18-in. painted aluminum wheels. The performance elements carry through to the rear of the vehicle with a spoiler and the "R/T" badge.

The interior of the 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T sports distinctive Aunde fabric with Z stripe fabric inserts, red stitching and aggressive leather-trimmed bolsters that hold drivers and passengers firmly in their seats when they put the Avenger to the test. The front seats are heated and sport an "R/T" graphic stitched in red on the front headrests. Drivers will notice a cockpit unlike other Avenger models. It features a unique gauge cluster with a center-mounted tachometer with the "R/T" graphic and SRT-inspired brake and accelerator pedal pads. The steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather with red accent stitching. A Boston Acoustic sound system compliments the standard 276-watt touchscreen entertainment center with a 30-gigabyte hard drive. The excellent sound system and remote start are some of the many standard features on the Dodge Avenger R/T model.

The Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan is a 2011 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick, and provides customers an abundance of standard safety and high-tech features designed to keep drivers connected with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Standard safety features include advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, front seat side air bags, electronic stability control with electronic traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, supplemental side curtain air bags and LATCH child seat anchor system.

For 2011, the Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan is available in four different configurations, and features a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Avenger Express, Avenger Mainstreet, Avenger Heat and Avenger Lux are available in Dodge dealerships now. The 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T model will start arriving in dealerships in the third quarter of 2011.

2011 Dodge Charger Mopar

2011-04-13T11:36:00.001-07:00

Building on the success of 2010 Dodge Challenger Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's Mopar Division will launch a limited-edition Dodge Charger outfitted with select high-performance parts and appearance items straight from the Mopar parts catalog.

"The Mopar '11 Charger takes the 'head- turning' factor up a few notches," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group's service, parts and customer-care brand. "By adding some of the most distinctive accessories to an already strong performer, we've created a special-edition car for enthusiasts."

Powered by the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® with 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque, the specially equipped Charger includes the "Super Trac Pac" option that pushes the capabilities of the Dodge Charger Mopar in acceleration, handling and braking. Already powerful, the 5.7-liter has been tuned to extract the maximum amount of torque from the engine with the inclusion of a specially calibrated engine controller. The controller matches maximum engine power and transmission shifting to the differential for the 2011 Dodge Charger Mopar.

Backed with a proven five-speed W5A580 automatic, Mopar aficionados will appreciate the latest generation "Pistol Grip" shifter combined with Auto Stick. With Auto Stick, drivers may select a higher or lower gear while the transmission controller helps prevent the possibility of an over-rev condition. At the rear, the differential has been boosted up with a new 3.91:1 final-drive ratio for enhanced acceleration - unique to the Dodge Charger Mopar. Initial testing of the Mopar '11 Charger has shown 0-to-60 mph blasts in the low five-second range.
Dodge Charger Mopar (2011)

Enhancements to the chassis include adding larger front 30mm solid stabilizer bar and rear 20mm solid stabilizer bar, increases from 27mm and 16mm (respectively). Adding to the overall stability and handling of the Dodge Charger Mopar are cross-car braces located at both the front and rear shock towers. For increased luggage space, the rear tower-to-tower brace may be easily removed.

Specific-design, 20-inch x 8-inch Envy wheels are fitted with Goodyear F1 Supercar 245/45ZR20 tires at all four corners. Wheels are a five-spoke design with a 45mm offset, include specific Mopar center caps and are finished in a high-gloss black complementing the overall "Pitch Black" exterior finish of the Dodge Charger Mopar.

Excellent stopping power is provided through vented rotors measuring 345mm x 28mm up front that are fitted with dual-piston, sliding calipers. At the rear, vented rotors measuring 320mm x 22mm, coupled with single-piston calipers are used.

Available only in a "Pitch Black" finish, exterior highlights of the Dodge Charger Mopar include a pair of specific Mopar Blue racing stripes running from the front air dam across the hood and over the roof ending at the bottom of the rear fascia. Ornamentation is limited to a front grille and rear-deck Mopar badge. A rear spoiler is standard on the Charger special-edition model.

Inside, unique Katzkin leather seats are stitched in Mopar Blue thread. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is identically trimmed. Engine-turned instrument bezels and a special identification plaque identifying the vehicle as part of a limited edition of 1,000 are affixed to the instrument panel. Owners also receive a custom Mopar key fob badge.

Bright pedal covers, premium floor mats with the Mopar logo and front-door sill entry guards featuring the Mopar logo also are included with the package.

Mopar will build 1,000 units, 900 for the U.S. and 100 for Canada. The vehicle will be built in Brampton, Ontario, and completed at an upfit center in Windsor, Ontario. The Manufacturer's suggested retail price for the limited-edition Mopar '11 Charger is $39,750, which includes destination fee.

Customers who purchase a 2011 Dodge Charger Mopar will receive a personalized owner kit in a customized Mopar '11 box. The kit will include a certificate with the vehicle identification number (VIN), exact date of manufacture and the number of the vehicle. The kit will also include a brochure that highlights the unique features of the vehicle, exclusive Mopar '11 merchandise.

2011 Dodge Durango RT

2011-02-14T00:26:00.001-08:00

The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango is a driver's SUV that delivers on-road performance and capability by combining handling characteristics with the flexibility of a three-row SUV. An independent suspension on all four corners combined with nearly 50/50 weight distribution and 25 percent stiffer platform transmits a solid driving feel that is usually found in much more expensive SUVs. Taking it to another level, Dodge is also offering a Durango R/T model for 2011 that is ready to be winded through the turns with unexpected driving dynamics.

This performance version features a unique suspension tuning, load-leveling rear shocks, performance steering for improved response, a tuned exhaust system, 20-inch wheels with all-season performance tires (also available are three-season high-performance tires for even greater grip and response), 20 mm lower ride height and a modern sports interior that holds you in your seat, all of which add another level of dynamic capability.

The legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with fuel-saver mode and variable-valve timing sits under the Dodge Durango R/T's hood. It delivers 360 horsepower (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N•m) at 4,250 rpm. The HEMI assists in a best-in-class 7,400 lb. towing capability. The EPA fuel economy mpg (city/hwy) is 14/20 for the rear-wheel-drive model and 13/20 for the all-wheel-drive model, which includes a two-speed transfer case.
Dodge Durango RT (2011)

The Dodge Durango R/T's exterior features a unique fascia with fog lamps, a body-color grille surround with black texture and xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps. For a more monochromatic appearance, the R/T model also is equipped with a color-matched body kit, wheel lips, light bar and rear fascia with integrated dual chrome exhaust outlets. Additionally, the Durango R/T offers an exclusive "Redline Red" exterior paint color.

Dodge Durango R/T's modern interior includes digital suede seats for seven passengers and "R/T" embroidered sport front seats with red stitching accents on seats; console lid and door trim armrests. The power driver seat features four-way lumbar adjustment. Owners will grip a leather wrap steering wheel and shift knob. Also, R/T owners will enjoy a 506-watt Alpine audio system with 10 speakers, including a subwoofer. Additional electronics include a 30 GB hard drive radio, remote start, power lift gate, Uconnect® with Voice Command and passive entry with push button start. Available features include leather seats, Blind-spot Monitoring, adaptive cruise control, Forward Collision Warning and navigation.

Although the R/T package entices with performance bias styling and handling, the newest Durango maintains SUV capability with room for seven passengers and 84.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in Spring 2011, the R/T model will appeal mainly to customers who have driven a performance sedan, but need the flexibility and functionality of a minivan and are looking for a vehicle with superior handling and agility. The R/T is where extreme versatility meets performance and attitude.

The 2011 Dodge Durango R/T model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $35,465 (excluding $850 destination).

The Dodge Durango R/T is available in seven paint colors: Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Blackberry Pearl Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat, Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat, Mineral Gray Metallic Clear Coat, Redline Red Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

The 2011 Dodge Durango is built at the Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

2011-02-13T22:59:00.001-08:00

The new product onslaught continues for the Dodge brand with the announcement at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show that the Dodge Charger SRT8 will return for the 2012 model year.

"We're continuing the fast-paced rebuilding of Dodge as our performance brand, and the expansion of our SRT product lineup in 2012 is an important part of our rejuvenation," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand — Chrysler Group LLCs. "The new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 builds on the iconic four-door fastback coupe design of the all-new Charger and adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving."

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and will be in dealer showrooms in late 2011.

"AWE-INSPIRING" POWERTRAIN

Under the hood, the new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers more horsepower and torque than the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces. It also will offer improved fuel economy.

Estimated power ratings for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 are 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, including an estimated additional 80 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm. Specific horsepower, torque and fuel economy numbers will be announced closer to the vehicle introduction.

Building upon the standard Fuel Saver technology (four-cylinder mode) found in the new 6.4 HEMI V-8, a new for 2012 adaptive valve exhaust system allows the technology to engage over a wider rpm range, which delivers improved fuel efficiency or the use of all eight cylinders when the power is needed.
Dodge Charger SRT8 (2012)

An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque for impressive standing starts while optimizing high-end power.

For the first time in any Chrysler Group LLC SRT product, standard paddle-shift technology joins the standard AutoStick on the floor shifter. Both are mated to the proven W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, allowing a choice of spirited shifting on the road and the racetrack.

Both shifting methods give the driver the ability to shift while the transmission controller calibration prevents situations that might over rev the engine. Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

OUTSTANDING RIDE AND HANDLING

New for 2012, the Dodge Charger SRT8 features an adaptive damping suspension that uses a wide range of on-road and driver inputs, such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration, to automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions. Drivers also can manually choose between "Auto" and "Sport" settings that quickly change the shock damping and harshness characteristics from the ease of everyday commuting to harsher, more challenging driving situations.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also is improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

New, split five-spoke, 20-inch lightweight forged and polished aluminum wheels with black painted pockets provide great looks, and the available three- or four-season tires make the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 easy to handle and fun to drive.

OUTSTANDING BRAKING

World-class stopping power for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 comes through four-piston Brembo calipers and vented/slotted rotors measuring 14.2 inches up front and 13.8 inches in the rear.

The Dodge Charger SRT8's Ready Alert Braking system anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and engages the electronic stability control pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application.

AGGRESSIVE AND FUNCTIONAL EXTERIOR

Exclusive new front and rear fascias, along with a new rear spoiler, distinguish the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 with a high performance look.

The front grille, grille surround and Dodge crosshair feature high-gloss black finishes and the SRT badge. A newly sculpted hood features a 6.4 L (liter) badge and black air exhauster for added engine cooling.

In the rear, the Charger's new signature "racetrack" taillamp design with 164 illuminating LEDs receives new 4-inch round dual exhaust tips and an SRT8 decklid badge to boldly show the Street and Racing Technology DNA.

Unique fside-sill cladding is painted to match the body color.

A newly designed underbody belly pan features integrated brake ducting to improve cooling and brake fade performance at all four corners.

RACE-INSPIRED AND FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR

Building upon the all-new design from 2011, the interior environment of the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 combines more world-class accommodations with race-inspired technology and appointments.

An all-new, leather-wrapped, SRT-exclusive steering wheel features a unique rim section with a flattened bottom surface that showcases the SRT logo. The standard paddle shifters flank both sides of the new steering wheel behind the new contoured palm rests.

For the high-performance look, carbon-weave, fiber aluminum interior trim pieces are integrated into the new instrument panel and shifter bezel.

The front seats have unique, aggressive bolstering and perforated suede insert fabric to help "grip" the driver and passengers, keeping them in place during spirited driving. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard. Reactive headrests also are standard. The SRT logo is embroidered in the seat backs. Rear seats also are heated for passenger comfort.

Modified door trim panels feature unique bolster material and accent stitching on arm rests to match the seats.

New for 2012, the Dodge Charger SRT8 features a 900-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harmon Kardon. The intuitive user interface for the system is controlled through the state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch on the largest standard touchscreen display (8.4-inch) in the segment. Benchmarked against the best E-segment sedans from Europe, Asia and North America, the easy-to-use system also features Uconnect Voice to deliver world-class functionality to keep all passengers easily connected, comfortable and secure.

Exclusive Performance Pages are new for 2012 and included within the touchscreen display. The instrument panel display can be customized to view driver preferences and expanded to include instant feedback on steering input measurements, horsepower, torque, expanded engine information, along with 0-60 mph time, 60-0 braking, g-forces and one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times. The color graphic Electronic Vehicle Information Center also includes the Performance Pages timers and added engine information.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

For everyday commuting, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 incorporates features like Keyless Enter-N-Go, adaptive-cruise control with Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection, to keep drivers and passengers secure.

Standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver's knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Standard three-mode electronic stability control with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features, offer improved overall vehicle handling and performance both on the road and the track.

2012 DODGE CHARGER SRT8
Engine: 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) HEMI V-8
Power: 465 bhp (est.)
Torque: 465 lb.-ft. (est.)
Handling: .88g on skidpad (est.)
Top Speed: 175 mph (est.)
0-60 mph: High 4-second range (est.)
¼ mile: High 12-second range (est.)

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan RT

2011-02-12T08:55:00.000-08:00

Dodge is giving the Grand Caravan an extra dose of mojo for 2011. The result is the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T - a minivan that delivers the driving dynamics of a performance sedan and a little bit of attitude. Affectionately known internally within the company as the "man van," the new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T throws down the gauntlet for a whole new level of cool transportation for families on the go.

At the heart of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T is an all-new powertrain. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle and delivers best-in-class horsepower (283 horsepower compared with 197 horsepower in the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine) and more torque (260 lb.-ft. versus 230 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy.

Uniquely designed both inside and out, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T proves a driver doesn't have to give up a spirited driving experience or their identity when they have a family.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T unique features include a "dipped" body-color grille, body-color side moldings and exclusive 17-inch wheels.

The 2011 Grand Caravan also features a new driver-selectable fuel-economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with the flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy. In addition, a 12 mm lower ride height, new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires, a new spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Dodge Grand Caravan's class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy.

An all-new, exclusive to the R/T, all-black interior features exclusive perforated black leather seats with red stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and a premium sound system with nine-speakers, a subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier. Add in a performance-tuned suspension and the weekend warrior runs will never be the same.

With sleek, athletic styling, smart, cutting-edge entertainment features, flexible seating, cool storage options, the reliability of a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and models that fit specific lifestyles, the new Dodge Grand Caravan moves families where they need to go in a way that makes the journey of life easier.

Arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the Spring of 2011, the R/T model will appeal mainly to customers who have driven a performance sedan, but need the flexibility and functionality of a minivan and are looking for a vehicle with superior handling and agility. The R/T is where extreme versatility meets performance and attitude.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $30,595 (excluding $835 destination).

The R/T model is available in eight paint colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat and Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat.

2011 Dodge Challenger RT

2010-11-16T07:03:00.001-08:00

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger delivers more of what muscle-car enthusiasts want — a more powerful and efficient engine lineup, maximum grip with an all-new performance suspension design and even more athletic styling — all executed with quality and precision.

"To deliver the most thrilling to drive Challenger lineup ever, Dodge upgraded the iconic coupe's performance hardware for maximum precision and grip," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "From its lighter aluminum Pentastar V-6 engine with 305 standard horsepower, redesigned aluminum suspension geometry with aggressive negative camber for better cornering grip, improved feel and fade-resistant braking, to a near-balanced 50/50 weight distribution, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger has the hardware to compete."

Improved Agility, High-speed Stability and Braking Performance

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger combines world-class ride, refinement and braking performance with more power and new track-tuned suspensions to deliver a thrilling driving experience.

Redesigned to handle the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine's 305 horsepower (227 kW) — 55 more horsepower than the previous V-6 engine — the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE features a new road-gripping touring-tuned suspension with wider 18-inch wheels and tires for added control. In addition, a revised brake-pedal ratio and refined brake booster improve braking response and feel.
Dodge Challenger RT (2011)

Upping the ante for 2011, the new Challenger Rallye with the Super Sport Group features an all-new performance-tuned suspension with larger performance-disc brakes, performance steering, larger and wider 20 x 8.0-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels with new P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires for improved grip and a 3.06 rear-axle ratio for improved all around acceleration.

Dodge Challenger's new second-generation rear-wheel-drive architecture delivers world-class ride and handling with any of its three available suspension tunings and high-performing wheel and tire combinations (in order of increased handling and braking performance):

Touring-tuned - Standard on Dodge Challenger SE
18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels with P235/55R18 Michelin MXM4 all-season touring tires
Touring brake package

Performance-tuned - Standard on Dodge Challenger R/T, available on Challenger Rallye
18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels with P235/55R18 Michelin MXM4 all-season touring tires (R/T)
20 x 8-inch aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires (available on R/T and Rallye with Super Sport Group)
Performance brake package

Super Track Pak - Available on the Dodge Challenger R/T
20 x 8-inch aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 three-season performance tires
High-performance monotube shock absorbers and springs
Performance brake package with high-performance brake linings
Three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with "ESC-off" mode

New Second Generation E-segment Architecture Delivers Maximum Grip With World-class Ride and Handling

Performance handling requires maximum grip, and the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE and R/T models feature redesigned front- and rear-suspension geometries with premium suspension hardware for world-class ride and handling.

At the heart of Dodge Challenger's new suspension design are isolated, lightweight front- and rear-suspension cradles that create a rigid assembly needed for precise performance.

At the front cradle, new monotube front-shock absorbers, springs and a repositioned lower-front shock-to-suspension-link bushing deliver improved control, ride and comfort. Combined, these suspension components provide improved handling and durability, while reducing the harshness from road bumps compared with the previous Dodge Challenger. In addition, all-new front-suspension hydrobushings — a premium suspension component — reduce ride harshness and prolong smooth braking characteristics.

At the rear, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger's five-link rear-suspension design features new roll-steer geometry, allowing independent control of camber and toe suspension movement for world-class handling. All-new monotube shock-absorbers and springs make the ride more refined, while improving handling and dynamics. Premium urethane jounce bumpers and suspension links with rubber shock absorber bushings help the Challenger's rear suspension contribute to a quieter interior cabin. In addition, new upper and lower spring-seat isolators provide additional dampening to Dodge Challenger's rear suspension to deliver smooth engagement over bumps.

A more aggressive front- and rear-camber geometry improve, the all-new Dodge Challenger's road-holding capabilities. Set at -1.0 degrees in the front and -1.75 degrees in the rear, Dodge Challenger is set up for high-speed cornering with its tires leaning inboard at the top relative to the body. New larger diameter front- and rear-stabilizer bars keep the chassis nimble during cornering and make body lean a thing of the past.

Improved Performance Steering Feel With Energy Saving Electro-hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)

An all-new electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system transmits precise road feel to the driver and improves on-center tracking and fuel economy.

Depending on the "control mode" within the EHPS system, the system applies variable steering effort to different driving conditions. EHPS analyzes steering angle, vehicle speed, engine rpm and chassis control systems 13 times per second for precise performance-handling feel. When the Dodge Challenger is stationary or moving at low speeds, the hydraulic pump increases power assistance for a lighter steering-wheel effort. The pump reduces steering assistance at highway speeds to give the performance coupe a firmer feel, and as a consequence, the system delivers a fuel savings of up to 1.5 percent by consuming less energy than a belt-driven pump.

All-new Pentastar V-6 Engine Delivers Added Efficiency and an Impressive 305 Horsepower

With its all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower — 55 more horsepower than the engine it replaces — the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE is the most powerful, refined and technologically advanced entry-level Challenger ever.

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is an all-new design, featuring double-overhead camshafts (DOHC) with dual-independent cam phasers (DICP), integrated exhaust manifolds, polymer-coated piston skirts, forged connecting rods and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration. In addition, Dodge Challenger engineers added an all-new cold-air induction system and dual exhausts from the headers back to the exhaust tips for maximum output. The result is 305 track-ready horsepower (227 kW) at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. (363 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine's torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm, which provides customers outstanding drivability and responsiveness.

Thanks to its all-aluminum design, the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is 45 lbs. (20 kg) lighter than the previous V-6 engine and provides the new 2011 Dodge Challenger V-6 with a 52.4 / 47.6 front-to-rear weight distribution (compared with 53.5/46.5 previously) for improved balance and handling.

Refinement was a key objective for every component during the design phase of the engine and was achieved by using advanced computer-aided engineering techniques. Structural, intake and exhaust areas of the engine were designed to deliver low levels of overall sound and achieve specific audible quality goals that meet discerning customer requirements. Combined with the use of all-new premium hydraulic powertrain mounts, the all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger delivers refinement in all powertrain applications and RPMs.

Designed to be environmentally responsible, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine features lead-free engine construction and an environmentally-friendly oil filter system. The integrated oil cooler/filter system uses a filter element which can be incinerated, avoiding the land-fill burden of traditional filter systems. The use of long-life spark plugs and a high-energy coil-on-plug ignition system maximizes component life and helps reduce cost of ownership.

The all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is manufactured at Chrysler Group LLC's Trenton South Engine Plant in Trenton, Mich.

New Challenger R/T Features up to 376 Horsepower With Four-cylinder Mode Efficiency

For the performance enthusiast, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T with its the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivers up to 376 horsepower (280 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m).

When paired with the newly refined Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission's Track Pak the 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T delivers smoother shifts, while delivering even more power through unique performance-tuned dual exhaust and under-floor mufflers with low-restriction bottle resonators. The result is 376 track-tearing horsepower that can accelerate the performance coupe from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds and a sinister exhaust growl for the cars left in its rear-view mirror.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T's 5.7-liter HEMI engine with five-speed automatic transmission produces 372 horsepower (277 kW) and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 N•m), plus its FuelSaver technology seamlessly transitions to high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when full V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine also features variable-valve timing (VVT) to improve fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine's pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the wheels instead of being lost out of the exhaust port as heat. VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

Updated Exterior Enhancements Improve Form and Function

To match its unmistakable muscle-car styling, upgraded powertrain and improved handling capabilities, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger features performance-driven exterior enhancements.

At the front of the new Dodge Challenger's wide stance is a restyled trapezoidal front air dam with a larger opening to cool the legendary HEMI V-8 or potent Pentastar V-6 engine. Providing additional downforce is a larger "duck bill" front spoiler in black to match the coupe's lower sill.

Larger 18-inch aluminum wheels are now standard equipment on the Dodge Challenger and provide a more athletic stance with wider tires. For added style and performance handling, the Dodge Challenger SE with the new Rallye package now offers the all-new Super Sport Group, providing new five-spoke 20 x 8-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels and even wider low-profile tires. For a touch of nostalgia, Challenger's iconic bright racing-style fuel-filler door is now standard on all models.

Topping off the new Dodge Challenger SE and the new Challenger Rallye's good looks are dual-chromed exhaust tips integrated into the lower rear fascia.

Upgraded Race-inspired Interior With More Standard Equipment

The interior equipment in the new 2011 Dodge Challenger is significantly upgraded to give customers added style, convenience, value and best-in-class accommodations.

Transmitting Challenger's new precision steering and feel of the road is an all-new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for better performance feel and grip. The right-sized hand-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel features silver metallic painted spokes located at the 3-, 6- and 9 o'clock positions. The new sport steering wheel features back-lit cruise, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and available Uconnect® Voice Command controls mounted on the front face, which makes it easier to see at night.

Dodge Challenger's trapezoidal race-inspired instrument panel now features a new four-bomb gauge cluster with chromed accent rings and new sport-themed graphics. Inside the cluster, a new four-line display EVIC is now standard equipment and shows the driver trip and multimedia information from the Media Center radio.

To make long cruises more comfortable, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger features redesigned seat structures with improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. Challenger's standard power driver's seat now features power lumbar for improved back support. To make it easier to get in and out of the backseat, the driver's seat now features seatback tilt- with memory and an easy-to-reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat adds tilt-and-slide with memory, which makes it even easier to use. When equipped with leather, Dodge Challenger's new Nappa leather seating surfaces provide a premium look and feel.

Dodge Challenger offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head room (37.4 inches) and legroom (32.6 inches) room compared with its competition. With class-exclusive seating for five, coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), the new 2011 Dodge Challenger is the segments best day-to-day pony-car choice, offering maximum comfort and functionality.

Next to Dodge Challenger's LED-illuminated cupholders, a new hand-stitched leather-wrapped shift knob is now standard and provides improved feel while toggling between the coupe's standard Auto Stick transmission gears.

Finishing the Dodge Challenger's interior upgrade is the addition of standard automatic climate control for added convenience and improved comfort.

Energized Lineup With Lifestyle Packages Equipped With Performance, Technololgy and Excitement

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger is available in two models: Challenger SE and Challenger R/T. The new Challenger's product plan now fits in with the Dodge brand's lifestyle packages, delivering customers more high-value content than ever before.

New 2011 Dodge Challenger SE

With additional standard equipment, improved handling and even more athletic styling than before, the new entry-level Dodge Challenger SE model is well-equipped for the driver who is looking for grand-touring comfort, fun-to-drive handling, iconic styling and an extraordinary value.

New standard equipment includes the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar engine with 305 horsepower (227 kW), 268 ft.-lb. (363 N•m) of torque, E-85 flex-fuel capability , cold-air induction, five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick, second-generation E-segment architecture with Dodge-tuned touring suspension, six-speaker audio system, electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), new Dodge leather-wrapped sport steering-wheel mounted with audio controls, driver-selectable EVIC with trip computer, leather-wrapped shift knob, mini-carbon trim bezel, Keyless Enter-N-Go with remote-windows down, automatic climate control, seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags, eight-way power driver's seat with easy in-and-out access, electronic stability control (ESC) with Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support. On the exterior, larger and wider 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels, P235/55R18 all-season performance tires, dual exhausts with chromed tips, bright racing-style fuel-filler door and restyled front fascia with larger front-lip spoiler are now standard.

Additional standard equipment on the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE includes advanced multi-stage air bags, side-curtain air bags, tire-pressure monitoring (TPM), Media Center 130 radio with AM/FM/CD/MP3 capability, front- and rear-climate control outlets, cabin-air filtration, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 140-mph primary speedometer, chromed-interior door handles, vinyl-wrapped armrest, soft-touch door panels, LED-illuminated cupholders, LED-illuminated front map lights, LED-illuminated rear-reading courtesy lamps, power windows with express up/down, fold-away power-exterior mirrors, 12-volt power outlet, premium cloth seats with accent stitching, driver and front-passenger lumbar, front-passenger seat with easy-in-out access, 60-40 split-fold rear seat with armrest, cruise control and rear-window defroster.

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan

2010-10-31T06:41:00.000-07:00

Dodge continues its product onslaught with the reveal of the new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan, a minivan with the driving dynamics of a performance sedan - and a little bit of attitude.

Dodge believes that just because a driver needs the versatility of a minivan doesn't mean that the experience has to be boring. So engineers redesigned and retuned virtually every system in the new Grand Caravan's suspension. That major suspension overhaul, combined with a new V-6 engine that delivers best-in-class horsepower, gives Dodge Grand Caravan drivers a dynamic driving experience that other minivans in the segment just don't deliver. Get behind the wheel, and enjoy a driving experience once never thought possible in such a functional vehicle.

At the heart of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is an all-new powertrain. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. This potent combination replaces all three of the previous minivan engines. Gone are the 3.3-liter, 3.8-liter and 4.0-liter V-6 engines, all replaced with one high-tech, high-performing and highly responsive motor that hits the sweet spot between power and efficiency.

With the Pentastar engine, the new Dodge Grand Caravan delivers best-in-class horsepower (283 hp compared with 197 hp in the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine) and more torque (260 lb.-ft. versus 230 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy. It features a new driver-selectable Fuel Economizer Mode. With the flip of a switch, drivers can change the transmission shift schedule to maximize their fuel efficiency. In addition, a 12 millimeter lower ride height, new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires, a new spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Dodge Grand Caravan's excellent fuel economy.
Dodge Grand Caravan (2011)

Dodge has also redesigned the 2011 Grand Caravan to match its new attitude about driving. A new front fascia that sports the new Dodge signature "split crosshair" grille, a new hood, quad headlamps, all of which combine to give the face of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan a more aggressive look. A new, more sculpted rear fascia and liftgate, new rear "ring of fire" LED taillamps and new Dodge badging complete the look from front to back.

Owners will step inside to an all-new world-class interior for 2011. A modern, new one-piece instrument panel is more intuitive for the customer with improved ergonomics and larger, redesigned gauges. An available new "super" center console provides clever functionality and storage for the active commuter, as well easy driver/passenger access with a pass-through storage space for larger items, like a purse. Trim rings in the console glow an ambient blue-green color, which allows passengers to find the items they are looking for at night. The Dodge Grand Caravan also features more comfortable, larger Stow 'n Go seats with a new, easy to use one-touch fold down function. New, premium seating materials and new door trim are soft to the touch. A minivan-first heated steering wheel option and the best storage in the segment round out the improved interior.

Standard safety and security features include front seat mounted side air bags, a new driver side knee blocker air bag, supplemental three-row side-curtain air bags, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring and remote keyless entry. The available Safety Sphere package of features includes ParkSense® rear park assist system, a rear back-up camera, blind spot monitoring and rear cross path detection system, rain-sensitive wipers and automatic headlamps.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be available in four configurations that fit almost any lifestyle: the Dodge Grand Caravan Express, Grand Caravan Mainstreet, Grand Caravan Crew, and arriving in spring 2011, the ultimate "Man Van," the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T. The R/T is where versatility meets performance and attitude. Uniquely designed both inside and out, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T proves a driver doesn't have to give up a spirited driving experience or their identity when they have a family. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T throws down the gauntlet for a whole new level of cool transportation for families on the go.

With sleek, athletic styling; smart, cutting-edge entertainment features; flexible seating and cool storage options; the reliability of a 100,000-mile warranty and models that fit specific lifestyles, the new Dodge Grand Caravan moves families where they need to go in a way that makes the journey of life easier.

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan will be built at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and will arrive in showrooms in late 2010.

2011 Dodge Avenger

2010-10-31T06:09:00.000-07:00

Dodge introduced the new Dodge Avenger, totally overhauled for 2011 with an all-new interior, a redesigned exterior and performance attributes that put the "fun" in functional. A new powertrain lineup and completely redesigned and retuned suspension mean drivers will experience Dodge's fun-to-drive dynamics in a front-wheel-drive mid-size sedan.

The Dodge Avenger's "fun to drive" quotient rises exponentially for 2011 with a significantly upgraded suspension to give drivers agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's a spirited adventure on twisty roads or an emergency maneuver.

Dodge engineers retuned or redesigned virtually every part of the suspension for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension and the geometry were completely rethought. The track is an inch wider, tire width increased from 215 to 225 millimeters and the vehicle is 12 millimeters lower in the front and 6 millimeters in the rear for a more aggressive stance. Customers will feel more confident when driving the new Avenger because of less body roll, less vehicle shake, improved isolation, better steering precision, response and feel and the increased grip of new premium tires.

A new and improved powertrain lineup also contributes to the 2011 Avenger's driving experience. The vehicles has a standard 2.4-liter World Gas Engine, which has been recalibrated and is now available mated to a new smooth-shifting six-speed transmission for an exceptionally fun and fuel-efficient driving experience. Dodge Avenger customers also can opt for the new Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that gives customers the best of both worlds - best-in-class 283 horsepower (an increase of 20 percent compared with the engine it replaces) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (an increase of 12 percent) combined with competitive fuel economy.
Dodge Avenger (2011)

New exterior styling features clean, smooth aggressive lines. The new fascia sports the new signature Dodge Brand "split crosshair" grille, while an aggressive lower fascia completes the Dodge look from top to bottom.

The Chrysler Group LLC's Interior Design Studio also worked its magic on the new 2011 Dodge Avenger. The all-new instrument panel, bezels, gauge faces and new Dodge steering wheel transform the driver seat into a cockpit-like experience. Upgraded seats incorporate more cushion material and revised spring geometry. Dodge Avenger also features several new two-tone interior color schemes, new leather and cloth seating materials and accent stitching. Owners can select from these schemes to design a vehicle that matches their lifestyle needs.

Designers developed the 2011 Dodge Avenger with new "soft touch" armrests and instrument panels, new, premium interior finishes for touch points that are not only pleasing to the touch but also to the eye. They also redesigned the heating and cooling outlets in the instrument panel to make them more appealing and better functioning. The 2011 Dodge Avenger also offers one of the quietest cabins in the segment with 45 new or upgraded sound-deadening treatments integrated throughout the vehicle.

Clever features include new ambient interior lighting and a new multi-function three-spoke Dodge steering wheel with integrated controls that allows drivers to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel. Available cool technology includes voice command functions for hands-free phones, integrated USB port for streaming music, navigation and memo record, an iPod/MP3 jack, Bluetooth streaming music; Gracenote music identification; a hard drive that stores approximately 6,700 songs and remote start.

The standard mid-size sedan segment is the largest vehicle segment in the United States, with more than 1.6 million vehicles sold in 2009. The 2011 Dodge Avenger is uniquely positioned as an alternative for consumers looking for a sedan with more style, personality and performance than the segment is traditionally known for.

The 2011 Dodge Avenger will be built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., and will arrive in dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

2010-10-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

The new Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 builds on its original mantra of a rear-wheel-drive coupe that promises a balanced approach between form and function, with impressive straight-line acceleration and world-class ride and handling to go along with high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency.

The result is the newest version of the quickest coupe in the Dodge lineup packed with modern amenities and features performance enthusiasts will love.

"We listened to our devoted, loyal Dodge customers, and this new Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 answers their call for more power off the line," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "We consciously tuned the 392 for a lot more torque, as that is what truly creates the thrust that sets you back in the seat and keeps you there! We can't wait to see our customers' reactions when they get behind the wheel and put their foot on the throttle - it is so responsive and a blast to drive."

New 392 HEMI® V8 Offers Wide Torque Range

The return of the legendary 392-cubic inch HEMI® powertrain back to the street in the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 provides another step in showcasing the evolution of the performance brand.

Pumping out 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, the newest HEMI engine in the SRT product lineup provides an additional 90 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm versus the previous 6.1-liter V-8 engine. The added torque allows for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance while new, performance-tuned motor mounts improve idle stability and ride control at any speed. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 (2011)

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 is available with either the standard five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick or an available Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission that was first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10. An improved heavy-duty clutch provides easier shift engagement.

Like the original 392 HEMI, the performance on the street and at the track is sure to turn heads with numbers such as 0-60 mph in high 4-second range and quarter-mile elapsed time in the high 12s.

New for 2011 is the Fuel Saver technology in automatic transmission equipped models, which allows the engine to operate economically on four cylinders or use all eight cylinders when needed.

Under the hood, unique valve covers with painted silver ribs and the "392 HEMI" logo give the HEMI powerplant a clean, yet aggressive look.

A redesigned SRT-tuned exhaust system results in a deeper, throatier note that will surely create envious onlookers both during daily commutes and at the race track.

Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition Offers Exclusivity

To kick off production of the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, 1,492 Inaugural Edition models (1,100 for the U.S. and 392 for Canada) will be produced featuring exclusive exterior and interior content.

On the exterior, two colors and new full-body stripe combinations are available on all Inaugural Edition models: Deep Water Blue with standard Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes. For the first time, the front grille features a body-color grille surround.

Unique "392 HEMI" badges flank both fenders touting the historically significant V-8 engine that remains true to its high-performance roots and powers the highest rated Challenger in terms of horsepower and torque ratings. From the rear, the Mopar® quad exhaust tips deliver the performance exhaust note while adding the styling cue of a serious muscle car.

The Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition rides on standard 20-inch SRT exclusive wheels that feature a polished face and satin black painted pockets.

The race-inspired interior of the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition begins with standard Smooth Pearl White leather-trimmed seats and dual blue stripes accented by unique blue stitching. Each of the front seats features an embroidered "392" just below the headrest.

The center instrument panel, center stack and console bezels feature a silver metal brush finish for a clean yet high-performance look and feel. The door trim panels also feature silver metal brush grab handles inside Pearl White door bolsters with unique blue accents.

An exclusive, serialized "Inaugural Edition 392 HEMI" dash plaque, showing the sequential build number from 1 to 1,492 rounds out the exclusive interior content.

Ultimate Modern American Muscle Coupe

The exterior styling of the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 remains unmistakably Dodge, with proportions that evoke a bold, instantly recognizable vehicle that has a wide, stable stance on the road.

A larger front splitter and integrated front fender spats improve overall high-speed aerodynamics and overall balance. Top speed has been increased to more than 180 mph with the manual transmission (173 mph in the automatic). A newly modified front fascia chin spoiler improves aerodynamics and is accent painted for a more aggressive look. The rear deck-lid spoiler also is completed in matching body color.

New Interior Styling Will Delight

The precise performance handling of the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 comes to life through a new, right-sized, three-spoke steering wheel that features a carbon fiber accented leather wrap and silver metallic painted spokes at the 3-, 6- and 9 o'clock positions.

The trapezoidal instrument panel features a four-bomb gauge cluster with chromed accent rings and unique, new for 2011 SRT graphics. Inside the cluster, the SRT-exclusive Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with performance pages provides the driver with trip information, multimedia information from the Media Center radio, along with instant feedback on 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking, G-forces, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times.

Power lumbar-equipped front seats are standard on all Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 models. It's also much easier to get in and out of the rear seat. The driver's seat now features seatback tilt with memory and an easy to reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat adds tilt and slide with memory, which makes it even easier to use.

Maximum Performance Handling For Road And Track

New, highly damped shocks offer a firm ride that maintains the feel for everyday commuting while being fully capable for the more challenging situations. SRT engineers recalibrated the suspension geometry to improve Challenger's balance, cornering ability and steering responsiveness. Quicker steering ratios and new negative camber settings all around dramatically improve Challenger's appetite for high-speed cornering.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system also has been improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

The result: the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 is capable of .93g on the skid pad - the most of any production Challenger and on par with some of the world's best-handling performance coupes.

392's Storied History

The original 392 HEMI engine was introduced in the new 1957 model year Chrysler and Imperial products. It replaced the 354 cubic-inch version of the original HEMI launched in 1951.Compared with the 354 engine, the 392 was completely revised and improved, with larger valves and ports, a beefier block and crankshaft and improved bearings. In short, the 392 HEMI, often affectionately referred to simply as the "92," was perfect for drag racing.

More than a few racers at that time immediately enhanced the performance of the newest HEMI by bolting on six or eight carburetors, installing new camshafts, etc., and went racing.

Racing legend Don 'Big Daddy" Garlits ran a 392 in his infamous Swamp Rat I dragster at record speeds of faster than 180 mph on nitro with no supercharger. Garlits also used a 392 HEMI to officially break the 200-mph barrier when his Swamp Rat went 201.34 mph at Atco, N.J., in 1964.

But the 392's success went beyond the drag strip. It also set records at the Bonneville Salt Flats and in boat racing. Drag racing boats were no different than their land-based counterparts in the use of the 392. Famous HEMI engine builder Keith Black was better known on the water than on the land, until he teamed up with Tommy Greer and hired Don "The Snake" Prudhomme to dominate Top Fuel in California in the early 1960s using a 392 HEMI.

After 1958, the 392 HEMI was gone as a production engine, but it still remains a legend. Collectors are now preserving many historic 392-powered race cars and hot rods and proudly displaying them on show car circuits.

In 2007, Mopar - Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand - helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original 392 by launching a modern, crate engine version of the 392 HEMI.

2011 Dodge Journey

2010-10-22T00:25:00.000-07:00

Dodge continues to unleash new products to the market, introducing the new 2011 Dodge Journey, its mid-size crossover with "right sized" proportions, five- or seven-passenger seating, innovative storage solutions, abundant safety and security features, all-wheel-drive capability and models packaged for a variety of lifestyles.

For 2011, Dodge takes what was good and makes it better. The Dodge Journey receives a major overhaul with a completely redesigned and retuned suspension, a new V-6 engine and a gorgeous new interior. And that's not all. Dodge Journey also features the latest and greatest in vehicle connectivity and customization with the Chrysler Group's new PowerNet electrical architecture. Owners will feel like they have the world at their fingertips with the Dodge Journey's available touch-screen command center, Uconnect Touch.

From navigation to dual-zone climate controls to the ability to check fuel prices, the all-new Uconnect Touch media center makes life in the new 2011 Dodge Journey an excellent adventure for the driver and passengers. Four Uconnect Touch models are available, all featuring easy-to-use controls and class-leading technology. With its touch-screen display and user-friendly touch-key categories, connecting and controlling personal devices is simple, intuitive and customizable.

The 2011 Dodge Journey is nimble, composed and handles well in all driving and road conditions. Chrysler Group engineers improved routine ride handling by re-engineering the suspension geometry, adding new, improved premium tires and redesigning the steering for a more precise and coordinated response. Overall, customers will be treated to an energetic, fun-to-drive experience behind the wheel.
Dodge Journey (2011)

In addition, at 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2011 Dodge Journey equipped with the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers a 20 percent boost in power compared with the V-6 engine it replaces. It's mated to the smooth-shifting six-speed transmission.

Drivers also will be treated to a smooth, quiet ride. Engineers reduced noise, vibration and harshness by installing new, premium sound-deadening treatments and insulation throughout the vehicle.

But perhaps the most rewarding surprise is Dodge Journey's new interior. Customers will step into world-class levels of craftsmanship and comfort. A beautifully crafted one-piece instrument panel sets the tone. A new, larger cluster with standard electronic vehicle information center (EVIC) is positioned in the center of the new gauges. It's a full-color display backlit in Dodge red lights, giving it a soft glow unlike any in the segment. New, integrated center stack bezels are less angular and more sculpted, and designers softened the radius to make more room for the driver's knees. The heating and cooling outlets are also redesigned to make them better looking and better functioning.

The center console gets a lot of extra cushion on the tilt-and-slide armrest. Lift the lid, and there's a larger center storage bin with a 12-volt outlet and USB port where owners can hook up their MP3/iPod charging connections and hide them away.

The design team also worked to make the Dodge Journey's interior more comfortable. They moved the shifter and cupholders, making it easier for drivers and passengers to get their coffee and soda without having to lean over and under the dash. There's also a larger front storage bin with side nets. The new multi-functioning three-spoke Dodge brand steering wheel with integrated controls and a wider, longer, soft-touch armrest transform the driver's seat into a cockpit-like experience. Comfortable new seats might just make drivers want to take the long way home to get a little extra seat time. The Dodge Journey offers six new interior color and trims to complete the makeover.

On the outside, Dodge Journey maintains its sculpted, clean, aggressive lines, and adds a new front fascia that sports the signature Dodge Brand "split crosshair" honeycomb grille. The fog lamp bezels are bigger and bolder, and Journey models with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 get a new, unique more aggressive lower fascia with the honeycomb texture in the grille (late availability). New 19-inch wheels, a new, less angular rear fascia and "ring of fire" LED taillamps wrap it up from front to back.

Dodge Journey also is loaded with an abundance of safety and security features, including: standard advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, active head restraints, electronic stability control (ESC) with all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation and brake assist, new driver-side knee blocker air bag, supplemental side-curtain air bags covering all three rows, supplemental front-seat-mounted side air bags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, LATCH child seat anchor system and trailer sway control.

The Dodge Journey is built in at Chrysler Group LLC's Toluca Assembly Plant in Toluca, Mexico. It will arrive in U.S. dealerships in fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Dodge Charger

2010-10-07T04:39:00.001-07:00

With its iconic character, contemporary fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, craftsmanship and refinement, and state-of-the-art connectivity features, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger is the Dodge brand's flagship, and it proudly delivers premium, world-class E-segment sedan precision at an incredible value.

"Dodge is changing the rules of the game, and the all-new 2011 Charger embodies the brand's promise to deliver American performance machines that deliver world-class efficiency, technology, authentic materials and standout styling for our customers, who like us, are young at heart and make driving a priority," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "With its all-new fastback four-door coupe proportions, iconic styling to excite enthusiastic Dodge fans, benchmark performance and precision handling, the latest in-car technology and high-quality execution and materials, the Dodge Charger is loaded with attitude and innovation, and delivers an extreme dose of value."

FOUR-DOOR FASTBACK COUPE STYLING WITH ICONIC DODGE PERFORMANCE CUES

The efficient and aerodynamic exterior of the 2011 Dodge Charger is heavily inspired by the classic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, featuring a design that is sure to strike the emotional chords of Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.

With its sinister "ready to attack the road" face, the all-new Dodge Charger puts the world's best E-segment sedan competitors between its new "split crosshair" signature grille. This highly detailed grille design is more intricate with a black satin inset set into the chromed surrounds. A split hexagon designed grate sets behind the chromed grille and carries the new "Dodge" nameplate.
Dodge Charger (2011)

With direct design influence from the 1968 to 1970 Dodge Charger coupes, the aluminum hood features dual "scallops" that bring a sculptured, performance look to the front end. The design heritage continues with large bodyside scallops that deliver a striking A-line across the doors and hark back to Dodge Charger's high-performance heritage. Running front-to-rear is the signature horizontal "coke bottle" door and body-side shape that provide front and rear fenders with muscular proportions for a menacing silhouette.

The flared bodysides of the Dodge four-door fastback coupe are dramatically pronounced, providing 6 inches of offset between the roof rails and shoulder lines, and giving the all-new Dodge Charger its "planted" performance stance, reminiscent of the second-generation coupes. With its performance-sculpted surfaces surrounding the wheels, Dodge Charger's tire-to-body fitment has been tightened by a full 8 mm versus the previous model to deliver a stronger, more athletic appearance and improve aerodynamics. A deck-lid spoiler improves aerodynamics and Dodge attitude. It is available on the Charger SE and standard on Charger R/T.

Defining the fastback's wide stance is an all-new signature taillamp design that incorporates 164 illuminating LEDs to form its signature "racetrack" graphic and gives the new Dodge Charger its unmistakable character from blocks away.

PERFORMANCE INFUSED COCKPIT WITH WORLD-CLASS CRAFTSMANSHIP AND MATERIALS

The 2011 Dodge Charger's interior cockpit is meant to be an enthusiast office. The all-new design features premium materials throughout.

Transmitting the chassis' world-class feel of the road, the all-new Charger features a new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for enhanced performance feel and grip.

Crafted in world-class materials, Dodge Charger's passengers are surrounded with comfort, craftsmanship and style, thanks to premium soft-touch materials and four available distinct interior color combinations. The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger's state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure.

From segment-leading Garmin® navigation, to dual-zone climate controls and the ability to check fuel prices with the integration of available SIRIUS Travel Link, Uconnect Touch delivers an excellent experience for Charger's driver and passengers.

DESIGNED FOR ENTHUSIASTS WHO WANT WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCE WITH THE SEGMENT'S NEW ATTITUDE OF EFFICIENCY

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger is designed and targeted to appeal to enthusiasts who want standout styling with power, performance, comfort and the space and safety technologies for their young families or lifestyle needs.

Buyers of the 2011 Dodge Charger are highly motivated and extroverted individuals who are young at heart. The all-new Charger meets their demands for a vehicle that can deliver fun-to-drive handling, performance, iconic fastback coupe styling and world-class execution with the efficiency and technology to do more.

ENERGIZED LINEUP WITH LIFESTYLE PACKAGES EQUIPPED WITH PERFORMANCE, TECHNOLOGY AND EXCITEMENT

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger is available in the United States in three models: Dodge Charger SE, Dodge Charger R/T and Dodge Charger R/T AWD.

With more standard equipment than its direct standard full-size segment competitors, the 2011 Dodge Charger SE model is well-equipped for the individual who is looking for standout styling, efficient performance, precision handling, comfort and refinement at an extraordinary value.

Delivering 370 best-in-class horsepower with its legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology, performance-tuned suspension with larger performance-disc brakes and standard Uconnect Touch 8.4, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T is designed for the customer who demands V-8 power, rail-like handling and state-of-the-art technology. And for maximum all-season traction with world-class ride and technology, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T AWD is a true year-round performance car.

In addition, Dodge offers distinct lifestyle packages (Rallye, Rallye Plus, R/T Plus, R/T Road & Track and R/T Max) designed to give Charger customers high-value content for their specific needs.

WORLD-CLASS POWERTRAINS OFFERING BEST-IN-CLASS AVAILABLE POWER

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features two uncompromised, high-performance engines that deliver world-class levels of power, refinement, technology and fuel efficiency.

Engineered to perform, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger SE features one all-new world-class V-6 engine instead of the previous two. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 292 horsepower (up 63 percent) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (up 36 percent) compared with the previous entry-level 2.7-liter V-6 engine.

And when compared to the previous high-output 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the new Pentastar V-6 engine produces 42 more horsepower (up 16 percent), and 10 lb.-ft. more torque.

For maximum thrills and best-in-class power, the Charger R/T's legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology delivers 370 horsepower, an unforgettable throaty exhaust note 0-60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T AWD model features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Dodge Charger's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and AWD with no driver intervention. When all-wheel drive is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

NEW SECOND-GENERATION E-SEGMENT SUSPENSION DELIVERS WORLD-CLASS RIDE AND HANDLING

As the Dodge brand's performance flagship, the chassis of the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger is designed, engineered and fine-tuned to deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rivals the very best European, Asian and North American E-segment sedans.

Performance handling requires maximum grip, and the all-new Dodge Charger now holds a 0.90 g. Aiding in the fastback four-door coupe's improved road-holding capabilities is a more aggressive front- and rear-camber geometry. Set at -1.0 degrees in the front and -1.75 degrees in the rear, Dodge Charger is set up for high-speed cornering with its tires leaning inboard at the top relative to the body.

All-new premium hydrobushings combined with new monotube shock absorbers, spring rates and redesigned front and rear multi-link suspension geometries provide the 2011 Dodge Charger with exceptional performance handling dynamics, smooth braking characteristics and a comfortable, smooth ride.

No matter what the road conditions, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T AWD looks even newer with a 0.5-inch (13 mm) tighter tire-to-fender fitment, a 0.15-inch (4 mm) lowered overall ride height and larger 19-inch wheels with P235/55R19 all-season performance tires. Beyond its lower center of gravity, the Dodge Charger R/T AWD features improved handling with new upper- and lower-control arms and shock-absorber bushings. In addition new half shafts feature high-precision bearing units that are sealed for added quality and durability.

Transmitting the 2011 Dodge Charger's maximum grip and responsiveness to the driver is an all-new electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system that features 25 percent quicker steering, precision road feel and improved on-center tracking while reducing steering noise and fuel consumption.

WORLD-CLASS STRUCTURAL STIFFNESS PROVIDES A QUIET, CONFIDENT AND SECURE RIDE

Engineered and executed to deliver world-class sport sedan characteristics, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features a solid, stable and true "command-of-the-road" feeling, while delivering world-class structural stiffness, exceptional interior quietness, 15 percent improved visibility and is capable of achieving high crashworthiness ratings.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger combines advanced steels, nylon composites and Chrysler Group's new second-generation rear-wheel-drive E-segment architecture for maximum structural stiffness. This world-class torsional strength contributes to the seventh-generation Dodge Charger's tighter and stiffer characteristics and provides the driver with an added sense of confidence and control during higher speed maneuvers.

Maximizing its rigid body structural design, Dodge Charger engineers were able to tune the cabin for sound quality (rather than sound level) by isolating powertrain, road and wind noise. In addition, Charger's unibody packages material and structural design improvements, including dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush rolled-framed door with triple seals and new acoustic wheel-well liners to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin. Combined, these design improvements place the all-new Dodge Charger's interior sound quality among the best in the E-segment.

STATE-OF-THE-ART CONNECTIVITY AND INFOTAINMENT

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger's Uconnect Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure.

The all-new Uconnect Touch illustrates tangible results from the company's extensive research and development. During the development of the all-new Uconnect Touch, Chrysler Group engineers visited, observed and recorded more than 4,100 owners of the best E-segment vehicles from Europe, Asia and North America to see how they interacted with their in-vehicle audio and navigation systems, as well as find out what they really want and need from a multimedia and infotainment system. The result: four high-quality next-generation infotainment models that are easy to use and simplify how passengers interact with different radio, media, climate control and navigation technologies.

From touchscreen navigation to dual-zone climate controls, to the ability to check fuel prices, Uconnect Touch makes life in the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger an excellent experience for the driver and passengers. Dodge Charger offers four Uconnect Touch (4.3, 4.3S, 8.4 and 8.4N) models, all featuring easy-to-use controls to provide class-leading technology. With its touch-screen display and user-friendly touch-key categories, information on the Uconnect Touch is clearly displayed and connecting and controlling personal mobile devices is simple.

The premium Uconnect Touch 8.4N model enables more customer-convenient amenities than ever before, including the integration of segment-leading Garmin navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link with real-time fuel prices, movie listings, sports updates and weather.

Turning the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger into a mobile "hot spot," available Uconnect Web provides instant access to websites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums and more. The wireless system provides high-speed data transfer and flexibility, combining Wi-Fi and 3G cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology.

MORE THAN 65 SAFETY AND SECURITY FEATURES PROVIDE ENHANCED DRIVER CONFIDENCE

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features more than 65 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on and off the track.

Safety and security features available for the first time on the Dodge Charger include adaptive-cruise control (ACC) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection and ParkView® rear backup camera with grid lines, all designed to give the driver added confidence while behind the wheel.

In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver's knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCE, EXECUTION AND REFINEMENT

As the Dodge brand's all-new flagship four-door coupe, the 2011 Charger exemplifies how Chrysler Group is applying strict targets for world-class performance, quality, technology and refinement.

As Chrysler Group defines it, performance quality measures how well a vehicle performs compared with its competition. Dodge Charger engineers evaluated more than 320 physical characteristics of best-in-class sport sedans from Europe, Asia and North America, and then established criteria for the four-door fastback to compete as a world-class performance sedan. Criteria such as acceleration, braking, handling, seat comfort, quietness, storage space and fuel economy were benchmarked in the team's research.

The Dodge Charger's world-class structural stiffness provides the foundation for its world-class handling and dynamic driving performance. With respect to ride quality, precision steering and performance handling, the Charger was designed and validated to meet or exceed the performance standards of premium brands such as BMW and Lexus.

In addition, the Charger team used Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) principles and more than 4,100 customer "wants," which were integrated in the vehicle design and performance quality targets. Consumer products designed using DFSS generally are expected to better match customer desires and offer higher quality.

Significantly refined compared with its predecessor, the 2011 Dodge Charger was designed to match the noise, vibrations and harshness (NVH) performance of the benchmark vehicle in its class, the BMW 5-Series - a vehicle that costs thousands of dollars more. Evaluations in Chrysler Group's state-of-the-art aerodynamic and acoustic test facilities showed that Dodge engineers not only met their goal, but achieved quieter levels than other E-segment competitors.

To validate the design, Dodge engineers tested the Charger for more than 7 million miles during its reliability and durability evaluation in the company's scientific labs, at the proving grounds and on public roads in various climates.

Engineers also studied and set performance quality targets for more obscure vehicle attributes such as tire wear, door sound, windshield-wiper performance, trunk lighting and outward visibility — among hundreds of other things.

2011 Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak

2010-10-07T04:02:00.001-07:00

The new race-only V-10 powered rear-wheel drive 2011 Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak features an 8.4-liter 512 cubic-inch engine with a 2-speed automatic transmission. Mopar will showcase its new drag car this evening at the Dodge Viper Owner's Invitational in Salt Lake City. The vehicle will then make its way to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas from Nov. 2-5, 2010, and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show in Orlando from Dec. 9-11, 2010.

"With the introduction of our new 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak, Mopar will be the only place to get a factory-built V-10-powered race-ready drag car," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group's service, parts and customer-care brand. "Mopar's new Challenger Drag Pak is a race rocket that will appeal to racers, collectors, dealers, and Dodge Viper owners."

Based on the 2011 Dodge Challenger and finished in a Stock Eliminator and Super Stock configuration, the 2011 Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak is the first and only 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car. The car features competition wheels and tires, a Mopar solid rear axle with performance gear ratio, a 2-speed drag race transmission with integrated roll control, a complete competition fuel system with fuel cell, and a complete interior with gauge package.
Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak (2011)

The Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak features a Bright White paint scheme with color options. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $85,512 and production begins early next year.

Mopar offers three options with this vehicle. First, the Competition Package includes an eight-point roll cage, six-point safety harness and a mesh window net (MSRP: $7,950, part number P5155820). Second, a Mopar logo body wrap (MSRP: $950, part number P5155892) and a range of body colors (MSRP: $6,800, part number P5155893). With the Competition Package, the car is ready to go down the drag strip.

2011 Dodge Challenger V10 Mopar Drag Pak Highlights
Identification plate with unique serial number sequence
Primed and painted body, color options available
512 cid V-10 engine
Unique engine calibration
2-speed automatic transmission with shift assembly and built-in roll control
Special body-in-white modified for drag racing
No windshield wiper assembly
No HVAC system (includes block off plates)
No rear seats
No power-steering system
No underbody heat shields
Complete fuel cell assembly
Race headers with collectors
Modified tunnel for transmission clearance and one-piece drive shaft
Raised floor above differential for solid-axle conversion clearance
Polycarbonate door windows
Smart-glass door window system
Solid engine mounts
Mopar solid rear axle
Lightweight seats to accommodate 6-point harness
Special modified K-member with drop-out crossmember
Lightweight drag-race only front brake assembly
Manual rack-and-pinion steering
Front chin spoiler
Lightweight cooling module with electric fan
Lightweight instrument panel assembly
Special cable-operated decklid release
Special cable-operated throttle pedal and linkage
Race-style wheels and tires

2011 Dodge Ram Laramie Longhorn

2010-09-24T01:26:00.000-07:00

Chrysler Group LLC unveiled the most luxurious Ram Truck ever produced by the company. Named the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition, the Ram lineup's most well-appointed model is designed for the owner who needs a truck for work or play, but won't settle for anything but the finest quality and refinement.

Inside and out, Laramie Longhorn is loaded with remarkable features.

"The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is going to share a driveway with some fine luxury cars," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO - Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "The only difference is the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is going to be the vehicle with the fulltime job - towing the horse trailer, taking the crew to the game, picking up supplies. It's ready to go from the dirt to downtown."

Ram Truck officials unveiled the Laramie Longhorn in the heart of Truck Country: the State Fair of Texas.

"We took Ram Laramie Longhorn's design cues from traditionally handcrafted, time-tested wares, such as the antique pocket watch, a fine pair of hand-tooled leather cowboy boots, a collector's-grade shotgun or a horseman's saddle," said Ryan Nagode, Design Program Lead. "The metal work and leather work are second to none."

Exterior

Ram Laramie Longhorn edition models are prominently commemorated with distinctive Western-style exterior badges. A chrome metal Laramie Longhorn edition badge with painted accents is mounted to the tailgate while eye-catching model-specific (1500, 2500 or 3500) Laramie Longhorn edition badges adorn the doors.
Dodge Ram Laramie Longhorn (2011)

Laramie Longhorn edition is available in five color choices, including an exclusive Sagebrush with White Gold exterior paint treatment unavailable on other Ram models. Matching White Gold lower-body two-tone, wheel flares, painted front and rear bumpers and Mopar running boards complement a bright chrome grille and painted tow hooks. Other colors include Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Rugged Brown Pearl or Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl. All Laramie Longhorn edition trucks are matched with the special White Gold accent color.

The Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn edition is equipped with 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, while 2500 and 3500 single-rear-wheel models roll on polished aluminum wheels. Ram 3500 duallies get polished aluminum wheels with Laramie Longhorn edition-badged center caps.

Interior

Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is also distinguished by its unsurpassed interior refinement. Building on the award-winning interiors of the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 / 3500 Heavy Duty pickup trucks, Laramie Longhorn shatters truck stereotypes.

Interior Themes

A full leather interior, engraved details and burled walnut woodgrain surfaces lend the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition an unmatched level of sophistication and style.

Laramie Longhorn is available with a choice of dark slate gray and russet or bark brown and light pebble beige interior colors. The interiors feature 100 percent leather seat coverings with laser-etched bolsters (bark brown only). The leather-wrapped steering wheel receives special stitching while door trim front and rear is also wrapped in leather and features special stitching, wood grain and LED door-handle and map-pocket lighting.

Seats

The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition offers two seating options. The first is a sophisticated dark slate gray with premium russet-hued seat leather. The second is southwestern-influenced light pebble beige with bark brown seat leather. The bark brown interior incorporates laser-etched filigrees, with a hand-worked appearance.

Seat fronts for both themes include a stitched-on leather Laramie Longhorn badge, either branded (russet) or laser-etched (bark brown).

Contrasting leather welts, also called piping, provide seat-edge emphasis. Additional accents are created along either side the welts by tan or dark slate-colored deck-seam stitching.

Ram Laramie Longhorn edition features unique leather front seatbacks distinguished by flap-closure pockets whose details authentically evoke saddlebags. Each pocket is secured with silver steer-logoed, tooled-metal buckle with a magnetic clasp.

Instrument Panel / Dash

Ram Laramie Longhorn edition owners will be greeted by the highest-quality materials every time they climb behind the wheel.

Laramie Longhorn's exclusive instrument cluster takes on the appearance of hand-wrought jewelry with six liquid chrome gauge rings set against a painted taupe silver background and a tooled-metal Laramie Longhorn edition badge set inside the left-hand ring.

The two main gauge rings feature a hand-crafted look with a coined inner edge and filigrees engraved on the top surface. Set inside those rings, the lower edges of the gauge cluster dials are detailed with small filigrees that are softly backlit at night.

The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition's dash features a center stack trimmed in burled walnut wood graining. The wood grain is stained in one of two complementary shades, matched to either the russet or bark brown interior theme. Chrysler designers borrowed from high-end furniture-grade and gun stock designs in their choice of wood grain.

Painted taupe silver side bezels, resembling polished pewter, are special to the Laramie Longhorn, while chrome vent rings complete the center stack's details.

On the passenger side, the upper glove box door - there are two - becomes a focal point with the addition of a full-length, filigree-engraved aluminum band and Laramie Longhorn edition badge.

Beneath the instrument panel is soft, new footwell lighting, providing both a functional and aesthetic interior enhancement.

Console

The Ram Laramie Longhorn's cavernous double-stacked center console is topped with a soft, double French-stitched full-leather lid featuring either a branded (russet) or laser-etched (bark brown) Laramie Longhorn logo.

The pewter-colored highlights from the center stack flow rearward, continuing along the outer edges of the center console. A chrome ring outlines the console's center bin and cupholders.

Steering Wheel and Shifters

Ram Laramie Longhorn's steering wheel and shifters - console mounted on 1500, column mounted on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models - feature premium leather. Matching X-stitch detailing sets off both the steering wheel and shifter.

The leather console shifter on 1500 models is entirely new, accentuated by taupe silver side panels and a bright chrome base. The leather column shifter on Heavy Duty models is completed by a chrome end cap.

Doors

Armrest uppers are wrapped in premium leather and accented with the same dual French stitch used on the center console lid and instrument panel. Burled walnut-grained panels trimmed by chrome tracers add to all four doors' visual appeal.

Ram Laramie Longhorn editions receive remote lighting at the inside door handles and a full-length light that illuminates the truck's multi-function lower map pockets, front and rear.

Flooring

Laramie Longhorn's luxurious carpet is protected by specially designed all-weather rubber mats with polished metal Ram Laramie Longhorn edition Badge and removable carpet inserts. The mats themselves incorporate the filigree designs from the dash and seats, while the snap-in inserts are a high-end, color-flecked Berber-style weave that luxuriously blends the two interior colors.

Along the doorsills new brushed-silver Ram-branded sill plates resist scuffs and add visual appeal.

Other

Laramie Longhorn comes equipped with all of the standard equipment found on the top-level Ram Laramie and adds a navigational radio, remote start, back-up camera, front ventilated seats and rear heated seats. Power adjustable pedals with memory and front heated seats with 10-way driver's adjustment - standard on Ram 1500 Laramie models - are also added to Ram Heavy Duty Laramie Longhorn editions.

"Ram Truck owners and dealers tell us they love everything about the new Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500," added Diaz. "With so many great features, we weren't surprised to see our most well-equipped model - Ram Laramie - making up 25 percent of our sales. There's a healthy market for luxury pickup trucks and Ram Laramie Longhorn edition hits the mark."

Ram Laramie Longhorn will be available in 1500 (half-ton), 2500 HD (3/4 ton) and 3500 HD single and dual rear wheel (1 ton), Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models. Laramie Longhorn will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, SLT, Outdoorsman, Sport (1500 only) Laramie and Power Wagon (2500 only).

2011 Dodge Durango

2010-09-03T00:56:00.000-07:00

Dodge is jumping back into the sport utility (SUV) segment with the 2011 Dodge Durango, a three-row vehicle spacious enough to carry the entire crew and performance-tuned to thrill anyone who truly loves to drive. Dodge Durango will lead the Dodge brand's new product onslaught for 2011.

From its sleek exterior design to its modern, spacious interior, and intelligent, fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, the 2011 Dodge Durango is all-new from the inside out. And the changes are more than skin deep. The Dodge Durango's stiffened unibody structure is engineered with the driving enthusiast in mind. The end result is a vehicle that delivers premium driving performance combined with SUV capability and crossover versatility.

The all-new Dodge Durango features two engine options: the standard fuel-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and the available 5.7-liter HEMI engine with fuel-saving, Multi-displacement system (MDS) four-cylinder mode. Both engines feature variable-valve timing (VVT) and are available with all-wheel drive. In addition to great efficiency, the engines provide exceptional V-6 and V-8 towing capability with standard trailer sway control (V-8 - 7,400 lbs. and Best-in-class V-6 - 6,200 lbs.). When equipped with the HEMI® V-8, the all-new Dodge Durango can tow more weight than a 24-foot boat and trailer.

The Dodge Durango's all-new interior is a surprise owners always deserved but never expected. Created by the same interior design studio that designed the much-lauded interior in the Ram trucks and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Dodge Durango's luxurious interior materials and thoughtful touches will make owners and their crews want to jump in, hunker down and thoroughly enjoy even the longest drive. Everywhere they touch, Dodge Durango passengers will feel materials that are refined and soft to the touch. Not only is it a pleasure to behold, it is extremely functional and gives owners a first-class experience, regardless of the trim level. Dodge Durango's interior is also extremely comfortable for all three rows of passengers, and there's a surprising amount of interior flexibility. With 22 different seating configurations, there's plenty of room to store and move plenty of people and their gear.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango also offers consumers 45 safety and security features, including standard front seat-mounted side air bags and standard side-curtain air bags that cover passengers in all three rows, as well as all-new standard active head restraints. Electronic Stability Control also is standard. Other available safety and security technologies include Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Keyless Enter-n' Go.

The best part is, consumers will get all of the all-new Dodge Durango's capability, functionality and flexibility and still get excellent fuel efficiency. In fact, drivers can go more than 500 miles, that's the distance from San Diego to San Francisco or from Detroit to New York City, without having to stop for fuel.

Built at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Mich., the new 2011 Dodge Durango arrives in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit

2010-09-03T00:53:00.000-07:00

America's high-performance police vehicle — the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit — has arrived, providing law-enforcement the best combination of tactical technology, safety, power, efficiency and an iconic design that makes any suspect stop in a panic.

The all-new Dodge Charger Pursuit's performance suspension tuning, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC) calibration make it hot-pursuit ready. For world-class ride and performance handling dynamics, the Dodge Charger Pursuit features a rear-wheel drive design and redesigned front and rear multi-link suspension geometries to deliver a smooth comfortable ride for law enforcement officers who spend long days protecting our streets.

Designed with the guidance of the brand's Police Advisory Board, the 2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit's mobile-command interior features a Police Interface Module for easy equipment integration, police-duty front seats, column-mounted automatic transmission with Auto Stick, red/white LED interior lighting for night-vision equipment and more.

Dodge Charger Pursuit surrounds the heroic men and women who protect us with uncompromising safety and security equipment, including standard advanced multistage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers, driver's knee bag, tire-pressure monitoring and more.

Behind its sinister face, the Dodge Charger Pursuit offers an all-new standard E-85 capable 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with variable-valve timing (VVT) and available legendary 5.7-liter HEMI™ V-8 engine with fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS).

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger Pursuit will be available for ordering in September 2010 through Chrysler Group LLC's fleet operations.

2011 Dodge Ram Outdoorsman

2010-08-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

The Ram Truck Brand announced a new feature package designed for North American outdoor enthusiasts: Ram Outdoorsman.

Ram Outdoorsman takes all of the features most useful to hunters, fishermen, campers and boaters, and packages them into one model. Outdoorsman combines convenience, off-road capability and trailer towing hardware in one package with a name that will resonate among its intended users.

"We asked Ram Truck customers -- boaters, campers, fishing enthusiasts and hunters -- what features would they like to see in a truck," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO - Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "They answered 'more capability, more room for my gear and ready to hit the trail. And make it affordable.'"

Ram Heavy Duty owner demographics illustrate a passion for the outdoors: 47 percent hunt, 57 percent fresh water fish, 33 percent salt water fish, 36 percent own power boats and 37 percent tow camping trailers. Overall, 62 percent of fullsize pickup truck owners hunt, fish or camp.

Ram Truck engineers - many of whom count hunting, fishing, boating and camping among their hobbies - brought together features that they felt would best meet the practical needs of owners who will frequently use their Ram truck for towing or long, remote trips.

Standard trailer-towing upgrades, interior and exterior convenience, lighting enhancements, all-terrain tires and underbody protection are combined with a rugged exterior appearance to highlight the new Ram Outdoorsman.

Dodge Ram Outdoorsman

Ram Truck officials unveiled the rugged new model at the Professional Outdoor Media Association's (POMA) fifth annual national business conference.

Ram Outdoorsman is available in 1500 (half-ton), 2500 HD (3/4-ton) and 3500 HD single rear wheel (1 ton), Regular Cab; Quad Cab, Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models.

Outdoorsman will replace the TRX4 trim level in the 2011 Ram Truck lineup. It will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, SLT, Big Horn / Lone Star, Sport (1500 only) Laramie and Power Wagon (2500 only).

Prices for Ram Outdoorsman models start at $28,350, including destination charge.

Ram Outdoorsman models will go on sale third quarter 2010. A multi-tiered marketing strategy will support the new model's launch.

Ram Outdoorsman Features

Towing:
Standard Class IV receiver hitch properly equips Outdoorsman for towing campers, boats, ATVs and other trailers rated to vehicle's max
Available integrated trailer brake controller with driver adjustability and easy-to-see instrument panel readout
Trailer brake controller is standard on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duties
Standard lighted four- and seven-pin harness plugs -- a Ram exclusive -- offer multi-trailer adaptability and clean, above-the-bumper covered access any time of the day or night
Heavy-duty cooling, including a mechanical-electrical fan and transmission cooler, for larger loads
Limited-slip differential for improved off-road and towing performance
Available trailer-tow mirrors
Trailer-tow mirrors are optional on 2500 and standard on 3500
Available rear backup camera eases trailer hookups
Standard trailer-sway control improves towing confidence (Ram 1500 only)

Capability:
Standard 17-inch wheels and "LT" tires: light-truck-rated tires handle bigger loads and offer stronger sidewalls to resist punctures when driving over sharp, rocky terrain; on/off-road tread pattern provides traction on all highway and trail surfaces (LT275/70R17C OWL on Ram 1500 models; LT265/70R17E on Ram HD models)
Full-sized spare tire provides more security and functionality than restricted-use spare in the event of a flat
Tow hooks for retrieving disabled or immobile vehicles, clearing trails
Mud / slush mats protect front and rear carpets from dirt and moisture
32-gallon fuel tank for extended operating range on Ram 1500 models
34-gallon standard on 6'4" box and 35-gallon tank standard with 8' box on 2500 and 3500 models
Premium cloth front seats with a choice of buckets or a 40/20/40 split bench
Front center seat cushion or console storage help organize gear
Power 10-way driver seat for comfort on long trips
Power lumbar adjust for additional long-trip comfort
Rear 60 / 40 split folding seat for more flexibility in hauling passengers and cargo
Remote start and security group adds alarm system and convenience of a comfortable cabin after a day in the field or on the water
Standard front suspension skid plates on 4x4 models provide protection from off-road damage (Ram 1500 models)
Standard transfer case skid plate on 4x4 models
Additional lighting including:
Standard fog lights for improved inclement weather illumination
Quad halogen headlamps provide maximum visibility in remote areas
Ash tray lamp illuminates small items in center console
Exterior mirrors with courtesy lamps provide visibility outside truck's cabin
Glove box lamp
Rear dome lamp with on-off switch
Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
Underhood lamp
Dash-mounted 115-volt auxiliary power outlet to charge batteries and electronic devices without the need for special DC car chargers
Auto-dimming, power heated foldaway exterior mirrors with supplemental signals clear fog and ice
Leather wrapped steering wheel with fingertip audio controls reduces driving distractions
Overhead console with universal garage door opener, which can also be programmed to open multiple garage doors and electric gates
Rear view auto-dim mirror
Rear sliding windows on regular cab models

Unique look:
Two-tone paint with Mineral Gray lower
Scratch-resistant steel bumpers
Black door handles minimize glare
Wheel lip moldings
Outdoorsman badge proudly announces owner's passion

Options:
RamBox, available on the Ram 1500, is the ultimate place for outdoor enthusiasts to stow their gear; lockable and lit, RamBox frees up interior space for passengers

2010 Dodge Challenger Mopar

2010-07-25T03:44:00.000-07:00

For the first time in its history, Chrysler Group LLC will launch a special-edition Mopar® version of one of its vehicles. The Mopar '10, a 2010 Dodge Challenger Mopar, arrives in Dodge dealerships next month.

"Our 2010 Dodge Challenger Mopar is a collaboration of two iconic brands with tremendous heritage," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC. "Dodge put the heart into this Challenger and Mopar added the soul. The result is a unique, special-edition car that only we can offer."

The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Mopar '10 is $38,000 for an automatic transmission and $39,000 for a manual transmission. Both prices include $750 for destination. Customers may pre-order now.

"Mopar '10 has a wicked, sinister appearance that will turn heads." said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of Dodge, Chrysler Group LLC. "The Mopar brand resonates with hard-core enthusiasts, and this car will too."

Dodge and Mopar collaborated to create Mopar '10, a "Mopar modified" 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T. Under-the-hood features include the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, a hood-venting system, a cold-air intake, a front strut-tower brace with shock caps, and a unique engine cover. Under the decklid is a rear strut-tower brace that stiffens the chassis and improves handling characteristics of the car.

Mopar '10 will be available in Brilliant Black with a choice of three accent colors: Mopar Blue, Red or Silver. Accent colors will appear on side stripes as well as in the stitching on the steering wheel and seats. Exterior features include 20-inch forged heritage gloss-black wheels, black-chromed grille surround, and a functional, vented T/A-style hood with vintage hood pins. Mopar logos and graphics are prominent on the front fascia, hood, hood-pin caps, body-side stripes, windows and on the chromed fuel door. A special Mopar '10 car cover also comes with the vehicle.

Interior features include Katzkin leather seating, custom leather-wrapped steering wheel with baseball-style stitching, Mopar shift handles (T-handle for automatics, Pistol Grip for manuals), a serialized dash plaque with Mopar '10 logo and Mopar branding throughout.

Every customer who purchases a Mopar '10 will receive a special owner kit that includes a certificate with the vehicle identification number (VIN), date of build completion, and build number. The kit also includes a limited-edition sketch of the vehicle signed by Chrysler Group design chief Mark Trostle, a book that highlights the special vehicle build, and Mopar '10 merchandise.

2010 Dodge Caliber

2010-07-09T07:46:00.001-07:00

Dodge Caliber is a five-door C-segment hatchback that combines a sporty coupe-like profile with the strength, stance and functionality of an SUV. It features an all-new refined interior and Common-rail Diesel (CRD) engine to satisfy the needs of discerning international customers.

This all-new Euro V capable engine is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 Nm (236 lb.-ft.), delivering 16 percent more power, 3 percent more torque and 25 percent more towing capability (1500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine. Forged steel connecting rods, aluminum head and pistons, and fourth-generation direct-injection system provide durability, weight reduction and performance. Passenger refinement also improves as dual balance shafts and sound-deadening materials reduce the diesel engine's vibration and harshness by 25 percent compared with the previous Dodge Caliber CRD.

Two World Engine offerings (2.0- and 2.4-liter) deliver power and refinement thanks to dual Variable-valve Timing (VVT) and an intake manifold design with flow control valves. Combined, these features produce more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter operation than engines without them. The 2.0-liter World Engine replaces the 1.8-liter engine, delivering 4 percent more power (115 kW /156 hp DIN) and 13 percent more torque (190 Nm / 140 lb.-ft.). For even greater performance, the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 125 kW (170 hp DIN) and 220 Nm (162 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The new Dodge Caliber debuts at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, featuring an all-new refined interior with a more harmonious design aesthetic executed with premium materials and craftsmanship. An all-new designed instrument panel features a more integrated look and includes additional cubby space, center storage bin and larger climate controls. Bright satin silver accents add contrast to Dodge Caliber's interior design, while chromed accents brighten heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) vents, shift bezel, door handles and cluster rings. New door-trim panels and center console with armrest split-lid feature padded soft-touch materials for improved passenger comfort.

In addition, the Dodge Caliber offers an array of unique interior features in its segment, including Chill Zone™ cooled-beverage storage bin, Uconnect™ Navigation with voice commands, iPod® Control, rechargeable LED flashlight and an available MusicGate Power™ Sound Group, which includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate that swing down for tailgating and other activities.

"The Dodge Caliber is not your typical C-segment car. When we launched the Dodge Caliber only a few years ago, its bold style made a clear statement on the European roads, allowing owners to be active, stand out and do more," said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer - Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Now paired with an all-new turbo-diesel engine that offers better fuel consumption and performance and an improved interior full of value and customer-friendly features, the Dodge Caliber continues to offer our European clients unique Dodge attitude combined with one of the best value proposition in the segment."

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

2009-12-10T23:53:00.000-08:00

Dodge pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

"The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X takes the performance attributes of Viper to an even higher level for a wide range of drivers starting with the grassroots racer all the way up to the professional," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. "This project is a result of many years of performance engineering expertise from our SRT team, combined with the passion and dedication of Viper Nation, to keep the Viper racing tradition going strong on tracks around the country and the world."

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. "We're going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track," added Gilles. "The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car."

Last month, the SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer's lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

"The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is incredible," said Wittmer. "After a short warm up, I was running lap times as quick as exotic GT race cars. I was blown away by the power and acceleration, and even more surprised at how the ACR-X navigated the challenging Laguna Seca corners and how friendly it was to drive at the limit.

"All aspects of the car work together perfectly to plant all that horsepower and torque without issue," Wittmer added. "This will be a great package for someone coming out of grassroots racing with a desire to step-up to GT level competition. Dodge nailed it with this one!"

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10

2009-12-02T08:04:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the final production year of the current generation Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge plans to deliver a vehicle lineup like no other since the introduction of the iconic American sports car in 1992.

At the heart of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains the venerable 8.4-liter (510 cu. in.) V-10 engine that produces 600 (450 kW) horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. (760 N•m) of torque. Benchmark performance numbers, including 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range and 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph, continue to prove how the serious, race-inspired, street-legal two-seater performs without apology.

Body style offerings remain unchanged with the availability of Roadster and Coupe models along with the ACR (American Club Racer) package. Approximately 500 vehicles will be built for the 2010 model year.

With the introduction of two new exterior colors-Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat-Dodge Viper SRT10 is now available in 12 different colors - the most regularly available choices in one model year. And with six stripe options in the new wider configuration, five different interior color combinations, four different wheel choices and three available interior bezels; the 2010 Viper SRT10 will be available in more than 7,600 combinations-the most for any one model year-significantly adding to the exclusivity of each car like never before.

New across the Viper lineup is a shorter fifth gear ratio (changing from 0.74 to 0.80) for improved high-speed acceleration and higher straightaway speeds. Acceleration from 0-200 mph has improved by 14 seconds. This improvement is a direct result of the Chrysler Group LLC Street and Racing Technology team's experience at the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany where during the lap-record run in 2008, it was found that a revised gear ratio would have resulted in higher top gear acceleration and a quicker lap time.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 channels its power through a ZF Sachs twin-disc clutch that reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, reduces clutch-pedal effort and improves engagement feel. Transferring power to the rear wheels is a heavy-duty six-speed manual transmission.

Stopping power is another carefully developed part of the Dodge Viper SRT10 equation, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual-opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual-opposing calipers in the rear. This system results in world-class braking performance of 60-0 mph in less than 100 feet.

Interior color options for 2010 include: standard black, two-tone black and red with red accent stitching, two-tone black and blue with blue accent stitching, two-tone black and medium slate grey with medium slate grey accent stitching and the two-tone black and natural tan with premium tan Nappa leather seats, tan center console, lower instrument panel and door panels introduced for the 2009 model year. On the Roadster model, the black and tan package includes a matching tan cloth convertible top.

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR receives a new short-throw shifter in 2010 for enhanced driver experience and better performance. The rear wing profile and end plates are redesigned to further optimize the vehicle aerodynamics and improve rear yaw downforce. These changes combined with the new fifth gear ratio result in an increased top speed of 4 mph (to 184 mph for the ACR model).

The enhanced four-wheel independent suspension features high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, KW suspension with two-way adjustable competition coil-over shock absorbers with remote reservoirs.

The aerodynamic package features a carbon fiber "fanged" splitter in front and adjustable carbon-fiber wing with seven-position stanchions that allow up to an amazing 1,000 lbs. of downforce at 150 mph. Lightweight wheels, two-piece slotted StopTech brake rotors and Michelin PS Cup tires round out the Dodge Viper ACR package.

New Special, Limited-edition Models

Numerous special, limited-edition models are planned for the 2010 model year, including the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, which will pay tribute to the new production car lap record set on Nov. 24 at Laguna Seca raceway. The unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color scheme on this model is the opposite form of the original Viper ACR. Interior highlights include piano black console bezels with red gauge highlights complemented with red accent stitching in the seats. Only 33 cars will be produced as 1:33 Edition Viper ACR models.

The 2010 Vooodoo-edition Viper ACR will feature an all Black Clear Coat exterior with a Graphite Driver's Stripe outlined in red. Only 10 cars will be produced with the unique striping on both the exterior, as well as on the steering wheel.

Additional special edition models will be announced closer to their individual introductions. Pricing on the 2010 Dodge Viper lineup also will be announced at a later date.

1966 Dodge Charger

2009-03-07T07:50:00.000-08:00

Dodge Charger (B-body)

There have been a number of vehicles to carry the charger plate, but in general the name denotes a role model in the range of Dodge. From 1966 to 1974 were the Chargers high-performance B-body models. From 1975 to 1978 Chargers were based on the Chrysler Cordoba.

1966

Carl "CAM" Cameron is the designer of the exterior of the new flagship of Dodge vehicle, and January 1, 1966, viewers of the Rose Bowl were first introduced to the new "Leader of the Dodge Rebellion", 1966 charger. The shipper of the introduction coincided with the introduction of the new version of the 426 Street Hemi. Finally, Dodge would have the performance image to agree with this engine performance.

Charger 1966 as the features go, the "electric shaver" grille used fully rotating headlights that when opened or closed made the grille look like a single piece. Inside, the Charger used four individual seats with a full length console from front to back. The console and the rear seats folded forward also pad and the trunk divider dropped, allowing for lots of cargo room inside. Many other things were exclusive to the shipper and the door panels, courtesy lights and instrument panel.

The instrument panel was especially interesting as regular bulbs are not used to light the gauges. Instead four electroluminescent dash pods housed the tachometer, speedometer, alternator, fuel and tempature gauges. At the back the whole length of tail CARGADOR read.

The V8 engine selection was all. A six-cylinder does not make the list of options until 1968. In 1966 four engines were offered: the base model 318 in ³ 2-barrel V8, the truck home at 361 ³ 2-barrel, the 383 4-barrel, and the new 426 Street Hemi. Most chargers 1966 ordered the 325-hp 383.

Total production in 1966 reached 37,344 units, which was a success for introduction in mid-year.

In 1966 Dodge took the Charger into NASCAR in hopes that the fastback would make their car a winner in the high banks. But the car has proven rear end lift around corners which made it very slippery on the faster tracks. The lift was because the air actually traveled faster over the top of the car under it, causing the car to act like a giant airplane wing. Later, the drivers say "it was like driving on ice." To solve this problem Dodge installed a small lip spoiler on the trunk lid which improved traction at speeds exceeding 150 mph. They also had to make a dealer-installed option in late 1966 and through 1967 because of NASCAR rules (with small quarter panel extensions in 1967). 1966 Charger was the first production vehicle in the U.S. to have a spoiler. David Pearson, driving a # 6 Cotten Owens-prepared Charger, went on to win the NASCAR Grand National championship in 1966 with 14 first-place finishes.

1969 Dodge Charger Daytona

2009-03-07T07:40:00.000-08:00

Dodge Charger Daytona

NASCAR in 1969 stipulated that any car raced in their series had to be available for sale and must build a minimum of five for the general public. Since the charger 500 was not fast enough, Dodge came back in the wind tunnel and created one of the most outrageous and most sought after Chargers, the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona.

The Daytona used a pointed nose piece that added 18 inches in front of the car. This gave the car the aerodynamic loads that engineers were looking for, but the rear still tended to lift at speed. To solve this problem, we mounted a large wing on the trunklid that would give the Charger Daytona and its sister car, the Plymouth SUPERBIRD 1970, the nickname of "wing cars". The wing was 23 inches in height and the trunk could be opened without hitting the bottom of the wing. Slightly modified fenders and a hood of the upcoming 1970 Charger were used at Daytona. Rear facing scoops were added to the front fenders, right above the tires, which mimicked their NASCAR brethren. But while it looks cool it does not add any aerodynamic adavantage. Only used to help with tire rub.

Charger Daytona only 503 were built with either 440 Magnum or 426 Hemi power. Daytona all wore red, black, white or striped Bumble carrying the name "Daytona" in the middle of the band. The wings were painted the same color as the stripes. The "wing cars" would be so fast and dominating effectively illegal for the NASCAR 1971 season, according to a new regulation was introduced that restricted all "aero" cars to a maximum engine displacement of 5.0 L (305 in ³), down from the previous 7.0 L (429 in ³).

1991 Dodge Neon Concept

2009-03-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

Dodge Neon Concept (1991)

1992 Dodge Epic Concept

2009-03-07T07:18:00.001-08:00

Dodge EPIC

The EPIC is a Dodge concept car created by DaimlerChrysler under the Dodge brand. The EPIC was shown at the 1992 North American International Auto Show. EPIC means Electricity Inter-Urban Commuter. It was the first hybrid minivan.

Engine & Design

The EPIC uses an I4 engine, which is fed by an emission-free power. The features of the nickel-iron batteries can provide up to 120 miles on a single charge. The EPIC uses a four-speed automatic transmission. The design was the most futuristic. Unlike any other minivan, EPIC was the modern oval-shaped body, which was not adapted to the production of minivans until three years later. This vehicle was also one of the first signs of hybrid vehicles.

2000 Dodge Neon SRT Concept

2009-03-07T06:39:00.000-08:00

Dodge Neon SRT Concept (2000)

2001 Dodge Ram

2009-03-07T06:17:00.000-08:00

Dodge Ram 1994 to 2001: The 'BR / BE Trucks

The Ram line was redesigned in 1994 and was an instant hit. Offered a semi truck-look front independent with large fenders and a grill, but it was the 8.0 L V10 engine and 450 ft.lbf (610 Nm) of torque was observed for serious users. Now the models 1500 (half ton), 2500 (¾ tons) and 3500 (one ton).

A natural gas version of the 5.2 L engine debuted in 1995. In 1998, Dodge introduced the "Quad-Cab," which later columns doors hinged at the rear for a wide opening of the cabin. Cummins isb engine, introduced in 1999, was a multi-valve pushrod engine.

The new Ram 1994 was a tremendous hit, with sales of 100,000 units of rocket in 1993 to 240,000 in 1994, 280,000 in 1995 and nearly 400,000 in 1996. Sales of this generation peaked at just over 400,000 in 1999 before declining against the redesigned Ford and GM trucks, which use some of the design elements of the Ram. In 2001, Ram returned to 350,000 sales.

2001 Dodge Stratus RT Coupe

2009-03-07T05:52:00.002-08:00

Dodge Stratus (2001-2006)

In 2001, the Stratus became the last survivor of the Cloud Cars, with the name of the Cirrus Sebring and the Breeze discontinued. After suspending his Dodge coupe, the Avenger (which was recently built in the discontinued second generation Mitsubishi Eclipse platform), they decided to rename their new coupe, which is based on the third generation of the Eclipse platform, the Stratus. This gave the board a two-and four-door model, though not equally shared by other than the name and style of some external cues to help market them together as a vehicle. The Chrysler version of the new coupe also took the name Sebring despite also being a completely different vehicle from the Sebring sedan. The Dodge Stratus was also dropped for the Canadian market.

The Sebring and Stratus sedans for the second generation used a revised version of the Chrysler JA platform named JR. The coupe models with the same name were completely different vehicles, based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse.

During this time, sales declined in their ratings of the consumer and auto magazines fell below the average mid-size cars, while the sedan market had shifted and pushed the couple and later Intrepid Charger record sales. The coupe was dropped from the line after 2005, and the Stratus was discontinued in May 2006, the name of Sebring live.

In Mexico, the Stratus R / T came in a turbocharged version. The Stratus R / T 2.4 L turbocharged engine went through some improvements in 2001, when power passed to 215 hp. This engine improved later use in the U.S. in the Dodge SRT-4. Stratus R / T engines built from March 2004 and later generated 225 hp at 5200 rpm and 235 ft lbf (319 N m) of torque at 4200 rpm. Stratus R / T models with the turbocharged engine can be recognized by a rear plate that says "High Output".

2002 Dodge Ram 1500

2009-03-07T03:31:00.000-08:00

Dodge Ram 2002 to 2007: The "DR" Trucks

The third-generation Ram debuted for 2002. This represented a major update including all new frame, suspension, power equipment, interiors, and sheet metal. Includes a larger grille, and remained the focus of the models as most competitors had adopted the Ram's separate-fender view. Cummins isb diesel was in the Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2004. The four wheel drive light trucks (1500 series) lost their live axles in trade for an independent front suspension, but the heavy work (2500 and 3500 series) kept alive axles for maximum durability and load capacity.

The new design of DR trucks reignited sales, with 400,000 sold in 2002 and sold about 450,000 in 2003, a new peak of the Ram name. At the same time, both Ford and GM trucks are declining from a 2001 peak of more than 900,000 to 850,000 in the area. However, sales of the Ram, was unable to keep pace with the eleventh-generation F-150 and Nissan Titan strong in 2004 and 2005, with 400,543 Rams sold that year. The Toyota Tundra had never posed much of a threat, but a much bigger 2007 model may further undermine sales of Dodge.

Special Rams

SRT-10 - This version is a quad-cab or the body with the Dodge Viper V10 engine, massive Pirelli 22 "rim tires, custom lowered suspension, unique bucket seats, full body kit and a spoiler. The version of 2004 was available only in a single cab 6-speed manual transmission with a Hurst changes. For 2005, Dodge debuted a Quad Cab version of the Viper V10 engine truck. Now you have a 48RE four speed automatic transmission that was taken from the work Heavy Rams with Cummins engine. In 2004, the truck won the Guinness record for "World's Fastest Production Pickup Truck" of 154,587 mph (247.3 km / h). [1] This record was surpassed even by the Australian, The way of inspiration, Malo R8 Holden Special Vehicles in May 2006 [citation needed]. SRT-10 production ended on June 30, 2006. It is rumored that the SRT-10 is replaced by an SRT-8 model with a larger displacement Hemi V8 power.

Power Wagon - Introduced in 2005, the Power Wagon is an off-road focused version of the Ram. Comes with the 5.7L Hemi engine, locking differentials, disconnecting anti-roll bars, oversized off-road tires, winch, fender flares and "Power Wagon" instead of the nameplate of the standard Ram badging ..

Rumble Bee - The Rumble Bee is a sport truck edition of the Ram Hemi. It was only available in regular cab / short box pickups and included lower body cladding, 20in wheels, a hood scoop, upgraded exhaust and a specially trimmed interior including a serial number plate. On the back of the box is a band with a "Rumble Bee" picture, meant to be reminiscent of the Super Bee. Rumblebees All were black with yellow trim or yellow with black cut.

HemiSport - The Quad Cab is HemiSport edition version of the Rumble Bee, and was introduced in 2004. Available in black, red or silver, and with either rear or four-wheel drive. It was equipped similarly to the Rumble Bee, but without the license plate number. The HemiSport was suspended in 2006.

Daytona - Introduced in 2005, the Ram Daytona is a new sports edition of the Ram Hemi pickup truck. Available in Regular or Quad Cab styles, features and lower body cladding, 20in chrome wheels, SRT-10 hood, Borla dual exhaust, serial number plate, and a tall rear spoiler reminiscent of the famous Dodge Charger Daytona since the late 1960s. The Daytona is a black body stripe to match the rear spoiler and come in silver or "Go Mango" with matching paint finish.

2003 Dodge Stratus Coupe

2009-03-07T03:21:00.001-08:00

2003 Dodge Stratus Sedan

2009-03-07T03:13:00.000-08:00

2004 Dodge Caravan SXT

2009-03-06T23:05:00.001-08:00

Dodge Caravan

The Dodge Caravan and Dodge Grand Caravan are minivans manufactured by DaimlerChrysler (they were sold by the Chrysler Corporation until 1998). Were introduced in 1983 for the 1984 model year, along with sister model the Plymouth Voyager (now Chrysler Voyager). The first modern mini, the Chrysler company minivans are credited with creating the entire market segment for these vehicles. The Chrysler twins were launched a few months before the Renault Espace (the first MPV / minivan in Europe, first pitch to executives as a Talbot in 1979, but did not begin until 1984), becoming the first of its kind But they did not offer the versatility interior (individual, folding seats that can be used as tables or eliminated completely) from the first generation Espace to subsequent generations.

Since its introduction, the Chrysler minivans have been the best selling minivans in the United States.

Foldable Stow 'n Go second-and third-row seats, available only on the Grand Caravan, was introduced in 2005. The 2001 model year vans only slightly different from the previous generation, except for the interior, had a larger body, usually the headlights, taillights round, and some minor mechanical adjustments.

The new minivan was much stronger than before, with more cargo space, and is probably larger than the current Dodge Durango.

In 2004, the line 2005 minivan had changes in the Caravan, including a revised grille, new foglight fascia, new rear seats, interior and other minor details. The information center was moved from behind the meters to the overhead console, as well as Stow 'n Go seating.

The Mitsubishi 3.0 L V6, which no longer meet emissions standards in California and northeastern U.S., which was eliminated in the engine line for 2001. A 3.5 L V6, also provides an introduction to mid-year 2001 but this never came to fruition.

Caravan C / V also returned to the line for 2003 after being suspended in 1995. C / V characteristics deleted side windows and rear seats

2004 Dodge Durango

2009-03-06T23:04:00.001-08:00

Dodge Durango

The second generation Durango debuted shortly before the companion Dakota. Like the Dakota, which has much in common with the big Dodge Ram pickup, including a box-frame. It is 7 inches longer, 2 inches wider and 3 inches taller than the previous model. Chrysler will introduce its own version of the Durango, Chrysler Aspen, for the 2007 model year. The Durango is a full-size SUV, this time, and fills the Dodge Nitro mid-size SUV vacuum left by the first-generation Durango.

2004 Dodge Durango Limited

2009-03-06T23:03:00.001-08:00

2004 Dodge Durango SLT

2009-03-06T23:02:00.001-08:00

2004 Dodge Ram

2009-03-06T23:00:00.001-08:00

2004 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Cummins 600

2009-03-06T22:59:00.000-08:00

2004 Dodge Ram SRT10

2009-03-06T22:58:00.000-08:00

Dodge Ram 2002 to 2007: The "DR" Trucks

The third-generation Ram debuted for 2002. This represented a major update including all new frame, suspension, power equipment, interiors, and sheet metal. Includes a larger grille, and remained the focus of the models as most competitors had adopted the Ram's separate-fender view. Cummins isb diesel was in the Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2004. The four wheel drive light trucks (1500 series) lost their live axles in trade for an independent front suspension, but the heavy work (2500 and 3500 series) kept alive axles for maximum durability and load capacity.

The new design of DR trucks reignited sales, with 400,000 sold in 2002 and sold about 450,000 in 2003, a new peak of the Ram name. At the same time, both Ford and GM trucks are declining from a 2001 peak of more than 900,000 to 850,000 in the area. However, sales of the Ram, was unable to keep pace with the eleventh-generation F-150 and Nissan Titan stronger in 2004 and 2005, with 400,543 Rams sold that year. The Toyota Tundra had never posed much of a threat, but a much bigger 2007 model may further undermine sales of Dodge.

Special Rams

SRT-10 - This version is a quad-cab or the body with the Dodge Viper V10 engine, massive Pirelli 22 "rim tires, custom lowered suspension, unique bucket seats, full body kit and a spoiler. The version of 2004 was available only in a single cab 6-speed manual transmission with a Hurst changes. For 2005, Dodge debuted a Quad Cab version of the Viper V10 engine truck. Now you have a 48RE four speed automatic transmission that was taken from the work Heavy Rams with Cummins engine. In 2004, the truck won the Guinness record for "World's Fastest Production Pickup Truck" of 154,587 mph (247.3 km / h). [1] This record was surpassed even by the Australian, The way of inspiration, Malo R8 Holden Special Vehicles in May 2006 [citation needed]. SRT-10 production ended on June 30, 2006. It is rumored that the SRT-10 is replaced by an SRT-8 model with a larger displacement Hemi V8 power.

Power Wagon - Introduced in 2005, the Power Wagon is an off-road focused version of the Ram. Comes with the 5.7L Hemi engine, locking differentials, disconnecting anti-roll bars, oversized off-road tires, winch, fender flares and "Power Wagon" instead of the nameplate of the standard Ram badging ..

Rumble Bee - The Rumble Bee is a sport truck edition of the Ram Hemi. It was only available in regular cab / short box pickups and included lower body cladding, 20in wheels, a hood scoop, upgraded exhaust and a specially trimmed interior including a serial number plate. On the back of the box is a band with a "Rumble Bee" picture, meant to be reminiscent of the Super Bee. Rumblebees All were black with yellow trim or yellow with black cut.

HemiSport - The Quad Cab is HemiSport edition version of the Rumble Bee, and was introduced in 2004. Available in black, red or silver, and with either rear or four-wheel drive. It was equipped similarly to the Rumble Bee, but without the license plate number. The HemiSport was suspended in 2006.

Daytona - Introduced in 2005, the Ram Daytona is a new sports edition of the Ram Hemi pickup truck. Available in Regular or Quad Cab styles, features and lower body cladding, 20in chrome wheels, SRT-10 hood, Borla dual exhaust, serial number plate, and a tall rear spoiler reminiscent of the famous Dodge Charger Daytona since the late 1960s. The Daytona is a black body stripe to match the rear spoiler and come in silver or "Go Mango" with matching paint finish.

2006 Dodge Hornet Concept

2009-03-06T20:52:00.001-08:00

2006 Dodge Hornet Concept Set to create a Buzz

Rallye-ready and willing to go, the new Dodge Hornet concept vehicle is designed to carry the B-segment market a unique blending of European sensibility regarding engine size and overall footprint with an American-style aggressive and flexible interior space.

"We wanted the Hornet to be dynamic, nimble, fun to drive and have an adaptable space-efficient interior," said Mark Moushegian, principal exterior designer. "At the same time, aims to create a vehicle with an American character to expand the image and presence of the Dodge brand in Europe and international markets, especially in the entry-level market."

"We went to a rally-inspired look - robust, capable, and definitely not" cutesy ". We wanted an "edge" to the design. In particular, wanted to push the envelope of interior volume. That's why the Hornet is almost as wide as a C-segment vehicle, "Moushegian continued. Accordingly, the bulk of the Hornet, wheeled around the corner silhouette imparts the fun of assertive power, even the most mundane of errands.

With its wide stance, the Hornet is firmly planted on the road. In advance, the signature Dodge crossbar set above the grill is an exposed front engine intercooler flanked by air ducts and fog lamps. Raised on the plateau of the bell provides a recessed scoop on the driver's side to funnel air to the engine air box. Underhood is a 1.6L 16-valve OHC supercharged I / C to shut down four cylinders 127 kW (170 hp) / 224 N • m (165 lb.-ft.) of torque @ 4000 rpm.

The muscular side view is dominated by large 19-inch diameter open section aluminum wheels designed to show the "mechanics", including gold brake calipers. The wheel flares and notched tonnage threshold curves are complemented by the body to "spearhead" in the full front and rear opposed half-doors which, in section, are quite superficial, to maximize interior space . The framework open to reveal the absence of a B-pillar, while the three sides of glass windows and ending with a dynamic wedge-shaped quarter window.

Inspired by the look of fashion sunglasses, all the windows of the vehicle including the roof oversize, has remained in a deep "Blue View" tint which contrasts vividly with the car's Liquid Silver exterior.

"The idea is that the car will be available in a limited number of colors," said Moushegian. "The customer selects the contrasting glass color of his choice as an accent." Inspired by the legendary Dodge Viper, dual "skunk stripes" in Beryllium Gray boldly traverse in the hood, roof, overlooking rear defuser wing and the liftgate, including the "sky view" sun roof which offers a panoramic outlook for front and rear passengers.

Set in matte metallic gray levels bezels and grouped under clear covers, all exterior lamps share a "mechanical" style vocabulary that presents the most prominent circular "triple orange slice" front and rear turn signals. Similar repeater lamps are set in their side mirrors which also incorporate auxiliary lights rally. The circular theme is reprises of three-inch diameter dual exhaust tips propelled through the rear chin spoiler.

"Like the exterior, the interior is geared around young rally enthusiasts," said John Sodano, principal interior designer. "Our intention is to maximize the interior volume by pushing all interior surfaces of the perimeter of the vehicle as much as possible. I studied images of space capsule interiors, since they are designed for high performance in a limited space. I wanted the Hornet inside to have a functional engineered 'look, but with pleasing surfaces and materials. "

Extreme flexibility also is central to the sporty interior. The space-saving foam seats are exceptionally slim but comfortable, with the striking satin-silver finished aluminum framing deliberately exposed. SEAT reinforces are covered in a smooth, black urethane-coated, while a black cloth, woven textured Pique cloth is fine in the cushion and back inserts. Belts into the seats.

Handsome as they are, the seats' real beauty lies in its adaptability. Both the passenger front seat and three 40-60 passenger bucket rear seats forward and the collapse of the floor to provide a flat cargo bed. To facilitate this, the forward head to store and sometimes between the seat cushion. The cabin floor is covered with an attractive and durable honeycomb-texture rubber.

In addition, the rear seats also flip rearward to store in the back at the platform drawbridge. This position provides for the highest possible vertical storage behind the front seats. When upright, the rear seats track rearwards to provide an legroom of 225 mm for rear-seat passengers. Accessible to passengers regardless of the pre-longitudinal seat, long bars are mounted high on each rear quarter and also serve as clothes hangar racks.

The crisp black and slate gray interior is designed for both style and utility, with surfaces that have a discipline, space-saving flat look. The driver's door trim panel, for example, contains a first aid kit, open storage box, and a closed case with carrying handle that can be removed from the car. The passenger has two doors open and closed boxes and open a box with bungee cords to retain stowed items. All boxes are removable and can be easily rearranged to suit the needs of each client. In addition, the designers provide the Hornet as a vehicle that can be easily customized through the purchase of additional exterior and interior parts and accessories, allowing owners to customize their cars to express the needs and desires.

Both front doors also have a hinged storage pocket just above the remote handle. The driver's side rear door contains a handy beverage cooler while the front door with a folding table in the module. On all doors, cloth-covered armrests with integral pull cups are underlined by narrow satin silver moldings while side air bags are concealed in the Pique cloth reinforced.

Designed to accommodate both left and right-hand drive, the modular instrument panel features two horizontal Pique cloth wrapover pads divided by a satin silver center stack topped by a fixed navigation screen with non-glare glass. The pads front surface open storage trays directly ahead of the driver and front seat passenger, with storage for small items in boxes divided below. The center stack also houses the large, easy to use entertainment and heating, ventilation and air conditioning control whose circular elements mimic the exterior lamp detailing, "because," explains Sodano, "we have tried to create a common style architecture for exterior and interior. " Ten spherical speakers in varying sizes are supplied in the cabin, two in each front door and three on each panel.

The circle of three, six-gauge delta-shaped instrument binnacle with hood moves with the steering column while the steering wheel itself features a textured, molded rubber rim and three "tuning fork" spokes that echo the exterior of the wheels. An independent cantilevered center armrest "floats" on the front floor console, turn downward to permit unfettered access to the manual six-speed changes during aggressive driving.

Hard, brash and eager to be off, the Dodge Hornet concept vehicle brings to the competitive entry-level B-segment market an ideal combination of American fun and European function.

2009 Dodge Circuit EV

2009-03-06T20:33:00.001-08:00

The Dodge EV Circuit shows bold style exterior and interior with exceptional performance, the zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions.

The Dodge EV Circuit design screams pure sports car from any angle. Dodge EV The circuit shows the profile of perfect proportions for the handling balance, putting the driver and passengers about halfway along the wheelbase. In the front of the vehicle, the distinctive split grille Dodge cross wind, sent through the long, low hood and clean the windshield and cabin. The body sides feature a deep scallop, providing visual depth and a functional rear brake air duct. On the back, mixing with functional design elements to create a uniform finish.

"The exterior style of the Dodge EV Dodge Circuit colleagues bold style does not compromise the performance of all the attributes of an electric performance sports car," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Design, Chrysler LLC. "The Dodge EV offers a very fun circuit to drive, sports car without significant fuel consumption and virtually no impact on the environment."

The Dodge EV Circuit is adorned in all new "Tangoreen exterior color, the general purpose" EV "graphics on both sides of the sports car.

The simple interior of the Dodge EV Circuit offers a combination of pure function and athletic improvement. The cabin design offers complete control of the car on the driver's reach. Located inside a leather cover two main instrument panel gauges are analog face. A digital display conveys information about the electric-drive system.

The seats feature reinforced deep and are covered in premium leather. The same premium leather covers the center console and the width of the instrument panel.

The Dodge EV offers all of the circuitry of the comfort of a sports car performance, including the premium sound system, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, cruise control.

Propelled by a completely electric drivetrain ENVI, the Dodge EV Circuit posts impressive performance numbers:
0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds
Quarter mile in 13 seconds
Top speed over 120 mph

Perhaps the most impressive Dodge EV Circuit number, however, is zero. That is the amount of fuel the vehicle consumes the same time exciting performance sports car. It is also the amount of tailpipe emissions are produced.

Dodge EV The circuit uses three components of power. These include a 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor to drive the wheels, an advanced lithium-ion battery to power the electrical system of the engine, and a controller that manages energy flow.

Working with the latest advanced lithium-ion technology, the Dodge EV has a circuit driving range of 150 to 200 miles between charges - more than triple the daily average of most consumers. Recharging the vehicle is a simple step in a process of connecting a standard 110 volt household outlet. The recharge time can be halved by a typical 220-volt household appliance power outlet.

The Dodge EV offers a circuit performance enthusiasts driving the sports car can be driven to work every day - without consuming gasoline or producing tailpipe emissions.

2008 Dodge Challenger Targa Concept

2008-12-05T08:00:00.002-08:00

Dodge Challenger Targa Concept

The Dodge Challenger Targa is a full-blown competition car that raced and completed the infamous Targa Newfoundland race this year. "Samantha" started life as a Mopar Challenger drag race package car. Many features were borrowed from the Dodge Viper, but the most noticeable is the snakeskin green paint. To keep the front end down, a Mopar chin spoiler "Splats" developed in a full scale wind tunnel, was added to the front of the car. Mopar gauges keep a close eye on the vital signs. The Mopar hood is equipped with a scoop to make room for the 540-horsepower, 490 lb. ft. of torque, 392 HEMI® V-8 Mopar crate motor. Mated to a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, the engine blasts power to the rear wheels. An abundance of fade resistant stopping power comes from Stop-Tech brakes. Up front, the six-piston calipers clamp 380-millimetre rotors, while in the rear, four-pot calipers work with 355-mm rotors. Developed by KW, the race suspension and brake upgrades came from a proven hero — the Dodge Viper ACR, which just broke the production car lap record at the world-renown Nurburgring in Germany. With only a few exceptions, the Dodge Challenger Targa was built using parts available through Mopar.

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept

2008-12-05T08:00:00.001-08:00

Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept

The opportunity for SRT engineering to "one-up" itself comes to fruition with the Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept. Power for the car comes from the Dodge Viper 8.4-liter, all-aluminum V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb. ft. of torque. It's a vehicle that delivers the well-known SRT credo of benchmark performance. The Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept includes a fresh coat of Tornado Red paint with a carbon-fiber deck lid and hood. The "shaker hood" is a nostalgic representation of the 1970 HEMI Cuda, giving the 600-hp Viper V-10 engine room to breathe. Brakes have been upgraded and BILSTEIN® shocks at all four corners improve handling balance. The interior boasts sport seats and carbon-fiber accents throughout and, of course, true to the Viper-powered vehicle lineage, a red engine start push-button in the dash.

2008 Dodge EV Concept

2008-12-05T07:49:00.000-08:00

Dodge EV Concept

The Dodge EV development Electric Vehicle is a two-passenger, rear-wheel-drive sports car that marries high performance with zero tailpipe emissions based on the Lotus Europa.

"The Dodge EV sets a new standard for what can be expected in electric-drive vehicles," said Lou Rhodes, Vice President - Advance Vehicle Engineering, and President - ENVI. "The electric-vehicle technology enables a fun-to-drive performance sports car and helps redefine the vision of an environmentally responsible vehicle for the Dodge brand."

The electric-drive system consists of three primary components: a 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor, an advanced lithium-ion battery and an integrated power controller.

The 200 kW electric-drive motor generates 650 N•m (480 lb.-ft.) of torque. The instant high torque of the electric-drive motor delivers outstanding performance, accelerating the Dodge EV to 60 mph in less than five seconds, with quarter-mile times of 13 seconds. The Dodge EV has a top speed of more than 120 mph.

Working with the latest advanced lithium-ion battery technology, the Dodge EV has a continuous driving range of 150 to 200 miles - more than triple the average daily commute of most consumers. Recharging the vehicle is a simple one-step process: plugging into a standard 110-volt household outlet for eight hours. The recharge time can be cut in half to four hours by using a typical 220-volt household appliance power outlet.

The Dodge EV offers driving enthusiasts a performance sports car that can be driven to work every day - without consuming gasoline or producing tailpipe emissions.

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR

2008-12-05T07:36:00.001-08:00

Dodge Viper SRT10

Even More Venom: Dodge Unleashes New 600-horsepower 2008 Viper SRT10

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 boasts more of what performance aficionados crave: kick-in-the-pants, throw-back-in-the-seat power, combined with benchmark braking, world-class ride and handling, a race-inspired interior and bold exterior styling.

While every SRT vehicle offers balanced, overall performance, the heart and soul of the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is its standout powertrain. For 2008, SRT ups the ante with a new, 8.4-liter aluminum V-10 engine that produces an astounding 600 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. of torque.

"A legendary big-game hunter once said, 'Bring enough gun!' - and with the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, we've created some very powerful artillery for sports-car enthusiasts," said Kipp Owen, Director - Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Engineering, Chrysler Group. "With 600 horsepower - 90 more than before - and 0-to-60 performance in less than four seconds, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 sets a new benchmark for the ultimate American sports car."

The new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 will arrive in Dodge showrooms in North America this summer with a new level of customization options, including five new exterior colors, four new interior color combinations and a new wheel design.

Standout Powertrain

When SRT powertrain engineers set out to get more venom from the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's powerplant, their objectives included not only increasing performance, but also complying with stringent regulatory requirements, such as federal Tier 2, Bin 5 and California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) 2 mandates.

Working with specialists from McLaren Performance Technologies and Ricardo, Inc., SRT engineers began by following the racer's basic formula for more power: bigger displacement, more efficient breathing and higher engine speed.

The new Dodge Viper SRT10's deep-skirted V-10 aluminum engine block was revised for a 1-millimeter larger bore, raising the displacement to 8.4 liters from 8.3 liters. With strengthened bulkheads and improved water jackets for better cooling, the block includes pressed-in iron cylinder liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps for strength and durability.

The Viper SRT10's 8.4-liter engine breathes through new cylinder heads equipped with Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)-shaped combustion chambers, larger valves and Variable Valve Timing (VVT). VVT electronically adjusts when the exhaust valves are open and closed according to engine speed and load, allowing the engine to "breathe" cleaner and more efficiently.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 V-10's two-piece intake manifold combines a cast aluminum lower with smooth runners for better air flow, bolted to a die-cast aluminum upper plenum. A revised air-cleaner box with a low-restriction filter sends air through a dual electronic throttle control into the intake module.

The air-fuel mixture in the cylinders is ignited by platinum-tip spark plugs fired by new individual plug coils mounted on the cylinder-head covers.

Within the cylinders, pistons are equipped with larger-diameter floating pins with bronze bushings for high-load capability. Forged powder-metal connecting rods are secured with aircraft-quality fasteners for increased fatigue strength.

Engine lubrication is managed by a larger oil pump and a swinging oil pickup adapted from Viper competition engines, to improve oil pressure in high-rpm and hard-cornering conditions.

Spent gases exit through tubular air-gap headers, which not only improve exhaust flow, but also ensure quick catalyst light-off for improved emission control. The headers' stamped stainless-steel outer shell acts as a thermal heat shield for the individual stainless-steel runners that contribute to better flow separation and exhaust tuning.

SRT engineers didn't stop there. Upgrades were developed to handle the 8.4-liter V-10's increased horsepower and torque levels, while improving traction, driveability - and durability.

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10's V-10 channels its power through a new, smaller-diameter, twin-disc clutch (a change from the previous larger-diameter, single-disc setup). The new clutch reduces rotating inertia by 18 percent, resulting in reduced clutch-pedal effort and improved engagement feel.

The transmission is the latest evolution of the Tremec T56 six-speed manual, known as the TR6060. It features 10 percent wider gears for higher torque capacity and a new synchronizer package. A new shifter system results in reduced shifter travel. Club racers will applaud a new provision for adding an external transmission cooler.

Benchmark Braking

Stopping power is another key attribute of the Dodge Viper SRT10 formula, with 14-inch brake rotors gripped by Brembo 44/40 dual opposing piston calipers in the front and Brembo 42/38 dual opposing calipers in the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents lockup during hard braking. This system results in a benchmark braking performance of 60-to-0 mph in less than 100 feet.

World-class Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 is defined by a race-bred, fully independent, four-wheel suspension featuring lightweight, high-performance aluminum control arms and knuckles, damped by lightweight coil-over shock absorbers.

Where the power goes right to the road, SRT engineers retained the tried-and-true Dana M44-4 rear axle and outfitted it with a new GKN Visco-Lok speed-sensing limited-slip differential for improved traction.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 rides on polished, forged aluminum, 18 x 10-inch front and 19 x 13-inch rear wheels now available in three styles: the five-spoke, the H-spoke and the all-new Razor wheel with five U-shaped spokes. The wheels are clad in Michelin® Pilot® Sport PS2 tires. The four-groove tread-design tires provide maximum grip, reduced road noise and superior handling in both wet and dry conditions.

Bold Exterior Styling

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains available in two body styles - Roadster and Coupe. Both feature a dramatic new hood with a larger, more efficient hood scoop for air induction and larger, functional hood louvers to facilitate a greater cooling effect for the more powerful 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.

Eight exterior colors will be introduced throughout the model year - five of which are all-new including Venom Red, Snakeskin Green, Viper Violet, Viper Orange and Bright Blue. Racing stripes continue to be an option with six dual painted stripe colors available: white, black, silver, graphite, blue and red.

Several exterior differences exist between the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe. In fact, the only body panels they share are front fascia and fenders, hood and doors. However, all of the iconic Viper SRT10 design cues have been maintained including the signature crosshair grille, deep-cut side scallops, swept-back fenders and lowered hood lines.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe's hard top with its "double bubble" styling makes it even more torsionally stiff than the Roadster. The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe offers increased downforce and high-speed stability with its sloping roofline and deck-lid spoiler. Plus, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe has an additional 6.25 cubic feet of trunk space than the Viper SRT10 Roadster, for a total of 14.65 cubic feet. The roof and headliner structure offer more room to accommodate a safety cage, while maintaining as much headroom as possible.

Race-inspired Interior Design

The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster and Coupe cockpit retains its characteristic red push-button starter and performance-oriented, highly functional instrument panel with center-mounted tachometer and 220-mph speedometer.

Five interior colors will be available in 2008: black, and four new color combinations in black/red, black/blue, black/slate or black/natural tan. A choice of bezel finishes on the center instrument panel and console adds to the increased level of customization.

"The 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 delivers die-hard performance enthusiasts a perfect combination of outrageous power, exceptional performance and stunning good looks," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Motorsports and SRT Marketing and Product Planning, Chrysler Group. "And now with a whole new range of interior and exterior colors and options to choose from, the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 redefines how a customer can personalize their Viper."

2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport

2008-08-21T23:43:00.001-07:00

Dodge Ram 1500 Sport

Emerging from a herd of 120 long horn cattle driven by 10 cowboys on horseback down Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

"Since the dawn of the 'big rig' look, Dodge Ram has always been a game-changer," said Jim Press, Vice Chairman and President, Chrysler LLC. "And this is our all-new game-changer -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, which is packed with full-size pickup firsts and best-in-class features."

In 1994, Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its "big rig" styling and iconic crosshair grille.

"We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. "Our design was polarizing — people loved it or hated it. But the people who loved it, bought it. They still do, because Dodge Ram continues to stand out from the herd of 'me-too' trucks."

For the redesign of its all-new, next-generation Ram, Dodge pulled out all the stops.

"Our mandate was to make a quantum leap and add even more voltage to Ram," said Scott Kunselman, Vice President - Body-on-Frame Product Team. "Our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety."

Capability

In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI which produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque; four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (Ram crew 1500). Five trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top-of-the-line Laramie.

An improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-in-segment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 pounds) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

Convenience

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for effortless access and convenience. Each box holds up to 4.3 cubic feet of whatever — such as five cases (120 cans) of 12-ounce beverages.

The RamBox system includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tie-down capability. The 2009 Dodge Ram's tailgate features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate.

Another new segment-first innovation for the 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 is a pair of "store in the floor" bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage — large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice.

There are many other convenient storage locations throughout the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram including a large upper glove box, map pockets in door panels and a configurable center console. All in all, there are nearly twice as many storage locations (38) in the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram than were in the previous model.

Technically sophisticated, yet simple-to-navigate electronic and infotainment choices include MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with 30-gigabyte hard drive, navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system available in the Quad Cab and crew cab. Also available is first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™ and segment-first surround-sound audio.

Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, available heated rear seats, first-for-Dodge heated steering wheel, one-touch up/down driver and passenger windows, automatic-on headlamps and dual-zone automatic temperature control — a first for Dodge Ram.

Craftsmanship

In addition to the exterior, the all-new interior of the 2009 Dodge Ram stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in premium interior appointments including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. An automatic-transmission floor shifter, incorporated into a configurable center console, is available for the first time in a Dodge Ram. All 2009 Dodge Ram interiors are significantly upgraded with "soft-touch" materials that feature industry-first two-tone technology and premium fit and finish. Full-width contrasting stitching is offered on soft-touch instrument panels for Sport and Laramie models.

On the exterior, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram features a redesigned aluminum hood with a large power bulge and a forward-canted grille, imparting a "head down, ready to charge" attitude, while front and rear bumpers wrap around each body side. The rear bumper on HEMI-equipped models is radiused over chromed dual exhaust tips - a first in light-duty pickups. Attractive 20-inch wheels are available in three styles. Sills are pulled down to cover frame rails for a premium appearance. Badges are three-dimensional, rather than decals, and are designed to stand out. The sculpted Ram's-head badge on the tailgate is 250 percent larger than the previous badge.

Safety

On the safety and security front, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers more than 30 active and passive safety features, including standard front and rear side-curtain air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System, knee bolsters, seat-belt pre-tensioners, Anti-lock Brake System, BeltAlert® System, and Electronic Stability Control; and available adjustable pedals, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist and ParkView® Rear Back-up Camera.

Manufacturing

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram will be built in two locations: Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the Warren (Mich.) Assembly Plant, and regular cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the St. Louis North Assembly Plan in Fenton, Mo.

2009 Dodge Ram 1500

2008-08-21T23:37:00.001-07:00

Dodge Ram 1500

Emerging from a herd of 120 long horn cattle driven by 10 cowboys on horseback down Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

"Since the dawn of the 'big rig' look, Dodge Ram has always been a game-changer," said Jim Press, Vice Chairman and President, Chrysler LLC. "And this is our all-new game-changer -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, which is packed with full-size pickup firsts and best-in-class features."

In 1994, Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its "big rig" styling and iconic crosshair grille.

"We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President - Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. "Our design was polarizing — people loved it or hated it. But the people who loved it, bought it. They still do, because Dodge Ram continues to stand out from the herd of 'me-too' trucks."

For the redesign of its all-new, next-generation Ram, Dodge pulled out all the stops.

"Our mandate was to make a quantum leap and add even more voltage to Ram," said Scott Kunselman, Vice President - Body-on-Frame Product Team. "Our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is a game-changer in terms of capability, convenience, craftsmanship and safety."

Capability

In addition to the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI which produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers a 4.7-liter V-8 providing 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque; four- and five-speed automatic transmissions; part-time and on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer cases; and 3.21, 3.55, 3.92 and 4.10 axle ratios.

Equipped with the new HEMI, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram R/T regular-cab 4x2 model with a short bed and 4:10 gears blasts from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram is offered in regular cab, Quad Cab® and crew-size cab, with three box lengths: 8-foot (regular cab), 6-foot-4-inches (regular cab and Quad Cab), and a new-for-2009 box length of 5-foot-7-inches (Ram crew 1500). Five trim levels are available, each with a unique appearance: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport, and the top-of-the-line Laramie.

An improved frame design incorporating high-strength steel supports an all-new, first-in-segment, multi-link coil spring rear suspension that improves ride and handling characteristics without sacrificing payload (up to an estimated 1,850 pounds) and towing capability (up to an estimated 9,100 pounds).

Convenience

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 features an available first-in-segment RamBox cargo management system that provides weatherproof, lockable, illuminated and drainable storage compartments integrated into both fender sides for effortless access and convenience. Each box holds up to 4.3 cubic feet of whatever — such as five cases (120 cans) of 12-ounce beverages.

The RamBox system includes a bed divider/2-foot bed extender for oversize loads and a rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats for infinitely adjustable tie-down capability. The 2009 Dodge Ram's tailgate features a standard assist feature that reduces the effort needed to raise and close the tailgate.

Another new segment-first innovation for the 2009 Dodge Ram Crew 1500 is a pair of "store in the floor" bins with removable liners that offer even more versatile storage — large enough for ten 12-ounce beverages and ice.

There are many other convenient storage locations throughout the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram including a large upper glove box, map pockets in door panels and a configurable center console. All in all, there are nearly twice as many storage locations (38) in the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram than were in the previous model.

Technically sophisticated, yet simple-to-navigate electronic and infotainment choices include MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with 30-gigabyte hard drive, navigation system, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system available in the Quad Cab and crew cab. Also available is first-in-segment live SIRIUS Backseat TV™ and segment-first surround-sound audio.

Other premium amenities include first-in-segment heated and ventilated front seats, available heated rear seats, first-for-Dodge heated steering wheel, one-touch up/down driver and passenger windows, automatic-on headlamps and dual-zone automatic temperature control — a first for Dodge Ram.

Craftsmanship

In addition to the exterior, the all-new interior of the 2009 Dodge Ram stands out with a renewed emphasis on craftsmanship expressed in premium interior appointments including six-ring instrumentation, redesigned controls, chrome accents, premium seating with improved bolsters and two-tone upholstery. An automatic-transmission floor shifter, incorporated into a configurable center console, is available for the first time in a Dodge Ram. All 2009 Dodge Ram interiors are significantly upgraded with "soft-touch" materials that feature industry-first two-tone technology and premium fit and finish. Full-width contrasting stitching is offered on soft-touch instrument panels for Sport and Laramie models.

On the exterior, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram features a redesigned aluminum hood with a large power bulge and a forward-canted grille, imparting a "head down, ready to charge" attitude, while front and rear bumpers wrap around each body side. The rear bumper on HEMI-equipped models is radiused over chromed dual exhaust tips - a first in light-duty pickups. Attractive 20-inch wheels are available in three styles. Sills are pulled down to cover frame rails for a premium appearance. Badges are three-dimensional, rather than decals, and are designed to stand out. The sculpted Ram's-head badge on the tailgate is 250 percent larger than the previous badge.

Safety

On the safety and security front, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram offers more than 30 active and passive safety features, including standard front and rear side-curtain air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System, knee bolsters, seat-belt pre-tensioners, Anti-lock Brake System, BeltAlert® System, and Electronic Stability Control; and available adjustable pedals, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist and ParkView® Rear Back-up Camera.

Manufacturing

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram will be built in two locations: Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the Warren (Mich.) Assembly Plant, and regular cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the St. Louis North Assembly Plan in Fenton, Mo.

2009 Dodge Journey

2008-08-21T23:30:00.001-07:00

Dodge Journey

Dodge designers and engineers have answered the needs of the global passenger car market, as well as the needs of individual drivers, and delivered the all-new Dodge Journey: a global vehicle that meets life’s changing demands by offering a unique combination of versatility and flexibility in a sporty, sexy package. This all-new vehicle takes the practicality of a minivan, the capability of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the overall efficiency of a passenger car and blends all the best attributes of each into an all-new “right-sized” crossover for the Dodge brand.

“The all-new Dodge Journey gives our customers the entire package,” said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President – International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler. “With its unique combination of purposeful versatility and bold, youthful styling, this new vehicle from Dodge delivers safety, quality and reliability at a great value. Journey also blends innovative technology, entertainment features and useful storage, all wrapped together with an attitude that can only be Dodge.”

The Dodge Journey is built on the company’s global D-segment platform and is designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from young singles, couples and families with small children to mature families who want the flexibility to do more in terms of seating people or storing gear. Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations include standard five-passenger seating with spacious cargo room and available 5+2 seating, for times when additional passengers are along on the journey. Spacious storage bins, hidden in the floor and under the front passenger seat cushion, combined with a variety of fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, make Dodge Journey flexible, functional and fun-to-drive.

Safety also is at the top of mind for customers, and the Dodge Journey delivers with standard multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, three-row side-curtain air bags, standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), standard Electronic Roll Mitigation, an available back-up camera and available all-wheel drive (AWD) in the United States and Canada.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey will be available in U.S. dealerships with both five-passenger and available 5+2 seating in SE, SXT and R/T models in the first quarter of 2008 and in global volume markets outside North America in both left-hand and right-hand drive, starting in mid-2008.

Bold, Powerful Proportions with Edgy Lines Evoke SUV Capability

Journey is unmistakably Dodge, with powerful, muscular exterior styling cues that evoke the capable look associated with SUVs.

“The Journey combines the bold attitude of Dodge with excellent interior versatility designed to satisfy buyers’ rapidly changing demands,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “Journey is the perfect right-sized vehicle for people who want the prestige of an SUV, but need the functionality and utility of a minivan.”

From the front, the signature Dodge crosshair chrome grille with the Dodge Ram’s head stamped in the center hammers home the Dodge brand message that Journey is bold, powerful and capable. Modern-looking quad halogen headlamps provide excellent road lighting. Available fascia-mounted fog lamps strengthen the contemporary look and help boost visibility during bad weather. Body-color fascias provide a monochromatic look that neatly frames the chrome crosshair grille and headlamps.

Dodge Journey boasts available 19-inch wheels and tires, which set it apart from the rest of the crossover pack. From the side view, Dodge Journey’s horizontal aluminum hood, long daylight opening and low-gloss black appliqués on the B- and C-pillars give the appearance of a long greenhouse. Sculpted wheel arches emphasize Journey’s sporty, athletic appearance. Dodge Journey’s beltline is more angled in front, but less so toward the rear, mimicking the top of the tail lamp shape, which makes it easier for rear-seat passengers to see out the windows — a bonus for pint-sized passengers. An available high-contrast black roof rack with buffed stainless steel roof rails adds capability and completes Journey’s side view.

The Dodge Journey’s rear view elicits as much excitement as the front. The Journey’s single piece, lightweight liftgate includes an integrated spoiler that delivers improved aerodynamics. An LED center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) is mounted in the liftgate header above the glass. Like the integrated spoiler above it, the outer surface of the CHMSL is styled for aerodynamics. Four-piece jeweled red tail lamps span the width of both the liftgate and the body and feature unique curves that give the Journey added style and sportiness. The rear glass on the liftgate’s lower edge follows the curvature of the tail lamps to improve visibility through the rear window. Extra shimmer that adds gleam to the Journey’s performance capability comes from the chrome-tipped dual exhausts, which are standard with the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine in North America.

The Dodge Journey adapts the company’s D-segment architecture also used on the 2008 model-year Dodge Avenger. However, Journey’s 113.8-inch (2890 mm) wheelbase is 4.9 in. (124 mm) longer than Avenger’s to accommodate its available 5+2 seating and additional cargo space.

Dodge Journey will be available in Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Light Sandstone Metallic Clear Coat, Melbourne Green Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

Spacious Interior Room for the Entire Journey

A key target for the Dodge Journey’s design team was delivering a practical, flexible interior, with seating and innovative storage features typically only found in a minivan, and the final product delivers.

Dodge Journey’s two-box exterior design means more room for seating people and storing gear on the interior. Journey offers a choice of two seating configurations to balance buyers’ needs for passenger seating and cargo room. Five-passenger seating is standard on all models, while 5+2-passenger seating is available on all models. The Journey’s available third row gives passengers 2 inches (51 mm) more head room than leading North American competitors.

Storing things “under the front seat” takes on an entirely new meaning, thanks to Journey’s available Flip ’N Stow™ in-seat storage. The Journey’s front passenger seat cushion flips forward to reveal a large 10.75 x 8.75-inch (273 x 222 mm) bin under the seat cushion. The bin is large enough to store a purse, umbrella, planner or headphones with the seat down. The seat cushion is hinged, and when flipped forward, provides access to the storage bin.

Dodge Journey’s rear doors open 90 degrees, making it easier for people to get in and out of the second row and gain access to the available third-row seat.

In the second row, the all-new Dodge Journey features theater seating, which gives passengers in the second and third row the ability to see outside the vehicle, which is especially helpful for keeping kids entertained on long drives. The second row H-point is 1.6 inches (40 mm) higher than the first row. The available third row sits another .6 inches (17 mm) higher than the second row and 2.2 inches (57 mm) higher than the first-row seats.

Located in the floor behind the front-row seats are two standard in-floor storage bins that are designed to hold 12, 12-oz. (330 ml) cans plus ice or other items conveniently out of sight. For added convenience, the bins feature latching lids and removable, washable liners, so they’re a snap to clean.

Additional thoughtful features that make Dodge Journey more flexible for families include a child presenter seat on all models that makes it easy for the driver to attend to a small child seated in the second row when the vehicle is stationary. The child presenter seat works by allowing the 60 percent portion of the 60/40 fold-flat second row seat to travel 2 inches (51 mm) forward. With the front passenger seat folded flat, the driver can easily reach to the back to assist a child in the second row.

Dodge Journey is the first vehicle in the mid-size crossover segment to offer available integrated child booster seats. These available seats boost a child seated in the second row 4 inches (102 mm) so they’re seated in the adult belted zone. This makes it easier for the child seated in the booster seat to see outside the vehicle. The booster seat is designed for children who are as much as 4 foot 9 inches (1.45 m) tall and between 48 lbs. (22 kg) and 85 lbs. (39 kg).

The second-row seats also move forward and rearward a total of 4.7 inches (120 mm) to give adults more leg room, bring children closer to the front seats and provide more cargo room behind the seats. Folding the second row and the available fold-flat front passenger seat flat creates plenty of room for hauling home lumber needed to assemble a playscape or skis from the slopes.

On five-passenger models, a tri-fold load floor is located behind the second-row seat and provides a hidden storage compartment for added utility. The load floor is reversible and configures into a “grocery bag” position. The primary side of the folding panel is carpeted for durability.

The available third-row seat is easy to operate and get into, thanks to Journey’s stadium Tip ’N Slide™ second-row seats. With the turn of a single lever on the side of the seat back, the seat cushions easily fold upward and the seat slides forward. Journey’s available 50/50-split-folding third-row seat provides enough room for two passengers on an as needed basis. The seatback reclines 6 degrees to make the ride even more comfortable. A rear in-floor hidden storage bin located behind the available third-row seat is standard on 5+2-passenger vehicles.

In addition to seating and storage features, Dodge Journey’s versatile and functional interior features a two-tone color scheme with high-contrast dark and light colors. A combination of Dark Slate Gray and Medium Slate Gray is available on SE models. A two-tone combination of Dark Slate Gray and Light Graystone or Dark Pebble Beige and Light Pebble Beige is available on SXT and R/T models. A premium soft-skin instrument panel provides a sense of quality and craftsmanship. Chrome accents the upper center bin latch, door handle, shifter bezel and door lock knobs and instrument cluster bezel. Journey R/T models add chrome touches on radio and climate control knobs.

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey also features three types of seat upholstery: cloth is standard on the SE model, YES Essentials® stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-static seat fabric is available on the SE model and standard on the SXT model and leather is standard on the R/T model.

Powertrains Provide Efficiency, Flexibility, Fun-to-drive Factor

The front-wheel-drive Dodge Journey features a four-wheel independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Front and rear suspension crossmembers are isolated to the body to create a quiet ride, with less road noise, vibration and harshness. AWD is available on Dodge Journey models sold in the United States and Canada on vehicles equipped with the 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard.

Dodge Journey features several different engine/transaxle combinations designed to meet the needs of the diverse mid-size crossover buyer. These include a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine that can run on E-85, an available 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick for the United States and Canada and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transaxle for markets outside North America.

Dodge Journey’s standard 2.4-liter World Engine provides an estimated fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (approximately 9 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle), as well as solid, quiet performance. Journey’s 2.4-liter World Engine is coupled with a standard four-speed automatic transaxle in the United States and Canada, as well as a five-speed manual transaxle in most markets outside North America. It features dual variable valve timing, intake manifold flow control valves, acoustic cylinder head covers, dual counter-rotating balance shafts and an acoustic oil pan. Mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle, this engine produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 N•m) of torque.

Dodge Journey also features an available 2.7-liter V-6 engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transaxle that is offered as an FFV in North America. The flex-fuel engine produces 186 horsepower (138 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. (259 N•m) of torque and delivers an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (approximately 10 liters per 100 km on the European combined cycle). The Journey’s 2.7-liter engine with flexible fuel capability has the ability to operate effectively on any blend of gasoline and fuel-grade ethanol up to E-85. Outside North America, this 2.7-liter V-6 engine is coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle.

Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD vehicles available in the United States and Canada feature a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower (175 kW) and 232 lb.-ft. (315 N•m) of torque coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick. This engine delivers an estimated 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This 3.5-liter V-6 engine also is available on SXT models sold in the United States and Canada. The combination of the 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with the six-speed automatic transaxle delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as quiet operation.

In markets outside North America, Dodge Journey offers a modern 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transaxle. This 16-valve diesel engine is a state-of-the-art direct-injection power plant with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled for high power and torque output and optimal fuel efficiency. Maximum power is 140 horsepower DIN (103 kW), and peak torque is 229 lb.-ft. (310 N•m). The engine is expected to deliver excellent overall performance and fuel economy of under 7 liters per 100 km (European combined cycle). A diesel particulate filter is standard from the factory.

Six-speed Transaxle Provides Quick Acceleration, Quiet Ride

The 2009 model-year Dodge Journey R/T and R/T AWD models available in the United States and Canada, as well as 2.7-liter models sold outside North America, feature a standard six-speed automatic transaxle, which provides quicker standing-start acceleration than a four- or five-speed transaxle because of a numerically higher first-gear ratio. A more robust differential with increased torque capacity enhances launch performance by requiring less torque management, electronically limiting the torque that is available during the initial stages of standing-start acceleration. Smaller steps between ratios also make for a smoother, quieter ride, as the engine speed doesn’t change as much with each shift. In addition, more ratio choices, more appropriate ratios for quicker acceleration and a lower overall top gear ratio provide a quiet ride and improved fuel economy at highway speeds.

Dual-clutch Transaxle Technology Delivers Quick Acceleration, Refined Shift Quality and Improved Fuel Economy

The all-new Dodge Journey will be available with a new dual-clutch transaxle in markets outside of North America. This is the first application of this six-speed automatic transaxle, and it will be available with the 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine. It is expected to deliver a fuel economy improvement of as much as six percent compared with a conventional four-speed automatic transaxle.

Developed in partnership with Getrag, the new transaxle is equipped with two independent lay-shaft style gear sets with separate clutches, that use manual transaxle-based components. During shifts, the next gear is anticipated and pre-selected. One clutch is then opened while the other is closed, allowing shifting without torque interruption. The result is quicker acceleration, refined shift quality and improved fuel economy.

AWD Keeps All Four Wheels Planted

Dodge Journey SXT and R/T models sold in the United States and Canada equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine also offer AWD capability. Journey’s all-wheel-drive system works on demand, driving only the front wheels until power to the rear wheels is needed. AWD also is used on dry pavement between speeds of 25 and 65 mph (40-105 km/h) to enhance handling during performance driving. This system provides added traction on snow, ice and other low-traction surfaces without having to be switched on and off.

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Silver

2008-08-21T23:27:00.001-07:00

Dodge Challenger SRT8 Silver

At the 2008 New York International Auto Show, Chrysler LLC unveiled its full 2009 Dodge Challenger model lineup. Pricing will start in the low $20's.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger merges the best American muscle-car characteristics — unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology — to delight driving enthusiasts across several generations.

"Our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger is a modern-day muscle machine representing the best from the past and present," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "Thirty-five years following the debut of the original, we are bringing Dodge Challenger back and loading it with essential hardware, styling and technology desired by today's buyer."

The Dodge Challenger is the first five-passenger, two-door coupe produced from Chrysler's proven rear-wheel-drive platform that delivers the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Developed with Dodge's credo of "bold, powerful and capable," the Challenger delivers a modern two-door muscle car.

Three models will be offered in North America: Dodge Challenger SRT8®, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SE.

Essential Hardware

The Dodge Challenger R/T features the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission that produces an estimated 370 horsepower (276 kW) and 398 lb.-ft. of torque (540 N•m). For 2009, the HEMI engine is upgraded to get an estimated five percent improvement in fuel economy as well as an increase of 30 horsepower (9 percent) and 8 lb.-ft. improved torque (2 percent) over a greater range of engine speeds. The automatic transmission features fuel-saving multi-displacement (MDS) technology which increases fuel economy by as much as 20 percent depending on driving conditions without sacrificing vehicle performance. The Dodge Challenger R/T also offers a precision-shift six-speed manual transmission — the first for a new-generation HEMI-powered car — that produces 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. of torque (548 N•m) when running on premium fuel. The Dodge Challenger R/T can go from zero to 60 mph in less than six seconds.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features an SRT-exclusive 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine mated with a new-for-2009 six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick that generates a blistering 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. of torque (569 N•m). The vehicle can go from zero to 60 mph in less than five seconds.

The Dodge Challenger SE powered by the 3.5-liter High Output V-6 with a four-speed automatic transmission produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 250 lb.-ft. of torque (339 N•m).

Patterned off the Dodge Charger architecture, the front suspension and five-link independent rear suspension system on all Dodge Challenger models provide excellent ride and handling characteristics.

Essential Styling

The Dodge Challenger design team stayed true to the concept revealed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, while drawing upon elements from the original Challenger. The result: a bold, aggressive muscle machine that blends nostalgia with modern Dodge style.

"Our designers wanted to capture the mind's-eye view of what people today remember about the Dodge Challenger from 35 years ago," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design, Chrysler LLC. "Their challenge was to excite today's customer by capturing the emotion of the original Challenger, while offering today's comfort and performance."

On the exterior, the long, raised performance hood with scoops and recessed grille with round dual headlamps are reminiscent of the original Dodge Challenger. The bold A-line, or character line, that runs from stem to stern gives the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger an instantly recognizable muscle-car profile. Retro dual rectangular exhaust outlets complete the look from the rear.

On the interior, the trapezoidal theme of the door-panel cove and gauge cluster, dark headliner and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. The modern interpretation of the Dodge Challenger offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head (37.4 inches) and leg (32.6 inches) room compared to the competition. Coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.) — equal to the Dodge Charger — the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger offers added comfort and functionality.

Essential Technology

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger offers customers a full range of innovative technologies including:
MyGIG™ provides a cutting-edge multimedia audio and entertainment system, with built-in navigation
UConnect® Hands-free Communication System provides convenient, voice-activated communication with Bluetooth® cellular phones
SIRIUS® Digital Satellite Radio offers a variety of commercial-free radio programs and music
Keyless Go allows the driver to start the vehicle with the simple push of a button
Remote Start starts a secured vehicle with the key fob

More than 25 Safety and Security Features

Dodge Challenger offers more than 25 safety and security features including:
Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) modulate the brakes for the driver to provide steering control while braking
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) applies selective braking or throttle reduction to control oversteer and understeer
Brake Assist ensures maximum braking action during panic stops
Traction Control reduces the throttle and/or applies selective braking to optimize traction during acceleration
Hill Start Assist (HSA) for Manual Transmission application assists the driver in launching the vehicle on an incline
Automatic Headlamps turn headlamps on at dusk and off in the daylight without driver intervention
Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) alerts driver about low tire pressure(s) in order to facilitate safe handling