Autoblog Dodge http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Dodge http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Next Chrysler minivan to be Town & Country only, fueling Dodge closure rumors]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/next-chrysler-minivan-to-be-town-and-country-only-fueling-dodge-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/next-chrysler-minivan-to-be-town-and-country-only-fueling-dodge-c/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/next-chrysler-minivan-to-be-town-and-country-only-fueling-dodge-c/#comments Filed under: , , ,

​2013 Chrysler Town & Country S - front three-quarter view

Recent reports have suggested that Chrysler may soon phase out its long-running Dodge brand, and while the company remains mum on the subject, you can't blame analysts for thinking that's the direction the Pentastar's everyday brand is heading. After all, Chrysler has shown a willingness to shutter brands, having killed off Plymouth back in 2001, and it's putting big dollars behind its bid to build Fiat into a North American force. Chrysler also recently took the step of spinning off its trucks into the stand-alone Ram brand and relocated its halo Viper supercar under the SRT banner.

Couple that with long-held gossip that the full-size Dodge Durango utility vehicle and the Avenger sedan are both living on borrowed time, and you've got a dwindling product portfolio. That would leave Dodge with the Dart compact (a model that isn't selling particularly well), the Charger (which has a mechanical twin in the Chrysler 300) and the Challenger, which could be supplanted by a rumored Chrysler/SRT Cuda. On the people-mover front, Dodge offers the aging Journey and the Grand Caravan, which is the twin to the bigger-margin Chrysler Town & Country.

Stories for some time have pegged Chrysler as only moving forward with one minivan, though there has been some waffling as to whether the next-generation MPV would wear the Town & Country badge or that of the Grand Caravan. A new report out of Canada - where the vehicles are built - says that the winner in the sippy-cup derby is the next Chrysler Town & Country, which will carry a 2016 model year designation. In addition, sources report that T&C production at the Windsor Assembly Plant will be joined by an as-yet-unnamed large near-luxury crossover for 2017, another long-rumored model that could be similar in concept to the long-defunct Pacifica. The brand for this new model? You guessed it - Chrysler.

Next Chrysler minivan to be Town & Country only, fueling Dodge closure rumors originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 chrysler town and country2013 dodge grand caravanchryslerchrysler town and countrydodgedodge caravandodge grand caravanwindsorwindsor assembly plant Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20627960/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20627960/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/19/next-chrysler-minivan-to-be-town-and-country-only-fueling-dodge-c/20627960/article-detail.xml 20627960 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-chrysler-town-and-country-s-628-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-chrysler-town-and-country-s-628-2.jpg <![CDATA[SRT gets first standalone ad campaign]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-gets-first-standalone-ad-campaign/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-gets-first-standalone-ad-campaign/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-gets-first-standalone-ad-campaign/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 srt viper in carwash

SRT has more models on offer than Chrysler. It has as many models as Ram, with hotted-up versions of the Dodge Charger and Challenger, Chrysler 300, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, plus the exclusive SRT Viper. Dodge is still the top of the choice heap, but SRT wants to wave its freak flag high after building its roster somewhat quietly. Since SRT can't roar through everyone's neighborhood, it's taking to television with its first-ever advertising campaign.

You may have already been lucky enough to catch one of the Body and Soul spots that launched on June 8 on cable. There are 30-, 60- and 90-second versions of the commercial, and a web-only full version that clocks in at 2:15. It's a nice piece of evocative writing by David Morring, who served as Creative Director for agency The Richards Group.

"We wanted to infuse our first-ever SRT creative campaign with grit, beauty, longing, desire and nostalgia," said Olivier Francois, Chrysler's Chief Marketing Officer. SRT President and CEO Ralph Gilles also weighed in about the campaign, saying "it's the feeling of when you get behind the wheel and step on the throttle for the first time and feel the power of the engine. It's that feeling and legacy that Chrysler Group has forged with owners and ther vehicles over the last cetury; something that SRT brand is creating with a new set of consumers for the first time." Keep reading to check out the spots for yourself, read the press release, and see if they nailed it.

Continue reading SRT gets first standalone ad campaign

SRT gets first standalone ad campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 chrysler 300 srt82013 dodge challenger srt82013 dodge charger srt82014 jeep grand cherokee srt82014 srt vipersrt advertisingsrt body and soulsrt tv commercialvideo Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20623613/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20623613/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/17/srt-gets-first-standalone-ad-campaign/20623613/article-detail.xml 20623613 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/srt-commercial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/srt-commercial-628.jpg <![CDATA[Does the future of Fiat-Chrysler include Dodge?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/#comments Filed under: , ,

Dodge Emblem

Ward's Auto reports the future of Dodge is looking uncertain. Fiat has more or less laid out its game plan for the next few years, and while the Chrysler, Fiat and Jeep lines are set to receive plenty of love, Dodge isn't so lucky. Fiat has already hobbled Dodge significantly by splitting off the brand's trucks into a separate Ram line.

Ward's says that after the Avenger rides off into the sunset early next year, Fiat-Chrysler won't replace the model, leaving a gaping midsize hole in the Dodge lineup. The report also cites unnamed sources as saying that at least two other current Dodge products will move to the Chrysler line.

One of those could very well be the Grand Caravan. Chrysler has already made it clear that it plans to trim redundancy between its minivan offerings, but it has yet to clarify which other vehicle could sail under the Chrysler banner moving forward. Either way, such changes to the product line would theoretically leave Dodge with just four models.

Does the future of Fiat-Chrysler include Dodge? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerdodgefiatfuture of dodge Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20619482/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20619482/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/13/does-the-future-of-fiat-chrysler-include-dodge/20619482/article-detail.xml 20619482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/dodge-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/dodge-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mopar '13 Dart priced from $25,485*]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/mopar-13-dart-priced-from-25-485/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/mopar-13-dart-priced-from-25-485/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/mopar-13-dart-priced-from-25-485/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Mopar '13 Dart

For the past few years, Chrysler's Mopar in-house tuning division has created its own one-off versions of several cars in the automaker's portfolio, including the Mopar '10 Challenger, Mopar '11 Charger and Mopar '12 300. For 2013, the black-and-blue up-do has been given to the new Dart compact, and Chrysler has announced that the limited-edition sedan is now available for order, priced from $25,485, not including *$995 for destination.

Like previous Mopar edition vehicles, the Dart is painted in a signature Pitch Black exterior with an offset blue racing stripe. The sedan sits seven millimeters lower to the ground and gets visual add-ons like a chin spoiler, decklid spoiler and rear diffuser, along with gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels.

Performance wise, the Dart's 1.4-liter MultiAir inline four-cylinder engine remains, producing 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The Mopar car gets a sport-tuned exhaust system along with revised power steering calibration and beefier brakes.

Inside, Katzkin leather covers the Dart's seats, with the driver's seat done up in blue with black accents (the other seats are black with blue accents). Other standard equipment inside includes Chrysler's Uconnect system with the 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium floor mats and a sport pedal kit.

Scroll down for the full details in Chrysler's press blast.

Continue reading Mopar '13 Dart priced from $25,485*

Mopar '13 Dart priced from $25,485* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge dartdodgedodge dartmoparmopar 13 dart Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20619197/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20619197/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/12/mopar-13-dart-priced-from-25-485/20619197/article-detail.xml 20619197 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mp013021dg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/mp013021dg.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge, Hyundai crowdsourced-funding sites deemed successes]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/dodge-hyundai-crowdsourced-funding-sites-deemed-successes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/dodge-hyundai-crowdsourced-funding-sites-deemed-successes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/dodge-hyundai-crowdsourced-funding-sites-deemed-successes/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Dodge Dart crowdsource funding graphic

What's not to love about crowdsourcing? This idea, after all, has given us Kickstarter as well Local Motors, but automakers are starting to use the social platform to sell more cars (or just drum up a little PR). Both Dodge and Hyundai have used "crowd-funding" recently, and while Automotive News is reporting that neither has racked up big sales with this gimmick, both automakers are pleased with the attention.

For Hyundai, it teamed up with website Motozuma.com to help customers crowdsource money for a down payment, and the automaker matched this amount up to $500. Last year, this helped Hyundai sell an extra 1,600 units, a fraction of its total 2012 sales. That figure is far larger than Dodge fared with the Dodge Dart Registry - it netted only two sales and a small number of individual options. This registry did help University of Southern California fraternity crowdsource $18,000 to buy a Dart for a local Meals on Wheels, however. Despite the low sales figures, Dodge and Hyundai are considering their crowdsourcing programs a success since it helped them connect with younger buyers.

Dodge, Hyundai crowdsourced-funding sites deemed successes originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> crowdfundingcrowdsourcingdodgedodge dart registryhyundai Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598668/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20598668/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/05/dodge-hyundai-crowdsourced-funding-sites-deemed-successes/20598668/article-detail.xml 20598668 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/dodge-dart-registry_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/dodge-dart-registry.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Journey, Mexico to go their separate ways]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/dodge-journey-mexico-to-go-their-separate-ways-sterling-heights/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/dodge-journey-mexico-to-go-their-separate-ways-sterling-heights/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/dodge-journey-mexico-to-go-their-separate-ways-sterling-heights/#comments Filed under: , ,

2011 Dodge Journey - front three-quarter view
According to an Automotive News report, Chrysler Group is saying adios to Toluca, Mexico, and moving production of its next-generation Dodge Journey to Detroit, Michigan, when the model is replaced in 2016. The change of venue, discovered through sources at suppliers, would mean the mid-size crossover would be built alongside the next-generation Chrysler 200 sedan, due in 2014, at the automaker's Sterling Heights Assembly Plant. It would also leave the Toluca plant without a product after 2016.

Chrysler has been assembling its Journey in Mexico to facilitate exporting to Europe and South America (where it's rebadged as the Fiat Freemont). However, shifting production to the States would allow for higher sticker prices in those markets, according to current trade agreements. In addition, the move would consolidate the automaker's CUSW-platform vehicles (e.g. Dodge Journey, Chrysler 200, Dodge Dart, Jeep Cherokee) to three assembly plants, all geographically close, easing supply chains and lowering costs. Chrysler has not commented on the report.

Dodge Journey, Mexico to go their separate ways originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dodge journeydodge journey productiondodge mexico assemblysterling heightstoluca Sun, 02 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20593803/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20593803/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/02/dodge-journey-mexico-to-go-their-separate-ways-sterling-heights/20593803/article-detail.xml 20593803 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2011-dodge-journey-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2011-dodge-journey-628.jpg <![CDATA[I sold my Viper, but the memories I'll keep]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/i-sold-my-viper-but-the-memories-ill-keep/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/i-sold-my-viper-but-the-memories-ill-keep/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/i-sold-my-viper-but-the-memories-ill-keep/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The following is written by auto industry veteran Tom Kowaleski. The words are his own, but the memories now belong to everyone thanks to his willingness to share. If you're an industry veteran with a story to share, contact us at tipsATautoblogDOTcom.

It became the flame that started the fire of belief in the next life of Chrysler.

I just sold a car. Nothing new. Millions do it every day. But my car was a 1995 Dodge Viper, so maybe it was a bit more unique since just 12,000 were built. And like others selling a car that's been a part of the family for close to 20 years, this was a confluence of emotions for me. I was sad to see it go, but happy to have the cash and one less big, shiny, under-utilized object in my life.

Viper was a major part of my education in the automobile business. I worked at Chrysler in the '80s and '90s, and the Viper's development - indeed, its whole story - was critical to Chrysler's revitalization and comeback into credibility. The Viper program was done on a shoestring. It came to life as the result of four incredibly strong personalities agreeing on a single vision. It was a car no consumer research would ever support. It was a car one no one else would ever think of building. Yet, it became the flame that started the fire of belief in the next life of Chrysler.

The first time I laid eyes on the Viper, I was invited to join a final review session with Bob Lutz, the Vice Chairman of the company at the time; Francois Castaing, the new head of Engineering and recent AMC arrival; and Tom Gale, the head of Design and the most senior 'real' Chrysler person. The fourth member of the gang, the scalawag racing legend Carroll Shelby, was not in attendance.

Tom Kowaleski is a veteran of public relations. He has worked in senior positions at Chrysler, General Motors, BMW and currently Lincoln, making him one of the few industry insiders to have worked for each of Detroit's three automakers.

Continue reading I sold my Viper, but the memories I'll keep

I sold my Viper, but the memories I'll keep originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 May 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge viper2013 dodge viper for sale2013dodgeviper2013dodgeviperforsalechryslerdodgedodge viperfeaturedtom kowaleskitow kowaleskitowkowaleskiviper Thu, 30 May 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20589111/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20589111/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/30/i-sold-my-viper-but-the-memories-ill-keep/20589111/article-detail.xml 20589111 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tom-kowaleski-viper-628-1369957668_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tom-kowaleski-viper-628-1369957668.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge hoping Fast & Furious appearance gives Dart a sales jolt [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/dodge-hoping-fast-and-furious-appearance-gives-dart-a-sales-jolt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/dodge-hoping-fast-and-furious-appearance-gives-dart-a-sales-jolt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/28/dodge-hoping-fast-and-furious-appearance-gives-dart-a-sales-jolt/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 Dodge Dart

According to Automotive News, Chrysler is hoping Fast & Furious 6 will be kind to the Dodge Dart. While the compact sedan doesn't actually show up in the film, Dodge has partnered up with the movie franchise for a new ad featuring the Dart.

Chrysler hasn't exactly seen the high sales numbers it was originally hoping for with the new sedan, thanks in part to a couple of missteps. For starters, most early-production vehicles were only offered with a manual transmission. Analysts believe Chrysler squandered around 95 percent of potential Dart sales because automatic transmission options weren't immediately available.

Right now, the Dodge Dart rakes 19th among compact cars, pulling down 31,064 sales through April. Last month was the company's strongest, with 8,099 units moving off of dealer lots. Unfortunately, the model has also been handicapped by its older sister, the Avenger. With Chrysler throwing heavy incentives at the aging sedan, many consumers have taken advantage of a better deal with the slightly larger, more powerful Avenger.

Scroll down to watch the Fast & Furious-inspired Dart ad.

Continue reading Dodge hoping Fast & Furious appearance gives Dart a sales jolt [w/video]

Dodge hoping Fast & Furious appearance gives Dart a sales jolt [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 May 2013 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge dartaddart commercialdodgedodge dartfast and furious 6fast and furious 6 dart commercialvideo Tue, 28 May 2013 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582900/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582900/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/28/dodge-hoping-fast-and-furious-appearance-gives-dart-a-sales-jolt/20582900/article-detail.xml 20582900 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-dodge-dart-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-dodge-dart-review.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Viper Defender from '90s TV show]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/ebay-find-of-the-day-viper-defender-from-90s-tv-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/ebay-find-of-the-day-viper-defender-from-90s-tv-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/ebay-find-of-the-day-viper-defender-from-90s-tv-show/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Viper Defender from '90s TV show - front three-quarter view

As car lovers, it's always hard to find a good television show with decent cars, but what the 1990s show Viper lacked in acting, scripting and plot, it more than made up for with cool cars. For starters, the lead car was a Dodge Viper RT/10, but, on screen, it was able to morph into its "Defender" mode making it an armored coupe with a full arsenal of weapons.

Fortunately, you don't have to be a fan of the bad show to love its lead car, and if you really want one, a Defender is up for auction right now on eBay. According to the listing, this car is the real deal - not a clone - and it comes with a V8 engine (not sure what happened to the V10?) and plenty of swag and memorbilia. No word on its actual asking price, but with a day left and 42 bids already, the reserve has not been met at $133,400. The listing does add that this same car was listed at Mecum back in 2010, but did not get sold, even with a bid of $270,000.

eBay Find of the Day: Viper Defender from '90s TV show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dodgedodge viperdodge viper srt10ebayebay find of the dayebay motorssrttelevision cartv carviper tv show Fri, 24 May 2013 19:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20583117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20583117/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/ebay-find-of-the-day-viper-defender-from-90s-tv-show/20583117/article-detail.xml 20583117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/viper-defender_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/viper-defender.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/#comments Filed under: , , ,


A monstrous supercharged V8 engine could be in store for Chrysler and SRT products, if recent rumors are to be believed. Allpar is reporting that the forced-induction V8 - Chrysler's first, if this goes down - could make its debut this summer.

The story goes that the Hellcat would be based on a 6.2-liter Hemi engine, rather than on the existing 5.7- or 6.4-liter versions of the company's vaunted mill. In any case, the general consensus is that the motor will have gobs of power. Modest estimates call for between 500 to 570 horsepower, with some outliers predicting a figure as high as 600 hp. That figure would put the output of the Hellcat awfully close to that of the 640-hp V10 in the SRT Viper, too. Allpar contends that a slightly less powerful version would allow Chrysler to keep costs below that of the more powerful Ford Shelby GT500, which might be a sweet spot.

The Hellcat could debut in a number of SRT products. SRT versions of the Charger, Challenger and 300 are all up for grabs, as is the rumored SRT Barracuda.

Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> barracudachryslerchrysler 300dodgedodge challengerdodge chargerhellcathellcat hemi v8hemisrtsrt viper Tue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577853/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/20577853/article-detail.xml 20577853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2012-dodge-charger-srt8-engine-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2012-dodge-charger-srt8-engine-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



After almost a year on the market it, it is becoming more clear to Dodge how customers like to option out their Darts, so the automaker has combined popular features into three special edition packages and sweetened the prices. Start with a standard 2013 Dart and add either the SXT or Limited "Special Editions" or Rallye Appearance Group, and you'll save yourself a lot of box checking.

The $595 Dart SXT Special Edition takes the trim just above the base model and adds a new grille, dark-tinted headlights and projector fog lights, LED racetrack taillights, cruise control and audio controls on the leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Limited Special Edition starts with the top-end model and adds a power sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and Nappa leather seats among other features, for $1,810.

The Rallye Appearance Group (pictured) is a package for the SXT, and it blacks out the front fascia, throws on 17-inch wheels and some badging for $395. The new special editions are reaching dealers now and could help the Dart's sales to further improve after a slow start. You can find out more about them in the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models

2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge dartdodgedodge dartdodge dart limiteddodge dart rallyedodge dart sxt Thu, 16 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571455/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571455/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/20571455/article-detail.xml 20571455 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-rallye_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-rallye.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #333]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/autoblog-podcast-333/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/autoblog-podcast-333/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/autoblog-podcast-333/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Acura NSX, 2014 Chevy Silverado, Lamborghini Egoista and Urus, Jeep CEO Mike Manley interview, Ugly Horse update

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Episode #333 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Steven Ewing talk about the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, the Lamborghini Egoista concept and the apparent production greenlight for the Lamborghini Urus, the forthcoming Acura NSX, an interview with Jeep CEO Mike Manley and an update on Zach's Project Ugly Horse. We also address lots of your questions and comments, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #333:


Topics: In the Autoblog Garage: Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Steven Ewing

Runtime: 01:50:29
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #333

Autoblog Podcast #333 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge dart2013 lexus lsautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 333featuredjeeplamborghinilamborghini egoistalamborghini urusmike manleypodcastpodcast 333 Wed, 15 May 2013 16:10:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #333Autoblog01:50:29 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569587/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569587/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/autoblog-podcast-333/20569587/article-detail.xml 20569587 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA launches investigations into Ford Crown Victoria police cars, Dodge Viper and Porsche 911]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

​2005 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor - dead-on front view

Reuters reports that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating certain Ford Crown Victoria, Porsche 911 and Dodge Viper models for potential defects. NHTSA is currently looking into 2005-2008 Crown Victoria police car models for steering column failures that could cause the upper and lower portions of the steering shaft to separate. Such a condition would lead to a loss of control. So far there are 195,000 vehicles involved with 15 warranty claims.

Meanwhile, 10,000 Porsche 911 sports cars are under investigation for a faulty cooling hose fitting. The loose hose could cause a rapid loss of coolant that could not only damage the engine, but cause a slick road surface that could pose a danger to other traffic. The investigation is only concerned with models equipped with 2001-2007 models. There have been 10 owner complaints of failures, with one owner saying the coolant caused him to loose control and spin the vehicle off of the road.

Investigators are also looking into certain 2005-2006 Dodge Viper models for a rear suspension knuckle failure. Two owners have filed complaints after crashes, and NHTSA is now looking into 2,500 of the vehicles.

Note: these probes aren't recalls, but can lead to them if NHTSA or the automakers find sufficient evidence of danger to drivers.

NHTSA launches investigations into Ford Crown Victoria police cars, Dodge Viper and Porsche 911 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dodge viperfordford crown victoriaford crown victoria police interceptorford police interceptornational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanhtsa investigationnhtsa probeporsche 911viper Wed, 01 May 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554541/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554541/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/nhtsa-launches-investigations-into-ford-crown-victoria-police-ca/20554541/article-detail.xml 20554541 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2005-ford-crown-victoria-police-interceptor-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2005-ford-crown-victoria-police-interceptor-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler investing $20M in Toledo plant to support 9-speed auto production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/chrysler-investing-20m-in-toledo-plant-to-support-9-speed-auto/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/chrysler-investing-20m-in-toledo-plant-to-support-9-speed-auto/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/28/chrysler-investing-20m-in-toledo-plant-to-support-9-speed-auto/#comments Filed under: , , ,



In 2011, Chrysler announced a $72-million investment in its Toledo Machining Plant to modernize production of the eight- and nine-speed torque-converters for automatic transmissions made there. That upgrade work won't be finished until Q3 of this year, but Chrysler has already announced a further $19.6-million investment to increase production capacity for the nine-speeders.

The extra units will be necessary because the nine-speed transmission they'll be mated to is going into three popular models: it will debut on the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, then go into the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart. The company predicted that this year alone it would sell 200,000 units equipped with the nine-speed tranny, and it is spending some $374 million in addition to the investment in Toledo to upgrade production capacity for it.

The work attached to this new investment won't begin until Q3 of 2014, and it will be finished by the end of that year. There's a press release below with all the details.

Continue reading Chrysler investing $20M in Toledo plant to support 9-speed auto production

Chrysler investing $20M in Toledo plant to support 9-speed auto production originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerchrysler 200dodgedodge dartjeepjeep cherokeenine-speed transmissiontoledotoledo machining plant Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550350/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550350/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/28/chrysler-investing-20m-in-toledo-plant-to-support-9-speed-auto/20550350/article-detail.xml 20550350 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chrysler-nine-speed-auto_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chrysler-nine-speed-auto.jpg <![CDATA[7-year-old boy steals dad's car to avoid church [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/7-year-old-boy-steals-dads-car-to-avoid-church/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/7-year-old-boy-steals-dads-car-to-avoid-church/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/7-year-old-boy-steals-dads-car-to-avoid-church/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Kid Police Chase

Police in Utah were in for a shock when they spotted an erratic driver recently. After following the white Dodge Intrepid for a spell, the pursuing officers watched as the driver parked the car, jumped from behind the wheel and ran into his father's house. Standard fare, you say? Not quite.

The driver was actually a seven-year-old boy who had pilfered his dad's keys to skip out on going to church. The officers opted to let the parents handle disciplining the youngster rather than subject him to the legal system, but cautioned the dad to keep his car keys in a more secure location in the future.

Good call.

You can check out video from the chase for yourself below. The police say the kid did a pretty good job of keeping the car under control, but did run one stop sign. As Ricky Bobby would say, "I wanna go fast."

UPDATE: As it turns out, this video is anything but new. A few readers pointed out the same video was used in a news report uploaded to YouTube in 2009.

Continue reading 7-year-old boy steals dad's car to avoid church [UPDATE]

7-year-old boy steals dad's car to avoid church [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> kid driverkid police chasepolice chasevideo Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549147/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549147/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/7-year-old-boy-steals-dads-car-to-avoid-church/20549147/article-detail.xml 20549147 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kid-police-chase-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/kid-police-chase-628.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Cummins Li'l Red Express

The Dodge Li'l Red Express is one awesome quandary of the late '70s. Back then, Dodge had taken to building all sorts of oddball trucks and vans with strange equipment packages, but the Li'l Red Express was something entirely different.

Engineers crammed a honkin' 360 V8 yanked from the company's police interceptor line and plopped the four-barrel-fed block between the fenders, inadvertently creating the world's first sport truck in the process. Bolted as it was to a 727 Torqueflight automatic transmission and a 3.55:1 rear axle, the truck was the quickest vehicle Car and Driver tested in the 0-100 sprint in 1978.

Dodge said the engine put out 225 horsepower. It lied.

Max Kirtley took one look at the Li'l Red Express, yanked that magical V8 from behind the grille and plopped one wild Cummins 6BT turbo diesel inline-six in its place. Sucking down 100-pounds-per-square-inch worth of boost, the 12-valve rocks a Hamilton cylinder head and cam as well as a water injection system and two nitrous injection systems. Kirtley says the truck now puts down closer to 1,000 horsepower and 1,500-1,700 pound-feet of torque.

We don't think he's lying. Check out a video of this Cummins Li'l Red Express hopping down the quarter mile during a few test runs below.

Continue reading Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower

Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cumminscummins lil red expressdieseldodge lil red expressdrag racinglil red expressvideo Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/20549195/article-detail.xml 20549195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Dart getting hatchback variant... sort of]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-dart-getting-hatchback-variant-sort-of/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-dart-getting-hatchback-variant-sort-of/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-dart-getting-hatchback-variant-sort-of/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Fiat Viaggio - front three-quarter view live

In other parts of the world, Fiat builds and sells a version of the Dodge Dart called the Viaggio, and it appears that in addition to the current sedan bodystyle, a new hatchback version of the car is also in the works. Autocar says that the general manager for China's Guangzhou-Fiat joint venture, John Burton, has confirmed that a new Viaggio hatchback will be revealed by the end of this year before it goes on sale in early 2014.

The Viaggio will soon be joined by the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, which in China will be called the Liberty Light, at the Guangzhou-Fiat plant. While the idea of a Dodge Dart hatchback might be enough to enable most of us to forget about the Dodge Caliber, a North American variant doesn't appear to be in the cards. We reached out to Chrysler PR boss Rick Deneau, and he offered a succinct: "No plans at this time."

Dodge Dart getting hatchback variant... sort of originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 fiat viaggiochinadodgedodge dartfiat viaggiofiat viaggio hatchback Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548292/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548292/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/dodge-dart-getting-hatchback-variant-sort-of/20548292/article-detail.xml 20548292 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webfiatviaggio5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webfiatviaggio5.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Reid Bigland, newly appointed Ram brand president and CEOChrysler is busy shuffling executives around in the wake of Ram head Fred Diaz's departure. The automaker has named Reid Bigland (pictured, right) as Diaz's successor in the role of president and CEO of Ram, though Bigland will continue his duties as the head of US sales and the president and CEO of Chrysler Canada. Bigland first came to Chrysler in 2006 from Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation, so the guy knows a thing or two about trucks.

Meanwhile, Timothy Kuniskis will take over as president and CEO of Dodge. Previously, he served as the head of Fiat in North America and has been with Chrysler in one capacity or another since 1992. His old title now falls to Jason Stoicevich, who will also continue to work as the director of the automaker's California Business Center. Finally, Bruno Cattori will take over as the president and CEO of Chrysler Mexico.

Diaz left his position to take over as a divisional vice president of sales and marketing with Nissan. You can read the full press release on the Chrysler personnel changes below for more information.

Continue reading Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure

Chrysler Group moves around execs in wake of recent departure originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerdodgefiatfred diazjason stoicevichramreid biglandtimothy kuniskis Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542424/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/chrysler-group-moves-around-execs-in-wake-of-recent-departure/20542424/article-detail.xml 20542424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/reid-bigland-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/reid-bigland-628.jpg <![CDATA[Travis Pastrana signs with Dodge for another year, brings partner Bryce Menzies [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/travis-pastrana-signs-with-dodge-for-another-year-brings-partne/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/travis-pastrana-signs-with-dodge-for-another-year-brings-partne/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/travis-pastrana-signs-with-dodge-for-another-year-brings-partne/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Dodge and SRT Motorsports announced that the Dodge Dart will be returning for its sophomore season of the Global Rallycross Championship with a two-car team fielded by Pastrana Racing. Travis Pastrana drove his GRC Dart to victory lane in the fourth race of the car's inaugural season, and his race team is looking for even more success with the addition of off-road racer Bryce Menzies behind the wheel of the second car.

The 2013 GRC season kicks off on April 21 in Brazil with plenty of dirt-spewing, ramp-jumping action. Scroll down for a video from the cars' main sponsor, Red Bull, and a press release from Chrysler.

Continue reading Travis Pastrana signs with Dodge for another year, brings partner Bryce Menzies [w/video]

Travis Pastrana signs with Dodge for another year, brings partner Bryce Menzies [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bryce menziesdodgedodge dartglobal rallycross championshipsrt motorsportstravis pastrana Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538813/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538813/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/14/travis-pastrana-signs-with-dodge-for-another-year-brings-partne/20538813/article-detail.xml 20538813 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dodge-dart-grc_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/dodge-dart-grc.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



With more than 200,000 units across six separate recalls and almost all of its brands, it appears that Chrysler has officially jumped headfirst into the recall pool this month. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued three official recalls for the automaker, and The Detroit News is reporting that the automaker itself has announced three more.

The biggest of the recalls applies to about 120,000 Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300 models for 2011 and 2012 due to faulty wiring harnesses for the seat-mounted side airbags, which could lead to these airbags not deploying in the event of a crash. A little more than 60,000 two-wheel-drive versions of the 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro and 2008 Jeep Liberty SUVs are being recalled due to a heat shield that could cause the driveshaft to break, which if that isn't bad on its own, could then hit underneath where the airbag sensor is mounted, causing the airbags to deploy. Wrapping up NHTSA's recall notices, about 20,000 Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass models for 2012 are also being recalled due to a problem with the fuel tank transfer tube that could lead to the vehicle stalling. The LX car recall campaign is going into effect this month, while the other two will start next month - all three notices are posted below.

In addition to the official NHTSA recalls, The Detroit News is also reporting that Chrysler is recalling more than 16,000 Ram trucks and a small number of Dodge Dart sedans. Around 6,500 2013 Ram 1500 trucks will be recalled due to an improper adjustment of the parking brake cable from the factory, while 7,000 Cummins-powered 2013 Ram Heavy Duty trucks are being recalled due to an engine cover that does not have as much heat resistance as it is supposed to. Finally, a total of 46 Dodge Dart sedans are being recalled due to a problem with the brake calipers and/or parking brake.

Continue reading Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands

Chrysler recalling over 200k vehicles across its brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerchrysler 300chrysler recalldodgedodge challengerdodge chargerdodge nitrododge recalljeepjeep compassjeep libertyjeep patriotjeep recallNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationramram 1500ram heavy dutyram recallrecall Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536183/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536183/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/chrysler-recalling-over-200k-vehicles-across-its-brands/20536183/article-detail.xml 20536183 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/dodge-challenger-srt8-392_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/dodge-challenger-srt8-392.jpg -1 2