Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif 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/<![CDATA[Chrysler's internal documents question Ram quality as workers protest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Ram 1500 - front three-quarter view

Chrysler is reportedly having a hard time ramping up production of its 2013 Ram 1500. According to The Detroit News, only 16 of the 58 trucks built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant during the model's first hour passed final inspection. While quality eventually improved over the course of the day, just over half of the units built on Thursday were approved for shipment. Even with workers ordered to stay late to fix their mistakes, some 1,078 units remained outside the facility with defects. The problem, according to workers at the plant, is morale.

According to the report, Chrysler recently changed the shift schedule at the plant and workers are unhappy with the new situation. The new plan has workers split into three shifts, each covering four 10-hour days. With the shifts staggered, some workers now have to work nights and on Saturdays. Some employees are so upset that they've taken to protesting, though the move isn't sanctioned by the United Auto Workers.

Meanwhile, Chrysler admits there were internal issues with the launch, but that the company was able to contain them. A spokesperson has said "plant quality indicators are getting progressively better."

Chrysler's internal documents question Ram quality as workers protest originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ram 1500dodge ramramram 1500ram 1500 productionuawunited auto workerswarren truck assembly plantwarren truck plantFri, 01 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20484765/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/01/chryslers-internal-documents-question-ram-quality-as-workers-pr/20484765/article-detail.xml 20484765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-1500-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/ram-1500-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #321]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ram 1500 Diesel, unibody Ford Ranger replacement, 2014 Chevrolet SS, Mitsubishi doubles its US marketing budget autoblog podcast logo

Episode #321 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2013 Ram 1500 getting a diesel engine, rumors of a unibody replacement for the Ford Ranger, the 2014 Chevrolet SS and Mitsubishi doubling its US marketing budget. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #321:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2014 Porsche Cayman
2013 Ram 1500
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:15:12

Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #321

Autoblog Podcast #321 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 hyundai santa fe2013 ram 15002014 chevrolet ss2014 porsche caymanautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 321caymanchevroletdieselfeaturedfordhyundaimitsubishipodcast 321porscheramram 1500 dieselrangersanta fessWed, 20 Feb 2013 18:20:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #321Autoblog01:15:12 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20470370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/20470370/article-detail.xml 20470370 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[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #321 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #321


[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ram 15002014 chevrolet ssautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 321autoblog podcast 321 topicschevroletfordford rangermitsubishipodcastpodcast 321ramram dieselrangerssunibody pickupunibody rangerTue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467930/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/20467930/article-detail.xml 20467930 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[Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Ram 1500

Happy Valentine's Day, diesel lovers! Chrysler announced today that the Ram 1500 will offer a light-duty diesel engine when it goes into production this fall. Using the same turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 recently introduced in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Ram 1500 is expected to get even better fuel economy than the current 2013 model's best-in-class 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

Power output has not been released for the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, but in the Grand Cherokee, this engine produces 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, and it will be paired with Chrysler's eight-speed automatic transmission. This has definitely been a busy and exciting year for the Ram division, bringing home major awards such as the 2013 North American Truck of the Year, 2013 Motor Trend Truck of the Year and 2013 Truck of Texas not to mention the recent announcement that the Ram HD models will offer a best-in-class towing capacity of 30,000 pounds - all of which is pointed out in the press release, below.

Continue reading Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year

Ram 1500 to get V6 diesel engine later this year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002014 ram 15002014 ram 1500 ecodieseldieseldiesel halfton pickupdiesel truckecodiesellight duty diesel ramlight-duty dieselpickup truckramram 1500 dieselram truckThu, 14 Feb 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/ram-1500-to-get-v6-turbodiesel-engine-later-this-year/20461972/article-detail.xml 20461972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/30-2013-ram-1500-crew-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/30-2013-ram-1500-crew-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ram Long-Hauler prototype spotted testing, world about to get new largest pickup?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/ram-long-hauler-prototype-spotted-testing-world-about-to-get-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/ram-long-hauler-prototype-spotted-testing-world-about-to-get-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/18/ram-long-hauler-prototype-spotted-testing-world-about-to-get-ne/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ram Long-Hauler prototype spotted testing

In the past few months, Chrysler's Ram brand has gone from also-ran status behind Ford and General Motors to a class leader in many truck categories including fuel economy (25 miles per gallon highway) and towing (30,000-pound maximum capacity). Now, based off these spy shots recently taken, it looks like Ram is preparing to introduce the be all and end all of pickup trucks, with a production version of its leviathan 2011 Long-Hauler Concept.

Our spy shooters recently caught the two-year-old concept truck running around Auburn Hills, MI covered in stickers that would indicate the truck could be testing for a production model, and last we heard back in September, Chrysler has been trying to build a business case for the massive hauler. On the other hand, seeing as how the only changes made to this truck since it was first unveiled are a full factory tailgate and various Mopar accessories (mud flaps, exhaust finisher and bed step), it doesn't appear that any changes have been made that fit in with the recently announced 2013 Ram HD models.

As a refresher, the Long-Hauler rides on the 197.4-inch wheelbase of the Ram 5500 chassis - usually reserved for stake or box trucks - allowing it to combine the luxury of the Mega Cab with the cargo capability of an eight-foot bed and enough room in between to fit a 60-gallon reserve fuel tank. This, along with the 50-gallon, in-bed fuel tank and the truck's factory fuel tank means that the Long-Hauler has the ability to carry 162 gallons of diesel fuel - enough for one incredibly long haul.

Ram Long-Hauler prototype spotted testing, world about to get new largest pickup? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jan 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500long-haulerlonghaulerramram 1500ram 5500ram hdram hd longhaulerram long-haulerram long-hauler conceptspy photosspy shotsFri, 18 Jan 2013 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20432524/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/18/ram-long-hauler-prototype-spotted-testing-world-about-to-get-ne/20432524/article-detail.xml 20432524 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ram-hd-longhauler_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ram-hd-longhauler.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac ATS, Ram 1500 named 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/cadillac-ats-ram-1500-named-2013-north-american-car-and-truck-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/cadillac-ats-ram-1500-named-2013-north-american-car-and-truck-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/14/cadillac-ats-ram-1500-named-2013-north-american-car-and-truck-u/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Cadillac ATS - front three-quarter view

2013 Ram 1500 - front three-quarter viewAs is tradition, the 2013 Detroit Auto Show kicks off with the announcement of the 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the year awards. And without further ado, we present your winners: the Cadillac ATS and Ram 1500.

Runners-up for the award are the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord in the car category, and the Mazda CX-5 and Ford C-Max in the truck/utility class. The winners were determined by a non-profit, independent jury of 50 American and Canadian journalists, including some members of the Autoblog staff.

This is the first win for Cadillac as a Car of the Year, though the CTS was a finalist in 2008. General Motors brands have won the Car of the Year award five times. This win for the 2013 Ram 1500 marks the third truck win for the Chrysler Group. The Ram (well, Dodge Ram) first won the award in 1994.

Continue reading Cadillac ATS, Ram 1500 named 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year

Cadillac ATS, Ram 1500 named 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 07:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 cadillac ats2013 detroit auto show2013 ram 1500atscadillacdetroitdetroit 2013ramram truckMon, 14 Jan 2013 07:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20427789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/14/cadillac-ats-ram-1500-named-2013-north-american-car-and-truck-u/20427789/article-detail.xml 20427789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2013-cadillac-ats-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2013-cadillac-ats-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

North American Car of the Year crystal award

2012 is almost in the books and automakers are spending December gearing up for the 2013 auto show season, which tips off next month at the Detroit Auto Show. Traditionally, the latter opens up with the announcement of the North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year awards, and this year figures to be no different.

But up until this moment, we didn't know which six vehicles would be parked ahead of the stage as finalists, with executives and engineers waiting for the winners to be disclosed. Whittled down from October's "short list" of nominees (11 cars and 10 truck/utility vehicles), the finalists are as follows:

2013 North American Car of the Year:
2013 North American Truck/Utility of the Year:
As determined by a non-profit, independent jury of 50 US and Canadian journalists(*), the pair of lists above arguably feature a surprise or two, and they open up some potentially interesting story lines. Will the Ford and Honda, which compete against each other in the marketplace, split votes among jurors who only want to vote for one family sedan? Did the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins miss making the finalists' list because they were listed as separate entries, or did they just not win over enough jurors? Until the voting patterns of the jurors are released (after the awards are announced), we won't really know if any of these scenarios played into the calculations.

What do you think of these six vehicles? Which would you vote for? Which do you think will win? Participate in our polls below by guessing which vehicles will win, then state your case for who should win in Comments.

*Full disclosure: Author is a NACTOY jury member.

View Poll


View Poll

Continue reading 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll]

2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year finalists announced [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 cadillac ats2013 ford c-max2013 ford fusion2013 honda accord2013 mazda cx-52013 ram 1500accordatsc-maxcadillaccx-5fordfusionhondamazdanactoynorth american car of the yearNorth American truck of the yearnorth american truck utility of the yearramWed, 12 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/2013-north-american-car-and-truck-utility-of-the-year-finalists/20400146/article-detail.xml 20400146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nactoy-award-crystal.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 1500 tows away <i>Motor Trend</i> Truck of the Year laurels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/2013-ram-1500-tows-away-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year-lau/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/2013-ram-1500-tows-away-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year-lau/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/07/2013-ram-1500-tows-away-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year-lau/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Dodge Ram - front three-quarter view

Motor Trend has named their 2013 Truck of the Year, and this time, the coveted honor goes to Chrysler's 2013 Ram 1500. The Ram unseats the Ford F-150 pickup from Truck of the Year with a package that the magazine argues fulfills owners' needs for everyday usability as much as worksite utility.

MT points out that the 1500's available air suspension is a quantum leap in the light-duty pickup segment. This system can raise for more ground clearance or lower for highway driving. Chrysler has been pushing for friendly daily-driver manners for some time now - you'll recall it debuted coils in place of rear leaf springs in the 2009 Ram 1500, back when it the truck was sold under the Dodge nameplate. The new optional air setup is another step towards more comfortable everyday driving.

The Ram 1500 can also be paired with the company's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 in place of the loveless 3.7-liter unit, in the process getting some pretty surprising fuel economy figures. MT also notes that the interior update - complete with available Uconnect 8.3-inch screen and new rotary shifter - is a welcome upgrade. These attributes have conspired to yield a deserving award for Team Ram, which MT says has nailed the motivations of light-duty truck buyers - comfort and capability in one package.

2013 Ram 1500 tows away Motor Trend Truck of the Year laurels originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ram 1500dodge rammotor trendmotor trend truck of the yearramtruck of the yearFri, 07 Dec 2012 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20397067/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/07/2013-ram-1500-tows-away-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year-lau/20397067/article-detail.xml 20397067 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive.jpeg <![CDATA[VWerks Ram KTS is a Ram Runner aftermarket-style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/vwerks-ram-kts-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/vwerks-ram-kts-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/vwerks-ram-kts-sema-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

VWerks Ram KTS

Chrysler first introduced us to its Ram Runner exactly two years ago at SEMA, but for buyers of this Raptor-like truck who don't want to go through dealerships for the upgrades, VWerks has just the thing. Looking every bit as mean as the dealer-built Ram Runner, the VWerks Ram KTS gets a wide-body treatment and upgraded off-road performance suspension similar to its Mopar contemporary.

Starting life as your everyday Ram 1500, the Ram KTS on display at SEMA features a beefed-up KORE long-travel suspension system and off-road tires that allows the truck to tackle tough terrain at high speeds. From there, VWerks also added wider front and rear fenders, matte black 17-inch wheels and a Flowmaster performance cat-back exhaust system. For buyers looking for the rough and rugged look of the KTS but not needing the high-speed, off-road abilities, VWerks also offers the Baja Series kit that replaces the performance suspension system with a set of 20-inch wheels.

The VWerks Ram KTS and Ram Baja Series kits are available on any 2009 through 2013 model year Ram 1500, but there is no word on pricing for either kit yet. Scroll down for more information about both kits, and check out the KTS in our live gallery above.

Continue reading VWerks Ram KTS is a Ram Runner aftermarket-style

VWerks Ram KTS is a Ram Runner aftermarket-style originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500ktsramram 1500ram ktssemasema 2012vwerksvwerks ram ktsWed, 31 Oct 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20366839/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/31/vwerks-ram-kts-sema-2012/20366839/article-detail.xml 20366839 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/vwerks-ram-baja-kts-sema_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/vwerks-ram-baja-kts-sema.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 1500 earns Truck of Texas honors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/2013-ram-1500-earns-truck-of-texas-honors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/2013-ram-1500-earns-truck-of-texas-honors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/2013-ram-1500-earns-truck-of-texas-honors/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Auto writers around the country tend to specialize in different vehicles based on the trends of our respective home markets. The New England Motor Press Association, for example, presents an award every year for the best winter vehicle. With that in mind, it is fitting that the Texas Auto Writers Association doles out an annual truck award. This year, the TAWA "Truck of Texas" is the 2013 Ram 1500.

In a announcement from TAWA, the new Ram took top honors based in no small part on, "a new 3.6-liter V6 that boasts 42 percent more power, improved fuel economy, infotainment upgrades and available eight-speed automatic transmission and air suspension." And according to Ram CEO Fred Diaz, "Automotive reporters have reacted extremely favorably to the new 2013 Ram 1500, and our research tells us that resonates with truck buyers." The Ram 1500 unseated the previous Truck of Texas, the 2012 Ford F-150.

The Texas Auto Writers Association Truck Rodeo was also an occasion for journalists to award an SUV of Texas, and thankfully, the distinction is made between SUV and CUV. The Jeep Grand Cherokee took top honors in the SUV department, with TAWA pointing to models like the off-road-ready Trailhawk and feature-laden Overland Summit. It is the third consecutive year that the Grand Cherokee has achieved this accolade. The award for top crossover went to the 2013 Buick Enclave, which is in its first year of a new design. To read more on the Truck of Texas award and all the finalists, check out the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 earns Truck of Texas honors

2013 Ram 1500 earns Truck of Texas honors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ram 1500pickup truckramtawatexastexas auto writers associationtruck of texasTue, 23 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356798/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/2013-ram-1500-earns-truck-of-texas-honors/20356798/article-detail.xml 20356798 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive.jpeg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalling 2009-2010 Ram 1500, Dodge Dakota pickups over axle pinion nut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/chrysler-recalling-2009-2010-ram-1500-dodge-dakota-pickups-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/chrysler-recalling-2009-2010-ram-1500-dodge-dakota-pickups-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/chrysler-recalling-2009-2010-ram-1500-dodge-dakota-pickups-over/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ram 1500 pickup - front three-quarter view

Chrysler is issuing a recall for the 2009 and 2010 Ram 1500 and Dodge Dakota pickup trucks due to improper installation of the rear axle pinion nut. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a total of 44,300 trucks are affected by the recall, and there have been 12 confirmed incidents including one crash.

The issue on both trucks is that the pinion nut is loosening on some trucks due to a lack of thread adhesive, and it is causing the rear axle to lock up resulting in loss of vehicle control. NHTSA's recall notice says that eight incidents occurred at speeds over 35 miles per hour and most also exhibited driveshaft failures as well since the loss of the pinion nut would cause the gear to separate from the driveshaft. In one complaint, the driveshaft separated from the rear axle and punctured the gas tank.

Chrysler will begin sending out recall notices to affected owners in November, but scroll down to see the official NHTSA notice.

Continue reading Chrysler recalling 2009-2010 Ram 1500, Dodge Dakota pickups over axle pinion nut

Chrysler recalling 2009-2010 Ram 1500, Dodge Dakota pickups over axle pinion nut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002009 dodge dakota2009 ram 15002010 dodge dakota2010 ram 1500chrysler recallsdakotadodgenational highway trafiic safety administrationnhtsaramrecallrecallsMon, 08 Oct 2012 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20343853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/08/chrysler-recalling-2009-2010-ram-1500-dodge-dakota-pickups-over/20343853/article-detail.xml 20343853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2009-ram-1500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2009-ram-1500.jpg <![CDATA[PickupTrucks.com holds Ultimate 4x4 Challenge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/pickuptrucks-com-holds-ultimate-4x4-challenge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/pickuptrucks-com-holds-ultimate-4x4-challenge/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/pickuptrucks-com-holds-ultimate-4x4-challenge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mark Williams of PickupTrucks.com with 2012 Ultimate 4x4 Challenge competitors

The crew at PickupTrucks.com has been busy lately. In addition to wrapping up its global pickup shootout in Australia, the site also took the time to pit four factory off-road kings against each other. After extending invitations to every manufacturer to send out their most capable pickup, the Nissan Frontier PRO-4X, Toyota Tacoma Baja, Ram Power Wagon and Ford F-150 SVT Raptor all showed up to play. General Motors, meanwhile, declined to join the party.

Each of the participants threw down in a total of 10 events with separate scoring, including old standbys like 0-60, 60-0, payload capacity and fuel economy. But Pickuptrucks.com also partnered up with 4Wheeler Magazine to put the bruisers through some legitimate off-road tests. Each pickup took on a tough sand hill climb as well as a stair climb and a rock scramble.

While we weren't surprised to see the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor take top honors, we were shocked to see where the Power Wagon wound up on the list. How'd the big Mopar place? You'll have to scroll down to watch the video wrap-up. After that, head on over to PickupTrucks.com to read the full comparison.

Continue reading PickupTrucks.com holds Ultimate 4x4 Challenge

PickupTrucks.com holds Ultimate 4x4 Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ford f-150 svt raptor2013 nissan frontier pro-4x2013 ram power wagon2013 toyota tacoma baja4wheeler magazinef-150frontiernissanpower wagonsvt raptortacomatoyotaultimate 4x4 shootoutvideoTue, 18 Sep 2012 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20326724/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/18/pickuptrucks-com-holds-ultimate-4x4-challenge/20326724/article-detail.xml 20326724 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mark-williams-of-pickuptrucks.com-with-4x4s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mark-williams-of-pickuptrucks.com-with-4x4s.jpg <![CDATA[Ram building business case for Long-Hauler concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/ram-building-business-case-for-long-hauler-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/ram-building-business-case-for-long-hauler-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/ram-building-business-case-for-long-hauler-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Ram Long-Hauler Concept - front three-quarter view

Remember last year's Ram Long-Hauler Concept? It of 197.7-inch-wheelbase, mirror-filling width and a 37,500-pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating? Fred Diaz and company want to build it.

Diaz, President and CEO of Ram, told reporters at its Auburn Hills headquarters this morning that its dealers are hot-to-trot over the idea of having a four-door MegaCab model yoked to an eight-foot bed and a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel. The 5500-chassis-based dually is aptly named, as it holds an astonishing 170 gallons of fuel, perfect for transcontinental journeys. (Fun factoid: At today's average diesel fuel price of $4.125/gal, that means a single fill-up would be over $700!)

According to Diaz, Ram wanted to roll the Long-Hauler Concept out on stage at its national dealer meeting in Las Vegas last week, but couldn't - the company managing the facility told Diaz that the 9,300-pound behemoth was too big to make it on stage. Instead, the executive put an image of the 24-foot-long truck on an overhead screen only to have dealers cheer loudly. In fact, Diaz says response to the notion of a production Long-Hauler has been "absolutely staggering." The rig received a similarly warm welcome at last spring's Mid-America Trucking Show, where it was first revealed. Between public and dealer feedback, Ram - whose heavy-duty truck sales have been on a tear lately - feels that the concept has such validity for commercial customers that might otherwise buy a Class III or IV chassis that it's working on a business case for the Long-Hauler right now.

Ram building business case for Long-Hauler concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15005500chryslerdodge ramfred diazlong-hauler conceptramram 5500Mon, 17 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20325199/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/17/ram-building-business-case-for-long-hauler-concept/20325199/article-detail.xml 20325199 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-ram-long-hauler-concept-truck-1304371760_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-ram-long-hauler-concept-truck-1304371760.jpg <![CDATA[Ram 1500 Tradesman HD disappears for 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/26/ram-1500-tradesman-hd-disappears-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/26/ram-1500-tradesman-hd-disappears-for-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/26/ram-1500-tradesman-hd-disappears-for-2013/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ram's line of 1500-series trucks has received a noteworthy overhaul for he 2013 model year, gaining features like an eight-speed automatic, a 3.6-liter V6 option, stop-start, electric power steering and air suspension. Changes for the no-frills Tradesman trim are also afoot, with the 1500 Tradesman HD scheduled to join the list of vehicles headed to The Great Crusher in the Sky according to a report on PickupTrucks.com.

Introduced only a year ago, the 1500 Tradesman HD body hid internals from the 2500 HD, and was powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI with 383 horsepower (instead of the 310-hp, 4.7-liter V8 used by the other Trademan models), had an eight-foot box, and bested the towing capacity of the non-HD by nearly 4,000 pounds.

The reasons for its disappearance aren't clear, but with the entire Ram line going through a wide range of revisions and upgrades, a more clear-cut, back-to-basics heavy duty work truck could see the light. PickupTrucks.com suspects it wouldn't be crazy "to see some new option packages that attempt to stretch some boundaries and definition yet again."

Ram 1500 Tradesman HD disappears for 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Aug 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15001500 tradesman1500 tradesman hdramram tradesmantradesmanSun, 26 Aug 2012 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20309346/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/26/ram-1500-tradesman-hd-disappears-for-2013/20309346/article-detail.xml 20309346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ramtradesmangoes_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ramtradesmangoes.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 1500 Crew Cab SLT 4x4 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Putting The Pentastar To Work

2013 Ram 1500 Crew Cab SLT 4x4 - front three-quarter view

It's been over five months since we first heard word that Chrysler was planning to grace the Ram 1500 with the company's do-all Pentastar 3.6-liter V6. At 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the new-generation six-cylinder handily embarrasses the antiquated 3.7-liter Magnum lump found in the base 2012 model in both power and efficiency. As fuel prices have continued to inch upward, that latter category has evolved into a more critical piece of the capability puzzle for both private and fleet buyers.

Paired with a new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the 2013 Ram 1500 two-wheel drive should return 20-percent better fuel economy than its predecessor. That, sirs, is a huge number. More importantly, the addition of the Pentastar to the Ram line means buyers may now opt for a four-wheel-drive truck with a V6 under the hood - something that wasn't possible with the old 3.7. But as interesting as the drivetrain is, it's a small part of Ram's plan to carve out a larger chunk of pickup sales for itself. Engineers and designers have loaded the 2013 Ram 1500 with more available technology than ever before, as well as the first available self-leveling air suspension in the half-ton class. The result is nothing short of impressive.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 Crew Cab SLT 4x4 [w/video]

2013 Ram 1500 Crew Cab SLT 4x4 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 15002013 ram 15002013 ram v6air ride ramfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivepenatstar rampentastar v6ramram 1500ram fuel economyram mileageuconnectv6Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20308019/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/24/2013-ram-1500-crew-cab-slt-4x4-first-drive-review-video/20308019/article-detail.xml 20308019 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ram-1500-crew-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013-ram-1500-crew-fd.jpg <![CDATA[New Chrysler Uconnect Access won't need cell phones [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/new-chrysler-uconnect-access-wont-need-cell-phones-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/new-chrysler-uconnect-access-wont-need-cell-phones-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/07/new-chrysler-uconnect-access-wont-need-cell-phones-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chrysler Uconnect Access - center stack

Two of the major trends in car connectivity are to use a connected smartphone as the vehicle's infotainment system or for access to mobile service, or include a standalone system with its own wireless access that gains additional features when connected to a smartphone. Chrysler is apparently going the latter way with the overhaul of Uconnect, partnering with Sprint to provide wireless access so that owners will no longer need to use their own phones.

Called Uconnect Access, it will move to a subscription-based format and offer two levels, both with the 8.4-inch touchscreen. R3 is loaded up with the built-in Sprint cell service and still acts as a WiFi hotspot, and has a one-touch button for assistance services and voice-recognition for several operations including texting. R4 adds HD Radio, Sirius XM Travel Link and Traffic, and an enhanced navigation mapping. Internet searches will be handled by Microsoft's Bing, and phone connectivity will extend beyond the car with owners able to lock and unlock their cars and set the climate control.

Chrysler's press release indicates that Uconnect Access will first appear in the 2013 Ram 1500 and SRT Viper. An Automotive News report says Chrysler's head of Uconnect systems and services "hasn't yet announced" if the system will come to vehicles down the range, but our sister site Engadget has been tipped that it will be showing up in the Dodge Dart. You can find out all about it in the video and press release below.

Continue reading New Chrysler Uconnect Access won't need cell phones [w/video]

New Chrysler Uconnect Access won't need cell phones [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500chryslerinfotainmentramram 1500sprintsrttelematicsu-connectuconnectuconnect accessviperTue, 07 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20294945/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/07/new-chrysler-uconnect-access-wont-need-cell-phones-w-video/20294945/article-detail.xml 20294945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/uconnectaccess_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/uconnectaccess.jpg <![CDATA[Ram 1500 poised to get diesel grunt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ram-1500-poised-to-get-diesel-grunt/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ram-1500-poised-to-get-diesel-grunt/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ram-1500-poised-to-get-diesel-grunt/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Poll anyone on the Autoblog staff and we'll tell you that a light-duty diesel pickup is a good idea. And while the refreshed 2013 Ram 1500 brings pickup-firsts like an eight-speed automatic and start/stop to the table, new reports state that diesel power might make it into the Chrysler Group's stalwart truck, as well.

According to Allpar.com, Chrysler has reportedly been building some one-off Ram 1500 test mules fitted with a 3.0-liter VM Motori V6 turbo-diesel, an engine that's currently found in the Jeep Grand Cherokee in other markets and will be available on our shores in the not-too-distant future. However, if a diesel Ram were to be offered in the States, it wouldn't be for a few more years.

PickupTrucks.com states that this 3.0-liter oil-burning engine could be tuned to produce in excess of 400 pound-feet of torque, and when used in conjunction with a truck platform, could provide up to 10,000 pounds of towing capacity. Even if a diesel-powered Ram is still a far-off prospect, consider our interest piqued.

Ram 1500 poised to get diesel grunt originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500crddieselramFri, 08 Jun 2012 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20253984/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/08/ram-1500-poised-to-get-diesel-grunt/20253984/article-detail.xml 20253984 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-ram-150035_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-ram-150035.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-new-york-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ram is out to make both Ford and General Motors sweat with the Auburn Hills automaker's newest pickup, the 2013 1500. Debuting at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the half-ton pickup bows with less weight, an efficient new 3.6-liter V6 option and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Chrysler projects the V6 alone should help yield 20 percent better fuel economy over the old 3.7 lump, thanks in part to a start/stop system. While there are no solid EPA numbers as of yet, our estimations put the vehicle at around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Throw in aerodynamic tweaks like an active shutter system that closes off the engine bay and a standard air-ride suspension that lowers the vehicle by as much as 1.2 inches for better efficiency, easier loading and load leveling and you have a force to be reckoned with.

The Pentastar churns out 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, besting the 3.7-liter V6 in the Ford F-150 by around three ponies. Chrysler has also increased the output of the optional 5.7-liter V8, from 390 hp to 395 and 407 lb-ft of torque. Engineers managed to free up the extra grunt by using an electronic power steering system in place of the old belt-driven unit. Interestingly enough, the V8 will also boast 20 percent better fuel economy thanks to an eight-speed automatic.

In addition, the new 1500 features a tweaked interior, complete with the company's excellent 8.4-inch UConnect touch screen interface. We love the system in vehicles like the Dodge Charger, and the tech should be right at home on the big pickup.

Chrysler also managed to trim a significant amount of weight from the 2013 Ram 1500. In V6 guise, the truck now uses aluminum control arms, an aluminum hood, a new bed and frame design as well as lighter bumpers for a combined weight savings of around 147 pounds over the previous generation. V8 models get away with a more modest trimming. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight

2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 15002013 ram 1500new yorknew york 2012new york auto showpickuppickup truckramram 1500Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20209176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/05/2013-ram-1500-new-york-2012/20209176/article-detail.xml 20209176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ram-1500-12-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-ram-1500-12-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler turns to ground game with new "Second Half" ads post Super Bowl]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/chrysler-turns-to-ground-game-with-new-second-half-ads-post-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/chrysler-turns-to-ground-game-with-new-second-half-ads-post-su/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/30/chrysler-turns-to-ground-game-with-new-second-half-ads-post-su/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Chrysler today is launching a continuation of its Halftime In America ad effort for the Ram pickup, Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger and Jeep Wrangler.

The new ads do not feature Clint Eastwood, as the February Super Bowl ad did.

The Ram ad, titled "Tommy and The Ram," is a vignette that depicts a wife's admiration for her husband's hard work and determination to provide for his family in any economic environment. There is a great line in this ad as he drives his Ram to a job site: "Where there's a truck, there's a job." The idea here is that as long as he has a reliable truck, he always has a chance to earn.

The ad for the Chrysler 300 is told through a father talking about his pride in his son making his own way in life, while the Wrangler spot is told through the story of a young daughter adapting to a new life and new city with her family.

The ads will be breaking during the NCAA Men's basketball semi-finals, NHL games, NASCAR, Mad Men and the American Country Music Awards.

Watch all four ads below.

Continue reading Chrysler turns to ground game with new "Second Half" ads post Super Bowl

Chrysler turns to ground game with new "Second Half" ads post Super Bowl originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1500300300 my son stevenchallengerchryslerdodgehalftime in americajeepjenny in the jeep wranglerramshaun in the challengersuper bowltommy and the ramwranglerFri, 30 Mar 2012 11:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20204907/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/30/chrysler-turns-to-ground-game-with-new-second-half-ads-post-su/20204907/article-detail.xml 20204907 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/tommy-and-the-ram_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/tommy-and-the-ram.jpg <![CDATA[Ram celebrates Texas with special 10th anniversary Lone Star edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/ram-celebrates-texas-with-special-10th-anniversary-lone-star-edi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/ram-celebrates-texas-with-special-10th-anniversary-lone-star-edi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/ram-celebrates-texas-with-special-10th-anniversary-lone-star-edi/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Ram 1500 Lone Star 10th Anniversary Edition

Everything's bigger in Texas, and that includes the pickup truck market. The market is so big, in fact, that truck manufacturers regularly unveil new models at the Texas State Fair, and create special models just for the largest of contiguous states in the union. For Chrysler, that means the Ram 1500 Lone Star - a special edition available only in Texas that accounts for 30- to 40-percent of its 1500-series truck sales in the state, or about 80,000 units sold since its introduction ten years ago.

Now that the model has reached that decade milestone, the American truckmaker is keen to get the party started - Texas-style - with an even more special special edition. The Ram Lone Star 10th Anniversary starts out with the Ram 1500 Crew Cab with bucket seats and upholsters them in perforated Katzkin leather with special logos to match those on the dashboard, floormats and the emblems on the outside.

A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 does the pulling duty with 390 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, bolstered on the equipment list by 20-inch wheels, an auxiliary power outlet, trailer hitch and more that you can read about in the press release after the jump. The package adds a reasonable $1,500 to the base price for an all-in MSRP of $36,440, with deliveries beginning in the second quarter of the year - but only if you live in Texas.

Continue reading Ram celebrates Texas with special 10th anniversary Lone Star edition

Ram celebrates Texas with special 10th anniversary Lone Star edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002012 ram 1500 lone star 10th anniversary editiondodge ramlone starlonghornramram 1500ram 1500 lone star 10th anniversary editionram lonestarFri, 23 Mar 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199310/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/ram-celebrates-texas-with-special-10th-anniversary-lone-star-edi/20199310/article-detail.xml 20199310 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/webrm012058fn_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/webrm012058fn.jpg -1 2