Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Dodge Charger prototype bagged in testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/spy-shots-2011-dodge-charger-bagged/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/spy-shots-2011-dodge-charger-bagged/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/spy-shots-2011-dodge-charger-bagged/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Speculation regarding the 2011 Dodge Charger has run rampant ever since a particularly intriguing picture was shown during Chrysler's major day-long, five-year business plan slideshow that was broadcast online. It was obvious that the car pictured was not a current Charger or a previous concept, so the natural conclusion is that it was an intentional teaser of an exciting new product.

Judging by this series of spy shots from Car and Driver, it would appear that some of the more radical styling elements previewed in Chrysler's presentation will make it to production on the 2011 Dodge Charger. Starting up front we, see a more rounded and prominent crosshair grille. We also note that the greenhouse appears more flowing with a sharply raked windshield.

Along the bodysides, it's apparent that the 2011 Charger will have very pronounced hips and shoulders with what appears to be a camouflaged accent directly behind the front wheel wells. At the very rear, the next Charger echoes the changes we saw up front with a smoother rear fascia and new tail light design. So, do you like what you see?

[Source: Car and Driver]

Spy Shots: 2011 Dodge Charger prototype bagged in testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 dodge charger2011 dodge charger spy shots2011DodgeCharger2011DodgeChargerSpyShotschargercharger spy shotsChargerSpyShotsChrysler LXChryslerLxdodgedodge chargerDodgeChargerLXLX platformLxPlatformmoparpentastarThu, 10 Dec 2009 18:39:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Honda to supplant Chrysler as America's 4th largest auto retailer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-honda-to-supplant-chrysler-as-americas-4th-largest-auto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-honda-to-supplant-chrysler-as-americas-4th-largest-auto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-honda-to-supplant-chrysler-as-americas-4th-largest-auto/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Throughout most of the history of the US auto industry, the Detroit Three sat atop of the sales charts with General Motors claiming first, Ford in second and Chrysler placing third. In the past few years Toyota has clawed its way past Chrysler and then Ford, and now it appears that Honda too has now passed the Pentastar. Barring some miraculous (and we mean truly outstanding) development, Honda will officially overcome Chrysler to become the fourth largest automaker in the States. Honda holds a rather insurmountable 200,000 unit cushion against its competition from Auburn Hills, MI -- more vehicles than any automaker sold during the month of November. Speaking of November, Chrysler was the only major automaker to see a sales decline, down 18.5 percent with a mere 65,000 units sold. Honda fared better with over 74,000 products sold.

While Honda's victory on the sales charts is indisputable, neither automaker is making a big deal about it. A Honda exec reportedly told Automotive News that it only worries about it internal sales numbers and doesn't focus on ranks. Chrysler spokeswoman Kathy Graham told AN that the company is on the right track to improve its standing, adding, "We are taking the steps that are necessary to have a good foundation and to build consumer confidence." Graham also said that the company is expecting better results in the future on account of its increased advertising spending. If Chrysler doesn't reverse its sales slide, the next automaker to pass team Pentastar could be Nissan -- the Japanese automaker finished only 7,000 units behind Chrysler in November.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

REPORT: Honda to supplant Chrysler as America's 4th largest auto retailer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler salesChryslerSalesdetroit threeDetroitThreehondahonda salesHondaSalespentastarMon, 07 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler pledges to be quality leader by 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-chrysler-pledges-to-be-quality-leader-by-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-chrysler-pledges-to-be-quality-leader-by-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/report-chrysler-pledges-to-be-quality-leader-by-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A quick glance at recent Consumer Reports or JD Power data shows that the Pentastar has a big problem on its hands, but the new Chrysler says that will change in a big way by the end of 2012. Chrysler is planning to be a quality leader in only three years by dramatically increasing staffing levels in its quality team while working to dramatically clean up its engineering processes. Just one year ago, there were only 200 staff members on the quality team. Chrysler is now hiring 200 additional workers and shifting head count to beef up its quality team to over 1,700.

Quality boss Doug Betts, who was hired from Nissan during the Cerberus acquistion, tried to address quality before the automaker descended into bankruptcy, but Chrysler's woeful money situation led to the postponement of the Pentastar's long overdue quality renaissance. With bankruptcy in the rearview mirror and Fiat's full blessing to dig deep to fix Chrysler's competitive disadvantages, Betts now has the tools needed to make drastic changes. And some progress has already been made.

For starters, Chrysler has cut per-vehicle spending by $240 million, and warranty spending is down 30 percent to an all-time low. In 2008, 75 percent of all quality problems were design issues, and that number has reportedly dropped to 50 percent this year though better engineering. The factory floor is also receiving attention, as Chrysler is adopting Fiat's "world class" manufacturing system.

Chrysler has also made several departmental shifts to give workers more autonomy to make changes faster. In the past, problems were shifted from one department to another, resulting in an average delay of 71 days to fix a problem. Now cross-departmental teams are organized by 14 vehicle groups, like brakes or transmissions instead of by model alone. Many of the quality fixes will occur as Chrysler unveils new or heavily updated products between now and 2013. The Detroit News reports that 75 percent of all models will receive heavy duty attention within the next 14 months, and all vehicles will be updated by 2013.

[Source: Detroit News | Image Source: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

REPORT: Chrysler pledges to be quality leader by 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bettschrysler qualityChryslerQualityconsumer reporsconsumer reportsConsumerReporsConsumerReportsjd powerJdPowerpentastarThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Chrysler has 300 ways to pitch its sedan for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/video-chrysler-has-300-ways-to-pitch-its-sedan-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/video-chrysler-has-300-ways-to-pitch-its-sedan-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/video-chrysler-has-300-ways-to-pitch-its-sedan-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Click above to watch the video after the jump

It's not easy to market a vehicle that has been on the market for over five years with changes so imperceptible that we couldn't name them if we tried. Chrysler is in just such a situation with its flagship 300 sedan, which is most definitely getting long-in-the-tooth. That won't stop the Auburn Hills, MI-based automaker from pitching it, however, and the Pentastar is putting a genuine effort forward with its new ad for the old gangsta sled.

The new spot proclaims that the 2010 300 will put the life back in nightlife, and the spot combines several shots of gorgeous women having a great time intermingled with a few fancy shots of the 300C burning the late night candle at both ends. The ad is part of Chrysler's new "Connect" campaign, which appears to be the swan song for the Pentastar's long-time agency of record, BBDO. Hit the jump to watch the 30 second spot. The Chrysler 300 may be geriatric in car years, but it's still rear-wheel drive, its 5.7-liter V8 continues to pack 360 horsepower and it still looks pretty damn sharp in black.

[Source: Chrysler via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Chrysler has 300 ways to pitch its sedan for 2010

VIDEO: Chrysler has 300 ways to pitch its sedan for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Chrysler 3002010 Chrysler 300C2010Chrysler3002010Chrysler300c300CBBDOcar adcar commercialCarAdCarCommercialchrysler 300chrysler 300Cchrysler adchrysler commercialChrysler300Chrysler300cChryslerAdChryslerCommercialcommercialpentastarThu, 15 Oct 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/11/chrysler-to-resume-leasing-vehicles-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Dodge Ram - Click above for high-res image gallery

In late July 2008, Chrysler announced that it would stop leasing vehicles effective August 1. The news helped exasperate the decline of Chrysler group vehicle sales while giving customers fewer options for getting into a new vehicle. After leasing was discontinued, Chrysler's market share dropped from 11.3% to 9.2%. The decline came in part because of Chrysler's very public bankruptcy proceedings and its lackluster product lineup, but there is little doubt that the end of vehicle leasing was also a major contributor to the automaker's precipitous decline.

In an effort to get back on the right track, Automotive News is reporting that dealer sources say leasing could return to the Pentastar as soon as September 18. Chrysler is reportedly waiting until after next Tuesday to make an announcement so it can look over residual value data from the Automotive Lease Guide before making a final decision. Chrysler, which uses GMAC as its finance arm, could follow General Motors' lead and offer leasing only on select vehicles. AN estimates that the Dodge Ram, Journey, Nitro and Grand Caravan, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler Town & Country could be among the vehicles ready for lease duty.


Gallery: 2009 Dodge Ram


[Source: Automotive News]

Chrysler to resume leasing vehicles soon? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto leaseAutoLeasecar leaseCarLeasechrysler leaseChryslerLeasedodge grand caravandodge journeydodge leasedodge ramDodgeGrandCaravanDodgeJourneyDodgeLeaseDodgeRamgmacjeep grand cherokeejeep leaseJeepGrandCherokeeJeepLeaseleaseleasingpentastarvehicle leasingVehicleLeasingFri, 11 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler dropping lifetime powertrain warranty to five-year/100,000 miles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/report-chrysler-dropping-lifetime-powertrain-warranty-to-5-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/report-chrysler-dropping-lifetime-powertrain-warranty-to-5-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/report-chrysler-dropping-lifetime-powertrain-warranty-to-5-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Back in 2007, Chrysler sent something of a shockwave through the industry by announcing a new lifetime powertrain warranty program for nearly all of its cars and trucks. At the time, we wrote "the only fly in the ointment is that the new warranty applies to the original owner and is not transferable." Once the vehicle had been sold, the warranty reverted to a standard three-year/36,000 mile affair. According to the automaker, that minor nitpick caused a load of confusion amongst its buyers.

But there's new word from the Pentastar faithful over at Allpar that Chrysler is dropping its lifetime powertrain coverage in favor of a more conventional five-year/100,000 mile plan that's fully transferable from one owner to the next. The new warranty will reportedly cover all Chrysler, Dodge (minus the Sprinter van) and Jeep models and extends to the high-performance SRT models, fleet sales and police cruisers as well - vehicles the old lifetime program didn't cover.


Gallery: Chrysler "We Build" Campaign


[Source: Allpar]

REPORT: Chrysler dropping lifetime powertrain warranty to five-year/100,000 miles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 chrysler warranty2010ChryslerWarrantychryslerchrysler lifetime powertrain warrantychrysler powertrain warrantychrysler warrantychrysler warranty coverageChryslerLifetimePowertrainWarrantyChryslerPowertrainWarrantyChryslerWarrantyChryslerWarrantyCoveragelifetime powertrain warrantyLifetimePowertrainWarrantyMoparpentastarwarrantyThu, 20 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer groups reportedly asking for liability warning labels on used Chryslers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/consumer-groups-reportedly-asking-for-liability-warning-labels-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When Chrysler was in Chapter 11, the U.S. bankruptcy court decided that the new Pentastar would be free of any liability for accidents that involve Chrysler-branded products sold prior the bankruptcy. Automotive News is reporting that five consumer groups are looking to get the word out that used Chrysler products will not be eligible for such liability claims by putting a warning sticker on each and every used Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep that is for sale.

The Federal Trade Commission is reviewing the petition, which states that consumers who purchase a used Chrysler vehicle risk "being held responsible for millions of dollars in medical expenses, hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost income and other losses - with no possibility of recompense - even if their injury was clearly Chrysler's fault." Under the current plan, customers looking to sue Chrysler for defective product concerns will have to go after old Chrysler, which is broke, bankrupt, and doomed.

Chrysler, of course, is against the petition, as the warning may harm a dealer's ability to sell used Chrysler-branded products. In an email to Automotive News, Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese wrote "In Chrysler's bankruptcy, the ability to form a new company free from the product liability burden of the old company was essential to the new company's survival." Palese also mentions that the petition has also uncovered no new defects or safety issues.

Automotive News is also reporting that General Motors has worked out a deal with state attorneys general to consider claims as long as they were submitted after the automaker's bankruptcy.

[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd | Image: Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty]

Consumer groups reportedly asking for liability warning labels on used Chryslers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruprcychryslerconsumer groupConsumerGroupgmliabilitypentastarWed, 08 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[AP: Chrysler definitely filing for bankruptcy after debt talks "crumbled overnight"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ap-chrysler-filing-for-bankruptcy-after-debt-talks-crumbled-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ap-chrysler-filing-for-bankruptcy-after-debt-talks-crumbled-ov/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ap-chrysler-filing-for-bankruptcy-after-debt-talks-crumbled-ov/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Building on speculation that first leaked yesterday is word this morning that a pair of Obama administration officials have told The Associated Press that Chrysler will indeed file for bankruptcy. The decision was apparently reached after debtor negotiations with hedge funds "crumbled overnight."

If the AP's sources are correct, we assume that the Chapter 11 announcement will be made quickly - likely later today. According to the report, President Obama is slated to talk about the auto industry at noon, at which point we wouldn't be surprised to hear him break the news.

A bankruptcy filing by the Pentastar is not expected to rule out a merger with Fiat, or indeed, trigger the shuttering of the company. Officials close to the proceedings have already gone on record saying that a deal with the Italian automaker could happen inside or outside of bankruptcy, and that arrangement could be finalized as early as today.

[Source: The Associated Press | Image: Andrew Cutraro/AFP/Getty ]

AP: Chrysler definitely filing for bankruptcy after debt talks "crumbled overnight" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Auburn HillsAuburnHillsauto industryAutoIndustrybailoutbankruptcybreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewschapter 11Chapter11ChryslerFiatobamaPentastartrancheThu, 30 Apr 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Chrysler lenders, U.S. Treasury reportedly agree to terms [*UPDATED]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/breaking-chrysler-lenders-u-s-treasury-reportedly-agree-to-te/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/breaking-chrysler-lenders-u-s-treasury-reportedly-agree-to-te/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/breaking-chrysler-lenders-u-s-treasury-reportedly-agree-to-te/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Details are scarce at the moment, but word is emerging that Chrysler's lenders have reached a deal with the U.S. Treasury Department that could help stave off bankruptcy.

According to a Reuters report, word is that the Pentastar's first-lien lenders have agreed to write down the $6.9 billion in secured loans they are owed to just $2.0 billion, although there are no details as to whether lenders will receive an equity stake in exchange. That news comes on the heels of Chrysler's announcement that they have already agreed to new terms with the United Auto Workers and that Daimler has agreed to give up its remaining share in the company.

While a deal between Chrysler lenders and the Treasury is key step in the company's reorganization efforts, the planned merger with Fiat will still need to be firmed up by the Obama Administration's April 30 deadline if additional federal funds are to be made available.

*UPDATE: Bloomberg is reporting that the UAW's retiree health care fund has agreed to halve Chrysler's $10.6B debt to the trust in exchange for 55% of the automaker. As part of that deal, the trust will reportedly gain representation on Chrysler's board of directors - effectively meaning that the UAW will likely have at least one seat at the table.

[Sources: Reuters; Bloomberg | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

BREAKING: Chrysler lenders, U.S. Treasury reportedly agree to terms [*UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutbreakingbreakingnewsChryslerloansObama administrationObamaAdministrationpentastartranchetreasurytreasury departmentTreasuryDepartmentTue, 28 Apr 2009 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler's flexible new Pentastar V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/chryslers-flexible-new-pentastar-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/chryslers-flexible-new-pentastar-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/chryslers-flexible-new-pentastar-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

While the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee wowed the crowds in New York, what lies beneath could be a key to Chrysler's recovery. The new 3.6-liter V6, called Pentastar after the company's five-pointed-star logo, replaces seven - count 'em, seven - of Chrysler's aging engines, and stands as the outcome of several years of development.

The all-aluminum DOHC Pentastar V6, as applied in the new Jeep, offers a 33% increase in power and 11% improvement in the torque department over the engine it replaces, for a husky 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft -- all while returning 11% better fuel economy and helping Chrysler trim its overall, range-wide CAFE emissions by two miles per gallon by 2015. But the key to the engine's success could be its flexibility: not only is it designed as a flex-fuel engine, burning either gasoline or E85 ethanol with no effect on either output or emissions (no mean feat in and of itself), but the new Pentastar will find its way into a wide variety of vehicles, including Chryslers, Dodges and Jeeps, but also Alfa Romeos. That ought to serve as an extra bargaining chip in the vital negotiations between Chrysler LLC and the Fiat Group. Under the pending reciprocal arrangement between Detroit and Turin, the Pentastar could end up motivating several new Alfas, including the replacements to the 159 and Brera, to name just two, while Chrysler reaps the rewards in the form of Fiat Powertrain Technologies' advanced fours. Follow the jump to read more about the new Pentastar V6 in the press release and click the image on the right for a high-res pic.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler's flexible new Pentastar V6

Chrysler's flexible new Pentastar V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler enginechrysler fiatchrysler pentastar v6chrysler v6ChryslerEngineChryslerFiatChryslerPentastarV6ChryslerV6fiat chryslerfiat powertrain technologiesFiatChryslerFiatPowertrainTechnologiesfptpentastarpentastar v6PentastarV6v6Mon, 13 Apr 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler begins Employee Pricing Plus Plus to move cars, cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/chrysler-begins-employee-pricing-plus-plus-to-move-cars-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/chrysler-begins-employee-pricing-plus-plus-to-move-cars-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/chrysler-begins-employee-pricing-plus-plus-to-move-cars-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Just about everyone in the automotive industry is struggling, but Chrysler is taking the brunt of the punishment. The Pentastar's sales were down 30% in 2008, and the prospects aren't so hot for 2009. In an effort to drum up dealer traffic, Chrysler is pulling out all the stops with its new Employee Pricing Plus Plus campaign. The name isn't very catchy, but if you have an inkling to purchase a Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep, this may be as good a time as any.

For starters, Chrysler is offering up its "been there, done that" employee discount. To make the deal that much more enticing, Chrysler is also offering cash rebates of up to $6,000 on 2008 models and $3,500 for 2009 models. On top of those two deals, Chrysler is also offering 0% interest for up to 48 months and another $1,000 in customer cash for using Chrysler financial. We're no dealer sales rep, but these are some big league incentives. Heck, it's almost a liquidation sale. If you're getting ready to log off your PC and head to the nearest Chrysler dealer, we regret to inform you that the Dodge Sprinter is not included in the program - sorry. The Employee Pricing Plus Plus program begins January 26, and it will likely run until people start buying Chrysler products.

[Source: Chrysler, Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading Chrysler begins Employee Pricing Plus Plus to move cars, cars

Chrysler begins Employee Pricing Plus Plus to move cars, cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgeemployee pricing plus plusEmployeePricingPlusPlusjeeppentastarFri, 23 Jan 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler supposedly in 'chaos', suppliers could demand COD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/06/chrysler-supposedly-in-chaos-suppliers-could-demand-cod/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/06/chrysler-supposedly-in-chaos-suppliers-could-demand-cod/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/06/chrysler-supposedly-in-chaos-suppliers-could-demand-cod/#commentsFiled under:

GM is getting the lion's share of the glaring national spotlight due to the immediacy of the company's cash crunch, but Chrysler's situation is easily just as dire. Employees at the Pentastar know this, as evidenced by the fact that a full 25% of its salaried workforce took voluntary separation packages to get while the getting is good. Those 5,000 people weren't just sitting around at Chrysler headquarters, though. They had responsibilities, and Automotive News and the Dow Jones News Service is reporting that chaos is settling in due to the personnel vacuum.

The report cites three sources with knowledge of Chrysler's supplier dealings as saying that suppliers are nervous about bankruptcy, and as a result may beginning to ask for cash on hand in return for parts. A Chrysler spokesperson called the 'chaos' term unwarranted, and said that the loss of jobs will help the company to "continue the transformation of our company." Mega-supplier Borg Warner, for one, told Automotive News that all of the Detroit automakers are currently paying their bills on time, and there have been no reports of Chrysler not paying any large suppliers.

[Source: Automotive News subs req'd]

Chrysler supposedly in 'chaos', suppliers could demand COD originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutchaoschryslerpentastarsupplier cash on demandSupplierCashOnDemandSat, 06 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge developing Challenger SXT, could be Canada only]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/24/dodge-developing-challenger-sxt-could-be-canada-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/24/dodge-developing-challenger-sxt-could-be-canada-only/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/24/dodge-developing-challenger-sxt-could-be-canada-only/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Dodge Challenger SXT

The Dodge Challenger SE is a good-looking coupe that dealers say is selling very well. We liked the base Challenger SE because it carried most of the styling cues of its far more expensive and fast SRT8 sibling at a reasonable price, and we can't wait to try out the mid-level HEMI-powered R/T. Chrysler is now looking to add still more visual bark for its bite-less V6 Challenger with an SXT trim package. Chrysler of Canada is researching what the SXT Challenger should look like, and the Pentastar recently displayed a mock-up of the coupe at the Georgian College Autoshow in Barrie, Ontario, Canada to gauge interest. Chrysler surveyed Canadians regarding whether the SXT Challenger should receive a racing stripe, and also gave onlookers a choice of an 18-inch Mopar rim, or some played-out chrome rims. Chrysler also asked how much the SXT package should cost, and we're hoping our northern neighbors checked the "Less than $500" box, if only because the other choices were more expensive. The Cheers and Gears forums suggest that the SXT model may be for Canada only, but we have no information either way. Check out pics in our gallery below and click through to Cheers and Gears for more.

Gallery: Dodge Challenger SXT


[Source: Cheers and Gears]

Dodge developing Challenger SXT, could be Canada only originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadachryslerdodge challenger SEDodgeChallengerSepentastarSXT ChallengerSxtChallengerWed, 24 Sep 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Stay away from Disney World: All of Chrysler going on vacation same two weeks next July]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/stay-away-from-disney-world-all-of-chrysler-going-on-vacation-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/stay-away-from-disney-world-all-of-chrysler-going-on-vacation-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/21/stay-away-from-disney-world-all-of-chrysler-going-on-vacation-s/#commentsFiled under:

A few months back, Chrysler threw a wrench in its employee vacation plans by mandating that all white collar workers take the last two weeks of July off. The move wasn't very popular due to the short notice provide, and didn't save much money, but team Pentastar has decided to do it again next year. This time, however, employees have 11 months to plan their trip to the Magic Kingdom or a fuel-saving staycation (sorry, we'll never use that term again).

Chrysler spokesperson Shawn Morgan says synchronized time off is good for helping the struggling automaker to become more efficient. The idea is that cutting down on randomly timed vacation will help projects to stay on course while also keeping different project teams from getting ahead of one another. Employees actually like the idea of getting a two week chunk of time off right in the middle of summer, provided that ample notice is given to them to plan accordingly. It also helps workers from worrying about work that is being done in their absence, helping to make the time off more enjoyable.

[Source: Detroit News]

Stay away from Disney World: All of Chrysler going on vacation same two weeks next July originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler vacationChryslerVacationpentastarvacationwhite collar vacationWhiteCollarVacationThu, 21 Aug 2008 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[In lieu of leases, Chrysler wants you to "Shop 'til you Drive"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/in-lieu-of-leases-chrysler-wants-you-to-shop-til-you-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/in-lieu-of-leases-chrysler-wants-you-to-shop-til-you-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/in-lieu-of-leases-chrysler-wants-you-to-shop-til-you-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chrysler's departure from the leasing game certainly isn't going to help dealers move stale product off their lots, so the automaker has announced a new sales program unimaginatively named the "Shop 'Til You Drive Sales Event." What'll it take to get you into a new Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicle?

Well, aside from $2,000 cash back on "select retail purchases," Chrysler is offering an August-only, 72-month, zero-percent APR financing deal on many of its slow-selling models that aims to make monthly payments approximately the same as a 36-month lease.

Additionally, pricing on Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles has been slashed, with the Ram dropping 40-percent of its MSRP, Aspen hacked by up to 25 percent, Town & Country minivans cut by 24 percent and Grand Cherokees dropping 28 percent.

Chrysler will also try to get lessees back into dealerships by offering special "loyalty incentives" that will be applied to a new retail purchase, along with waiving the $425 lease disposition fee.

The full details are posted in the press release below the fold.

[Sources: Chrysler, Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

In lieu of leases, Chrysler wants you to "Shop 'til you Drive" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingchryslerincentivesleasingpentastarrebatesFri, 01 Aug 2008 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler cutting 1,000 white collar workers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/23/chrysler-cutting-1-000-white-collar-workers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/23/chrysler-cutting-1-000-white-collar-workers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/23/chrysler-cutting-1-000-white-collar-workers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Chrysler is losing money by the truck-load, and its vehicles aren't selling, so common sense dictates that team Pentastar was going to start making cuts soon. That time is now, when Chrysler notified workers that it would be cutting 1,000 white collar workers. Chrysler spokesman David Elshoff told employees that the company would achieve its cut target through retirements, attrition, and buyouts, which means people won't be handed boxes and receive security escorts just yet. Chrysler management is making the cuts with the belief that the current economic situation here in the States isn't going to improve any time soon. A quick look at the Pentastar's car lineup shows the privately owned company would be in trouble even if the economy had a rosy outlook. No timetable was given for the white collar cutback.

[Source: Detroit News]

Chrysler cutting 1,000 white collar workers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgejeepjob cutsJobCutsNardellipentastarWed, 23 Jul 2008 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2009 Chrysler Sebring loses hood strakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/spy-shots-2009-chrysler-sebring-loses-hood-strakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/spy-shots-2009-chrysler-sebring-loses-hood-strakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/20/spy-shots-2009-chrysler-sebring-loses-hood-strakes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Chrysler Sebring has been a major league disappointment since its introduction in 2007, but execs at Chrysler headquarters have promised that a new, better midsize sedan is on the way. The photo to the right is not that magical new Chrysler, but is what appears to be a warmed-over version of the Sebring we already have. The most obvious change arrives at the hood, where the Sebring's ungainly washboard ribbing is replaced by a smooth surface. There is significant camouflage covering the front bumper and lower fascia, but due to some un-kept grass, we can't see any details. The Chrysler experts over at Allpar say that the updates will mainly improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise, which will also help improve fuel economy.

Chrysler also plans to simplify manufacturing by making many former options standard equipment, adding the Premium and Luxury group as standard on the Limited model. The Touring model a eight-way power driver seat, chrome and leather shift knob, and traction and stability control. What we don't know is whether Chrysler has updated the Sebring's interior, but the automaker has insisted that it was racing to update it quickly. The good news for interior designers is that the Sebring redo can only get better.

[Source: Allpar]

Spy Shots: 2009 Chrysler Sebring loses hood strakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chrysler SebringChryslerSebringmidsize sedanMidsizeSedanPentastarFri, 20 Jun 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Nardelli returns to work after back injury]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/09/nardelli-returns-to-work-after-back-injury/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/09/nardelli-returns-to-work-after-back-injury/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/09/nardelli-returns-to-work-after-back-injury/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chrysler LLC chief Bob Nardelli is back to work after being laid up with a bad back the past couple of weeks, and here we didn't even know he was hurt. Some bloggers we are. Nardelli's injury didn't require surgery, and the Chrysler CEO worked from home while getting the rest needed to tend to Chrysler's turnaround plan. A Chrysler spokesperson didn't disclose how the injury occurred, but we're guessing the massive weight of the Pentastar's problems would be a hefty strain on anyone's back.

[Source: Freep]

Nardelli returns to work after back injury originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob nardelli backbob nardelli injuredBobNardelliBackBobNardelliInjuredCEOChryslerNardelliPentastarMon, 09 Jun 2008 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 en route to dealers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/2008-dodge-challenger-srt8-en-route-to-dealers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/2008-dodge-challenger-srt8-en-route-to-dealers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/28/2008-dodge-challenger-srt8-en-route-to-dealers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above for more pics of the Challenger SRT8

If you're one of the lucky 6,400 customers to lay claim to the 425 hp Dodge Challenger SRT8, we have good news. The first 1,000 special edition Challengers have already been built, and they're en-route to a dealer near you. For those of you that won't be getting your Hemi-powered muscle car in the first wave, you won't have to wait long, either. Every SRT Challenger will be produced by the beginning of July, which means Woodward should be full of good-looking retro coupes come August. If you want a 6.1L Challenger, you're going to have to hit eBay or wait for 2009, because all 2008 models have been spoken for.

The Challenger has been one of the few pieces of good news surrounding the Pentastar of late, and a hot product couldn't be coming at a better time. We know gas if $4 per gallon and V8 muscle cars aren't exactly what the doctor ordered, but we're probably just as excited as the 6,400 Challenger SRT8 owners to get behind the wheel of this future classic.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8


[Source: Dodge]

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 en route to dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 May 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerDodge Challenger SRT8DodgeChallengerSrt8hemimoparmuscle carMuscleCarpentastarWed, 28 May 2008 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese-made, Dodge-badged cars coming to Mexico next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/14/chinese-made-dodge-badged-cars-coming-to-mexico-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/14/chinese-made-dodge-badged-cars-coming-to-mexico-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/14/chinese-made-dodge-badged-cars-coming-to-mexico-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

After years of talk, Chery is finally entering the North American market later this year, but the small car will be badged as a Dodge, and it'll be sold exclusively in Mexico. The decidedly un-Hornet-looking A1, which was designed by Bertone of Italy, will be rebadged as a Dodge and virtually unchanged from its Chery twin. While Chrysler execs are adamant that the A1 isn't coming to the US, the Pentastar is still working with Chery on a small car to be sold north of the border. Don't hold your breath waiting for an ultra-cheap Chery in the US, though. Chrysler co-pilot Tom LaSorda says Chery has "three or more years" before the Chinese automaker can meet US safety and emissions standards.

[Source: Automotive News (subs req'd)]

Chinese-made, Dodge-badged cars coming to Mexico next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 May 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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