Autoblog

Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 21 May 2013 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, SRT

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.

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Chrysler unveils Dodge Charger SRT8 392, 300 SRT Concept to the faithful [UPDATE]

Chris Paukert — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:31:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, Design/Style

Our man Steven J. Ewing recently spent some time in a 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee, and while he found a lot to love - particularly underhood - he didn't care for the sedan's retro-steeped visuals, preferring the standard SRT's look instead. Perhaps he'll dig this throwback look instead. Over the weekend, Chrysler unveiled this handsome 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 392 Appearance Package at the eighth annual Spring Festival of LXs, a gathering of Charger, Challenger and Chrysler 300 enthusiasts held in Irvine, California.

Unveiled by SRT CEO Ralph Gilles in front of an estimated 2,500 Spring Fest goers, the 392 features 20-inch Black Vapor Chrome alloys set off by a black-painted roof panel, hood bulge, spoiler and mirror caps. Additional exterior changes include model-specific striping and badging along with the requisite serialized dash plaque inside. The 392 will be available in five colors - Billet Silver Metallic, Bright White, Hemi Orange, Plum Crazy and the TorRed pain seen here.

Performance-wise, the 392 remains unchanged from standard SRT8s, but that's hardly a slight - the 6.4 liter Hemi V8 continues to churn out 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Like other 2013 SRT8s, the 392 benefits from the institution of a new launch control system and a retuned three-mode adaptive suspension.

The 392 package will make for a rare beast - just 392 examples are planned between the 2013 and 2014 model years, with dealers slated to begin taking orders in April. Interested? Ordering your SRT8 with 392 limited-edition frosting will cost an addition $2,495 on top of the SRT8's $45,250 base price and $995 delivery fee.

In related news, Chrysler also used Irvine's LX Fest to test the waters of a 300 SRT Concept which featured a non-metallic paint trimmed by blacked-out mirror caps, taillamps and window surrounds. The Black Vapor Chrome wheels have also been given a matte finish. While purely a concept for the moment, we'd be shocked if something like this didn't show up in dealers sooner rather than later.

UPDATE: Official press shots have been made available. You'll find them in our expanded gallery.

Continue reading Chrysler unveils Dodge Charger SRT8 392, 300 SRT Concept to the faithful [UPDATE]

Chrysler unveils Dodge Charger SRT8 392, 300 SRT Concept to the faithful [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, SUV, Jeep, First Drives

Fun Thrown In The Face Of Conventional Wisdom

Let's talk asses for a moment. What do they have to do with the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, you ask?

Well, we're here to tell you that this SRT can haul some. Lots of them, as a matter of fact: Jeep has increased the towing capacity of its most powerful SUV to 7,200 pounds. Assuming the average donkey weighs about 400 pounds, the Grand Cherokee SRT can haul ass to the tune of 18 burros, give or take a covered trailer or so, which is significantly more than it could in previous years. In 2013, the machine could manage 5,000 pounds, while the first generation was rated at just 3,500. The increase is mostly attributable to a new eight-speed automatic transmission and beefier rear axle, and it's a welcome update for those who'd like to use their SUV as, well, an SUV with an emphasis on utility.

You'll be pleased to know that this isn't the only kind of ass hauling the 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT is capable - it can also accelerate really, really quickly - 0-60 in 4.8 seconds to go along with quarter mile times in the low 13-second range and a top speed of 160 miles per hour. That's extraordinary for a vehicle of this ilk - and the run to 60 matches that of the last-gen model despite an extra shift taking place due to the new gearbox. Passing performance is even more impressive, as evidenced by a 35-75 mph sprint that's almost four seconds quicker than it was last year, again, thanks to the extra three gears in the transmission. It goes without saying that the 470 horses grazing on premium unleaded and spitting out 465 pound-feet of torque are also responsible for these accelerative antics, along with the full-time four-wheel-drive system called Selec-Track, which provides more traction than the most stubborn mule in the animal kingdom.

We've been rather fond of previous versions of this menacing machine, and with a slew of meaningful enhancements on the menu for the 2014 model year, we took to the track at the brand-new and most excellent Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas at the invitation of Jeep to find out just how Grand the iconic Cherokee nameplate has become.

Continue reading 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: Andre Agassi's Hemi-powered Jeep Wrangler

Chris Tutor — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Auctions, Jeep, Celebrities, Off-Road

Before retiring in 2006, tennis legend Andre Agassi played big on the court, and, apparently, played really big off road. His heavily customized 2007 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited has been served up on eBay Motors and, you might expect, it's as bold as Agassi himself.

The Wrangler began with a humble 3.8-liter V6, rated at just 202 horsepower. Obviously that's not enough oomph for a celebrity sports star, because Agassi had Burnsville Offroad replace the anemic plant with a more appropriate 6.1-liter Hemi V8. To handle the 420 horses, Burnsville added a 545 RFE automatic transmission, Rancho 9000 shocks, tubular doors and LNG suspension system that presumably gave the Vegas-native all the offroad capabilities he needed to navigate the Nevada countryside. Or the Strip.

Seller Classic & Collectible Cars of Las Vegas says almost $80,000 was spent on the 4x4 at The Custom Shop, also in Nevada. That's on top of the cost of the original vehicle. For that kind of money, you might think they would have thrown in some custom interior pieces, too, but at least the auction winner will have a custom sound system to enjoy.

As of this writing, the auction bidding is at $33,100 after 18 bids, a fraction of that claimed customizing bill. Reserve hasn't been met, but a listing on C&C's website shows a $48,995 asking price.

eBay Find of the Day: Andre Agassi's Hemi-powered Jeep Wrangler originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Watch Jack White bend a Hemi Cuda to his will in "Freedom at 21" trailer

Zach Bowman — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Coupe, Performance, Videos, Celebrities

There are certain things in this world we will love until the day they plant us in the cold, hard clay. B-Movies, cold beer and a good chase scene all make the cut, as does spine-shivering rock and roll. Jack White has managed to combine at least three of those four in the latest trailer for his "Freedom at 21." The clip looks as if it were lifted straight from a '70s grindhouse flick, complete with desolate western back drop, gritty filters and an excellent hero car.

Now, we'll never pretend to be the last word in vintage Mopar metal, but from the looks of the Sassy Grass Green paint on this particular Plymouth, it looks like White has found himself behind the wheel of a 1970 Barracuda. Well chosen, sir.

White has established himself as one of this generation's icons of rock and roll, and despite what you may think about his approach to making music, there's no denying the guy's talent with a guitar. Look for the full feature video to drop on July 16. In the meantime, check out the too-brief trailer below.

Continue reading Watch Jack White bend a Hemi Cuda to his will in "Freedom at 21" trailer

Watch Jack White bend a Hemi Cuda to his will in "Freedom at 21" trailer originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Facel Vega revival in the works?

Chris Tutor — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Paris Motor Show, Rumormill, Design/Style

You may never have heard of the French carmaker Facel. After starting out as a coachbuilder for companies like Delahaye and Bentley, Facel moved on to crafting entire cars. From 1954 to 1962, the company produced the Chrysler Hemi-powered Vega. Facel closed its doors in 1964, but some intriguing sketches and renderings have stirred up a lot of chatter on the Internet of a possible revival of the brand.

Details are scarce and almost impossible to verify, but if Google's translation of French websites are believable, the image above is a rendering of what the resurrected Facel could show off at this September's Paris Motor Show and we might even see a production version in 2014. But rumors written in French translated by Google are not exactly credible. The images all appear to come from a constantly updated Facebook page called "Facel Vega Concept."

Swoopy fenders, and a slick greenhouse wrap the four-seater concept in a sports car disguise. The interior sketches show minimal seating that seem more suited to racing than relaxing.

Speaking of performance, there's no mention of what would power such a car, but it sure is fun imagining that car barking with the power of Dodge's 392-cubic inch, 470-horsepower, 6.4-liter Hemi. Sinister sexiness.

Facel Vega revival in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AEV Wrangler Brute Double Cab

Zach Bowman — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SUV, Truck, Jeep, Specialty, Off-Road

American Expedition Vehicles has broadened its Jeep Wrangler pickup conversion offerings with the new Brute Double Cab. Offered as a turn-key conversion, the vehicle features a combination of stamped-steel and composite body panels for an OEM-level fit and finish. Using a combination of structural adhesive and welding, AEV says it has managed to reduce noise and vibration in the cabin and ensure the longevity of the build. While the original AEV Brute bore a stamped-steel bed, the company has switched to a new composite design that is both lighter and more durable than its predecessor.

Using carbon fiber outer skins, beefy reinforced fiberglass innards and a foam core, the company says that the new kit weighs in at around 200 pounds. That's nearly 200 pounds lighter than the old one.

AEV is currently running a cost analysis to determine how much the conversion will set you back. The Brute Double Cab on display at SEMA 2011 also benefited from the company's 6.4-liter V8 Hemi conversion, complete with a special stamped-steel hood. In addition, Dynatrac served up a special set of axles for the build, including a heavy-duty Dana 44 up front and a Dana 60 rear. Sounds good to us.

AEV Wrangler Brute Double Cab originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mopar announces 800-hp V10 crate engine at SEMA

Noah Joseph — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Dodge, Racing

It may be another year or two before the next-generation Dodge Viper comes rumbling in, all 8.7 liters of it. But even though there is no Viper currently on offer, that doesn't mean there isn't some V10 power to be had. If you're a drag racer, anyway.

The Chrysler Group's performance catalog division Mopar has just announced the availability of a V10 crate engine designed for drag racers, and the figures are positively mind-blowing. The Competition crate engine - hand-built and ordered up as Part Number P5144872 - offers a staggering 800 horsepower and 695 lb-ft of torque. Mind you, that's coming out of 512 cubic inches (8.4 liters) of displacement, which is staggering in and of itself, but amounts to 95 horsepower per liter. Which is a lot, but not by racing standards.

Those who enjoy their ten cylinders of power away from the drag strip can opt for a 150-horsepower upgrade kit for the MkIII Viper that takes output up to 650 hp. There's also a new high-output, aluminum-block 426 Hemi V8 available with 590 horsepower, an adapter kit that allows the Hemi to drive the front wheels(!) and a Challenger body-in-white for race teams. Check out the full details in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mopar announces 800-hp V10 crate engine at SEMA

Mopar announces 800-hp V10 crate engine at SEMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Durango SRT8 may happen for 2013 [w/poll]

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, SUV, Crossover, Chrysler, Dodge

We're completely smitten with Chrysler's latest hi-po Hemi, which displaces 6.4 liters and offers up to 470 horsepower and a matching 470 pound-feet of torque in the engine bay of such vehicles as the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392. Of course, not everyone can manage a two-door with limited space inside for passengers and cargo, which is why Chrysler has placed the massive lump under the hood of the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 as well.

Inside Line cites "a source close to the project" as saying the Grand Cherokee's platform sibling, the Dodge Durango, may also be in line for a 470-hp power infusion for 2013. It only makes sense, since the Jeep and the Dodge share major assemblies between them and both offer the same V6 and V8 engines (besides the range-topping SRT8, for now...) and since Dodge has historically been Chrysler's performance division.

Possibly tipping the scales in the opposite direction, though, is the fact that the Durango R/T, which features a 370-horse version of the Hemi mill, has reportedly not been selling up to expectations. IL also cites pricing as a possible roadblock, since the Jeep SRT8 already tops $50,000 and the Durango SRT8 would likely hit that figure as well, since it would use the same engine, all-wheel-drive system, adjustable suspension and massive Brembo brakes.

As for us, we can think of few better ways to shuffle yourself plus six passengers and their luggage than in a 470-horsepower Durango. And so we ask you: Should Chrysler offer a Dodge Durango SRT8?

View Poll

Dodge Durango SRT8 may happen for 2013 [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Ram pickup range updated with new gearbox, added power

Aaron Richardson — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 14:04:00 EST

Filed under: Truck, Work, Chrysler, Diesel, Ram

Ram is going for broke with its 2012 truck range, increasing power in both the 5.7-liter Hemi and 6.7 Cummins diesel. The gas V8 gets a bump to 383 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The 6.7-liter Cummins diesel inline six now pushes 350 horses backed by 800 lb.-ft. of torque.

Added to that, there's a new six-speed automatic transmission with an updated torque converter. Ram says that the transmission should not only be stronger, but lead to improved fuel efficiency as well. With the new power in the big Cummins, the 4500 and 5500 series chassis cab trucks get a combined gross weight increase from 26,000 pounds to 30,000 pounds.

Full details in the PR blast after the jump.

Continue reading 2012 Ram pickup range updated with new gearbox, added power

2012 Ram pickup range updated with new gearbox, added power originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ralph Gilles talks about SRT's mission

Chris Shunk — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:55:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, SUV, Videos, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

All it takes is a moment or two pondering Chrysler's high performance SRT lineup to put a smile on our faces. After all, the entire lineup was given a makeover in the past few months, complete with a new 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine that pumps out 470 pavement-punishing horsepower.

Newly named SRT brand CEO Ralph Gilles is lucky enough to have the best seat in the house to oversee the development of the brand. Gilles sat down in front of the cameras to talk SRT, and the good folks at Chrysler popped the results into YouTube for your enjoyment.

Hit the jump to check out the moving pictures. If you're not inclined to tune in for Gilles and his unbridled passion for all things SRT, then do it for the beautiful b-roll of Chrysler's performance lineup in action.

Continue reading Ralph Gilles talks about SRT's mission

Ralph Gilles talks about SRT's mission originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 AEV Jeep Wrangler Hemi

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SUV, Jeep, Off-Road, Quick Spins

Conquering Trails And Tarmac In A V8 Monster

It's no secret that when it comes to off-road capability, nothing quite tops the Jeep Wrangler. This grizzled mainstay continues to be the first choice for people wanting to get down and dirty with the great outdoors, and its success story is decades old. It's like the Porsche 911 of off-roaders.

Unlike the 911, however, Jeep has long foregone a higher-strength version of the Wrangler straight from the factory. Porsche, for instance, offers the base 911 Carrera alongside more than 20 other variants, all the way up to the hardcore GT2 RS. So where do Jeep enthusiasts go when it comes time to enhance the off-road experience of the Wrangler? The aftermarket. One such company, AEV, has a package that combines superb off-road prowess with all the creature comforts of an everyday driver.

Oh, yeah - and it has a Hemi V8.

Continue reading 2011 AEV Jeep Wrangler Hemi

2011 AEV Jeep Wrangler Hemi originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 debuts with new 465-horsepower 6.4L V8

Chris Shunk — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Performance, Chrysler

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The redesigned 2011 Chrysler 300 took a leap forward in refinement, but the large sedan's makeover didn't come with an SRT8 variant. No worries, though, because the all-new, more powerful and damn sharp-looking 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is debuting today at the 2011 New York Auto Show.

There's a lot to go over on this new 300 SRT8, but we wouldn't waste a vowel before talking power. Gone is the 425-horsepower 6.1-liter Hemi V8, replaced with the the Pentastar's new 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine that first appeared in the new Challenger SRT8 392. The new V8 produces 465 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, up 40 ponies and 45 lb-ft versus the outgoing engine. What's more, that upgraded output is also more usable for 2012, as Chrysler tells us we can expect an additional 80 lb-ft of torque at 2,900 rpm, which translates into more thrust from a standstill. How much? Official estimates are 0-60 "in the high four-second range," and a quarter-mile time of fewer than 13 seconds. The transmission of choice will be the carryover five-speed automatic, though paddle shifters will join the automatic to give drivers a couple options for gear selection.

Continue reading 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 ready to pounce...

Gallery: 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

Continue reading 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 debuts with new 465-horsepower 6.4L V8

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 debuts with new 465-horsepower 6.4L V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Name Game: Ram "Adventurer" re-christened 1500 Express

Aaron Richardson — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Truck, Chrysler, Dodge

2011 Ram 1500 Express - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ram has re-named its affordable performance truck the Ram 1500 Express. Originally launched at the Chicago Auto Show in mid-February as the awkwardly named Ram 1500 Code Name: Adventurer, the 1500 Express will still pack the 390-horsepower Hemi found in the 1500 Tradesman work truck.

Hemi-powered special editions from Chrysler generally command a pretty serious premium, but Dodge seems bent on attracting a younger audience with this offering. According to Chrysler, the truck will sticker at an affordable $23,830 - including destination charges. For that, you get the Hemi engine, a body-color grille, specific front and rear fascias, chrome dual exhausts and 20-inch rolling stock. The Ram 1500 Express channels its prodigious grunt through a suitably short 3.55 rear end.

Inside, there's a 40/20/40 split folding bench seat atop your choice of vinyl or carpet flooring. If the Hemi's soundtrack gets boring, there's a six-speaker iPod-compatible stereo as standard. Buyers can also choose to specify UConnect voice command technology, Bluetooth and a USB port.

Gallery: 2011 Ram 1500 Express

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Name Game: Ram "Adventurer" re-christened 1500 Express

Name Game: Ram "Adventurer" re-christened 1500 Express originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is Jeep planning a Hemi V8 Wrangler?

Aaron Richardson — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Jeep, Rumormill, Off-Road

2011 Jeep Wrangler - Click above for high-res image gallery

American Expedition Vehicles, a Jeep aftermarket conversion firm from Montana, recently stuffed a Chrysler 392 Hemi between the fenders of a Wrangler for Jeep CEO Michael Manley. This is the same 392 Hemi that powers the 470-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT8 392.

According to sources close to Chrysler, the 392-powered Jeep wasn't just built on a lark. Manley's Wrangler is apparently a mule for "executive evaluation." That's Chrysler speak for "they might build it." Manley's vehicle channels its 470 hp through a six-speed manual and will reportedly slide its back end in third gear with liberal application of the throttle. All we can say is this: Build it. Right now.

Gallery: 2011 Jeep Wrangler

[Source: MSN Autos]

Is Jeep planning a Hemi V8 Wrangler? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leading the Charger: '64 Dodge Hemi concept up for auction

Noah Joseph — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Classics, Convertible, Performance, Auctions, Dodge

1964 Dodge Hemi Charger concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nameplates like Charger and Hemi might be commonly associated with the Dodge brand, but like any household name, it had to start somewhere. And that somewhere was with the concept you see here.

Made to showcase the then-new 7.0-liter Hemi V8, the 1964 Dodge Hemi Charger concept car is one of the most coveted pieces from Dodge's history. It packs one of the 15 original race Hemis built, mated to a three-speed automatic. The fully restored, extreme bodywork puts it on the map, but the reported output of over 600 horsepower (kept in check by hydraulic drum brakes) promises to rip it right up.

The last time this vehicle changed hands in 2007 it went for a reported $1.1 million. Now it's destined for the gavel once again as RM Auctions takes it to the Arizona Biltmore on January 20. Thanks for the tip, Arthur!

Gallery: 1964 Dodge Hemi Charger concept

[Source: RM Auctions via Top Things Stuff]

Leading the Charger: '64 Dodge Hemi concept up for auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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WSJ: Chrysler to back away from Hemi in favor of more refined, green image

Dan Roth — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:57:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler, Dodge

Chrysler has introduced musclebound V8 engines carrying the Hemi moniker twice over the last fifty years, and the company is reportedly preparing to once again back away from the Hemi. As we discovered during our First Drive of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the burly, modern engine with a throwback name won't be going away so much as it will be re-framed when the marketing-speak starts to flow. Dodge vehicles and Ram trucks will unbashedly carry the Hemi, and it will continue to be available in some Jeeps and the Chrysler 300, though it will be downplayed as merely a "5.7-liter V8" in those brands.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the Hemi's Multi-Displacement System will also be given more prominence to point up the engine's fuel-saving abilities. With the Pentastar V6 finally putting a fully competitive V6 in the Chrysler engine stable, and a desire by management to cultivate a more refine and efficient image, it seems that the iconic powerplant will move to the back seat for now. The Hemi is one of the best V8s out there, just like the original, and for now, it's still available.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal]

WSJ: Chrysler to back away from Hemi in favor of more refined, green image originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2010: Bufori Geneva is Australian for luxury, mate

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:38:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Luxury

The Bufori Geneva - Click above for high-res image gallery

During their press conference, Bufori founder and owner Anthony Khouri mentioned that he and his two brothers George and Gerry had so fallen in love with Geneva that they decided to name their new sedan after the fine, Swiss city. An honor for sure, though speaking honestly before they yanked the cover off, we were set to dismiss the newest Bufori as what would happen to your Morgan if you parked it inside a Krispy Kreme for the weekend.

However, and maybe we were swayed by the presentation, but there's more to the Bufori Geneva than meets the eye. Under the hood you'll find the same 6.1-liter Hemi V8 found in SRT-model Chryslers, though for Geneva duty it's tuned to 430 horsepower (instead of 420 hp). If you like, Bufori will be more than happy to slap a supercharger on that puppy, bumping the output to "nearly 600 hp." The Geneva also rides on adjustable air suspension atop a four-wheel multi-link suspension system.

The Geneva also has a full range of modern electronic bells and whistles including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and night vision. More importantly, the body is made out of a blend of Kevlar and carbon fiber, the first such "hybrid" body ever to cover a four-door sedan. As far as the looks go, we can state emphatically that the Geneva is the best looking Bufori ever made. You can debate the specifics of the design amongst yourselves.

The big news is inside the handmade Australian luxo-barge, specifically in the backseat that you enter through suicide doors. Like other luxury rides such as the big Maybachs, there's a mini bar, a champagne fridge, integrated champagne flutes and fully adjustable rear seats. But the Geneva takes it to the next level. There's a locking cash box for all of your loose, ill-gotten gains and the Geneva's pièce de résistance, an integrated tea set featuring an instant boiling water tap. No, really.

While Bufori claims they have the capacity to produce 300 Genevas per anum, they are limiting the yearly total to just 60 cars. Hey, there's no substitute for exclusivity. There's also no word on price but we'll take a guess: a lot. In case you're wondering, we won't be seeing the Bufori Geneva in the States. Instead, Bufori will focus their sales in and around Southeast Asia, the Middle East, China and India.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Bufori Geneva

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Bufori Geneva is Australian for luxury, mate

Geneva 2010: Bufori Geneva is Australian for luxury, mate originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Dexter proclaims Dodge Charger is not a man bag

Chris Shunk — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:34:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Chrysler, Dodge, Celebrities

Click above to watch the video after the jump

When was the last time you saw a Dodge Charger commercial? It's been a while, hasn't it? If you've been missing the crosshair-wearing sedan's presence on the boob tube, we have good news for you. The marketing types at team Pentastar are once again advertising their product, and this spot that precedes the upcoming Super Bowl commercial for the Charger follows in the footsteps of recent Chrysler 300 commercials that hit the airwaves towards the end of 2009.

The Charger spot is a very simple affair, with a jet-black R/T model sitting in a parking lot all by its lonesome. Dodge ad execs saved a bit of money by slowly zooming in on the nice-looking muscle sedan for the entire duration of the 30 second spot. No fancy CGI effects, and there's but one simple cut here, folks. Then they apparently blew all the money they saved by hiring Showtime's Dexter star Michael C. Hall to execute the commercial's voice-over. Hall spends the entire time telling us what the Charger is not, and by doing so we get the message that he's telling us that Dodge's rear-drive sedan isn't for lightweights.

Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself. Unless you have a small dog that wears sweaters. People with sweater-wearing dogs probably won't like it.

[Source: Dodge via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Dexter proclaims Dodge Charger is not a man bag

Video: Dexter proclaims Dodge Charger is not a man bag originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Beach Boys' Hemi Cuda seized, released at Barrett Jackson

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Auctions

Former Beach Boy Al Jardine's Hemi 'Cuda - Click above for high-res image gallery

Al Jardine, a founding member of the Beach Boys, was definitely not feeling good vibrations with this one. His restored Hemi Cuda recreation was stolen in St. Louis in 1975. It was returned that same year, but the authorities never removed the convertible from the stolen vehicle database.

The car was slated for auction at this year's Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, but when a Motor Vehicle Department official noticed that the numbers on the car didn't match those on the title, the Phoenix police impounded the classic. Turns out the car wears remakes of its original VIN, but the 'Cuda was given a new VIN when it was re-registered after being stolen.

The St. Louis police gave the all-clear, though, so the Plymouth has been released and will make it to the auction dais. It will probably be playing, softly, "Don't worry baby, everything will be all right..."

Gallery: Beach Boy Al Jardine's Hemi 'Cuda

[Source: ABC15]

Beach Boys' Hemi Cuda seized, released at Barrett Jackson originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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