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[VIDEO: Jay Leno drives the Allard J2X MkII]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-jay-leno-drives-the-allard-j2x-mkii/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-jay-leno-drives-the-allard-j2x-mkii/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/video-jay-leno-drives-the-allard-j2x-mkii/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jay Leno and the Allard J2X MkII - click above to watch the video

It's not like we need another reason to be sickeningly jealous of Jay Leno, but along comes this video. In it Jay drives perhaps our favorite car from the 2009 LA Auto Show, the hugely lovely and impressive Allard J2X MkII. Only unlike the 500-ish horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi powered J2X MkII we got to look at, Jay blasts around the streets of Burbank, CA in a 600-hp 6.1-liter Hemi version. Grrr. Still, the Allard is such a desirable beast - and to see it in motion such a treat - that we'll tuck our Jay-based jealously back into its hole. This time... Watch the video, after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno drives the Allard J2X MkII

VIDEO: Jay Leno drives the Allard J2X MkII originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AllardAllard J2XAllard J2X MkIIAllardJ2xAllardJ2xMkiiHemiJayJay LenoJay Lenos GarageJayLenoJayLenosGarageLenoFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII drops our jaw]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-allard-j2x-mkii-drops-our-jaw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Allard J2X MkII - Click above for high-res image gallery

Tucked away into the nookiest cranny of the LA Auto Show and literally parked behind a Morgan sits the Allard J2X MkII, perhaps the most breathtaking car in the joint. You nerds out there might be saying, "They dragged an admittedly concours-condition J2X out to Los Angeles? Big deal." Which is precisely what we thought as we strolled right past the spiffy, spankin' Allard for nearly two days. But then we took a closer look. Why would someone fit humongous Wilwood brakes to a vintage car?

Because this puppy ain't vintage. See that "MkII" suffix hanging off the end of the title there? This Allard is all new. As in a modern, hand-built continuation of the original Allard. Not only does the Allard Registry recognize the roadster and issue each one its own continuation serial number, but the president of Allard Motor Works is named Roger Allard - though he's not a descendant of founder Sydney Allard. But even if it wasn't a bang-on recreation of the hugely successful 1951-1954 J2X race car, this car would tickle us you know where.

Why? So many reasons.



Besides the usual "Just look at it!" bloviation, the frame is built from tubular steel with double roll bars covering the cowl and fuel tank. And inboard rear-brakes. Then there's the absolutely stunning, jewelery-like hand-fitted instruments and aluminum dash. And the red leather. And the leather hood straps. And the (functional) portholes. The knock-off hubs. The twin side-pipes. And on and on and on. And on.

Then there's the little (or not so little) matter of what's under the hood. In this particular car, it's a 5.7-liter Chrysler Hemi V8 with a massive throttle body and a lot of other reworked jazz that's good for around 500 horsepower. You want a 600-hp 6.1-liter Hemi? Not a problem. You can also opt for a Chevy 350, Caddy Northstar or Ford 351. The sprint from zero to 60 happens in about 4.5 seconds and, depending on the motor, you could pop off a quarter-mile in the low 12 seconds at 110 mph.

Currently the Allard J2X is being built in two places (Montreal and Upstate New York), although there are plans to move to a single factory soon. Roger Allard plans on keeping the new Allard pretty exclusive, limiting its numbers to just one hundred per year. Oddly, about a quarter of that total is slated for Australia. Or maybe not so oddly, as when we shut our eyes we can totally picture ourselves blasting across the Outback in a J2X MkII, bugs in our teeth and roos bouncing off the nerf bars. Cost of entry? The new Allard starts at $138,500.


Gallery: LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII


[Source: Allard]

LA 2009: Allard J2X MkII drops our jaw originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowAllardAllard J2XAllard J2X MkIIAllardJ2xAllardJ2xMkiiHemiLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSydney AllardSydneyAllardFri, 04 Dec 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't our first sampling of the reborn Dodge Challenger. We've driven the SE, R/T and SRT8 variants before. However, this time it's different. We've secured a Challenger SRT-8 with a six-speed manual transmission - and it's a whole different breed of bull.

The six-speed-equipped Dodge Challenger SRT8 drives exactly as it looks. Unlike the countless poseurs promising handling with oversize tires, performance with monstrous exhaust pipes, or luxury with overstuffed cabins, the Challenger SRT8 delivers only what its exterior suggests - a mountain of machismo-infused muscle-car entertainment.

We had a week with Dodge's tribute to testosterone, and it's one we won't soon forget. Contrary to its automatic-equipped siblings, the manual gearbox transforms the SRT8 from merely entertaining to positively supernatural. Make the jump to find out why this husky red coupe had us shaving twice daily.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed


Photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character

Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Dodge2009 Dodge Challenger2009 Dodge Challenger SRT82009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-speed2009Dodge2009DodgeChallenger2009DodgeChallengerSrt82009DodgeChallengerSrt86-speedBrembochallengerChallenger 6-speedChallenger SRT8Challenger6-speedChallengerSrt8dodgeDodge Challengerdodge challenger srt8Dodge SRT8DodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerSrt8DodgeSrt8featuredHEMIManual transmissionManualTransmissionreviewreviewsSRT8srt8 6-speedSrt86-speedTorRedtremecTremec6Tremec6060Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: HPP Daytona is one big Hot Wheels toy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-hpp-daytona-is-one-big-hot-wheels-toy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-hpp-daytona-is-one-big-hot-wheels-toy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-hpp-daytona-is-one-big-hot-wheels-toy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


HPP Daytona - Click above image for high-res gallery

We've been hearing about this car for three days, but we just couldn't find it. Then, just before lunch, one of our intrepid reporters tracked the beast down within the tropical bowels of Las Vegas Convention Center's Central Hall. Behold: the HPP Daytona!

Yes, it's a new Dodge Challenger wearing a Charger Daytona costume, but updated for today's muscle car aficionados. Under the hood sits a standard 5.7-liter HEMI V8, further proving the point that when it comes to the Daytona/Superbird, it's what's on the outside that counts! Luckily for us, HPP did a pretty decent job on the outside.

The nose cone works, and works well. Here comes the hate mail, but this author thinks the nose actually looks better than the original 1969 Charger Daytona's does. Here's a pic for reference. To be fair, the HPP's schnoz is actually much more like a Plymouth Superbird's than the Dodge. The wheels are great, the fake vents on the door are bad, the stance is right... and then we get to the rear wing.

While we're positive that it's the same dimensions as the mondo-sized Daytona/Superbird wing, the new Challenger's trunk is about half the length of the Sixties/Seventies cars. Meaning it looks... not quite right. Also, this Mopar muscle car has grown so much since forty years ago that the car is just screaming for more wing. But we'll still happily take one, as the HPP Daytona was/is totally worth the hunt.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: HPP Daytona Challenger

SEMA 2009: HPP Daytona is one big Hot Wheels toy originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChallengerdaytonaDodge ChallengerDodge Charger Chargerdodge daytonaDodgeChallengerDodgeChargerChargerDodgeDaytonahemiHPPHPP DaytonaHppDaytonaMoparSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowSuperbirdThu, 05 Nov 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three wheeled death wish: blown Hemi-powered trike]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/27/three-wheeled-death-wish-blown-hemi-powered-trike/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/27/three-wheeled-death-wish-blown-hemi-powered-trike/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/27/three-wheeled-death-wish-blown-hemi-powered-trike/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Blastolene Hemi Trike

It's hard to stand out among the customs and hot rods at the Grand National Roadster Show, but there was one vehicle that grabbed our attention. We noticed it not necessarily because of the craftsmanship, which is excellent, or the engineering that went into it, which is incredible, but by the pure insanity of the vehicle. Designed and constructed by Blastolene, the same company that built Jay Leno's tank car and the Cadillac V12-powered B-702, this three-wheeler features a supercharged Hemi V8 that probably produces more power than Zeus can muster. It makes the Dodge Tomahawk Concept look like a child's toy. We can't even begin to imagine what it's like to drive, but we'd guess it's a similar experience to piloting a Top Fuel dragster without a roll cage or any safety equipment. Awesome.

Gallery: Blastolene Hemi Trike


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Three wheeled death wish: blown Hemi-powered trike originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blastolene Hemi TrikeBlastoleneHemiTrikeHemiHemi powered trikeHemi TrikeHemiPoweredTrikeHemiTrikeTue, 27 Jan 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/first-drive-hurst-hemi-challenger/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Hurst HEMI Challenger - Click above for high-res image gallery

Cars-n-Coffee is a weekly gathering of automobilia in Irvine, California at Ford's former Premier Auto Group parking lot. Every Saturday morning from 6AM, Ferraris, Jaguars, Lamborghinis, Porsches, '50s hot rods, Mercedes, Camaros, you name it, rumble their way into the lot. On one recent overcast morning, Autoblog headed down to the dawn soiree, having been offered a drive in the Hurst HEMI Challenger. Although 6AM is closer to our bedtime than it is to reveille, we stayed up and paid a visit to the Challenger, hoping to find out if it had any hope of being a champion. Follow the jump for the story.


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Hurst Hemi Challenger


Photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger

First Drive: Hurst HEMI Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketcars and coffeeCarsAndCoffeechallengerdodgedodge challengerDodgeChallengerfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehemihursthurst hemi challengerHurstHemiChallengersematunerMon, 29 Dec 2008 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2008: Hurst Hemi Challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-hurst-hemi-challenger/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/04/sema-2008-hurst-hemi-challenger/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Hurst HEMI Challenger

George Hurst's mission was to make hot rods for gentlemen. The new Hurst, in the body of the new Challenger, has carried on George's mission admirably. This particular blogger isn't wasn't even a Challenger fan, and then we laid eyes on the Hurst Hemi Challenger, and, like the Grinch, our heart grew three sizes. It's available in four levels, from a 5.7-liter HEMI Challenger to a fire-breathing 6.1-liter supercharged HEMI underneath a MOPAR hood. And when you get to those upper reaches, then you can avail yourself of that Hurst paint job and a car that will do those mammoth wheels justice. We were told the Stage 4 puts out 530 hp at the rear wheels. Which means the car will be waiting for you to it justice as well. Check out the gallery of high-res photos below, and see if your heart doesn't grow a bit as well.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Hurst Hemi Challenger

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Hurst Hemi Challenger

SEMA 2008: Hurst Hemi Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengercoupeshemihursthurst hemi challengerHurstHemiChallengersemasema 2008Sema2008sports carsSportsCarsTue, 04 Nov 2008 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-challenger-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-challenger-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/12/in-the-autoblog-garage-2009-dodge-challenger-se/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Dodge Challenger SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chrysler pays the bills with big sellers like the Dodge Ram and Caravan, but when it comes to passion and excitement, the 2009 Dodge Challenger sits with the Viper atop the Pentastar throne. The new Dodge Challenger is retro done right, with the wide stance and long hood of the original mixed with the clean lines and aggressive dimensions of a modern pony car. For the 2008 model year, Chrysler introduced only the SRT version of the Challenger. The first production model sold for $400,000 at auction, and the entire stock of HEMI-packing, Mopar goodness was history faster than it takes to hit 125 mph on a barren back road.

The reality of today's high gas prices combined with strict new fuel economy standards means that, unfortunately, it's unreasonable for every Challenger to pack a fire-breathing, neck snapping 425-hp, 6.1L V8. So for 2009, Chrysler added the R/T Challenger with an extremely competitive 375-hp 5.7L Hemi and a less expensive Challenger SE with a corporate 3.5L V6 engine pumping out 250 ponies. We wanted to see if the SE model could satisfy our hunger for rear drive performance and classic muscle car looks, so we took in the entry level Challenger for a stay in the Autoblog Garage.


Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Challenger SE


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SE

Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SE originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 dodge challenger se2009DodgeChallengerSe3.5L V63.5lV6autoblog garage challenger SEAutoblogGarageChallengerSechallengerchallenger seChallengerSeChryslercoupedodgedodge challengerDodge Challenger SEDodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerSefeaturedHEMIreviewFri, 12 Sep 2008 12:29:00 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[Cutting room floor: The 2009 Dodge Ram that could've been]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/left-on-the-drawing-board-the-dodge-ram-that-couldve-been/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/left-on-the-drawing-board-the-dodge-ram-that-couldve-been/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/18/left-on-the-drawing-board-the-dodge-ram-that-couldve-been/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view more high-res sketches of rejected Rams

Chrysler is in the battle of its life to regain its competitiveness here in North America, and there is perhaps no vehicle more important to becoming profitable again than the 2009 Dodge Ram. The Pentastar put in a lot of elbow grease to get this truck just right, and the end result is improved power and efficiency, more storage, and a more refined look than the current truck. We like the design of the new Ram, but the production truck unveiled in Detroit was just one of many designs sketched by Chrysler artists.

Friend of Autoblog Mike Levine at Pickuptruck.com got his hands on many of the designs that led to the Ram we'll see in showrooms this fall, and the sketches range from interesting to bizarre. If you take the photo above, for instance, you can see where Dodge was trying to conceptualize nifty storage solutions. The forward-leaning cross-hair grille and integrated bumper had already taken shape, too. Check out our gallery below that includes some exclusive pictures of rejected Rams, and visit PIckuptruck.com to see even more.

Gallery: Rejected Dodge Rams


[Source: Pickuptruck]

Cutting room floor: The 2009 Dodge Ram that could've been originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 07:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChryslerDodgeDodge RamDodgeRamHemiRam DesignsRamDesignsFri, 18 Apr 2008 07:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Dodge Challenger fan commercial rates highly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/video-dodge-challenger-fan-commercial-rates-highly/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/video-dodge-challenger-fan-commercial-rates-highly/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/video-dodge-challenger-fan-commercial-rates-highly/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view fanboy promo

The quintessential car chase may have been immortalized in movies like The French Connection and Bullitt, but there have been dozens of chase flicks with everything from Pontiac Trans Ams to Dodge Challengers as the star. The 1971 movie Vanishing Point served as a classic for Mopar faithful, as the film centers around a troubled car delivery guy trying to get a supercharged 1970 Challenger from Colorado to San Fransisco in 15 hours while the fuzz is on his tail.

With an all-new Challenger on the horizon, one fan took the time to make a video tribute to the muscle car vs. police movie, and the early reviews are positive. The amateur movie maker took clips from the original movie and spliced in Chrysler b-roll of the 2008 SRT Challenger for a very well produced faux promo. We were especially impressed with the effects employed to superimpose clips of the new Challenger in action over the old movie clips. Hit the jump to watch the one-minute short, and if you haven't seen the original movie, we've also embedded the original theatrical trailer for Vanishing Point. Thanks for the tip, Mitch!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dodge Challenger fan commercial rates highly

VIDEO: Dodge Challenger fan commercial rates highly originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dodge ChallengerDodgeChallengerhemimoviesupercharged challengerSuperchargedChallengerVanishing PointVanishingPointWed, 26 Mar 2008 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Dodge Challenger romping in the desert]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/07/video-dodge-challenger-romping-in-the-desert/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/07/video-dodge-challenger-romping-in-the-desert/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/07/video-dodge-challenger-romping-in-the-desert/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Chrysler has released some video of the Challenger zooming around on some desert tarmac. We think that this video is from the same shoot that produced the teaser pics we all salivated over before the Challenger was officially unveiled. With that, on to the video, after the jump. Hit the gallery for more stills, while you're at it.

[Source: Chrysler]

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Continue reading VIDEO: Dodge Challenger romping in the desert

VIDEO: Dodge Challenger romping in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>b-rollbrollburnoutchallengerdesertdodgehemiofficialproductionsrtteaservideoThu, 07 Feb 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler's future does not come with a Hemi powertrain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/22/chryslers-future-does-not-come-with-a-hemi-powertrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/22/chryslers-future-does-not-come-with-a-hemi-powertrain/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/22/chryslers-future-does-not-come-with-a-hemi-powertrain/#commentsFiled under: ,



It looks like the Hemi engine, an icon for the Chrysler Corporation, won't be included in forthcoming applications due to changing fuel economy standards. Rising gas prices have already hurt sales of vehicles featuring these engines, causing Chrysler to cut back production. Now co-president Jim Press has declared, "The Hemi is not the powertrain of the future." Similar to the direction taken by GM, Chrysler is banking on newly developed V6 powerplants to take the reigns from current V8 options. These Phoenix engines are scheduled to hit production in 2009.

The Hemi engine's downfall is its inability to adapt to features proven to increase efficiency. The large combustion chamber design and dual valve structure leads to blow-by of unburned fuel, thus producing large levels of undesired emissions. The use of dual spark plugs has improved burn in the hemispherical combustion chamber, however, it's a solution that increased cost and complexity. More modern and efficient chamber structures, unlike the Hemi, can fit four valves and utilize dual overhead camshafts. Chrysler plans to implement these features into their future V6 engines, along with cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Chrysler's future does not come with a Hemi powertrain originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChryslerFuel EconomyFuelEconomyHemiPhoenixTue, 22 Jan 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO Detroit 2008: Dodge Ram live reveal (with more cattle!)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/video-detroit-2008-dodge-ram-live-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/video-detroit-2008-dodge-ram-live-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/13/video-detroit-2008-dodge-ram-live-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Dodge Ram is a game changer for Chrysler, with lots of new storage options, a heavily upgraded interior, available coil-sprung rear suspension and up to four more MPG than the outgoing model. We've already detailed the excitement of Chrysler's unique introduction of the new Ram, but we figured you'd like to see video of the action, as well. Only Chrysler would march 115 head of cattle up a street in downtown Detroit to welcome its new pickup. They appear on screen with about 2:00 left. Keep your eye on the herd in the background too, they get ornery and a couple can be seen crowd surfing. Check out Jim Press in his first big press conference on the Chrysler payroll, as well. He looks like a Pentastar lifer.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: 2009 Dodge Ram - Live Reveal

VIDEO Detroit 2008: Dodge Ram live reveal (with more cattle!) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jan 2008 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingCattleChryslerDodge RamDodgeRamHemiJim PressJimPressSun, 13 Jan 2008 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler says it will meet new CAFE standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/13/chrysler-says-it-will-meet-new-cafe-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/13/chrysler-says-it-will-meet-new-cafe-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/13/chrysler-says-it-will-meet-new-cafe-standards/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Detroit's sharp intake of breath over the very real possibility of increased federal fuel economy standards apparently doesn't include Chrysler's voice. CEO Robert Nardelli has told The Car Connection that rather than waste lots of time and energy opposing the likely increase to a 35 mpg fleet average, Chrysler will put its head down and get it done. Attaining the goal will not be without pain, however. Cuts will be made, and the books are still in the red.

There is hope, though, if Chrysler and parent Cerberus Capital can stick it out. A new contract with the UAW eases some of the automaker's financial burden, allowing that money to be plowed into development of more fuel efficient vehicles. There's a new two-mode hybrid system, co-developed with Daimler, GM, and BMW, which should help lift the fleet average without Chrysler abandoning their bread and butter moneymakers. With a lineup heavy in less-frugal vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and minivans, Chrysler's acknowledged the holes in their product mix and will set about plugging product into the voids. First up is the new Journey, the company's first crossover vehicle. The CUV segment is red-hot right now, so having a model to sell is a plus. Having a good model that will continue to sell well is an even bigger plus. At this point, Chrysler's facing an uphill climb.

[Source: TCC]

Chrysler says it will meet new CAFE standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2007 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cafecerberuschryslereconomyfuelfuel economyFuelEconomyhemihybridmileagemiles per gallonMilesPerGallonmpgnardelliThu, 13 Dec 2007 11:26:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Woodward Dream Cruise 2007 - The Chrysler display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/video-woodward-dream-cruise-2007-the-chrysler-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/video-woodward-dream-cruise-2007-the-chrysler-display/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/video-woodward-dream-cruise-2007-the-chrysler-display/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Some of the most valuable muscle cars in the world today come from the Chrysler group, with Challengers in some cases auctioning for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The automaker certainly does a great job of making interactive displays for auto shows, and the expertise carries over to Woodward, as well. The Chrysler group display was chock full of tuners, muscle cars, chromed Hemi engines, and things to do for the kids. We stopped by the huge display, and we've got video after the jump for you to enjoy. Take a look!

Gallery: Woodward Dream Cruise 2007: Chrylser

Continue reading VIDEO: Woodward Dream Cruise 2007 - The Chrysler display

VIDEO: Woodward Dream Cruise 2007 - The Chrysler display originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChallengerChargerChryslerDodgeHemiSRTWoodwardMon, 20 Aug 2007 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler debuts childish new ad campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/chrysler-debuts-childish-new-ad-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/chrysler-debuts-childish-new-ad-campaign/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/chrysler-debuts-childish-new-ad-campaign/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cerberus and Chrysler are now officially linked, and to celebrate, the privately-owned automaker is kicking off a new ad campaign titled "Get ready for the next 100 years." The ads will showcase Chrysler's many accomplishments of the past while illustrating why the company will be part of the many generations to come. The folks from Auburn Hills are going all-out, including print and radio spots across the nation.

The Pentastar got creative with its print campaign, and it's dragging out the kiddies to get our attention. The ad shows three children in car seats, each dressed in clothes that illustrate what each brand is about. The Dodge kid is great, race helmet and all (too bad you can't put a car seat in a Viper). The Jeep kid is sitting in a camo'd car seat, which fits the off-road brand perfectly. The little girl in the Chrysler kiddie seat is a little less obvious, but we're guessing she stands for class and refinement. The point of the spot is to show how Chrysler is looking towards future generations of customers. Who knows, maybe these kids will wind up driving an all-electric Charger someday. Hopefully the Chrysler interiors are better by then, too.

[Source: Chrysler]

Chrysler debuts childish new ad campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdsCerberusChryslerHemiWed, 08 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Obama swaps 300C for Escape Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/obama-swaps-300c-for-escape-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/obama-swaps-300c-for-escape-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/13/obama-swaps-300c-for-escape-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Senator Barack Obama has tossed aside the keys to his Chrysler 300C in favor of a new Ford Escape Hybrid. According to the Detroit Free Press, the senator from Illinois was lambasted for driving the a V8 300C after chastising Detroit in a May 7 speech for failing to anticipate rising oil prices that have changed consumers' buying habits.

We for one wish Obama would've kept his 300, not because we hate the environment or think his lecture to Detroit wasn't a wee bit hypocritical, but because hybrids have become nothing more than a decorative accessory for politicians on both sides of the aisle. The Freep reports that John Edwards, Chris Dodd, Hilary Clinton, Mitt Romney and Bill Richardson all have Escape Hybrids in their fleets.

What does it all mean? Nothing really, as hybrids are now politicized to the point where politicians believe owning one gives them a free pass to guilt trip the auto industry in every speech. Less pandering, more substance, please.

[Source: The Detroit Free Press]

Obama swaps 300C for Escape Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barack obamaBarackObamacampaigndetroithemihybridofficesenatorv8Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog drives the Chrysler Nassau concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/27/autoblog-drives-the-chrysler-nassau-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/27/autoblog-drives-the-chrysler-nassau-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/27/autoblog-drives-the-chrysler-nassau-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

When the Chrysler Nassau concept was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show, more than a few pundits panned the premium hatch as less than desirable. For one, there aren't a lot of hatchbacks that sell for over $20,000 in the US market, and the Nassau doesn't look cheap. It's also tough for any vehicle to follow up on the success of something as popular as the current 300C, and the Nassau concept had been labeled as a possible next-generation iteration of the RWD mobster/hip-hop sedan.

While there is little doubt in our minds that the Nassau would be in a heap of trouble trying to replace the 300C, we wouldn't be surprised if such a vehicle could serve as a softer, gentler, complimentary vehicle in a future Chrysler lineup. Our opportunity to drive the Nassau was brief, but it gave us a chance to appreciate the concept from behind the wheel, and our overall opinion is fairly positive. Hit the jump to read our test drive of the Chrysler Nassau concept.

Gallery: Chrysler Nassau sunset shoot

Continue reading Autoblog drives the Chrysler Nassau concept

Autoblog drives the Chrysler Nassau concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300CChryslerConceptfeaturedHemiLX-PlatformNassauRWDWed, 27 Jun 2007 12:36:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Wrangler Unlimited w/ SRT-8 HEMI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Well, this looks like it could be fun. If you're in the market for a new Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited, you might want to check out this eBay auction first. The Jeep that's up for grabs has under 300 miles on it, and while it may look bone-stock, it's anything but. When you lift the hood, you'll find a 6.1L SRT-spec HEMI. The work was done by Burnsville Offroad, which specializes in conversions like this. According to Burnsville's website, an upgraded radiator is part of the deal when they perform these HEMI swaps, so cooling won't be a problem. All the accessory systems work as new, too. Looks like it came out of a Jeep factory, only better. Added bonus: you'll surprise more than a few unsuspecting drivers at stoplight grands prix.

Nice tip, Jay!

[Source: eBay]

Gallery: SRT HEMI Jeep Wrangler conversion

eBay Find of the Day: Wrangler Unlimited w/ SRT-8 HEMI originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2007 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hemisrtwranglerFri, 18 May 2007 19:14:00 EST