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[REPORT: Chrysler piles on even more incentives ahead of the holidays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In an effort to spur lagging sales, Chrysler has reportedly cranked up incentive spending on nearly all of its models by $1,000 to $1,500 while also offering 0% financing on many of its models. Chrysler is also said to be offering lease incentives of $500 to $1,000 on minivan leases and financing deals on leftover 2008 and 2009 Dodge Vipers.

The move towards additional rebates comes as incentive spending has been down for crosstown rivals General Motors and Ford. And Chrysler was already spending more on incentives than the industry at large - Edmunds says the typical Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep sold had $3,219 on the hood versus an industry average of $2,486. Chrysler is in a tougher position than its Detroit contemporaries, because the Auburn Hills, MI-based automaker has seen its sales slide by 39% on the year - more than any other major player in the U.S. market. One thing Chrysler does have going for it is that dealer inventory is largely in check and Automotive News is reporting that 88% of its vehicles are 2010 models.

Chrysler's latest round of incentives is good now through January 4, 2010.

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

REPORT: Chrysler piles on even more incentives ahead of the holidays originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingchryslerchrysler incentivesChryslerIncentivesdodgeincentive spendingincentivesIncentiveSpendingjeeprebatesMon, 23 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee out testing in Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/spy-shots-2011-jeep-grand-cherokee-out-testing-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/spy-shots-2011-jeep-grand-cherokee-out-testing-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/spy-shots-2011-jeep-grand-cherokee-out-testing-in-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - Click above for high-res image gallery

A little lawsuit isn't going to keep Chrysler from getting the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee ready for production. The next generation family-sized Jeep was spotted on Michigan roads. Looking rather spiffy in a matte black coat, from the side the SUV is a Cherokee with just a bit of a twist. However, the revisions to the rear and front, as well as its stance, appear to give it more European feel than any Jeep has ever had. Especially from the back it is heavily scented with an X5 influence.

If it gets an old world luxury interior to match, then who knows - the 2011 Grand Cherokee could be all growed up. You can have a look at it for yourself in the gallery of photos below. Hat tip to Peter.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee


[Source: Jeep Garage via Accelerating Perspective]

Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee out testing in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 grand cherokee2011 jeep grand cherokee2011GrandCherokee2011JeepGrandCherokeeGrand CherokeeGrandCherokeeJeepJeep Grand CherokeeJeepGrandCherokeeluxuryspy shotsSpyShotssuvSun, 15 Nov 2009 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche dishes out advice for Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/daimler-ceo-dieter-zetsche-dishes-out-advice-for-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/daimler-ceo-dieter-zetsche-dishes-out-advice-for-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/15/daimler-ceo-dieter-zetsche-dishes-out-advice-for-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


It's said that certain cultures don't handle the concept of irony well. You know, irony - where the intended answer is the opposite of the actual answer. Case in point: Back when cab forward cars were all the rage and the once mighty Plymouth brand was put out to pasture, Chrysler looked as if it had a fighting chance at remaining solidly within the Big 3. The Dodge Ram was a gauntlet thrown, the V10 Viper had sports car fans atwitter and the Dodge Intrepid really was a smart, good looking car.

Chrysler, meet Daimler, your new "equal." And by equal we mean Daimler gets the all the profits and you get cast off, last-generation Mercedes platforms on which to underpin your new cars. In the case of the 300C/Charger/Magnum, this particular strategy worked, for a couple of years at least. In the case of the Crossfire, not even a little bit. And then under Daimler's watch - and specifically under the eyes of Dieter Zetsche, a.k.a. Dr. Z - Chrysler was piledriven through the mat. Have you driven a Dodge Journey lately?

Here's the irony - Dr. Z is handing out unsolicited advice to Fiat's Sergio Marchionne vis-a-vis Chrysler - and we just can't help but laugh. Zetsche claims, "I continue to be emotional about this company and am crossing my fingers for the very best future." And while we're 51% sure he's being sincere, where was that emotion when he green lit the Jeep Compass? Or the Chrysler Sebring? Or the Dodge Caliber? All cars that led directly to the bankruptcy of Chrysler. We could go on, but you get the idea. Our advice to Sergio? Do the opposite of whatever Zetsche is telling you.

[Source: USA Today | Source photo by TORSTEN SILZ/AFP/Getty Images]

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche dishes out advice for Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChryslerDaimlerDaimlerChryslerDieter ZetscheDieterZetscheDodgeDr. ZDr.ZFiatJeepsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneSun, 15 Nov 2009 08:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Jeep Phoenix Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It comes as little surprise that Jeep is looking beyond its current Patriot and Compass models, which have, to put it mildly, underperformed in the burgeoning compact CUV market. While the two concepts had lots of potential, the actual production ComPatriot twins were deemed uncompetitive with class leaders right when they were launched.

As such, the two models are both destined to meet their makers after the 2012 model, to be replaced by a single model sourced from Fiat. Can you say Panda (the image above is just a possible rendering, not a production car)? It's also worth noting that the iconic Wranger will get mild makeovers for both the 2010 and 2011 model years along with what seems likely to be a special 70th Anniversary Wranger for 2011.

Across the line, all Jeeps will reportedly come with an optional Trail Rated package, which means no more on-road only models like the Compass are likely to dilute the Jeep brand. That edict includes the new Grand Cherokee, and Jeep says the Trail Rated Grand Cherokee has already successfully tackled the legendary Rubicon Trail and Moab.


Gallery: 2011 Jeep Phoenix

Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 jeep panda2011JeepPandacompassfiatfiat pandaFiatPandajeepjeep compassjeep pandajeep patriotjeep phoenixJeepCompassJeepPandaJeepPatriotJeepPhoenixpandapatriotWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Jeep Lower Forty a favorite in the Mopar display]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/jeep-lower-forty-sema-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/jeep-lower-forty-sema-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/jeep-lower-forty-sema-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Jeep Lower Forty - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Our SEMA coverage generally doesn't include too much from the off-road segment, but the Jeep Lower Forty concept in the Mopar booth was too good to pass up. Sporting 40-inch Mickey Thompson tires, this Jeep can pretty much go wherever it wants without the help of a suspension lift. Granted, plenty of bodywork was removed to make the new rubber fit, but impressive nonetheless. A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 sends grunt to a six-speed manual transmission before hitting all four wheels via a Dana 44 front axle and a Dana 60 rear axle fitted with 5.38 gears.

Additional features include a carbon fiber hood, custom bikini top, a chopped windshield, and a color-matched interior with Katzkin leather seating. You can read more details after the jump, and we have plenty of high-res photos in the gallery below.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Jeep Lower Forty


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

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Jeep Lower Forty a favorite in the Mopar display

SEMA 2009: Jeep Lower Forty a favorite in the Mopar display originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JeepJeep Lower FortyJeep Lower Forty ConceptJeep WranglerJeepLowerFortyJeepLowerFortyConceptJeepWranglerSEMASEMA 2009sema showSema2009SemaShowTue, 03 Nov 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Jeep Wrangler safe from CARB "Cool Cars" proposal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Remember California's "Cool Cars" regulation? Coming into force in 2012, the rule requires manufacturers to install windows that prevent 45% of the sun's energy from entering a vehicle by 2014, and 60% by 2016. It's the law that no one thinks is cool at all. In a minor victory against The Golden State's increasingly severe environmental regulations (and we live there and love it, but still...), the soft-top Jeep Wrangler has reportedly been given an exemption.

Specifically, any flexible plastic window is exempt. Said a CARB representative, "If the plastic windows are rigid, they must comply with the same standards as glass windows, beginning with the 2012 model year." If not for the flexible-window exemption, Chrysler wouldn't have been allowed to sell the Wrangler in California with the soft top because its plastic windows would have been non-compliant. Chrysler's Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) were also threatened, but are now safe from the regulation as well.

As for the other issue -- radio wave interference that degrades GPS and other signals -- CARB said it hasn't found any such problems in its testing. But who knows, now that the Jeep gets a pass, carmakers might just put flexible windows in every car sold in CA ... and how cool would that be?

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Jeep Wrangler safe from CARB "Cool Cars" proposal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaCalifornia Air Resources BoardCaliforniaAirResourcesBoardcarbcool carsCoolCarsenvironmentgovernmentjeepjeep wranglerJeepWranglerlegalwranglerSun, 25 Oct 2009 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[CA "cool car" regs to kill Jeep Wrangler, interfere with phones, garage openers, ankle bracelets?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ca-cool-car-regs-to-kill-jeep-wrangler-interfere-with-phones/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ca-cool-car-regs-to-kill-jeep-wrangler-interfere-with-phones/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ca-cool-car-regs-to-kill-jeep-wrangler-interfere-with-phones/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Jeep Wrangler - Click above for high-res image gallery

New "Cool Cars" regulations adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) could put an end to the Jeep Wrangler soft-top sales in the Golden State thanks to standards so stringent that the popular 4x4 won't be able to meet them. According to The Detroit News, CARB's latest controversial initiative requires automakers to build cars and trucks with windows which prevent 45% of the sun's energy from entering a vehicle by 2014, and 60% by 2016. To meet these provisions, vehicle manufacturers will have to utilize advanced window glazing containing microscopic specs of reflective metal oxide.

Coating vehicle glass with a metallic layer wreaks havoc on any vehicle electronic device relying on a clear "view" of the world outside. Garmin, a leading manufacturer of GPS devices, says satellite reception through coated glass will be degraded. In addition, cell phones, wireless laptop devices, garage door openers, and even ankle bracelets for parolees "may be adversely affected by the metallic reflective standard" as they all rely on signals passing cleanly through automotive glass.

For what it's worth, Honda tried utilizing the same technology in Japan two decades ago, yet dropped it due to problems with radio wave devices. We are assured that the Jeep soft-top won't have those problems simply because the technology cannot be applied to flexible plastic windows. Without an exemption for that model, Chrysler will only be allowed to sell hardtop Wrangler vehicles in California.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4


[Source: The Detroit News]

CA "cool car" regs to kill Jeep Wrangler, interfere with phones, garage openers, ankle bracelets? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 jeep wrangler2009JeepWranglerCalifornia air research boardcalifornia air resou...California Air Resources BoardCaliforniaAirResearchBoardCaliforniaAirResou...CaliforniaAirResourcesBoardCARBcool carcool carsCoolCarCoolCarsGarminJeepJeep WranglerJeepWranglermetal oxideMetalOxideregulationsWindow tintWindowTintMon, 12 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Dodge splits off Ram brand with new exec appointments]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dodge-announces-exec-appointments-tied-to-new-dodge-car-and-ram/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dodge-announces-exec-appointments-tied-to-new-dodge-car-and-ram/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dodge-announces-exec-appointments-tied-to-new-dodge-car-and-ram/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Rumors floating around since mid-summer that Chrysler would split the Dodge car and truck businesses into two separate units are now a reality. Chrysler Group LLC now consists of four brands: Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Dodge Ram. In early July after the latest iteration of Chrysler emerged from federal bankruptcy court, it was announced that the three existing brands would each get their own President and CEO with profit and loss responsibilities. As of today, only Michael Manley keeps his job as the boss of Jeep. Peter Fong, who had been put in charge of the Chrysler brand, has resigned for personal reasons and is being replaced by Lancia chief Olivier Francois who will also continue to oversee the Italian brand.

Former Dodge CEO and marketing boss Michael Accavitti is leaving Chrysler to pursue other activities, and the marketing group will now report to Francois. The Ram side of the business now falls to Fred Diaz Jr. (right), who also takes over the sales reigns from Fong. Product design SVP Ralph Gilles (left) now also has responsibility for Dodge cars. Got all that?

The automaker's car and truck units were apparently split in order to "... protect and develop the unique nature of the product offerings within the Dodge Brand," although it's not exactly clear what is meant by this. In any case, you can try to make further sense of the moves by checking out the official press release after the jump.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Officially Official: Dodge splits off Ram brand with new exec appointments

Officially Official: Dodge splits off Ram brand with new exec appointments originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgedodge cardodge ramDodgeCarDodgeRamfred diazFredDiazjeepralph gillesRalphGillesMon, 05 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[For Sale: The most Grand Wagoneer ever made]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/for-sale-the-most-grand-wagoneer-ever-made/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/for-sale-the-most-grand-wagoneer-ever-made/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/for-sale-the-most-grand-wagoneer-ever-made/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jeep Grand Wagoneer Limo - Click above for high-res image gallery

There will always be something special about the Jeep Grand Wagoneer that keeps the original Sport Utility Vehicle entrenched firmly on our list of truly iconic American automobiles. Somehow, despite the old-school design and fake wood paneling, the GW manages to look both classy and capable at once.

Though we'll take our Grand Wagoneer exactly as God and American Motors intended, we think this stretched limo-spec Woodie is rather tastefully done as well. If nothing else, it's far cooler that any stretched-to-the-hilt Hummer H2 we've ever laid eyes on. According to the seller (the original ad can be found here), this model is an '87 and features the trusty 360 cubic inch V8 engine, automatic transmission and the requisite four-wheel drive.

It looks to be in good shape inside and out, as it should with just over 43,000 miles showing on the clock. As an added bonus, this Grand Wagoneer sports an attractive black exterior, a fake forest's worth of wood paneling and a very nice tan interior. Take it home for $24,900. Just be sure to replace those awful wheels with something more appropriate... like stock steelies with chrome trim rings.


Gallery: Jeep Grand Wagoneer Limo


[Source: Hemmings Auto Blog]

For Sale: The most Grand Wagoneer ever made originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1987 jeep grand wagoneer1987JeepGrandWagoneergrand wagoneergrand wagoneer limoGrandWagoneerGrandWagoneerLimojeepjeep grand wagoneerjeep grand wagoneer limoJeepGrandWagoneerJeepGrandWagoneerLimolimolimousineSat, 03 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler rehiring white collar workers to get new product out fast]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - click above for high-res image gallery

The new product picture at Chrysler appears to be mighty thin, as the only new products scheduled to come out of the Pentastar over the next year are redesigns of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty and the Chrysler 300. As you may recall, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne recently said that he was surprised to see how little has been done in the way of product development over the past two years, which is hardly a ringing endorsement from the new boss.

Marchionnne and his management team are now putting the final touches on a new plan to reverse Chrysler's fortunes, and the key to the company's renaissance will be new product. The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Marchionne's plan includes quick turnarounds on the refreshing of the Town & Country and Grand Caravan minivans, the Dodge Caliber, as well as the Jeep Patriot and Compass. According to company sources, the PT Cruiser is also scheduled to be redesigned in a compressed time frame, with the expectation of a mid-2011 arrival.

To execute the aggressive plan, Marchionne is reportedly calling for design and engineering workers to work overtime, and some workers who took packages or were separated involuntarily will be hired back on a contract basis. Beyond the refreshes already mentioned, Fiat has already committed to build the hot little 500 in Mexico by mid-2011, and the Pentastar will also complete the launch of its Phoenix V6 engine program.

Marchionne is scheduled to deliver his latest proposal to overhaul Chrysler to the Obama Administration's Auto Task Force by next Wednesday. It looks like there is finally going to be some serious action in Auburn Hills, MI, and we're hoping that Fiat and Chrysler can buy two years' time to bring the greatly-needed product to fruition.


Gallery: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee


[Source: Detroit Free Press]

REPORT: Chrysler rehiring white collar workers to get new product out fast originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgedodge caliberDodgeCaliberfiatgrand caravanGrandCaravanjeepjeep patriotJeepPatriotmarchionnept cruiserPtCruisertown CountryTownCountryFri, 25 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler to make Ram its own brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-chrysler-to-make-ram-its-own-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-chrysler-to-make-ram-its-own-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/24/report-chrysler-to-make-ram-its-own-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



When a report came out earlier this week regarding Fiat's intentions for Chrysler (making it a Cadillac competitor), Dodge (focusing on driving dynamics) and Jeep (being, well, Jeep), one semi-iconic nameplate was left out of the discussion: Ram.

Toiling away under the Dodge brand, the Ram moniker has been reserved for Chrysler Co.'s truck offerings. However, a new initiative could promote the Ram as a standalone brand, focusing exclusively on vans, SUVs, commercial vehicles, and, of course, pickups. That would free Dodge from rough-and-tumble heavy-duty products, leaving it to fend for itself in the compact, mid-size and performance segments - although it's destined to receive some help from Alfa Romeo in the form of joint product development.

Unfortunately for Europe, Dodge - which was just recently introduced across the pond in 2006 - won't benefit from the reworked branding and products. According to InsideLine, Chrysler Group's European arm is likely to drop Dodge abroad in the future. So get your Avenger, Caliber, Journey or Nitro while you can... if you must.

[Source: InsideLine]

REPORT: Chrysler to make Ram its own brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler groupchrysler spinoff ramChryslerGroupChryslerSpinoffRamdodgejeepramram brandRamBrandThu, 24 Sep 2009 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, save 20,000 trees]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/chrysler-owners-manuals-go-digital-for-2010-saves-20-000-trees/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Jeep Liberty Owners' Manual - Click above to enlarge

It was bound to happen sooner or later. For the 2010 model year, Chrysler will no longer be providing traditional owners' manuals on any of its vehicles. Instead, all Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep cars and trucks will come with "a consolidated, customer-friendly user guide and DVD." That consumer guide will be comprised of 60-80 pages in full color and will cover the most commonly needed information.

While some will surely miss their thick paperback owners' manuals, Chrysler cites a number of benefits to the switch. For instance, dropping the four-pound books will save 930 tons of paper annually, which equates to about 20,000 trees. We'd also bet it's more informative to watch a video giving the proper procedure to fold down a Jeep Wrangler's notoriously stubborn soft top than reading about it in print. We'd also guess the Pentastar is saving a good bit of cash by making this switch. Full press release after the break if you're interested in the details.

Continue reading Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, save 20,000 trees

Chrysler owners' manuals go digital for 2010, save 20,000 trees originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler owners manualChryslerOwnersManualdodgedodge owners manualDodgeOwnersManualjeepjeep owners manualJeepOwnersManualMon, 21 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ciao! Fiat to build Chryslers in Italy?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/ciao-fiat-to-build-chryslers-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/ciao-fiat-to-build-chryslers-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/ciao-fiat-to-build-chryslers-in-italy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Fiat is hard at work trying to come up with the best available use of its newly acquired Chrysler arm. Part of that plan may be to sell more Chrysler products in Europe, and Fiat just so happens to have an available factory to build them in. Automotive News is reporting that Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne says the company would use its freshly purchased Carrozzeria Bertone plant near Turin, Italy. Fiat purchased the facility in July, just a few weeks after Chrysler exited chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Marchionne declined to discuss which vehicles would be built at the factory, but those following the Italian automaker have plenty of reasonable guesses. AN quotes sources who say the facility could open as soon as late 2011, and it could build the next generation Chrysler 300. The upcoming new 300 will reportedly begin production in the US in early 2011, and the 300's RWD platform is rumored to be used in future Alfa and/or Lancia models. The sources also claim Jeep models could be built in other Fiat facilities by using complete knock down kits shipped from here in the US.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd | Photo: DAMIEN MEYER/AFP/Getty Images]

Ciao! Fiat to build Chryslers in Italy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chrysler 3002011Chrysler300300alfabertonechrysler 300chrysler fiatchrysler italyChrysler300ChryslerFiatChryslerItalyfiatfiat chryslerFiatChryslerjeeplanciasergio marchionneSergioMarchionneThu, 17 Sep 2009 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Fiat surprised by Chrysler's condition, new business plan coming in November]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/fiat-surprised-by-chryslers-condition-new-business-plan-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/fiat-surprised-by-chryslers-condition-new-business-plan-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/fiat-surprised-by-chryslers-condition-new-business-plan-coming/#commentsFiled under: ,



Bad news travels fast. That old adage was first coined hundreds of years before the Internet, and we'd say the phrase holds more true than ever in the age of Twitter, Facebook and, well, Autoblog. We're but one of many car sites that have mentioned the dearth of new product coming out of Auburn Hills, Michigan over the next couple years, but someone forgot to tell Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne. The Pentastar's new chief executive reportedly told reporters in Frankfurt this week that he was "surprised" at how little was going on over at Chrysler the past 24 months. Surprised? Really? Did Marchionne actually ask Chrysler brass which new products were hitting the streets in 2010 and 2011?

As a result of the dearth of product, Marchionne and his team are going back to work on Chrysler's business plan, with a new plan to be announced sometime in November. Marchionne told Automotive News that the management team had to be "absolutely clear about what we want to do with Chrysler and where the organization is going to be in five years."

Car Concepts Automotive analyst Todd Turner told CNN that he too had a hard time believing that Marchionne was blissfully unaware of Chrysler's plight, adding that Marchionne is using the extra time to announce drastic actions to right the Pentastar ship. Turner went as far as to say that Chrysler could pull the plug on the slow-selling Chrysler brand all together within the next five years or perhaps simply rebadge Fiat models as Chrysler products. That would leave Fiat's Detroit operations with the Dodge and Jeep brands.

Chrysler's newest beast master paid precisely zero dollars (or Euros or Lira or gold cougerans) for its pet project, and Marchionne reiterated that Fiat intended to keep it that way. Marchionne added that he didn't plan any outside investments for Chrysler but added that if total sales in the U.S. market don't hit about 11 million units in 2010, Chrysler may have to close more plants. We're just hoping Chrysler can make it through the next couple of years to actually get to the point where it is selling rebadged Fiats.

[Source: CNN Money | Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty]

REPORT: Fiat surprised by Chrysler's condition, new business plan coming in November originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler productChryslerProductdodgefiatjeepproductsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneThu, 17 Sep 2009 11:21:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler backs away from BBDO, to hold casting call for Q4 advertising agencies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/report-chrysler-backs-away-from-bbdo-to-hold-casting-call-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/report-chrysler-backs-away-from-bbdo-to-hold-casting-call-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/report-chrysler-backs-away-from-bbdo-to-hold-casting-call-for/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Now that the Cash-for-Clunkers bonanza is over, Chrysler will likely struggle to hold on to their market share, and in the company's post-bankruptcy landscape, the Pentastar is looking at every angle possible to improve their sales figures. New Chrysler ad chief Michael Accavitti and staff are said to be looking for more creativity in their fourth quarter marketing push, and its chief advertising agency could be left twisting in the wind.

Automotive News is reporting that Chrysler is opening up competition for its Q4 ad push, with several agencies being offered the opportunity to pitch a new campaign. The move could be coming in part because of feedback from global partner Fiat, which is banking on a turnaround of its five star pet project.

BBDO has been Chrysler's main ad company since 2000, when the contract was valued at $2.4 billion. BBDO had a staff of 2,000 back then, compared with the 500 workers it has now. Chrysler's longtime ad agency, whose contract with the Pentastar ends in January, will reportedly still get a chance to pitch a campaign idea.

[Source: Automotive News -subs req'd | Image: Sean Gallup/Getty]

REPORT: Chrysler backs away from BBDO, to hold casting call for Q4 advertising agencies originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingbbdeochryslerdodgefiatjeejeepFri, 04 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Chrysler make Ram its fourth brand?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/will-chrysler-make-ram-its-fourth-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/will-chrysler-make-ram-its-fourth-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/will-chrysler-make-ram-its-fourth-brand/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

Over the past dozen years, the domestic auto industry has worked hard to shrink its brands to more reasonable levels. Gone are Eagle, Plymouth, Pontiac and Oldsmobile and some would speculate that Mercury should have joined the extinction club long ago. Of course, Ford has sold off Jaguar, Land Rover and Austin Martin, while GM is in the process of jettisoning Saab, Hummer, Saturn, and Opel.

However, if Autoextremist's Peter DeLorenzo is to be believed, the Chrysler portfolio could grow instead of shrink. DeLorenzo says he's hearing rumblings around Motown that Chrysler could break off the Ram from the Dodge, with the truck line becoming a dedicated brand. Doing so would make Dodge a car outlet, while the Ram brand would be all trucks, all the time, including the Dakota.

We don't get how this could possibly be a good idea, considering Chrysler's financial position and struggling sales. Why spend money marketing a new brand, while asking battle-weary dealers to invest in more signage and differentiated floor space? At this point, its just speculation and we're hoping it stays that way.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Ram


[Source: Auto Extremist]

Will Chrysler make Ram its fourth brand? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 dodge ram2009DodgeRamautoextremistchryslerdodgedodge ramDodgeRamjeepramThu, 30 Jul 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler fills out board of directors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/chrysler-settles-on-board-of-directors/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The new Chrysler Group, LLC is out of bankruptcy, in bed with the Italians and the U.S. Government, and now it has a complete board of directors. Chrysler is forging ahead with a fresh group of board members, including former governors, Fiat royalty, and some people you've probably never heard of.

Chrysler announced the rest of its nine member board of directors over the holiday weekend, joining active chairman C. Robert Kidder, who was announced in May. Among the new board members are former Michigan Governor and U.S. Congressman James Blanchard, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, Fiat Powertrain CEO Alfredo Altavill and former Northwest Airlines CEO Douglas Steenland.

Noticeably absent from the board is overt representation from the United Auto Workers, which is perhaps surprising as the labor group owns part of the new Chrysler. Hit the jump to read up on all of the automaker's board members.

[Source: Chrysler | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Continue reading Chrysler fills out board of directors

Chrysler fills out board of directors originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alfredo AltavillAlfredoAltavillboard of directorsBoardOfDirectorschryslerchrysler groupChryslerGroupdodgejeepllcsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneMon, 06 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler christens Brandon Faurote as new chief designer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-chrysler-christens-brandon-faurote-as-new-chief-designer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chrysler Firepower Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

When Sergio Marchionne revamped Fiat, he installed new designers at each company division and charged them with creating products that would define each brand and move metal. Marchionne has apparently done the same with Chrysler, putting Brandon Faurote in charge of Chrysler, Joseph Dehner in at Dodge, and Mark Allen in at Jeep.

Faurote has been with the Pentastar since he was 22, and has worked on offerings like the 1999 Jeep Cherokee and the 2001 Chrysler and Dodge minivans. Since 2003, his title has been Chief Designer - Advanced Product Design, and he's given us concept cars like the 2005 Chrysler Firepower (pictured). He's also given us the Chrysler Imperial, so we pray his eye for the brand leads more toward artillery than royalty.

Joseph Dehner leads the Dodge charge and has the Crossfire and 2001 Chrysler Sebring in his quiver... but also the exterior design of the 2007 Sebring. Mark Allen has the the 2006 Jeep Wrangler and 2009 Dodge Ram 150 to take credit for, as well as super cool Jeep concepts like the Jeep JT and Jeep J8 Sarge. Here's to hoping Fiat encourages - and pays for - them to give us their best. Hat tip to 13enS!


Gallery: Chrysler Firepower Concept


[Source: The Motor Report]

REPORT: Chrysler christens Brandon Faurote as new chief designer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdesigndesignerdesignersdodgejeepsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneWed, 01 Jul 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited vs. Hummer H3T - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last year, we compared the dirtside manners of the Hummer H2 and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both trucks did everything we asked of them, but at the end of the excursion we were left with another question begging to be answered: could the Hummer H3T stand up to the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon? These cruiserweights live on a fatter part of the buying curve, and any time a Jeep is summoned to the ring, the other vehicle is inevitably the challenger. Even though the H3T is still relatively new to the world, it came time to find out if it was ready to stand up and fight for its place. Follow the jump to see how it held up.


Gallery: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T

Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredh3thummerhummer h3tHummerH3tjeepjeep hummerjeep hummer comparojeep wranglerjeep wrangler rubicon unlimitedjeep wrangler unlimitedJeepHummerJeepHummerComparoJeepWranglerJeepWranglerRubiconUnlimitedJeepWranglerUnlimitedreviewreviewswranglerwrangler unlimitedWranglerUnlimitedTue, 30 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


Alfa Romeo Kamal concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to automotive consulting firm IHS Global Insight, the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep lineups are going to look drastically different over the next few years under Fiat control. No surprises there, but the report goes on the forecast which current Chrysler vehicles will be dropped and which ones will be transferred to new platforms. We've already heard that the next Alfa Romeo 169 sedan will be built atop Chrysler's LX platform in Ontario, Canada and that the Fiat 500 will be built ASAP in Toluca, Mexico, but that's only the beginning.

If IHS is right, joining the 500 in Toluca will be the Jeep Panda, which, as you may have guessed, will be a version of the Fiat Panda wearing Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille. Furthermore, Alfa Romeo may get two new SUVs that would be built in Jeep factories in Jefferson, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio - one midsize 'ute called the GTX that's based on the WL platform that underpins the Jeep Grand Cherokee and a smaller one built on Fiat's C-EVO platform, which will also underpin the next Jeep Liberty. That leaves the unloved Jeep Compass and its somewhat more likable brother, the Patriot, to die slow and inglorious death.

Fiat's C-EVO platform will also spawn the next-gen Dodge Journey, Chrysler Sebring (and presumably the Dodge Avenger if it survives past its current form), and Dodge Caliber. Moving downward in size a notch will (finally) be the Dodge Hornet, which will forgo Bad Chrysler's old deal with Nissan in order to share its Fiat 199 platform with the Alfa Romeo MiTo, both of which will be assembled in Belvidere, Illinois sometime in 2011. Thanks for the tip, Dad!


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept


[Source: Global Insight]

Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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