Autoblog

2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment

Zach Bowman — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Budget, Sedan, Chrysler, Dodge

Don't call it a Hornet. Dodge has released a slew of shadowy teasers for its new compact sedan, the 2013 Dodge Dart. The company is planning a slow reveal, with snippets of the four-door's exterior and interior trickling out between now and the vehicle's full unveil at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Specifics are still murky at the moment, though we do know Dodge will grace the 2013 Dart with a variety of engine options, including a turbocharged version of the 1.4-liter four-cylinder Multiair engine found in the Fiat 500. If the Fiat 500 Abarth is any indication, that means we're looking at somewhere around 160 horsepower.

The 2013 Dodge Dart makes use of the same bones as the beautiful Alfa Romeo Giulietta, though the chassis has been both stretched and widened to accommodate the wider britches of American buyers. Chrysler says that a full 68 percent of the vehicle's architecture is comprised of high-strength steel, which means the 2013 Dart should retain much of the rigidity that's made the Giulietta a favorite among buyers and critics alike in the EU.

We're plenty excited to get our hands on the 2013 Dodge Dart to see how it stacks up against the likes of the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra among other winners in the segment. Hit the jump for the full press release and then mosey on over to the car's official teaser site.

Continue reading 2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment

2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maserati will use Chrysler and Fiat parts to make Quattroporte replacements

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Maserati

Maserati needs to make major moves if it wants to hit Fiat Group CEO Sergio Marchionne's aggressive sales target. Marchionne wants to see a tenfold increase in Maserati sales, and one of the models that will help him get there is a new sedan, presumably the next-generation Quattroporte. Actually, make that two different sedans, because Marchionne is prepping luxury sleds both small and large.

What will underpin the four-door Maseratis? Since Sergio has the Chrysler parts bin to play with, he will call upon components from both the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Avenger. Also, he has Fiat powertrain parts at his fingertips, so you can expect to see a completely reworked version of the MultiAir engine. In Maserati guise, it will take advantage of forced induction, and should see power output in the 400-horsepower range.

Maserati will use Chrysler and Fiat parts to make Quattroporte replacements originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ferrari working on its own version of Fiat's MultiAir?

Noah Joseph — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:11:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Technology, Ferrari, Fiat

The flow of technology under the Fiat umbrella typically moves from Ferrari to the other brands. After all, between its road and race car programs, Maranello spends an inordinate amount of time and money on research and development. But it looks like the latest bit of technology in Italy is about to go the other way.

Rumor has it that Ferrari is working on a high-performance version of Fiat's acclaimed MultiAir system - one of the biggest assets that Fiat brought to the Chrysler deal. The system allows for an infinitely variable valvetrain setup altered on the fly through hydraulic actuators to optimize performance and efficiency. According to industry speculation on the reportedly leaked schematic above, Ferrari's system could also incorporate the type of pneumatically-actuated valve control used by the Scuderia to allow its F1 engines to redline over the 20,000 RPM mark, far beyond what a conventional spring-driven system could allow.

Combined, the systems could stand to simultaneously improve the efficiency and the output of Ferrari's already high-revving powertrains.

[Source: autoblog.nl via MotorAuthority]

Ferrari working on its own version of Fiat's MultiAir? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat reportedly set to raise stake in Chrysler

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:41:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Chrysler, Earnings/Financials, Fiat

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat and Chrysler, has reportedly indicated that the Italian automaker is interested in raising its stake in the Auburn Hills automaker. Currently, Fiat owns 20 percent of Chrysler and it wants to raise that figure to 35 percent by the end of 2011. Fiat has had a strong third quarter, earning around $236 million.

According to the Detroit Free Press, in order to increase its ownership stake by 15 percent, Fiat has to hit three specific targets that are worth five percent apiece. The first goal is to launch the 1.4-liter MultiAir engine being built at Chrysler's plant in Dundee, Michigan. That engine is slated to go into the upcoming Fiat 500.

Second on the task list is for Chrysler to produce a car that achieves 40 miles per gallon. Marchionne believes this vehicle will enter production towards the end of 2011. It will be a compact hatchback branded as a Dodge.

The final five percent will be earned when Chrysler increases its sales outside of the US. Specifically, it will focus sales efforts to increase volume in South America. Per Marchionne, this last objective will prove the most difficult because of the way Brazil regulates its dealer networks. In fact, Fiat is looking for alternative ways to earn the final five percent stake it seeks from Chrysler.

Thirty-five percent is a hefty piece of the Chrysler pie, but much more can be made available in the not-too-distant future. Once Chrysler is able to repay both the Canadian and U.S. governments for the $8 billion in loans it received, the Italian automaker will be able to raise its stake to 51 percent.

[Source: Detroit Free Press | Image: Massimo Pinca/AP]

Fiat reportedly set to raise stake in Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hotter versions planned as Abarth 500C and Punto Evo hit the market

Noah Joseph — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat

Abarth Punto Evo and 500C - Click above for high-res image gallery

Revealed a few months ago at the Geneva Motor Show, the Abarth versions of the Fiat 500C and Punto Evo are now ready to hit European markets. But that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg as the hot-hatch house is reportedly planning even hotter EsseEsse versions of both.

The Punto Evo Abarth - based on the recently facelifted version of the Fiat Grande Punto - packs a 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo good for 163 horsepower, but the upcoming EsseEsse version promises to boost output up to 180 horses. The 1.4-liter turbo in Abarth's version of the 500C retro cabrio, meanwhile, currently produces 138 horsepower, but is tipped to climb to 157 in Esse-Esse spec.

The 500 range is also expected to upgrade to MultiAir engines sometime within the next couple of years, along with a dual-clutch transmission for the Punto. We'll have to wait and see which engines will feature when the 500 finally makes the transatlantic voyage, but in the meantime Fiat's released a fresh batch of images of the pair of new Abarths on the road. Check 'em out in the gallery below, along with the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Abarth 500C and Punto Evo

[Sources: Autocar, Abarth]

Continue reading Hotter versions planned as Abarth 500C and Punto Evo hit the market

Hotter versions planned as Abarth 500C and Punto Evo hit the market originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat previews updated Abarth Punto Evo, touring car to follow?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 07:56:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Hatchback, Fiat

Where there's smoke, there's fire. So it was natural to expect that, with the debut of the mildly facelifted Fiat Punto Evo and its smoked headlights, we might expect an updated version of the fire-breathing Abarth to go with it. And this, according to reports, is our first look at just such a hot hatch.

A revised fascia isn't the only change the new Abarth Punto Evo brings to the table. Confirming earlier reports, the new Scorpion will get a bump in power from 155 horsepower to 170, thanks to the use of Fiat's new MultiAir engine technology. But that's just the base Abarth. The even hotter EsseEsse model is tipped to have 200 hp on tap, perfect for doing battle with the recently revised Clio Renaultsport 200. The use of Fiat's new dual-clutch gearbox is also reportedly in the mix, along with some LED lighting.

In a related development, Scottish racing team If Motorsport is reported to be considering bringing the Punto Abarth into the British Touring Car Championship. The adoption of new, low-cost NGTC rules for the 2011 series is the impetus, and if recent competition-spec Abarth machines are anything to go by, the BTCC could have a real thrasher on its hands.

[Source: Cardisiac via rmpgo.com, Autosport]

Fiat previews updated Abarth Punto Evo, touring car to follow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 07:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines - Click above for high-res image gallery

If Chrysler is looking to gain any one thing from its new parents at Fiat, it's engine technology. Specifically, the Pentastar will be enlisting its Italian overlords to supply direct injection systems, turbocharging, and Fiat's Multiair variable valve technology, along with new dual-clutch transmissions. Chrysler claims all of this technology is going to boost the overall fuel-efficiency of its vehicles by 25 percent between now and 2014, with over 80 percent of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles getting new mills in the process.

To that end, Chrysler has finally announced the details of its new powertrain lineup, including two small-displacement four-cylinders and a new V6.

On the four-pot front, Chrysler will begin fitting one of two new 1.4-liter four-cylinder engines on future models: a naturally aspirated version kicking out 100 horsepower (at 6,750 rpm) and 95 pound-feet of torque (at 4,250 rpm), as well as a turbocharged variant that churns out 170 hp (at 6,750 rpm) and 170 lb-ft of twist (at 3,000 rpm). In keeping with its Italian ancestry, Chrysler has dubbed these new mills "Fully Integrated Robotized Engines" and each features Fully Variable-valve Actuation (FVVA) - what we've come to know as Multiair across the Atlantic. Chrysler maintains that both engines offer a 10 percent reduction in emissions and fuel consumption while putting out between 10- to 15-percent more power than its outgoing mills.

A larger displacement, 2.4-liter inline four with Multiair will also come to market, putting out 190 hp (at 6,000 rpm) and 175 lb.-ft of torque (at 4,200 rpm), and along with the new trio of four-cylinders, Chrysler announced specs on the new Pentastar V6. Displacing 3.6 liters and putting out 280 hp (at 6,400 rpm) and 260 lb-ft of torque (at 4,400 rpm), the new six will see similar fuel consumption and emissions reductions and will be fitted to the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee later this year.

In 2010, Chrysler says that it will begin to equip its mid-size vehicles (D-segment) with a new six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT), that improves fuel economy and can handle up to 260 lb-ft of torque. Expect to see the new tranny making its way into the next-generation Sebring and Chrysler's new crossovers.

And if all that wasn't enough, Chrysler announced its intentions to bring a hybrid Ram 1500 market this year, along with working with the Department of Energy to build a small test fleet of plug-in Rams and minivans, including an electric delivery van for fleet use in 2011 or 2012. All the details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler announces $179 million investment in Dundee plant to build Fiat Multiair engines

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Government/Legal, Plants/Manufacturing, Chrysler, Earnings/Financials, Fiat

In a none-too-shocking announcement, Chrysler announced plans to invest $179 million to convert its engine plant in Dundee, MI, from building the so-called World Engine to Fiat's 1.4-liter Fully Integrated Robotized Engine. Back in September, Chrysler bought out its former partners Hyundai and Mitsubishi so that it could utilize the Dundee facilities to build the new Multiair powerplants.

Both Chrysler and Fiat are likely to use powerplants built at the facility, with the first application being the diminutive Fiat 500 that's slated for North American production by the end of 2010. Fiat's Multiair technology is said to increase power by up to ten percent while offering a similar reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Later, a turbocharged unit will be built at the plant that will offer V6-level power using 25 percent less fuel. Multiair technology will eventually be added to the rest of the Chrysler engine lineup, including the new Pentastar V6.

Chrysler promises that the Dundee plant will add 573 new jobs to the local economy including 155 directly at the Dundee plant for a single shift of engine production. That was enough to earn a series of incentives from the state of Michigan and tax credits from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Village of Dundee that could add up to $4.6 million over the next ten years. For more, click past the break for the dueling press releases from Chrysler.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler announces $179 million investment in Dundee plant to build Fiat Multiair engines

Chrysler announces $179 million investment in Dundee plant to build Fiat Multiair engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ferrari reportedly hard at work to combat turbo lag

Noah Joseph — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Technology, Ferrari

Try explaining turbocharging to someone who doesn't know cars, and if you do a good job, you're likely to get a reaction something along the lines of, "then why don't they put turbochargers on all cars"? Well, that's a perfectly fair question, and the answer of course is turbo lag. It's one major downside to using spools, and it's what's keeping Ferrari, for one, from implementing them immediately.

Speaking with Britain's Autocar magazine, Ferrari engine chief Jean-Jacques confirmed that the company is preparing to use turbochargers, but that it will take time to develop a new version that will mitigate the effects of turbo lag. This confirms the patent drawings that leaked out earlier this year revealing a developmental two-stage turbocharging system from Ferrari.

Of course this wouldn't be the first time Maranello would use the spools - during the turbo era in F1, the iconic F40 (and the 288 GTO before it) was powered by a twin-turbo V8. But to make it an acceptable addition to modern Ferraris, the company may go the same route as Porsche with variable-vane turbos - or it could come up with another solution entirely.

Meanwhile Ferrari has reportedly dismissed the possibility of using the Fiat Group's new MultiAir variable valve system, finding that it wouldn't work at the kinds of revs and horsepower outputs at which Ferrari engines operate. The report does confirm, however, that the dual-clutch transmission launched on the California is capable of handling the power from V12 engines, suggesting that the gearbox may be implemented across the range for future models.

[Source: Autocar]

Ferrari reportedly hard at work to combat turbo lag originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Not So Fast: Alfa Romeo not working on Multiair V8

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Alfa Romeo, Luxury

It's been 32 years since Alfa Romeo put out its own V8: a 2.6-liter, 197 hp mill fitted to the Montreal model that bowed out in 1977. And with emission regs what they are today, it looks like we may have to wait even longer.

Yesterday, Autocar reported that Alfa was working on a new 3.0-liter Mulitair-equipped V8 that would find a home in the replacement for its 166 flagship, supposedly based on the Chrysler 300 platform. Since the story hit the virtual presses, an Alfa spokesperson has denied the claim, saying "No front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive Alfa Romeo will use a engine larger than a V6." However, Alfa's parent, Fiat, does have access to Chrysler's 3.6-liter V6, but we somehow doubt that aging lump will find its way into the next generation of Alfa's range-topping model.

[Source: Autocar]

Not So Fast: Alfa Romeo not working on Multiair V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Abarth hatching plans for new hot hatches

Noah Joseph — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Hatchback, Fiat

Fiat's Abarth performance division only has two basic product lines, so how many revisions can it possibly have on the burner? Well, two, as reports emerging from Europe suggest.

Following hot on the heels of the 695 Tributo Ferrari unveiled in Frankfurt and the rally-spec R3T presented in Sanremo, come spy photos of an Abarth version of the ragtop Fiat 500C. Reports first emerged of an Abarth 500C a couple of months back, but what looks to be a working example has been spied at Abarth's Officine 83 Mirafiori facility. Sources expect a possible debut in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

Meanwhile, there are also more reports of an updated Punto Abarth. The hot hatch is expected to wear cosmetic modifications concurrent with the new Fiat Punto Evo, and the 170hp 1.4-liter MultiAir four from the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadifoglio Verde is tipped to replaced the existing 155hp engine. Reports also suggest that the Abarth could be one of the first Fiat group products to showcase the company's new six-speed dual-dry-clutch transmission.

While the new Punto isn't expected to make it Stateside, there's a strong chance the Abarth 500 will. However there's no word yet as to if and when the 500 range might get the MultiAir engine and DSG.

[Sources: eurocarblog and jokeforblog]

Spy Shots: Abarth hatching plans for new hot hatches originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde packs Fiat's lucky charm

Noah Joseph — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Europe, Technology, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde - Click above for high-res image gallery

We usually close our posts by inviting you to check out our images, but this time we're starting here: Go into the gallery and have a look at the little green clover logo adorning the front fender of the new Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde. You'll notice that the classic Alfa performance badge has received a slightly modern update, courtesy of some techy carbon fiber-style weave. Hardly the most important thing we've seen here in Frankfurt, but it tells a deeper story. Because while the MiTo QV draws its distinction from the company's deep racing history, it's the forward-thinking technology that sets it apart.

As we reported previously, Alfa is using the MiTo QV to introduce its latest development from Fiat Powertrain Technologies. The MultiAir engine uses advanced electronics and hydraulic actuators to regulate the amount of air being mixed with the gasoline inside the engine's four combustion chambers to the benefit of throttle response and efficiency. And while the 170 horsepower on offer in the Quadrifoglio Verde may fall short of the 240-horsepower GTA in the pipeline, it is here right now, and best of all, the technology is coming to America as part of Fiat's partnership with Chrysler... with or without Alfa's lucky four-leaf clover.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde

Frankfurt 2009: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde packs Fiat's lucky charm originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt

Noah Joseph — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde MultiAir - Click above for high-res image gallery

The four-leaf clover means different things to different people. It's a national icon for the Irish, and a good luck charm to Sunday strollers. But to Alfa Romeo fanatics, it's the emblem of the very best Italy has to offer.

The icon has been used on various high-performance Alfas throughout the company's history, and most recently appeared on special editions of the Spider, GT and 147. Now Alfa's brought it back again for this special MiTo. The Alfa MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde showcases the Italian automaker's latest MultiAir engine - a 1.4-liter, 170hp version in this case - which replaces the throttle plane with electronically-controlled electrohydraulic actuators to optimizes airflow in each cylinder's combustion chamber. Coupled with a new six-speed gearbox, the Quadrifoglio is capable of accelerating to 60 in seven seconds while returning nearly 50 miles to the gallon on the autostrada.

And to set it apart from ordinary MiTos, the Quadrifoglio Verde also features 17-inch wheels, mirror housings and more in dark satin, with a black interior and white instruments, and of course the requisite four-leaf clover emblems. Check it out in the gallery below and the full details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde

[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt

Alfa Romeo presents MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde with new MultiAir engine for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Alfa Romeo Milano, the next 147

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo, Rendered Speculation

Although Car magazine says the coming Alfa Romeo Milano (nee 147) is "quite different from the Mito mini," their rendering of the car makes it look an awful lot like a Mito with two more doors. Not that there's anything wrong with that, since it just means more of a good thing. Compared to its 147 predecessor, it will be longer and lower, although still relatively Golf-sized.

The Milano comes on the C-Evo architecture that will also be applied to the new Giulia (nee 159) and Fiat's other medium range cars - like the next Chrysler Sebring. The versatile building block will offer various lengths and widths in FWD and 4-wheel-drive versions, and propulsion will be courtesy of MultiAir engines. Unveiling of the 5-door hatchback is expected at either Frankfurt later this year, or Geneva in 2010.

[Source: Car]

Rendered Speculation: Alfa Romeo Milano, the next 147 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 May 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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