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[Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/dodge-recalling-nearly-85k-2007-nitro-models-over-failing-wiper/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Roughly 85,000 2007 Dodge Nitros are being recalled for a windshield wiper issue. Use of the delay settings could lead to the wiper not working at all in any setting. The recall is expected to begin this month, and dealers will repair the wiper mechanism and software for free. For further information you can read the press release after the jump or contact the NHTSA.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern

Dodge recalling nearly 85k 2007 Nitro models over failing wiper concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 dodge2007 dodge nitro2007 nitro2007Dodge2007DodgeNitro2007Nitrododgedodge nitroDodgeNitroNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsanitroTue, 24 Nov 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Volvo enlists valets to understand its clientele]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/volvo-enlists-valets-to-understand-its-clientele/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/volvo-enlists-valets-to-understand-its-clientele/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/18/volvo-enlists-valets-to-understand-its-clientele/#commentsFiled under: ,


The new Volvo slogan gleaned from hours of interviews with valets and Volvo owners: "Life is better lived together." When Volvo's new ad agency, Arnold Worldwide, went looking for a Volvo message that went beyond safety, it started with valets and parking attendants. They told Arnold that Volvo owners are friendly, generous, travel in company, and use their cars as more than showpieces.

Arnold then went to Volvo owners and discovered that they are "users, not havers," and they like to share. In fact, "89% of them put a premium on togetherness and sharing." The result is that six television spots will air that showcase Volvo owners as "'we' people as opposed to 'me' people."

Lifestyle marketing doesn't follow rational rules, but it will be interesting to see if buyers will connect being gregarious doers with owning a Volvo. If so, then Volvo might reverse its 9% decline in year-on-year sales so far this year. And if you're the person who actually did bring enough candy for everyone in the first grade, Volvo would like to have a word with you.

[Source: Ad Age]

Volvo enlists valets to understand its clientele originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad campaignAdCampaignadvertisingarnoldarnold worldwideArnoldWorldwidelife is better lived togetherLifeIsBetterLivedTogethernitroslogansvolvovolvo ad campaignVolvoAdCampaignTue, 18 Sep 2007 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Killing a dog with a Nitro wasn't such a good idea after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/20/killing-a-dog-with-a-nitro-wasnt-such-a-good-idea-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/20/killing-a-dog-with-a-nitro-wasnt-such-a-good-idea-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/20/killing-a-dog-with-a-nitro-wasnt-such-a-good-idea-after-all/#commentsFiled under: ,



When an ad agency supporting Chrysler's Netherlands Market Performance Center created a viral ad for the Dodge Nitro that depicted a dog being electrocuted by the vehicle, they were so smitten with their work that they decided to put it on YouTube. The timing of the spot couldn't be any worse here in the US, where dog cruelty is making front page news. Chrysler execs in Auburn Hills, MI were quick to pull the ad from YouTube and go into damage control, as Chrysler spokesman Jason Vines called the spot "far beyond the bounds of what the company considers appropriate". Vines also pointed out that viral marketing in Europe is a little more over the top than it is here in the States, and anybody that has seen some of the old Ford KA internet spots knows that sort of insensitivity wouldn't float here. What surprises us is that any multinational automaker can air advertising without at least one high-ranking executive looking at it first.

[Source: Auto News (subscription req'd)]

Killing a dog with a Nitro wasn't such a good idea after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jul 2007 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DodgeNetherlandsNitroViral adViralAdFri, 20 Jul 2007 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[It's Dodge Nitro vs. dog in "shocking" new viral]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/18/video-shocking-dodge-nitro-electrocutes-dog/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/18/video-shocking-dodge-nitro-electrocutes-dog/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/18/video-shocking-dodge-nitro-electrocutes-dog/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Dodge Nitro may not be flying off dealer lots right now, but at least the mid-size SUV's advertising campaign has taken on a life of its own. You probably remember the commercial in which the owner of a Nitro gives a motorist a jump, only to blow his car sky-high. Someone has cooked up a viral spot in which a dog that tries to do his business on a hydrant-red Nitro, but winds up getting the (last) shock of its life. PETA members can't be pleased, but it's just a commercial (a European one, based on that front license tag). Check it out after the jump, unless you've recently lost a pet. Especially to an angry Nitro that shoots Force lightning.

[Source: YouTube]

Thanks for the tip, Paul!

Continue reading It's Dodge Nitro vs. dog in "shocking" new viral

It's Dodge Nitro vs. dog in "shocking" new viral originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DodgeDogelectricuteNitroviral adViralAdWed, 18 Jul 2007 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Day 20: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/11/day-20-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/11/day-20-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/11/day-20-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/#commentsFiled under:


click above image to enter to win an all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

Our Sweepstakes for an all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T ends this Friday morning at 12:00AM EST, which means you can enter four more times if you enter every day through the Sweepstakes' conclusion. So give yourself the best possible shot at winning by entering today and the next day.
If you haven't entered yet, do it now by clicking here. Enter once a day until the Sweepstakes concludes on June 15th.

Today we thank Fusion Drivers dddd helping us promote the Sweepstakes.

If you post about the Autoblog Nitro Sweepstakes on your own website or add a permanet banner (available after the jump), please make sure you link it here and drop us a line at abresearch at gmail dot com to let us know so we can include your site in the list below.

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Continue reading Day 20: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T!

Day 20: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jun 2007 00:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Dodge Nitro R/T2007DodgeNitroR/tAutoblogcontestsDodge NitroDodge Nitro R/TDodgeNitroDodgeNitroR/tNitroNitro R/TNitroR/tsweepstakesMon, 11 Jun 2007 00:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of June 04, 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/10/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-june-04-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/10/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-june-04-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/10/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-june-04-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Time is winding down for the chance to win a fully-loaded $29,000 Dodge Nitro, so get in when the getting is still good (Enter every day through June 14th by clicking here.) This week in pictures saw plenty of spy shots, new models, and some interesting videos. Among the many stories on Autoblog, we did a review of the Saturn Aura Green Line, we covered the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance, and Opel Corsa GSi.

The last week was a blast, and you only need three minutes to get an update by clicking on the above video. We've also added links below to some of the more significant galleries from the last seven days. This week, music comes from The Touch Ups with "Fast Food Rampage". Enjoy!

Gallery: 2007 Greenwich Concours d'Elegance - Day 1


Gallery: 2007 Saturn Aura Geen Line


Gallery: BRABUS B63 S Tuning Kit


Gallery: Opel Corsa GSi

Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of June 04, 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Jun 2007 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogbrabuscorsagallerygreen lineGreenLinehybridnitroopelsaturnSun, 10 Jun 2007 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Day 14: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/day-14-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/day-14-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/day-14-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image to enter to win an all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T!

Holy schnikes, the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T is nearly two-thirds over. Almost two weeks have passed and, come tomorrow morning, only one week will be left. If you haven't entered to win the loaded 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T valued at $29,680.00, you can enter right now by clicking here. It only takes a minute, and you can enter every single day from now through to the Sweepstakes' conclusion at 12:00AM EST on Friday, June 15th. That's plenty of time to enter every day and increase your chances of winning significantly.

We had two new additions to our list of helpful sites below: our friends over at Pickuptruck.com and also Stratusphere.net have both added permanent banners on their homepages to help us get the word out.

If you post about the Autoblog Nitro Sweepstakes on your own website or add a permanet banner (available after the jump), please make sure you link it here and drop us a line at abresearch at gmail dot com to let us know so we can include your site in the list below.

Permanent Banner
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Day 14: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogdodge nitrododge nitro r/tDodgeNitroDodgeNitroR/tnitronitro r/tNitroR/trelaunch celebrationRelaunchCelebrationsweepstakesTue, 05 Jun 2007 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of May 27, 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/03/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-27-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/03/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-27-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/03/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-27-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We're now in week two of Autoblog's redesign and contest for a fully-loaded $29,000 Dodge Nitro. (Enter every day through June 14th by clicking here.) This week in pictures was chock-full of spy shots, new models, and some interesting videos. Some of our best work includes our review of the Expedition EL, and don't forget the purchased spy photos of Jaguar's unique-looking Shifter, and some great shots of the next generation Cadillac CTS-V.

We put a lot of effort into the last week, but you only need three minutes to get an update by clicking on the above video. We've also added links below to some of the more significant galleries from the last seven days. This week, music comes from Country Blue with "Fast Cars and Cheap Cigars". Enjoy!

Gallery: 2007 Ford Expedition EL


Gallery: Jaguar XKR / JaguarDrive - spy shots


Gallery: Jaguar C-XF Concept


Gallery: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V - spy shots


Gallery: BMW X5 M Sport

Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of May 27, 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jun 2007 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogcts-vdodgeford expedition elFordExpeditionEljaguarnitroxkSun, 03 Jun 2007 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #67]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/autoblog-podcast-67/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/autoblog-podcast-67/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/02/autoblog-podcast-67/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We've finally poked our respective heads out of our interweb caves and unleashed episode 67 of the Autoblog podcast upon the world. We've been pretty nutty lately with our new, improved site design and our groundbreaking car giveaway, so please forgive our delay at getting back to this. Our first delightful round of witty repartee centers around the excellent spy shots from the last couple weeks, and more specifically Jaguar's new Starship Enterprise looking shift selector. Expanding on the abundance of uberteched European cars, we carp for a while on the proliferation of new and ill-conceived user interface paradigms. Coming back to native shores, we touch on the new CTS-V, which will eschew the need for bumper nuts by a conspicuously bulged hood hiding a supercharged V8 capable of roasting the competition. Speaking of big power, we touch on the rumored NSX mule running around the Nurburgring in S2000 drag, and then concede that we really have no idea. Again, we come back to the US after a quick jaunt to the Continent, and discuss the upcoming Chevy version of GM's Lambda CUV. We're split on whether that's a good idea or not, but we all agree that the Utes themselves are a great product from the General. What the heck, let's go back across the Atlantic to close it out with insane VAG concepts at the Worthersee gathering in Austria, which saw the unveiling of a mid engine twin turbo GTI, the Audi TT Clubsport design study, and the Pirelli Edition GTI that is a real production car. We decided to only consume about 37 minutes of your time, as we'll be back soon. Enjoy the show!

SUBSCRIBE to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
LISTEN to the show now
ADD the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Autoblog Podcast #67 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 02 Jun 2007 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acadiaacuraaudiaustriaautoblogcadillacchevroletchevyconceptctscts vcts-vCtsVcustomcuvdrivegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgermanygiveawaygmgmchondajaguarjaguar driveJaguarDrivelambdamulenitronsxnurburgringoutlookpodcastsaturnsport utilitySportUtilityspy shotsSpyShotssuvtraversevvagvolkswagenwortherseeSat, 02 Jun 2007 09:52:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #67Dan Roth36:15audi, acura, honda, volkswagen, golf, gti, worthersee, concept, design study, custom, nsx, mule, nurburgring, lambda, gm, chevrolet chevy, traverse, cuv, jaguar, jaguar drive, cxf, c-xf, cadillac, cts-v, cts, supercharged, relaunch, giveaway, nitro, dodge<![CDATA[Day 10: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/day-10-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/day-10-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/01/day-10-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-feat/#commentsFiled under:


click image above to enter to win an all-new 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T

The initial elation I felt over finally getting the new site design launched and seeing this sweepstakes begin has subsided, probably as a result of writing this post every day. But yesterday it hit me again that we're actually giving away a vehicle, a monumental feat considering that last year we could barely find the funds to offer you guys and gals an iPod for being such good readers.

So please, take advantage of our success and win this 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T. We want you to have it (we're not eligible to win, doh!). Enter the Sweepstakes by clicking here, and then enter tomorrow and every day after (I'll remind you, don't worry) until the giveaway concludes at midnight on June 14th.

Much thanks to The Car Blogger, iamhoff.com and Auto Concourse for hosting permanent banners promoting the Sweeps on their homepages, as well as The Garage Blog and Automotive Addicts for posting on the giveaway.

If you post about the Autoblog Nitro Sweepstakes on your own website or add a permanet banner (available after the jump), please make sure you link it here and drop us a line at abresearch at gmail dot com to let us know so we can include your site in the list below.

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Continue reading Day 10: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro

Day 10: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 02:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Dodge Nitro R/T2007DodgeNitroR/tautoblogcontestDodgeDodge NitroDodge Nitro R/TDodgeNitroDodgeNitroR/tNitrosweepstakesFri, 01 Jun 2007 02:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Day 7: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/29/day-7-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/29/day-7-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/29/day-7-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/#commentsFiled under:



Today marks the end of the first full week of the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T (i.e. the Sweeps). We've added Gotakan, a Hawaiian blog (Yes, Hawaiians are eligible to win!), and Daily Car Videos to the list of websites helping us get the word out below. If your site posts on the Sweeps, make sure to email a link to abresearch at gmail dot com so we can add it to the list.

So one week has passed, and if you've been playing the odds then you've entered to win the 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T seven times so far. If you haven't been entering every day, today's a great day to start. If you do so from now until the Sweeps' conclusion through June 14th, you can still enter 17 times and increase your chance of winning.

Click here to enter.

Day 7: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2007 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogdodge nitroDodgeNitronitrorelaunchsweepstakesTue, 29 May 2007 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of May 20, 2007]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/28/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-20-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/28/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-20-2007/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/28/autoblog-week-in-photos-week-of-may-20-2007/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This has been a huge week on Autoblog, as we launched our completely updated website, and we're celebrating this feat by giving away a fully-loaded $29,000 Dodge Nitro. (Enter every day through June 14th by clicking here.) We also had reviews of both the Chevy Silverado and the Infinity G35, and we had a great post on the Jeep JT Conccept proving it is more than just some thrown-together concept.

To get a three-minute recap on the past week, all you need to do is click play on the video above. We've also added links below to some of the more significant galleries from the last seven days. This week, music comes from Three Legged Dogg with "Frozen Summer". Enjoy!

Gallery: Jeep Wrangler JT Concept


Gallery: 2007 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ


Gallery: 2007 Infiniti G35S follow up

Autoblog Week in Photos: Week of May 20, 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 May 2007 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogg35nitrosilveradoweek in picturesWeekInPicturesMon, 28 May 2007 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Day 3: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/25/day-3-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/25/day-3-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/25/day-3-enter-the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featu/#commentsFiled under:


UPDATE: We've fixed a lot of bugs, so if you've encountered issues while entering the Sweeps, please clear your browser's cache and restart your browser before trying to enter again. Thanks!

click above image to enter to win an All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro!

Did you enter yet today? You may as well make entering the (deep breath) Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro a part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth or playing Solitaire at work. The Sweepstakes spans 23 days, which means if you enter every day by clicking here, you'll have a better chance to win the loaded 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T than someone who enters only once or twice. Did we mentinon the prize is loaded with 20-inch chrome wheels, the high-end 4.0L V6 engine making 260 horsepower, and... AND the optional MyGIG[TM] Multimedia Infotainment System?

We're working hard to fix any bugs that have been encountered while trying to enter the Sweepstakes, so please, if something seems awry, click the "Corrections/Problems?" link at the top of this page and let us know what the problem is.

We also want to say thanks to a few websites that have mentioned our Sweepstakes and commented on what it means for our little internet industry. If your website has mentioned the Autoblog...Sweepstakes, make sure to let us know by sending a link to abresearch at gmail dot com. We'll keep a running list of links going, as we appreciate any site that helps spread the word.

Day 3: Enter the Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2007 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20072007 Dodge Nitro R/T2007DodgeNitroR/tautoblogAutoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the all-newAutoblogRelaunchCelebrationSweepstakesFeaturingTheAll-new2007Doddodge nitro R/TDodgeNitroR/tNitroNitro R/TNitroR/tredesignsweepstakesFri, 25 May 2007 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[The Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featuring-the-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featuring-the-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/23/the-autoblog-relaunch-celebration-sweepstakes-featuring-the-all/#commentsFiled under:


click image above to enter to win an All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro R/T!

Welcome readers to the new, redesigned Autoblog site. It's been almost three years since Autoblog first went online in June 2004, and we thought it was definitely time for an update.

Dodge has joined us in celebrating our relaunch, and together, we're making blogging history. We bring you: The Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes, featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro!

That's right, Dodge, as our partner, has made Autoblog's celebration a defining moment by offering an All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro for one lucky reader. As the ultimate sweepstakes prize, you could win a Nitro R/T featuring standard 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and a 4.0L V6 engine with 260 horsepower, and it includes the optional MyGIG[TM] Multimedia Infotainment System, plus, a factory-installed power sunroof-prize valued at over $29,000!

Simply click this link to enter the sweepstakes. You can enter once a day until the sweepstakes concludes on 6/15/07! Please see the full sweepstakes rules for all of the details.

Like all of our Autoblog sweepstakes, it's that simple, but this time you can be part of blogging history by being chosen as the winner of an All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro!

The Autoblog Relaunch Celebration Sweepstakes featuring the All-New 2007 Dodge Nitro! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 May 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Dodge Nitro R/T2007DodgeNitroR/tautoblogDodgeDodge NitroDodge Nitro R/TDodgeNitroDodgeNitroR/tfeaturedNitroR/TsweepstakesWed, 23 May 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge returns to the Land of the Rising Sun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/13/dodge-returns-to-the-land-of-the-rising-sun/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/13/dodge-returns-to-the-land-of-the-rising-sun/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/13/dodge-returns-to-the-land-of-the-rising-sun/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While (potential) buyers sniff around The Chrysler Group, DaimlerChrysler is still working to keep the brand in fighting shape for its (potential) future owner, announcing that Dodge will return to Japan after a 5-year absence. Four models have been announced to go on sale through its local subsidiary, DaimlerChrysler Japan Co: the Caliber, Avenger, Charger, and Nitro.

Since 2002, when Dodge shipped its last Viper to Nippon, independent importers have maintained the Chrysler Group flag. Even though fewer than 1,000 Chrysler-brand vehicles were sold in the first quarter of this year, the president of DaimlerChrysler Japan, Hans Tempel, declared "No matter what the outcome of Chrysler is, we will continue making our business more profitable in Japan."

Diesel-powered Jeeps and Dodges are also being considered for the Japanese market, though no sales goals have been quoted.

[Source: Detroit News]

Dodge returns to the Land of the Rising Sun originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2007 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avengercaliberchargerchryslerdaimlerchryslerdodgejapannitroFri, 13 Apr 2007 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler recalls more than 68k 2007s]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/chrysler-recalls-more-than-68k-2007s/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/chrysler-recalls-more-than-68k-2007s/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/chrysler-recalls-more-than-68k-2007s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you own a 2007 Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep listen up, because you're likely affected by Chrysler's latest recall. DaimlerChrysler is bringing home more than 68,000 vehicles to reprogram balky brake computers.

The 11 affected models are 2007 versions of the Sebring, 300, Charger, Magnum, Caliber, Commander, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Nitro and Compass. Whew.

Chrysler says computers in the recalled vehicles' could fail, leading to a loss of antilock brakes, traction control and speedomter functions. We don't remember much from our drivers' ed class, but we're pretty sure brake failure is hardly ever a good thing. Thankfully DC says nobody's been hurt yet.

Oh, and you Sebring drivers must have broken a mirror or something. While one team of crack DC mechanics gives your car a brain transplant, another team will be reteaching it to defrost your windshield. So take a book or something. That particular recall affects about 6,000 new Sebrings.

[Source: Reuters]

Chrysler recalls more than 68k 2007s originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Dec 2006 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caliberchargerChrysler 300Chrysler300commanercompassDodge CaliberDodge ChargerDodge MagnumDodgeCaliberDodgeChargerDodgeMagnumgrand cherokeeGrandCherokeeJeep CommanderJeep Grand CherokeeJeep LibertyJeep NitroJeepCommanderJeepGrandCherokeeJeepLibertyJeepNitrolibertymagnumnitrosebringSat, 23 Dec 2006 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[LaSorda recognizes Chrysler's ads are lame]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/lasorda-recognizes-chryslers-ads-are-lame/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/lasorda-recognizes-chryslers-ads-are-lame/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/11/lasorda-recognizes-chryslers-ads-are-lame/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

During a meeting with Detroit-area dealers, Tom LaSorda, Chrysler group's CEO, expressed his displeasure with the current advertising route employed by the Detroit New York offices of BBDO.

He specifically singled out the ad where a stranded motorist enlists the help of a Nitro driver to jump his car. You've seen the rest, so we're not going to bore you with a description.

The one Nitro ad we would have pointed to is the "Planet" piece, where the SUV is dropped from a crane, falls through the ground, travels through the underworld accompanied by the happy, go-lucky sounds of a 70s-era lounge lizard and then pops out in China. Both ads are so lame, we didn't want to post them after the jump, but we did.

Jason Vines, the Chrysler group spokesman, has gone to BBDO and told the execs, in so many words, to do better. We'd hope so Jason, for both your good and ours.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Continue reading LaSorda recognizes Chrysler's ads are lame

LaSorda recognizes Chrysler's ads are lame originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Dec 2006 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgejason vinesJasonVinesnitrotom lasordaTomLasordaMon, 11 Dec 2006 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[More Chrysler SEMA stuff: HEMI-powered Dodge Nitro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/more-chrysler-sema-stuff-hemi-powered-dodge-nitro/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/more-chrysler-sema-stuff-hemi-powered-dodge-nitro/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/more-chrysler-sema-stuff-hemi-powered-dodge-nitro/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


UPDATE: Added more specs and hi res image



Mad props go out to Ray Wert at Jalopnik who has been feeding us bits of Chrysler's SEMA stuff all day long, and apparently he's not done. The latest is this purple Dodge Nitro with a heavily modified 5.7-liter HEMI V8 under its squared-off hood that's hooked up to a Tremec 5-speed transmission. We're totally diggin the extra-wide fender flares, Viper-sourced Brembo brakes, and 22-inch Alcoa wheels that fit the Nitro just fine. No doubt the HEMI can roast the Yokohamas wrapped around those dubs. Additional touches include a set of four Viper seats to keep driver and passengers secure, as well as a pair of Kicker subs in the trunk that could've easily been left out of this project. We hear there's still a SEMA-fied Challenger yet to show its grille, so we'll have to wait and see if Ray escaped from Auburn Hills with any more info.

Just found out the following deets from Ray:
  • Builders: DaimlerChrysler Dealer Technical Operations and Vehicle Build Shops
  • 5.7L HEMI Crate Engine by Mopar
  • 360 horsepower @ 5,400 rpm and 360 lbs.-ft. of torque @ 4,200 rpm
[Source: Jalopnik]

More Chrysler SEMA stuff: HEMI-powered Dodge Nitro originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Oct 2006 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HEMINitropurpleV8ViperFri, 27 Oct 2006 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge Nitro Panel Wagon previewed ahead of SEMA show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/dodge-nitro-panel-wagon-previewed-ahead-of-sema-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/dodge-nitro-panel-wagon-previewed-ahead-of-sema-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/dodge-nitro-panel-wagon-previewed-ahead-of-sema-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

UPDATE: Hi res images and press release added



Who knows why automakers seem attracted to the utilitarian nature and claustrophobic accomodations of panel vehicles lately, but we're not complaining. Dodge is the latest to join the fray by offering up renderings of the Nitro Panel Wagon concept that will be displayed at this year's SEMA show near the end of the month. As per the requirements for being labeled a panel van, the Nitro Panel Wagon features windowless side panels and a flat load floor. Mike Ellis of DCX tells us that designers are also going to pimp the Panel Wagon with some cool ground effects. Whether that means neon tubes lighting up the frame or just new front and rear bumpers plus side skirts remains to be seen, although we can clearly see some exterior mods on the rendered vehicle that leads us to believe the latter (please don't put neons on your concept, Chrysler).

Unlike the Chevy HHR Panel that was recently announced for production, Chrysler is not saying if there's a production line in this panel van's future. We're all about panel vans, so we say do it. Chevy cannot be allowed to be the only domestic automaker with a production panel van. A panel wagon war between the domestics is exactly what we need right now to take our minds off of quarterly earnings and monthly sales figures. You don't think it'd be an irresponsible use of precious resources, do you? Whatev, build 'em.

More renderings after the jump...

[Source: DCX]

Continue reading Dodge Nitro Panel Wagon previewed ahead of SEMA show

Dodge Nitro Panel Wagon previewed ahead of SEMA show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Oct 2006 16:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptnitropanelSEMAvanwagonTue, 17 Oct 2006 16:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2008 Jeep Liberty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/spy-shots-2008-jeep-liberty/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/spy-shots-2008-jeep-liberty/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/17/spy-shots-2008-jeep-liberty/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The .38 caliber lenses of KGP have shot another vehicle wide out in the open, and this time the 2008 Jeep Liberty has found itself in the photog's sights. Caught without any camoflauge, we can clearly see the next Jeep Liberty is going to take its styling cues from the Commander, with very tall, vertical headlights up front flanking that familiar six-bar grille. We can also see that the Liberty embraces the Commander's boxy shape, giving the entire vehicle a more upright posture and likely increasing interior dimensions in every measure. A longer wheelbase and longer rear overhang are particularly noticeable. Other noticeable changes include the relocation of the spare from the tailgate to under the vehicle, which allows for a rear hatch that lifts vertically instead of swinging out. All of these are benefits that come from the Liberty sharings its platform with the new Dodge Nitro, itself a larger SUV than the current Liberty.

In terms of mechanicals, Allpar.com is guessing both the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission have been dropped, leaving only the 3.7-liter V6 and four-speed automatic to carry the Liberty forward. New electronic nannies also found on the Nitro like ESP with Electronic Roll Mitigation and hill descent control will also likely be available or included on the new Liberty. Finally, the interior is expected to move upmarket with the option for a satellite nav system, rear seat DVD, factory remote start and even the Load 'n Go cargo slide out system found on the Nitro.

Though we've never been a fan of the Commander's styling, we at least respected it for being a true Jeep that can tackle the Rubicon while banging the heads of seven people on board. We have to say, after introducing the decidedly soft Patriot and Compass models, we can get behind a Liberty that returns to the brand's tough roots in terms of styling. These no nonsense, slab-sided designs coming out of Jeep may not be a hit on the runways of Rodeo Drive, but their utilitarian style speaks clearly to their intended audience of weekend adventurers.

[Source: Allpar.com]

Spy Shots: 2008 Jeep Liberty originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Oct 2006 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CommanderLibertyNitroTue, 17 Oct 2006 10:59:00 EST