Ring in the new year with this 2013 Chrysler 200 Limited!

It can be yours today-- just stop in for a test drive and you'll be in the car of your dreams in no time.  Click here for more details!

Make sure you hit those chilly roads safely! Hurry in to take advantage of our FREE Battery Inspection Special!

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Check out the RED HOT deal on this 2013 Chrysler 200 Limited!

It can be yours, just in time for the holiday season.  Click here!

Chrysler Backseat Driver, Drive for the Kids Event | Delhi, New York

Since its inception in 1993, the Chrysler-sponsored Drive for the Kids program has helped raise nearly $4.5 million for worthy school programs all across the country.

Chrysler minivans on “best-buys” list

The Windsor-assembled 2013 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan  minivans were among five Chrysler Group vehicles named onto the “Best Buy” list compiled by Consumer Guide Automotive.

Other Chrysler vehicles awarded the accolade include the Dodge Durango in the large crossover segment, Dodge Journey in the mid-size crossover category and Ram 1500 in the large pickup truck segment.

“We are honoured to have five of our vehicles, including three Dodge vehicles, recognized by Consumer Guide Automotive as Best Buys for 2013,” said Doug Betts, senior vice-president for quality at Chrysler Group. “These awards are proof that Chrysler Group creates cars, trucks, crossovers, minivans and SUVs that both customers and critics appreciate.”

Top spot was awarded to Toyota’s entire line of 2013 Prius models, which won  the first ever Editor’s Choice Best Buy Award, recognizing Prius  “as the pinnacle in value, features, and driving experience among 2013 vehicle choices.”

A Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Award rating signifies that a vehicle is ranked at the top of its class and is strongly endorsed by the editors.

Consumer Guide Automotive editors analyse, compare and evaluate several vehicles by driving and extensively testing all major models in 19 vehicle categories. Those models that best fit the needs of the consumer are recognized with a “Best Buy” accolade.

Tom Appel, publisher of Consumer Guide Automotive, said Chrysler has come a long way toward improving the quality of its vehicles.

“The Chrysler Group turnaround has been a treat to watch,” said Appel.  “In a few short years the company has made revolutionary gains in terms of drivetrain sophistication and materials, and assembly quality. Chrysler really feels like an all new entity.”

Consumer Guide Automotive is a U.S.-based consumer resource for reports on new and used vehicles.

 

-Courtesy of The Windsor Star

If you aren't excited for the 2013 Detroit Auto Show yet, this should do the trick.

Jeep will finally be unveiling the diesel variant of the 2013 Grand Cherokee-- Are you as stoked as we are for the debut of this supercharged vehicle?

Introducing Motor Trend's 2013 Truck of the Year.

It's efficient; it's luxurious; it's powerful... it's the Ram 1500.  Do you agree that this truck is truly superior?

Gear Up Tip #8 -- What to Pack

Gear up for the hunt with another tip from Ram Truck. In this video, our Ram Gear Up girl gets you ready for the woods with some helpful hints of what to pack.

It's just our way of saying thank you.

At Automax Dodge, we offer $500 Military Bonus Cash for the brave men and women who have put everything on the line for our freedom.  Click here to read the official program rules.

We had a customer drive all the way from Colorado for our outstanding service! Way to go, team.

"In all of the years we have been purchasing vehicles, this was the most pleasant experience we have had. Everyone we dealt with was professional and friendly. Price was great, got exactly what we wanted without any blarney. Even though we had to drive from Colorado it was worth it." --jjnelson

Click here to read even more wonderful reviews!

No, you aren't dreaming. This could be your next new car!

 

Click here for all the details.

First Impressions: 2013 Dodge Dart

Watch this video for MotorWeek's first impressions review of the 2013 Dodge Dart.  Tell us what YOU think, fans!

Check out the 2013 Dodge Charger at Automax Dodge

This is excitement on wheels! The 2013 Dodge Charger is here and it can be yours today. Click here to check it out. 

In 1941 we were there to take our troops into battle. Now we will be there to bring them home.

Countdown | Jeep®

Happy Cyber Monday, everyone! What better way to celebrate than to check out our daily deals?

 

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Chrysler 300 Commercial - "A Title You Can Earn"

Chrysler 300 Commercial - "Advice"

With a sound-deadening underside, insulated materials and acoustic glass, the quiet cabin of the new Chrysler 300 keeps outside noise outside.

Show them you care.

Just in time for the upcoming holiday... check out our military special! It's important to show respect for those brave men and women who fought and are fighting for our freedom. This is just our little way of saying thank you.

Chrysler Backseat Driver and Drive for the Kids Event in Traverse City, MI

Check out this awesome (and adorable!) video about Chrysler giving back to worthy school districts.  It's called Drive for the Kids, and it's helped raise nearly 4.5 million dollars!

Reader-Submitted Story – “Not Just a Truck, a Part of the Family”

It’s that time again—time for another installment in our Real People, Real Trucks series. This week’s story comes to us from Bailey D. of Peabody, Kansas, where an old Ram truck has found a good home.

My dad has had his ‘01 Ram V-10 for 11 years now. It has 378,000 miles on it and will still pull anything like it’s nothing. It hauled 17 big round hay bales, no trouble at all, and it regularly pulls a skid steer with a miller welder on the back. It’s not just a truck—it’s part of the family.

Thanks for sharing, Bailey. We’re happy that one of our own is now a part of your family.

 

Courtesy of RAM Blog

Way to go, team! Keep up the fantastic work.

"Salesman Ronnie Columbus did a great job in assisting me with finding a vehicle and finance dept got me a great interest rate!" --anonymous

Click here to read more.

It's your next new car... you just don't know it yet.

Come in for a test drive today and leave the lot in this incredible ride!

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If you’re seeing a light like this, make sure to schedule an appointment with us!

Talk about SPOOKY! Click here to plan your visit and we'll get this problem to disappear.

How to Test Your Car for Fun

Is YOUR car fun-ready?  Find out how to test for it by watching this awesome video about the Dodge Dart.

Mark Zona -- 2012 Ram 1500 Outdoorsman RamBox lockable dry storage

Mark Zona, host of Zona's Awesome Fishing Show Powered by Ram explains how the RamBoxes on his 2012 Ram 1500 Outdoorsman help store his gear when his boat is overloaded.

Happy Motivational Monday! What small thing made YOU happy today?

Chrysler 300—Detroit Jazz Fest Ride & Drive

Cool music was not the only topic of conversation during the 2012 Detroit Jazz Festival. Many people were also speaking highly of the vehicles that festival-sponsor Chrysler had on hand—everything from a Chrysler Town & Country Limited to a Chrysler 200S. In this video, it's the Chrysler 300 garnering positive reviews.

Ram Power Days

October is the last month for Ram Power Days at AutoMax Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram! Want no payments for 90 days? We got that! Hurry in to the Ram Capital in Oklahoma!

Rare Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda Convertible To Cross Auction Block

SCOTTSDALE, Arizona — One of the most desirable Mopar muscle cars ever built, a rare 1971 FC7-In Violet Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda Convertible — the only one of its color to roll off the line in 1971 — will cross the Barrett-Jackson auction block here in January.

While Barrett-Jackson's policy is to refrain from releasing its reserve, another 1971 Hemi 'Cuda Convertible sold at a different 2007 auction for $2.2 million, which was said to be $1 million less than what RM Auctions was expecting.

The 1971 FC7-In Violet Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda Convertible, best-known for its "Plum Crazy" color, was rediscovered on New Year's Eve in 2001 by long-time Hemi 'Cuda Convertible hunter Harold Sullivan, after the car was stolen nearly 30 years prior. It was buried in weeds and underbrush and only five days away from disappearing into a scrap-recycling yard.

After a two-year restoration by Cummins Restoration in Grand Haven, Michigan, the Hemi 'Cuda was completed by Ted Mazurek at Sullivan's shop in Madison Heights, Michigan. It was inspected, authenticated and appraised to museum standards by Mopar guru Galen Govier after its restoration. Its authenticity paid off when it took top honors at the 2005 Meadowbrook Concours d'Elegance in Rochester, Michigan.

Gearheads will get a kick out of knowing it contains the last factory-assembled 426cid Hemi V8 engine, with two four-barrel carburetors, 727 automatic transmission, Super Track Pak package with Dana 60 rear end, 4.11 ratio gears and a power convertible top. This also was the only model year the 'Cuda sported four headlights and fender "gills."

"It is a true automotive milestone and an extraordinary example of 'American Muscle' at its finest," said Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson, in a statement, who personally owns a 1970 version of the car.

Of the 11 Hemi 'Cuda Convertibles ever built, this is one of only two convertibles made for export to Canada. There it was featured in Canadian Hot Rods and on the October 2011 cover of Mopar Action. Seven of the remainders went to U.S. buyers and two were exported to England.

 

Courtesy of Edmunds Inside Line

Jeep Grand Cherokee "The Most" OFFICIAL COMMERCIAL

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

Dodge Dart named “safest reissue” car by IIHS

The Dodge Darts of old were sturdy, dependable, and good-looking, and Americans bought enough of them to make the badge a minor legend until the last one rolled off the assembly line in 1976.

But like almost every car of that era, they had no seat belts, air bags, crumple zones, ABS brakes or stability systems, though that doesn’t mean the company completely ignored safety. On the 1960-62 Darts, for instance, you could purchase optional "Child Guard" vacuum-powered door locks that operated from an instrument panel switch. But mostly, if you smacked up a Dart, it didn’t turn out well for you or your passengers.

That’s all changed with the introduction of the new Dart, which recently scored maximum possible ratings in every IIHS Top Safety Pick test. It’s got more than 60 available safety and security features, including 10 standard-equipment air bags.The first product born of Chrysler Group LLC’s alliance with Fiat S.p.A. recorded the maximum possible rating in each of the four crash tests used by the IIHS to evaluate occupant protection, the primary attribute of a Top Safety Pick. The 2013 Dart achieved a score of “good” in tests that simulate rollover, rear, side and moderate-overlap frontal impacts.

The IIHS rating scale comprises grades of good, acceptable, marginal and poor, and the Top Safety Pick is the highest safety honor bestowed by the IIHS. “Winners afford buyers the best overall protection in four of the most common kinds of crashes, and help them avoid crashes altogether with electronic stability control,” says IIHS President Adrian Lund. The Dart’s safety story starts with a solid structure: high-strength-steel comprises 68 percent of the car’s body, one of the highest ratios in the industry. Ten standard-equipment, advanced-design air bags further improve occupant protection. Every Dodge Dart comes equipped with:

• Dual-stage, adaptive, venting air bags for the driver and front-seat passenger,
• Front-seat-mounted pelvic and thorax air bags for driver and passenger,
• Two rear-seat-mounted pelvic air bags,
• Knee air bags for driver and front-seat passenger,
• Two curtain air bags designed to protect front and rear passengers on both sides of the car

Equally important are Dart technologies that deliver accident-avoidance capability, such as Electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, traction control, standard four-wheel, four-channel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection and more.

 

Courtesy of NYDailyNews.Com

Does it seem like your to-do list never gets any shorter?

We'll help with that! Schedule your next servicing appointment with us online; it's as easy as 1, 2, 3. Click here!

2013 Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition Launch Highlights

Enjoy these highlights from the 2013 Chrysler 300C by John Varvatos Launch Event in New York City during Fashion Week, 2012.

The only thing this 2013 Chrysler Town & Country Touring is missing is you behind the wheel. Stop in for a test drive today!

Click here for more information!

These are some offers you can't refuse!

Be sure to visit our website and check out our DAILY DEALS, fans. You'll be glad you did.

Dodge Dart Presents: Road to the iHeartRadio Music Festival — Episode 3

Episode 3 has arrived!  The Dodge Dart Street team has made their way to the West Coast, and is giving the LA crowd a test drive fit for the stars. Next stop, the iHeart Radio Music Festival in Las Vegas!

Kudos to our Service Department for earning this fantastic review! Keep 'em coming, team.

"All were very friendly. very knowledgable of their products. Service department jumpes thru hoops to take care of their customers. Very clean and comfortable environment." --Richard H.

Click here to read more great reviews!

2013 Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition NYC Chalk Art Tribute

Located at John Varvatos New York City store front at Bowery & Bleecker, the 2013 Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition took to the pavement with an interactive chalk art tribute.

Dodge Dart Presents: Road to the iHeartRadio Music Festival — Episode 2

Key Items For Any Safe Driver

We all hope we’ll never break down on the side of the road -- but when it comes to driving, it is always better to be safe than sorry.  Carrying a few key items with you at all times can help make a disastrous situation a lot easier to handle!  Jumper cables, flashlights, warm blankets, and first aid kits are a few great examples.  What items do you keep in YOUR vehicle in case mayhem strikes?

New iPhone requires car adapter in some cars. Who is excited to get one?

Today, Apple unveiled its iPhone 5, which goes on sale later this month. Just a warning - the new iPhone will require a car adapter in some cars.

Anyone excited to get it?

Automatic VS Manual!

Automatic VS Manual!

Some people believe driving a stick can be safer because you are forced to pay attention and consciously and actively drive your car, while others believe you can be just as absent minded and distracted, resulting in even more dangerous situations. What do you think?

Dodge Dart Presents: Road to the iHeartRadio Music Festival — Episode 1

Fans! September is our 15 year anniversary and we want to celebrate our past, present, and future with you, our loyal customers.

For the month of September we are including tax, title, and license with the purchase of any pre-owned car. Also, if you mention our 15th anniversary during September you get $15 off any regularly priced service.

Last chance to take advantage of this special offer!

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Thank you for the kind words, Courtney!

"I m very happy with the service we got when we went in to find a car ...Everyone worked with us to get where we wanted to be ....Love the car ..."

Check out our daily deals!

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Test and Refine

Jeep® Grand Cherokee Named the Best Off-Road Vehicle for 2012

With automotive manufacturers from all over the globe trying their hand at making off-road vehicles, one can be forgiven for finding it increasingly difficult to wade through all of the offerings for the 2012 model year. Luckily, many automotive magazines and organizations can cut through the noise. We’re proud to announce that Total Car Score has named the Jeep_® Grand Cherokee the Best Off-Road Vehicle for 2012.

A few things in particular stood out to the Total Car Score editorial team. They loved the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s available V8 engine, its superb off-road capabilities, and its excellent on-road driving dynamics.  Whether it’s traveling over snow, rocks, mud, or the pavement, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is supremely capable while providing a luxurious, safe ride.

2012 has been a banner year for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition to being named SUV of the year, receiving accolades from buyers and winning praise for its value for the customer, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has also been recognized with best in class vehicle satisfaction.

Courtesy of Jeep.com

Here is a great tip to extend the life of your vehicle:

Touch up nicks sooner rather than later.

Touch-up paint won’t adhere well to rust. So be sure to keep some matching touch-up paint on hand so you can touch up any minor nicks, often found around door edges, before rust has a chance to form.

Learn what makes the new 2013 Ram 1500 our safest truck yet.

Amazing car street art!

Jeep® Altitude Editions "The Nod" (OFFICIAL COMMERCIAL)

Congratulations to NASA for landing Curiosity on Mars! What do YOU hope it will find?

The Viper GTS-R returns to the American Le Mans Series.

If you could add ANY sporting event to the Olympic Games, what would it be?

Ever wonder why your headlights seem to make it even harder to see in the rain or snow?

Well, researchers are in the process of developing "smart headlights" that prevent this from happening by anticipating the movement and velocity of the drops or flakes and shining into the spaces between them!

How cool is that?!

Town & Country - Anything But Standard

Chrysler to invest $198 million at Detroit plant and create 250 jobs!

Chrysler told employees Monday at its Mack Avenue complex that it is planning to invest $198 million at the site on Detroit's east side to build its Pentastar V6 engine.

The investment would create 250 jobs. Last week, Chrysler said it would end production at the Mack Avenue II engine plant in September. About 200 people work there. They will eligible to transfer to other plants or apply for jobs at neighboring Mack Avenue I.

"Chrysler Group will be working with the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan regarding potential economic development incentives to assist us in making the business case for the investment," the company said in a statement.

"This action ... will continue to reaffirm our commitment to the revitalization of the city of Detroit."

With the requested financial incentives, production could begin by the end of 2013.

Bob Warfield, Detroit's director of communications, said Chrysler has filed a tax abatement application with the city.

"The mayor is excited about the possibility -- the jobs that Chrysler's investment would create," Warfield said.

Mack Avenue Engine I, located at 4000 St. Jean Ave. in Detroit, was purchased by Chrysler in 1953. Chrysler makes a 4.7-liter V8 engine for the Ram 1500 at Mack Avenue I.

News of the new investment comes two weeks after Chrysler informed the state of Michigan that it will idle its adjacent Mack Avenue Engine II plant on Sept. 9, affecting about 200 workers there.

On Monday, Chrysler told employees at Mack Avenue II they can take their seniority rights with them as they transfer to other plants in the region, according to two people briefed on the plans who were not authorized to speak publicly.

Under Chrysler's contract with the UAW, employees lose seniority rights if a plant is idled. Seniority rights are important to workers because those with more time at the company can pick the shift they wish to work.

The employees who work at Mack Avenue II can choose to be considered for the new positions at Mack Avenue I or apply for openings at other Chrysler plants in the area, the people said. Employees also can elect to be put on a list to return to Mack Avenue II if Chrysler ever decides to build another product there.

The Free Press has previously reported that Chrysler may assemble a Maserati SUV at Mack Avenue II.

Chrysler makes a 3.7-liter V6 engine at Mack Avenue II for the Jeep Liberty and Ram 1500. That engine is being discontinued and replaced by its 3.6-liter Pentastar V6.

The Pentastar engine offers more power and better fuel efficiency than previous V6 engines. It already is offered in 11 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep models.

Chrysler also plans to offer the Pentastar V6 engine, which is also made in Trenton and Saltillo, Mexico, and an eight-speed transmission on its 2013 Ram pickup, which goes into production in September.

SOURCE: Detroit Free Press

The Journey | Commercial

Are you excited for the premier of Dark Knight Rises?

Are you seeing the movie this weekend or will you wait until the crowd dies down in a few weeks?

Dodge Dart | How To Change Cars Forever | Commercial

Hey fans, here is a Monday car care tip:

Rotate tires every 6,000 miles to prevent uneven wear, replace them when they become worn and have the alignment checked if the car pulls to either side when driving or if you notice uneven tire wear. This way your tires will be running smoothly at all times!

Check out this throwback Viper commercial from 1999...what a beauty!

Just a few days left to take advantage of this special offer!

First 2013 SRT Viper Sold For $300,000 At Auction

The very first 2013 SRT Viper to be offered to the public, an example bearing VIN #1, was sold at auction over the weekend for a staggering $300,000.

The special Viper was sold on behalf of Chrysler by auctioneer Barrett-Jackson in Orange County, CA, with all proceeds from the sale going to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer.

The foundation is the official charity of the American Le Mans Series, which the 2013 SRT Viper will be debuting in later this year in GTS-R trim.

Bidding was fierce on the Saturday auction, with offers quickly escalating past the six-figure mark. Things started to cool off as bids approached a quarter of a million dollars, so to further entice buyers an SRT Track Experience and a trip to this year's Petit Le Mans were thrown in. This saw bids rise quickly to $300,000 before the hammer finally fell.

While still an amazing bid, special Corvettes and Mustangs have reached much higher figures at auction, with the first 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible selling for $600,000 at auction and a custom 2012 Mustang GT fetching $400,000 previously. A custom 2011 Toyota Tundra pickup at this past weekend’s auction also managed to raise $100,000 for charity, with proceeds from this sale going to benefit the Emporia Community Foundation.

The 2013 SRT Viper recently made its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The car, which is no longer referred to as a Dodge, is powered by an enhanced version of the previous generation’s 8.4-liter V-10 and is rated at 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque. Two separate models are now offered, a basic Viper aimed at track enthusiasts and a new Viper GTS with all the plush mod cons you’ll find in most world-class supercars.

SRT hasn’t revealed when the new Viper will be launched for general sale but has stated the cars will be sold through specialist Dodge dealers, just like the previous models. It’s believed that the first cars, excluding this donated example, will be earmarked for loyal and dedicated long-term member of the Viper Club of America.

Courtesy of Motor Authority

Take advantage of these great service specials. Schedule your service appointment today!

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Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

"I just meant to look; however, they were able to give me a deal I could not pass up. I was able to get the color and car I wanted. Thank you to Automax Dodge!!" -penguinschool

The Journey | Commercial

Thank you for letting us know how we are doing!

Thomas was exetemly friendly an got the deal done fast and to our satisfaction. We had purchased a used 2011 Dodge Avenger and this visit was the 5th visit to have it fixed in three months for the engine light coming on and would not go off. Thomas came to our rescue and took the time to help us even though he had another customer and appeared to be rushed. We were at our ropes end, but we are now in a 2012 Avenger and are very satisfied with our vehicle, and especially Thomas. We will recommend Automax and Thomas to anyone who need a vehicle in the future....Rober Sisson.

Dodge Challenger Freedom Commercial

Dodge Durango | Responsibly | Commercial

Here is a great Summer car care tip: Protect car paint from the sun!

Paint does more than make your vehicle look great. It’s also the first line of defense against rusted body panels. Of course, the best way to protect the paint is to park the car in a garage. If that is not possible, park in the shade or purchase a car cover. The sun’s ultraviolet rays break down paint and cause it to fade. No one wants a dull ride!

Just a short time left to take advantage of these great service specials!

Click here to view specials.

Enter to win an iPad2!

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Chrysler Brand Takes Home ‘Grand Effie’ at the North American Effie Awards Gala

May 24, 2012 , New York - The Chrysler brand was awarded last night with a “Grand Effie” award for its “Imported from Detroit” campaign. The award was presented to the Chrysler brand at “44th Annual Effie Awards” gala held in New York.

“The ‘Imported from Detroit’ campaign was more than a commercial; it signified the start of the new Chrysler Group LLC and airing it during the Super Bowl allowed us to share our story with America. We are thankful to all of our consumers for joining us on this journey,” said Olivier Francois – Chief Marketing Officer, Chrysler Group LLC. “On behalf of everyone at the Chrysler brand and all of the employees at Chrysler Group we thank the voting jury for this honor.”

Partnering agencies Wieden+Kennedy from Portland, Ore and UniversalMcCann from Birmingham, Mich. shared the win with the Chrysler brand.

Courtesy of Chrysler Media

Dodge Journey | Search | Commercial

Check out these great cars, all under $10k!

Click here to view inventory.

Dodge Grand Caravan - The Right Tool for the Job

Dodge Dart Electronic Stability Control

Dodge "Shaun in the Challenger" - Halftime in America

Be sure to take advantage of these great service specials!

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Chrysler 200 Commercial - Doesn't Complain

Here is Reta, the lucky fan who won our iPad2 contest. Congratulations!

2013 Dodge Dart review: New Chrysler compact's sculpted seats, sporty performance are on-target

NEW ORLEANS — Chrysler threw in some of what Louisiana natives call lagniappe to sweeten the deal and get customers to try the automaker’s first compact sedan in years, the *** 2013 Dodge Dart.

Lagniappe — pronounced “lon-yop”— is a little extra, something on the side to make sure the customer is happy.

The Dart heaps on features you don’t expect in a compact car, including some no competitor offers.

The Dart rolls into showrooms next month with cushy materials, sculpted seats, electronic blind-spot alert and sporty handling and performance.

Consider the deal sweetened. Despite a few shortcomings, the 2013 Dodge Dart’s value and features make it a strong competitor for compacts like the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Jetta.

Prices for the Dart start at $15,995 for a base model with a 160-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic adds $1,100.

A turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder is a $1,300 option. That engine combines good fuel economy and spirited performance, thanks to 184 pound-feet of torque available from the 2,500 to 4,000 engine r.p.m.

The 1.4-liter comes with a six-speed manual transmission. A $1,100 six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will be available with the engine in the third quarter. The $22,495 Dart R/T will have a 184-horsepower 2.4-liter and six-speed manual or automatic version when it goes on sale in the third quarter.

I tested a very well-equipped $25,160 Dart Limited. It had the 1.4-liter turbo, manual gearbox, touch screen controls, navigation, leather upholstery and more. All prices exclude destination charges.

The 2013 Dart is the first car jointly developed by Chrysler and Fiat, the Italian automaker that gained control of the Auburn Hills automaker during the recession.

Fiat gave Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep platforms, engines and technology to build fuel-efficient small cars and crossovers in exchange for a controlling stake in Chrysler.

Chrysler engineers and designers reworked the platform Fiat developed for the sporty little Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback to create the Dart. Chrysler designers crafted the Dart’s interior and exterior designs specifically for American tastes.

I drove a Dart Limited from Chrysler’s introduction of the car in Austin, Texas, (where I rode with the Dart’s engineers and designers), to the New Orleans Jazz Festival. I covered well more than 600 miles from the Texas hill country’s sweeping curves to Houston’s superhighways and New Orleans’ rough surface streets.

The car is roomy and comfortable. The 97.2-cubic-foot passenger compartment is bigger than the competitors’, with plenty of head, shoulder and legroom. The 13.1-cubic-foot trunk is useful. The Cruze, Focus, Elantra and Jetta offer more room.

Interior storage includes a cavernous glove box, bins and map pockets.

The interior materials are mostly excellent. Soft-touch padded plastics with attractive finishes cover the dash, armrests and the top of the doors in most models.

The doors’ lower surfaces, around the map pockets, have a hard surface and unattractive look. The sculpted leather seats of the car I tested were comfortable and attractive. The thick leather-wrapped steering wheel looks and feels solid and sporty.

Chrysler’s steering-wheel-mounted controls for cruise, voice recognition, phone and audio are among the best in the auto industry. The rest of the controls are equally easy to use.

The dials and buttons in the center stack and the 8.4-inch touch screen in the car I tested performed well, as did its voice-recognition system for phone, audio and navigation.

The navigation voice-recognition had a small glitch when I dictated one address, but worked fine otherwise. You can configure the Dart’s LED gauge cluster to a variety of formats. The display is as sharp as high-definition television.

There’s not much wind noise. Road noise from rough surfaces was quite noticeable in fast driving, however.

The car negotiated fast curves well, but the ride got bumpy on rough pavement. The electric power steering provides good feedback and assist at all speeds.

The 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder has surprising power. There’s not much low-r.p.m. torque, but performance is good and passing is easy for anybody willing to rev the engine and shift the smooth six-speed fast and frequently.

Fuel economy is good: an EPA-rated 27 m.p.g. city, 39 highway and 32 in combined driving. An upcoming Aero model will use special tires and lightweight parts to hit 41 m.p.g. or more on the EPA highway test.

However, the 1.4-liter turbo uses premium fuel. The Dart’s other engines use regular.

The Dart’s main competitors run on less-expensive regular. That means the Dart’s annual fuel bill will be about the same as less fuel-efficient models of the Focus, Corolla and Cruze, and more than the Civic, despite the Dart’s higher m.p.g. The Elantra’s annual fuel cost also undercuts the Dart. The 2.0-liter Sentra and 2.5-liter Jetta will cost more.

The Dart’s also a heavy car. The 3,191-pound curb weight of the one I drove is 180 to 485 pounds more than its competitors. While the Dart’s weight is partly due to its many features, like 10 standard air bags, Chrysler might have won outright fuel-economy and performance leadership with a lighter car.

Those flaws keep the 2013 Dart from scoring a clean bull’s-eye, but the value, features, performance and room of Dodge’s new compact are on-target enough to win lots of happy owners and make the competition uneasy.

2013 Dodge Dart Limited

Front-wheel drive five-passenger compact sedan

Price as tested: $25,160 (excluding destination charge)

Rating: 3 (out of four stars)

Reasons to buy: Features, value, handling, interior space

Shortcomings: Premium fuel, low-r.p.m. torque, weight

2013 Dodge Dart at a glance

Vehicle type: Front-wheel wheel-drive five-passenger compact sedan

Power (3 different engines): 160-horsepower, 148 pound-feet of torque, 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 160-horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder; 184-horsepower, 171 pound-feet of torque 2.4-liter four-cylinder available in third quarter.
Transmission: Six-speed manual or automatic; dual-clutch automatic available in third quarter.

Price range: $15,995-$22,495 (excluding destination charges)

Key features on vehicle tested

Antilock brakes; stability control; curtain air bags; front- and rear-seat side air bags; front knee air bags; power locks, mirrors and windows; projector headlights and front headlights; LED taillights; LED interior lights; automatic headlights; active grille shutters; illuminated instrument panel surround; reconfigurable gauge cluster; Bluetooth phone and music compatible; voice-recognition for phone, audio and navigation; AM/FM/CD audio with Sirius satellite radio; 8.4-inch touch screen for audio, navigation, etc.; iPod compatible; USB port; power six-way driver seat; 60/40 split-folding rear seat; steering wheel audio, phone and cruise controls; manual tilt/telescope steering column.

Options: 1.4-liter turbocharged engine; remote proximity keyless entry; push-button start; rain-sensitive wipers; automatic high-beam lights; LED ‘race track’ taillight surround; rear parking assist; blind-spot and rear cross-path alert; high-intensity discharge headlamps; navigation system; Alpine nine-speaker audio system with subwoofer; Nappa leather seats; heated front seats; heated steering wheel; dual-zone automatic temperature control; universal garage door opener; polished aluminum wheels

Competitive EPA fuel economy ratings

(Manual transmission models unless otherwise noted)

Dodge Dart 1.4-liter turbo: 27 m.p.g. city/39 m.p.g. highway/32 m.p.g. combined. Premium fuel.

Chevrolet Cruze 2LT: 26 m.p.g. city/38 m.p.g. highway/30 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Ford Focus SE: 26 m.p.g. city/36 m.p.g. highway/30 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Honda Civic LX: 28 m.p.g. city/36 m.p.g. highway/31 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Hyundai Elantra Limited: 29 m.p.g. city/40 m.p.g. highway/33 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Nissan Sentra 2.0L: 24 m.p.g. city/31 m.p.g. highway/27 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Toyota Corolla: 27 m.p.g. city/34 m.p.g. highway/30 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

Volkswagen Jetta 2.5L: 23 m.p.g. city/33 m.p.g. highway/26 m.p.g. combined. Regular fuel.

2013 Dodge Dart Limited

Front-wheel drive five-passenger compact sedan

Base price: $19,995

Price as tested: $25,160 (excluding destination charge)

Safety equipment: Antilock brakes; stability control; curtain air bags; front- and rear-seat side air bags; front knee air bags.

Specifications as tested

Engine: 1.4-liter turbocharged SOHC variable-timing 16-valve four-cylinder.
Power: 160 horsepower at 5,500 r.p.m.; 184 pound-feet of torque at 2,500-4,000 r.p.m.

Transmission: Six-speed manual

EPA fuel economy rating: 27 m.p.g. city/39 highway/32 combined. Premium gasoline.
Dimensions

Wheelbase: 106.4 inches

Length: 183.9 inches

Width: 72.0 inches

Height: 57.7 inches

Curb weight: 3,191 pounds

Assembled at: Belvidere, Ill.

Courtesy of freep.com

The 2012 Elantra Video Tour

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First prototype of Dodge SRT Viper hits the roads of southeast Michigan

The very first prototype version of the 2013 SRT Viper was prowling the roads of Southeast Michigan on Monday with Ralph Gilles, president and CEO of the SRT Brand, behind the wheel.

““Oh my god, what a sensation driving that car on the freeway,” said Gilles who has championed the super sportscar’s revival. He spoke this morning at a breakfast hosted by the law firm Dawda Mann. “With the modern day cell phones everyone was almost crashing into me trying to take pictures.”

Chrysler discontinued the Viper in 2010 because of financial difficulties but decided bring it back after Fiat became the company’s controlling shareholder.

“The history of Viper runs deep. The private equity guys tried to snuff it out, but it’s like the weed that keeps growing back,” Gilles said.

While Chrysler and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne ultimately approved the decision to bring the Viper back, Gilles said work began before that.

“It was done in the darkest hour you could imagine,” Gilles said. “I threw this project to the designers to keep them motivated.”

The original Dodge Viper was shown as a concept at the 1989 North American International Auto Show and was sold from 1992 to 2010. The new Viper joins Chrysler’s SRT, or Street and Racing Technology brand.

The 2013 SRT Viper will be equipped with an 8.4-liter V10 engine that generates 640 horsepower and nearly 600 pound-feet of torque. The high-performance sports car will reach dealer showrooms during the fourth quarter of this year.

Gilles said the company still has a lot of work to do on the manufacturing process for the Viper.

“We are really quality focused right now,” Gilles said. “It’s not so much about rushing into the market. It’s really making sure its right.”

The SRT Viper will be built at Chrysler’s Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit by about 150 hourly and salaried workers. The plant, idled in 2010, has been refurbished, Gilles said.

“It went from looking like a dungeon to a CVS pharmacy,” Gilles said.

Courtesy of Dodge Media

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