Cecil in Burnet

2011 Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept Truck

2011-05-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

We hear it all the time - things are bigger in Texas. That's why the Dodge Ram “Long-Hauler” concept truck is about as Texas as it gets.

Chrysler says it’s designed to suit the needs of anybody that tows multiple or heavy trailers, drives long distances or small business owners looking for a “work horse” at the job site, and will be displaying it at truck gatherings, rodeos and agricultural shows across the U.S. over the next eight months to “gauge public opinion” for a possible production run.

They started with a Ram 5500 double-cab, stretched the wheelbase to more than 16 feet (that’s longer than an Mercedes-Benz E-Class from bumper to bumper!), extended the cabin so that even the biggest Stetsons and two-inch heels can stretch out in the rear seats, added a 8-ft. load box with a built-in fifth wheel for heavy-duty towing and upped the range between refueling stops with a mid-mounted fuel tank. Combined with a second frame-mounted tank and a third, optional, bed-mounted auxiliary tank, total fuel capacity is 170 gallons!

With a 197.4-inch wheelbase and 37,500 Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), the concept Long-Hauler from Ram is just the truck for those wanting to step up from a traditional Class 3 (one-ton) or Class 4 truck. Overall length of the 2011 Dodge Ram Long-Hauler Concept Truck is 24 feet, height is 79.1 inches and estimated curb weight is 9,300 lbs.

Power comes courtesy of a 6.7-liter inline six-cylinder Cummins Turbo Diesel engine rated at 800 lb.-ft. of torque, which is hooked up to a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission with four-wheel-drive transfer case coupled to a 4.88 Dana 110 axle with dual rear wheels.

The gloss black finish is accented by white gold metallic trim, including body side moldings and wide wheel flares front and rear. A bull bar extends across the entire front and the spare wheel is slung under the load box. A separate back-up camera provides a full view of the bed to make hitching up easier and a special tailgate allows easy hook-ups opening or remove the entire tailgate.

The cabin has four individual leather-trimmed and saddle-stitched seats; rear passengers get power-adjustable footrests and a centre console with a refrigerator, cup holders and tray tables.

In-cabin power includes 115V and 12V outlets front and rear and the cabin has permanent Wi-Fi so passengers can work online during long drives. There’s also a DVD player with overhead screen for rear-seat passengers, a laptop storage area, an inductive charger (just park any gizmo with a rechargeable battery on the shelf and it’ll charge up without being connected), a tire pressure monitoring system, rear axle temperature gauge and exhaust gas temperature and boost gauges.

The rear seats and console also fold flat for additional storage or as a double bed.

Dodge’s Ram Truck division says it has identified a potential market for the Long Hauler, including racing teams, ranchers, rodeo competitors, powerboat racers and adventure expedition outfits.

Whatever the market, we know Texas is ready for it.

Fast Five puts the 2011 Dodge Police Charger through the Ultimate Test

2011-04-29T15:15:00.000-07:00

Fast Five comes charging in to local theaters today like the next Nitromethane Injected HEMI® dragster in the next the couple of weeks. This action-packed movie is filled with great car chases and stunts that test the skills of both man and machine. The movie set can be a brutal environment for the cars used in the film. They’re shown no mercy as they have to perform take-after-take of smokey burnouts, four-wheel drifts and high-speed runs around the streets of Rio de Janeiro. Consider it a Hollywood-style proving ground and the term — drive it like you stole it — really does apply to the stuntmen behind the wheel who push these cars to their limits.

When the producers approached Dodge about being involved with this great franchise, the Dodge team jumped at the chance to show the world that the new 2011 Charger Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV) has the guts to make it big time not only in the movies, but also in real life. The film team was supplied almost a half-dozen 370 horsepower 5.7L HEMI powered cruisers to the production company for use in the movie, knowing full well they would be driven hard.

The Charger PPV comes equipped the usual standard heavy-duty equipment such as Monroe NIVOMAT® rear shocks, brakes and severe-duty engine cooling systems with auxiliary coolers for engine oil, transmission and power steering fluids. The 2011 Charger also has a sinister look about it that makes the “bad guys” think long and hard before burying their foot into the accelerator. Among its peers in law enforcement, the Charger PPV stood apart from the competition and is the favorite ride among many agencies.

Dodge's Ralph Gilles spoke with Picture Car Coordinator Dennis McCarthy about the Charger’s movie debut and what makes it cool.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT 8 - Most Powerful Jeep Ever

2011-04-26T05:32:00.000-07:00

Chrysler’s Jeep division has unveiled the second generation Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the New York International Auto Show, heralding a new era of high performance SUVs.

Offering 465 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is by far the most powerful Jeep ever offered. As a result, Jeep says that it should be capable of sprinting to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with a mid-13 second quarter mile figure. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

That power comes courtesy of an all-new 6.4-liter HEMI V8 that builds on the outgoing 6.1-liter model by offering an additional 45 horsepower and 45 lb-ft. of torque. Chrysler says that its engineers worked especially hard to make 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque available between 2,800 and 6,000 rpm.

To reduce fuel consumption, an active valve exhaust system cuts out four cylinders, which Jeep says helps increase fuel economy by 13 percent on the highway. Combined with a large gas tank, Jeep says the Grand Cherokee SRT8 should be capable of a 450 mile range.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 gains steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to control the five-speed automatic transmission.

Jeep says it worked hard to further refine the Grand Cherokee SRT8′s handling by building on the all-new WK2 platform with a new Selec-Track traction-enhancing system. With a name that conjures up images of Jeep’s SelecTrac transfer case, the new Selec-Track interacts with the stability control, adaptive damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, electronic limited slip differential, throttle control and cylinder de-activation. Five modes – Auto, Sport, Tow, Track and Snow – ensure ideal traction for any situation. Unlike the previous Grand Cherokee SRT8, the new SUV is designed to be used year round for a variety of uses – even towing.

A single-speed transfer case sends power between the front and rear wheels. Uprated power steering and Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes help the Grand Cherokee maintain control. Jeep says that the new SUV will stop from 60 mph in just 112 feet.

Styling
The 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is more aggressive looking than before with exclusive front and rear fascias with LED daytime running lamps and chrome bezel inserts completing the look.

A new rear liftgate spoiler is designed to reduce drag and improve downforce at high speeds.

Riding on split five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 will be available with either all-season or three-season Pirelli P-Zero runflat tires.

Inside, the SRT team upgraded the Grand Cherokee’s interior with a three-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom, Nappa leather and suede seats and extensive carbon fiber accents. SRT’s Performance Pages trip computer functions remain, meaning the Grand Cherokee SRT8 can display performance figures like 0-60 time, 60-0 distance, g-forces and one eighth and quarter mile times.

In addition, a new 825-watt 19-speaker audio system boasts a 10-inch subwoofer.

Win a Fast Five Charger!

2011-04-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

The action-packed Fast Five movie is ready to make its debut in less than two weeks and Dodge is now offering you a chance to win a specially prepared tricked out Fast Five Edition 2011 Dodge Charger R/T. These 5.7L HEMI® powered Chargers have a unique and somewhat sinister matte black paint job and a one of a kind leather interior with the Fast Five logo embroidered on the seats. Only five copies of these collectibles will be available for you speed junkies out there so go to http://www.dodge.com/en/fastfive and register for a chance to win your very own 2011 Charger R/T Fast Five Special Edition. The contest runs through April 30, 2011 so kick it in gear and step on it!

The Brand New Mopar '11 Charger

2011-04-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Mopar, the Chrysler division in charge with souping up the models created by the American manufacturer, is keeping itself busy this week, being at the center of the news coming from Auburn Hills. Getting ready for the hot summer days, Mopar announced the launch of the Mopar '11 Charger, a special edition of the Charger limited to only 1,000 units and packed with unique features.

Under the hood of the car, Chrysler and Mopar fitted a 5.7l HEMI engine that develops 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque. Tuned and tweaked into submission, the engine has been made in such a way that it will work in sync with the Super Trac Pac range of technologies.

The mechanics of the model have been tweaked in such a way that they could handle, with grace, the strain at which they are subjected. The tuner added larger front 30mm solid stabilizer bar and rear 20 mm solid stabilizer bar and increased the chassis from 27 mm and 16 mm.

The power of model is being sent to the road with the help of 20-inch x 8-inch Envy wheels are fitted with Goodyear F1 Supercar 245/45ZR20 tires. Behind them, vented rotors measuring 345mm x 28mm up front that and fitted with dual-piston and sliding calipers provide the stopping power.

“The Mopar '11 Charger takes the ‘head- turning’ factor up a few notches,” said Pietro Gorlier, Mopar CEO. “By adding some of the most distinctive accessories to an already strong performer, we’ve created a special-edition car for enthusiasts.”

Out of the 1,000 units to be manufactured, 900 will be sold in the US, with the rest being reserved for Canada. US prices start at $39,750, including destination fee.

Go behind the scenes of Fast Five with the Dodge Charger

2011-04-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

The action-packed Fast Five movie will make its theater debut in just a few weeks and Cecil in Burnet, courtesy of Red Letter Dodge, wants to take you for an exclusive behind-the-scenes thrill ride. You’ll get to see an insider look as Vin Diesel and Paul Walker tear up the streets of Rio de Janeiro in their HEMI®-powered Chargers, including the two specially prepared matte black Chargers for the movie’s climax scene. Check out the video to get a firsthand look at the full lineup of stunt vehicles and how the film makers captured all the adrenaline-filled, nail-biting action.

Now that we have your attention, head over to www.Dodge.com/FastFive to get all the behind- the-scenes action, learn more about the movie and cars and check out the 2011 Dodge Charger. As if that was not enough to get your heart pounding, the site also features an exclusive sweepstakes to win one of five custom Fast Five Edition 2011 Charger R/Ts that we will be featured right on Red Letter Dodge. Good luck and don’t forget to catch the movie in theaters nationally April 29th.

The Ram 1500 Express has arrived!

2011-04-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

After weeks of speculation among Ram heads out there, the new Ram Truck with its new name was finally revealed at the Dallas Auto Show. The ‘Ram 1500 Express,’ which was code named ‘Adventurer,’ can trace its DNA back to one of the original muscle pick-ups, the 1978 Lil' Red Express Truck.

The formula is similar—a hot engine with great looks at an attractive price. The mission for Ram Trucks is to make a truck for young buyers looking for an awesome platform to personalize and customize without draining their bank account.

First, a team of gearheads made sure to give the 1500 Express some serious muscle under the hood as the legendary 390 horsepower 5.7L HEMI® V8 comes standard! The 5.7L HEMI V8 will also knock down around 20 mpg making gas stops less frequent on those weekend road trips. It also includes 3.55 rear axle ratio but has 3.92 cogs available.

The Ram 1500 Express is not just one-dimensional. It’s a great running truck that will make a visual statement among your peers. The designers crafted some great exterior touches that feature a racy monochromatic paint scheme that includes a body color front fascia and grille with black inserts. The rear fascia have been color matched and sculpted around the dual chrome exhaust tips.

In addition, Ram added 20-inch aluminum wheels and fog lamps that give the Ram 1500 Express more street attitude. What’s really nice is the folks at Mopar have a warehouse full of great accessories such as cold air intakes, chrome tubular side step and bed side rails, front air deflector, chromed aluminum fuel filler door and much more that will make the Ram 1500 Express your own.

The Ram 1500 Express is the perfect canvas for the truck enthusiast to "express" his or her personal tastes and not get buried doing so.

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Review by Motor Trend

2011-04-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

Go big home or go home!

Nothing this year captures that mentality more than the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392. To prove it, the gearheads at Motor Trend got behind the wheel of the heavy-duty beefed up beast, and what did they find? Well, the rumors are true. Not only does the Challenger look good out on the road, but there is also plenty of power under the hood. Last year, Motor Trend testers hit the track comparing the 2010 Challenger to its nemesis, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS. So who came out on top for track dominance? That’s right, the Challenger.

This year’s model takes it to the next level, boasting a 6.4 Hemi under-hood and engine displacement at 392 cubic inches on the dot. And guess what Motor Trend’s testers had to say about all this? Well, after the Challenger delivered a 13.0-second flat quarter-mile at 111.3 miles-per-hour and went from 0-60 in 4.6-seconds, their final synopsis was: “…it’s fast, real fast.”

While we already knew that, we certainly do appreciate the nod of approval. Here’s to taking something good and making it better.

And the winner is...

2011-03-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Big dreams do come true and for one hometown girl that dream became a reality. Detroit’s own Justine Blazer won the first “Ram Truck Battle of the Bands” contest and took home a cool $5,000! She was among numerous competitors in a nationwide search of young talented singers, songwriters and musicians looking to make it big.

It was during last weekend’s Ram Rodeo Series in Austin, Texas that admiring country music fans had a chance to see her and runner-up The Natalie Turgeon Band (who walked away with $2,500) perform live on stage. The two finalists were rated on the originality and creativity of the song’s lyrics, music and appeal.

After a coin toss to see who would perform first, The Natalie Turgeon Band who came from the Northeast took the stage and began jamming with their original number “Country-ish.” Lead singer Natalie Turgeon belted out the lyrics with such force and conviction that you’d swear she was born in the Grand Ole Opry rather than New Hampshire.

Then it was Justine’s chance to turn up the heat. This veteran performer had the presence of a winning artist with her tune “New Country Beat.” Leaping off the stage, she strummed her way through the audience and made them feel as if they were part of her band. (For those of you who haven’t seen her perform, check out her music video http://www.youtube.com/ramtrucks#p/search/0/usctXRX5UcM) The choice was not an easy task for the Ram Trucks judges, as both performers “rocked it” and had fans clapping their hands and stomping their feet.

In the end, Justine Blazer took home the big prize and closed out the competition with two more songs.

“Thank you Ram so much! It’s an honor to be a part of your family and team now. I had such an amazing time in Austin. I’ll never forget this! “I look forward to working with you wonderful folks again and congrats to The Natalie Turgeon Band as well!”

Dodge Grand Caravan is Now The Best Selling Minivan in The World

2011-03-23T14:55:00.000-07:00

As a Dodge dealer, we’re pretty proud of the minivan. After all, that vehicle was among the first to breathe life into a segment that’s been safely transporting families all over the world for years. In 2010, Dodge once again can lay claim to the title of the best-selling minivan in the world. Last year, there were 160,005 Grand Caravan models sold, beating out the Honda Odyssey’s 119,062 sales and the Toyota Sienna’s 113,179 deliveries worldwide. Here in the U.S., the 2010 Grand Caravan took a very respectable bronze medal for national sales last year, falling just behind the Honda Odyssey.

Dodge, however, has its sights set on moving up in the U.S. market this year with the all-new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan. With more functionality, a powerful and efficient 3.6-liter V6 and a beautiful new interior, we’re confident minivan shoppers will like what they see. Of course, the 40 standard safety and technology features will likely do their part to win over hearts and minds, too.

Come see us at Cecil Atkission in Burnet and test drive one today!

Bo and Luke Duke...DENIED

2011-03-17T07:27:00.000-07:00

Bo and Luke may have no problem outrunning Sheriff Roscoe Coltrane’s Monaco police cruiser but they finally met their match. The gang over at Edmunds.com pitted the big-block powered General Lee against the new 2011 Charger R/T. Even though the General Lee packs 440 cubic inches, which allows it to fly higher and jump further, it was no match for its younger offspring on the asphalt.

The new Charger R/T was quicker in 0-60 and quarter-mile times and its highly tuned suspension and brakes give it an advantage over its B-Body ancestor when “running from the law.” Now, imagine the trouble the Duke boys could have caused in Hazzard County if they had a new 370 horsepower HEMI® Charger R/T.

Check out the video for all the tire smoking excitement!

Ram Trucks Battle of Bands finalists named, head to Austin

2011-03-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been following our blog, you’ll remember the Ram Truck Battle of the Bands contest that kicked off back in January. We put the word out that if you had a country music group, Ram Trucks was looking for you. The top 10 videos that received the most votes were reviewed by a Ram Truck panel of judges. Well the time has come, and the fans and judges have spoken and now there are two finalists that will perform live at this year’s Rodeo Austin in Texas. The first-place winner will take home a full $5,000 and the second place winner will go home with $2,500 in their guitar case.

The first finalist is a 26-year-old who calls the Motor City her home. Justine Blazer (yes, that’s her real name) grew up in the auto industry and even knows a thing or two about cars and trucks in addition to her affinity for great music. She has been performing since she was four years old and has been writing songs since and was eight. She learned to play the guitar, piano and harmonica at 10 years of age. By the time she was 13, Justine recorded her first three-song EP. Justine said her desire to pursue a country music career was influenced by various artists.

"My musical influences included Patsy Cline, Martina McBride, Faith Hill Reba McEntire" said Justine. "My father was an automotive engineer and we moved to Nashville when I was younger and that’s probably where the country roots started. My mother owned a dance studio and it was there I was exposed to all sorts of different music."

Later her family moved back to Michigan and she continued to hone her vocal skills. The hard work and dedication paid off as she was nominated for 15 Detroit Music Awards and won the Detroit Blues Challenge in 2007. Her recent single ‘New Country Beat’ was released in July 2010 and was immediately picked up by XM satellite radio, AOL radio and CMT radio.

When we reached Justine to tell her the news that she is a finalist, she was ecstatic. “This is indescribable and a once in a lifetime opportunity. My band and I have worked so hard over the past years and I feel so lucky to be a finalist. This is one of the biggest events in my career. As a musician you work so hard to achieve that goal. To be recognized by Ram Truck is simply awesome!”

The second finalist hails from a region in the country better known for seafood, Paul Revere, cranberries and maple syrup than country music. Just formed over four months ago, The Natalie Turgeon Band claims Concord, New Hampshire as home but their heart and soul is definitely southern. Hearing of the Ram Battle of the Bands contest, they answered the challenge by creating their first music video in a matter of days, with no budget.

The band practices in the basement and their music epitomizes the true spirit of an authentic country sound with just a hint of R&B. The driving force behind the band is the lead vocalist, Natalie Turgeon. At four years old, her music talent became evident as she sat at the piano and easily played her favorite Christmas carol.

Despite being a trained pianist, Natalie decided to concentrate on singing and working on her vocal range. Her dedication paid off and in 2007 and 2008, where she was a finalist in the New Hampshire Idol Competition. In 2010, Natalie stepped up her game and swept the New Hampshire Country Music Association’s annual competition by walking away with Female Vocalist and Female Entertainer of the Year. This month, Natalie and the band will be representing the Northeast in the National Country Music competition in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

When Natalie and her band mates heard the news of being a finalist for the Battle of the Bands contest, they were blown away. “It’s very unexpected, this came as a big surprise. I feel very blessed to have the opportunity that I have for the band and myself. I’m excited to see where this takes us and to see the opportunities that come from this!” said Natalie. “I can’t thank Ram Truck enough for this contest and I know the band and I will be practicing real hard between now and Rodeo Austin.”

We know the music is going to be hot and the competition fierce, between these two highly talented bands. Make sure to check back next week for the winner and if you're fortunate enough, go see their performances this Sunday, March 20 at Rodeo Austin.

Fun in Central Texas

2011-03-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

We’re always talking about the automotive industry, but today we’ve decided to stop and take a break, as in Spring Break, and talk about what the beautiful city of Austin has to offer this next week or so.

This is far and away the busiest time of the year as far as entertainment is concerned in the Capital City and your choices are wide and varied.

If it’s music you’re looking for, you have plenty of choices. First, there’s the obvious with the South By Southwest Festival in town. We love that there are so many different types of music to choose from including reggae to hard rock to grunge. But SXSW isn’t your only option when it comes to listening to quality music acts.

The Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo opens this weekend as well and there will be lots of great entertainers over the course of the next few weeks including Dierks Bentley, Eli Young, Kevin Fowler, LeeAnn Rimes, and Ronnie Milsap for the country music listeners as well as Big Time Rush, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and Rick Springfield.

And of course, this next week we understand a lot of folks won’t even be in town to enjoy SXSW or the rodeo as they’re heading out of town for Spring Break in one of their great Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram vehicles to destinations far and wide.

Regardless of whether you’re staying in town or traveling on the road this next week, Cecil Atkission in Burnet hopes you have a fun and safe Spring Break!

Dodge Grand Caravan Does Have Everything – Including Lowest Price

2011-03-04T05:52:00.000-08:00

If you’ve spotted Dodge brand’s Never Neutral campaign around the country, you might have seen this reference to its Grand Caravan minivans: We gave our minivan everything; So you can do anything.

And, one of the things that Dodge just gave its minivan is the lowest price available in the United States. As of March 1, the MSRP of the 2011 Grand Caravan Express is reduced $1,000 to $23,995 – the lowest MSRP minivan in the country. The MSRP for the 2011 Grand Caravan Mainstreet is reduced $250 to $25,745. Both models’ MSRPs exclude $835 destination charges.

“We added a number of safety, performance and efficiency features to the 2011 Grand Caravan Express and Mainstreet models, without taking away any features from our 2010 lineup,” said Fred DePerez, head of Dodge Minivan Marketing.

“They’re already a solid value. By dropping the price on them, we’re telling the U.S. family that we’re looking out for your budget as well as your driving performance and safety,” he added.

Through the first couple months of 2011, the Dodge Grand Caravan is the #1 selling minivan in the United States, with 18,368 units sold. That’s a 34% increase over January and February 2010. The nearest minivan competitor is 2,602 minivans or 16% behind.

Among the upgrades for the 2011 Grand Caravan are a new fuel-efficient Chrysler Pentastar 3.6 liter, V-6 engine, updated front and side airbag system, and noticeably improved interior comforts.

Dodge to ditch cross-hair grille soon?

2011-03-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8

Now that Dodge and Ram are separate groups under the Chrysler umbrella, Dodge plans to phase its trademark cross-hair grille out of its product lineup. The cross-hair nose will remain a part of the Ram truck lineup for the foreseeable future, but Dodge vehicles will get a new identity that has not yet been revealed.

Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO and Chief Designer for the Chrysler Group, recently spoke to Automotive News about this decision. Gilles stated that this move will take time but the products will evolve and go in a different direction. In other words, no matter what direction Dodge takes its styling, don't expect to see any wholesale changes until well after the 2011 model year.

The Durango "Heat" Is On This Spring

2011-02-24T14:35:00.000-08:00

Dodge is cranking up the heat in the full-size SUV market by introducing new fun and affordable models to match the active lifestyles and the family budget of its customers.

During last week’s Chicago Auto Show, Dodge unveiled the new 2011 Durango Heat. The Heat has the aggressive R/T styling cues such as a unique fascia with fog lamps, a color-matched grille and dark headlamp bezels. It also has a color-matched body kit, wheel lips and rear fascia with integrated dual chrome exhaust outlets.

The Heat will also come with 20-inch wheels with all-season performance tires (three-season high-performance tires for even greater grip and response for those of you who want to bend some corners will also be offered), a 20-mm lower ride height, tuned dual-exhaust and a completely new interior with upscale materials and functional design. However, the Heat is powered by the all new Pentastar V-6 engine that delivers an eye-opening 295 horsepower while knocking down and impressive EPA estimated 23 mpg highway on the rear-wheel drive models. The Heat even has best-in-class towing at 6,200 lbs., so you’ll have no problem hauling your trailer load of Jet Skis or ATVs for weekend getaways at the family cottage.

“Durango Heat is about handling performance and a street presence that puts the sport in sport- utility,” said Dodge President and CEO Ralph Gilles. “The unibody rear-wheel-drive (available all-wheel-drive), two-row exclusive seating configuration makes this the lightest Durango model. The Heat is a handling champ that moves out smartly with 295 horsepower, dual-exhaust, tuned air induction, custom 20-inch Satin Carbon finished wheels. For the money, there’s truly nothing like it on the market.”

The 2011 Dodge Caravan R/T - The Man Van

2011-02-22T06:39:00.000-08:00

Auto shows are showcases for vehicles that push the boundaries of what is considered possible. Buzz is generated; speculation abounds over which models will make it to showrooms versus those that are only fantasies. Amid the exotic and futuristic, one of the most talked-about vehicles at this year’s Chicago Auto Show was the new and improved Dodge Caravan.

Making its debut in the R/T line for 2011, the Dodge Caravan R/T (or “Man Van” as it has been tabbed by Dodge) packs a Pentastar 3.6-liter engine delivering a best-in-class 283 horsepower and 260 lb/ft of torque under its hood. Dodge engineers also added R/T-exclusive black leather seats with red stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a premium sound system and a performance-tuned suspension that will make you want to strap on a helmet and hit the race track.

We know what you’re thinking: “I’ll never get away with bringing this beast home.” We understand. Tell your Mrs. that the Caravan R/T has a new driver-selectable fuel-economizer mode: At the flick of a switch you can change the shift schedule, maximizing MPG. Tell her that the lower ride height and sweet spoiler give the Caravan R/T great aerodynamics and fuel economy. The 100,000-mile powertrain warranty won’t hurt either.

So why the Caravan R/T? President and CEO, Ralph Gilles, told Motor Trend “We have customers who love cars, who love the thrill of driving, but can only afford one car,” and “Our Dodge R/T models give buyers the chance to stoke their love of driving while still taking care of their families and responsibilities.”

The 2011 Dodge Caravan R/T brings the thunder home to the family starting this spring.

2011 Dodge Avenger A Top Safety Pick By IIHS

2011-02-17T05:49:00.000-08:00

Recently it was announced that the Charger was an IIHS (Insurance Institute of Highway Safety) top safety pick in the Large Cars category. You can add another honor to the 2011 Dodge trophy case as the Avenger was also just named a Top Safety Pick for the midsized cars segment in 2011. Scoring top rank for several important tests (front, side, rollover and rear impact, not to mention bonus points for the electronic stability control), the Avenger can officially continue to pack “safety” under its belt, right next to its great style, efficiency and performance.

Just as Motor Trend recently found out, Dodge wasn't messing around with the Avenger. The latest model has grown in leaps and bounds over the last one, and is more than ready to take on the big boys. Thanks in no small part to the availability of the tremendous new 283 horsepower 3.6-Liter Pentastar V6 engine (one of Ward’s 10 Best), upscale interior and comfortable ride, the Avenger is easily one of the smartest choices out there for you guys who want it all, and now you can rest assured it's a safe ride as well.

Ram Trucks Introduces New Tradesman Model

2011-02-15T09:16:00.000-08:00

Ram has always been known for tough and hard-working trucks that are up to the tasks of folks who rely on their trusted vehicles for their day-to-day business needs. Truck customers are the most demanding when it comes to the needs and requirements of their beloved vehicles.

Ram Trucks has now introduced a value-priced Tradesman option package that is designed to meet the needs of large commercial fleets, construction companies and small business owners.

Ram Trucks performed considerable research trying to find out what content the customers want in their work trucks and the 2011 Tradesman more than fits the bill. Case in point, the Ram Tradesman begins life as a Ram 1500 ST trim package.

For standard power, the Tradesman gets the legendary 5.7L HEMI engine pumping out 390 HP and 407 FT.-LB torque all while getting 20 mpg on the highway (4X2 models). The Ram Truck brand’s venerable heavy-duty five-speed automatic is standard along with the Trailer Tow Package along with a Class IV hitch, above bumper pin trailer pin connector and heavy-duty engine and transmission cooling. The Ram Tradesman can even haul a 10,000 lb. payload without breaking a sweat.

As in all 2011 Ram 1500 models, the Tradesman uses a multi-link year coil suspension that offers best-in-class ride and handling qualities. Front and rear stabilizer bars and heavy duty shocks are also included as part of the Ram Tradesman list of standard equipment. In other words, the Ram Tradesman can handle the bumps and curves without having your precious cargo bouncing around in the bed. When it comes to the interior, it includes a 12-volt auxiliary power outlet along with six-speaker media center with a CD and MP3 player. You can also order Sirius satellite radio with Uconnect ® voice command with Bluetooth.

The Ram Tradesman is not totally utilitarian on the outside either as 17-inch full face painted steel wheels along with the full 2011 Ram color pallet are available. You can even dress it up with optional chrome front and rear bumpers, side steps, bed rails and exhaust tip. In addition, the Tradesman configuration is flexible enough to address your unique needs. Both 4X2 and 4X4 drivetrains are available in both short bed (6 ft., 4 in.) and long bed (8 ft.) models. Whether work or play, the Ram Tradesman has all the goods at a price that won’t go over budget. There are even great incentives for small business owners to take advantage of the Ram on the Job allowances.

Go to http://www.ramtrucks.com/commercial for more information.

Ram Trucks Offers Chance for VIP Tickets for Zac Brown Band

2011-02-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

There are plenty of Zac Brown Band fans out there who love the Ram Truck brand, too. When it comes time to find something a little country to play over the stereo, lots of people reach for these guys every time. Well, if you count yourself among the fans that wouldn’t mind a VIP concert experience, you should check out the Ram Truck and Zac Brown Band Letters for Lyrics Sweepstakes.

For a chance to win, all you have to do is write up a letter of appreciation for the soldiers in our armed forces. Of course, you won’t be left out if you’ve already written up a letter. Simply drop it into the widget and you’ll be entered into the drawing.

Don’t worry. Ram Trucks won't judge your grammar or the content of your message. They just want to let our country’s soldiers know how much they mean to us. The contest runs February 11 through March 23, and they might just pick a few to share. A grand prize winner will be randomly selected to take three of their friends on a three-day, two-night trip to Dallas to watch the Zac Brown Band play live. Sounds like a good time.

You can check out the full rules here and click on the widget to get started on your entry.

2011 Avenger packs a punch

2011-02-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

Since the release of the 2011 Dodge Avenger, the automotive media have awarded it numerous accolades and consumers have embraced the great changes engineers and design folks implemented. With an all-new interior and major suspension overhaul, the Avenger is a great mid-sized sedan that is well balanced and fun to drive.

However, the really “big” news is the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that pushes out 283 horsepower. When mated to the six-speed automatic transmission, the Avenger becomes a “pocket rocket” with 0-60 times in the mid six-second range and quarter-mile ETs in the mid-14 second zone. Folks, we’re talking performance that is on par with many muscle cars from the 1960s and 70s. But unlike these iconic high-octane, fuel-guzzling behemoths, the 2011 Avenger also pulls down an impressive EPA estimated 29 mpg on the highway!

What’s just as cool is the sound of the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6! Recently, the folks at Car & Driver had a chance to record the exhaust note from the Avenger and even were impressed with its throaty and aggressive tone. Maybe you should consider getting your hands on one and shocking a few unsuspecting drivers the next time you are sitting at a traffic light!

Ram 1500 named a Best Buy by Consumers Digest

2011-02-03T07:50:00.000-08:00

It's never expected, but the way things have gone lately, it's less-than-surprising when a Ram Truck receives media praise and honors. The honors continue rolling in this month with Consumers Digest, which selected the Ram 1500 as one of its Automotive Best Buy Award winners for 2011. The winning vehicles were pulled from a pool of more than 250 models, with decisions based on factors of performance, comfort and utility as they compare to price and ownership costs. Consumers Digest’s own rigorous testing and evaluation was primarily responsible for determining the results, although important information from third-party sources (for example, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) was taken into account as well.

Available in over a dozen variants, we already know that the versatile Ram 1500 has historically always been a big hit, thanks to its rugged, capable chassis and powerful engine options (including the 390 horsepower 5.7L HEMI V8), not to mention its classic aggressive appearance and affordability. This may come as no surprise to many of you here who have already decided that the Ram 1500 was what your driveway was missing. If you’re one of them, give yourself a pat on the back.

The Diverse High Performance Dodge Charger Team

2011-02-01T12:27:00.000-08:00

By now, you probably know how proud Dodge is of the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger. The car manages to blend the spirit of Mopar into a functional package that’s as efficient as it is fun-to-drive. With its muscular bodywork that pays homage to the Chargers of old and its completely re-styled interior, by Dodge's account the Charger is a winner on every front. But did you know that the team that brought the 2011 Charger to life is made up of some of the most talented women in the auto industry?

While the all-star squad is led by Chris Barman, it features a host of women in key roles essential to putting the Charger on the road. Those include positions like product development, manufacturing, quality and purchasing as well as finance and public relations. Barman took the time to speak about his team at Inforums annual Auto Show Breakfast.

“The Dodge Charger team is a diverse and high-performance group,” Barman said. “It is important to recognize this team includes a higher than normal percentage of women in key leadership positions. This diversity is a source of energy, innovation and unconventional perspectives that enable the Dodge Charger to be a very special product.”

Chrysler has always taken great pride in being a company that prizes diversity on every level of its operations. In fact, it has racked up a laundry list of awards for efforts in inclusion. It was named one of the 100 best companies for working mothers by Working Mother magazine 12 times now, and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation has recognized it as one of our country’s leading corporations supporting diversity and inclusion five times. In fact, Hispanic Business magazine placed Chrysler on its prestigious Diversity Elite 60 list in both 2009 and 2010.

For Dodge, diversity isn’t about taking home awards. It’s about how reaching out and including a variety of world viewpoints, makes their vehicles some of the very best products on the market right now. It’s a way of thinking that permeates every level of its infrastructure. Just ask CEO Sergio Marchionne.

“Culture is the fabric that holds organizations together. It is not just an ingredient for success; it is the essence of success itself,” Marchionne wrote. “This is why my leadership team and I are committed to creating an atmosphere where all of our people feel respected and valued, because every person plays an important role in shaping our future, including employees, our supply base, our marketing and our dealer network. Chrysler Group LLC and its people have a future with promise. We will reach the full measure of that promise only as one, united diverse team.”

The team that stands behind the 2011 Dodge Charger is living proof of Marchionne’s words. Dodge couldn’t have produced a vehicle as capable, stylish, affordable and well-built as the one on sale right now without the help of many diverse hands.

Kudos to Dodge!

Want the lowdown on your vehicle? There's an app for that

2011-01-28T05:59:00.001-08:00

The Dodge brand and Mopar are making it easier than ever for owners to connect with their vehicles, giving electronic information at their fingertips with a free, new smartphone application.

The new Mopar apps provide vehicle operation, maintenance and warranty information, as well as product feature video demonstrations, connections with fellow owners via the company’s brands on social media sites and access to customer care and 24-hour road-side assistance. Because the system is digital, it also allows Dodge to make updates to the “electronic” owner’s manual in real-time.

"Dodge vehicles feature the latest technology to keep our active customers connected and on the move," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — Dodge Car Brand. “This is an example of how we are better connecting with our Dodge owners, responding to their needs and growing our relationship with them.”

New Dodge Durango and Charger owners can now download vehicle information applications to select personal smartphones. The new Mopar feature, developed by Michigan-based Tweddle Group, is designed to support vehicles in the U.S. market. The applications will first be available for iPhone and later for BlackBerry and Android devices on major mobile carriers. Applications for the Avenger, Journey and Grand Caravan will be available in mid-January 2011.

“Dodge’s new vehicle-information application is part of our company’s customer care initiatives and creates a convenient, on-demand channel of communication with our customers,” said Pietro Gorlier, President – Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC. “This communication will enhance customer experience with a source for owners and potential owners to learn about Dodge products.”

Application Features
These new Dodge smartphone vehicle information apps will complement existing user guides and DVDs that are currently provided with each vehicle. Each vehicle-information app will allow the consumer to browse functional categories and view detailed topics of interest relative to their specific vehicle.

Key feature categories include product information, vehicle operating instructions, vehicle maintenance schedules, service contract details, warning lights and controls, warranty information and customer assistance. Other features and benefits include links to Mopar parts and accessories, product brand gear and merchandise and social media sites. The app will also contain high-resolution product information images and videos.

Chrysler Brand Sets its Sight on Dallas as it Kicks Off 'Blogger Game On Road Trip'

2011-01-25T05:58:00.000-08:00

The Chrysler Brand kicked off its "Blogger Game On Road Trip" when they handed over the keys to two new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedans to bloggers who will drive the vehicles from Detroit to Dallas.

The Chrysler brand delivered the keys to three sets of bloggers to drive the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedans and make their way to Dallas. Along the way, bloggers posted their road trip experience and driving impressions of the Chrysler 200. The first set of bloggers drove from Detroit to Pittsburgh to attend the AFC Divisional playoff game. The second set of bloggers headed to Chicago and now a third set will complete their road trip in Dallas.

"The 'Blogger Game On Road Trip' will provide current and potential customers with a unique behind-the-wheel perspective of the fun and adventure to be had while traveling across the country in the new 2011 Chrysler 200," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO, Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Whether it's commuting to work or embarking on a road trip with friends, the Chrysler 200 provides drivers with confident handling performance in all types of driving situations."

Bloggers have made a point to visit sports-related landmarks along the way, like the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Football fans and car enthusiasts can follow the adventures from the "Blogger Game On Road Trip" on the brand's Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/Chrysler) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/chryslerautos) sites.

Chrysler brand Facebook followers also will have a chance to get in on some big game action by showing the brand their "true colors." Facebook fans who submit a football fan photo in front of any Chrysler brand vehicle will have an opportunity to win the "Ultimate Football Fan Package." The Ultimate Football Fan Package includes a TV, video game system, football-themed video game and, of course, a grill, and much more. Facebook followers can vote for their favorite photo; the photo with the most votes will determine who will win the package.

Ram Trucks launches its official site

2011-01-20T11:57:00.000-08:00

We’ve worked day and night to build a Ram Truck that both meets your needs, and creates a fun and luxurious travel environment. We felt that we needed our web site to reflect that hard work. So, after quite a few late nights and some help from some of the smartest web minds out there, we present to you the new, upgraded and improved RamTrucks.com.

Not only is it nice to look at, but once you hop online and check out our full fleet of Ram Truck products, you’ll have plenty of fun building your own, getting a quote and even searching our vast variety of pre-owned Ram Truck vehicles. Our site has become so user-friendly that you can locate a dealer close to home, search for recent articles, and even find financing for the Ram Truck of your dreams. Also, you can now stay connected with other Ram Truck lovers and drivers through our social media forums, links to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and more. They’re all available right on the home page, just one click away. There’s plenty here on our online forums to keep you busy all week long.

Happy browsing.

Review of 2011 Dodge Durango

2011-01-18T09:12:00.000-08:00

Except for its name, there’s virtually no resemblance between the old truck-based Dodge Durango sport utility vehicle and the redesigned 2011 Durango.

The new four-door Durango is handsome and aerodynamic. It has Dodge’s “crosshair grille” and resembles the muscular, discontinued Dodge Magnum wagon.

There are four trim levels: Express, Crew (also offered with a CrewLux lifestyle package), sporty R/T and Citadel. They come with rear or all-wheel-drive and have three rows of seats.

List prices range from $29,195 to $43,945, without an $850 shipping charge. Add $2,000 for all-wheel drive.

To emphasize the Durango’s upscale nature, Dodge says there are no “base” models.

Engines are Chrysler’s smooth new 3.6-liter, 290-horsepower Pentastar V-6 with double overhead camshafts and a carryover 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with 360 horsepower. The V-6 has 260 pound-feet of torque and provides lively performance. It should satisfy most Durango buyers.

Those who want stronger acceleration and tow heavier objects should opt for the Hemi, which produces a whopping 390 pound-feet of torque. It switches seamlessly to fuel-saving four-cylinder mode when V-8 power isn’t needed.

But fuel economy isn’t a strong point with either engine. The V-6 with rear-drive produces 16 mpg in the city and 23 on highways or 16 and 22 with all-wheel drive. Figures with the V-8 are 14 and 20 with rear-drive and 13 and 20 with all-wheel drive.

What’s the driving range (at least on paper)? Well, the Durango’s fuel tank has a 24.6-gallon capacity.

Both engines can run on 87-octane gasoline, although Dodge notes the Hemi does best with 89-octane fuel

Watch option prices because they can raise prices a lot. My rear-drive Crewlux model, which listed for $33,195, had a bottom line price of $41,48? — thanks to a $5,000 option package.

However, that package contained everything from 20-inch wheels (versus the standard 18-inchers) and heated first-and second-row leather-covered seats to a navigation system, power sunroof, adaptive speed control and a front-collision warning system.

There are a fair number of stand-alone options, but all Durangos have a good amount of comfort, convenience and safety equipment—including electronic stability control. Even rear air conditioning has headliner vents and rear-seat controls.

A rear back-up camera is optional for the Express and R/T, but standard for the Crew and Citadel.

The Durango uses an old-fashioned five-speed automatic transmission. It shifts crisply, but a new eight-speed automatic is reportedly on the way.

The interior — long a weak point — is improved so much that older Durango owners may not believe their eyes when they see it. The old rough cockpit has been replaced by a quiet, precisely assembled interior with higher-quality soft-touch materials and attractive stitching. The new seats are comfortable, gauges can be easily read and controls work precisely. There’s even a soft third-row armrest.

The Durango calls for a high step-in (and step-out), but the third-row seat can be reached fairly easily and is generally roomy. However, it’s only suited for two because it has a hard center area.

The old Durango was dropped in 2009, when the market for truck-based SUVs had fallen apart. The old model had a truckish body on frame design. The new Durango has more rigid carlike unibody construction and rides on an extended version of the refined new Jeep Grand Cherokee’s platform. It could be called a crossover, but is considerably larger than some vehicles that carry that classification.

The Durango has a comfortable ride with that platform, an all-independent suspension and a long 119.8-inch -inch wheelbase. Some models have perfect 50-50 weight distribution, others are close to it.

While larger and heavier than the old Durango, the new model “drives” smaller than it is. There’s responsive steering, a compliant ride and good handling, thanks partly to aggressive shock and spring rates and large sway bars. The R/T has the best handling, due partly to a lowered ride height.

Adding to the Durango’s carlike nature is its tight turning circle (37.1 feet) —especially impressive for huge car. The anti-lock brakes feel strong and are controlled by a pedal with a nice linear action. They have brake-assist, brake traction-control and rough-road detection systems.

Cargo room can be enhanced by the 60/40 split-foldling second-row seat, which folds and tumbles. The third-row seat has a 50/50 split and is easily folded from the rear. Both second-and third-row seats fold to provide a flat load floor.

Dodge definitely may have a winner with this one.

Dan Jedlicka, the former car reviewer for the Chicago Sun-Times, has been an automotive journalist for more than 40 years. To read more of his work, visit: www.danjedlicka.com.

Courtesy of theweeklydriver.com

NAIAS 2011: Chrysler Brand 'Comeback'

2011-01-13T06:54:00.000-08:00

Chrysler Brand President/CEO Olivier Francois combined personal reflection with a nostalgic look back during the Monday morning news conference at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

At the start, Francois recalled thoughts of an uncertain future for Chrysler as he left the 2010 NAIAS in his Chrysler 300. He said, this year, it's time for Chrysler to make a "comeback to the automotive stage."

His tone quickly changed as he talked about the work and redesign that went into the brand's flagship vehicle, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Series; the brand's most-awarded vehicle in history.

With an investment that exceeded $1 billion in developing the new 300, Francois showcased the 300's fuel efficiency -- nearly 30 mpg -- and its interior that "wraps passengers with the softest interior in its class."

Other 300 highlights include:

8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen -- "an iPad in your car," Francois said.
Francois: "Chrysler 300 is a great car to be driven in, but a better car to drive."
Francois: "Perfect noise control."
Dodge President/CEO & Head of Chrysler Group Design Ralph Gilles: "Chrysler 300 had to be more mature, luxurious...but still respect where it came from."
Chrysler 300 has a new grill, but Mopar will still offer the previous, "Bentley" grill for those who prefer it, according to Gilles.
Gilles: Chrysler 300 is "more functional without losing its spirit."

Chrysler Town & Country

In introducing the 2011 Town & Country, Francois said Chrysler "took the best minivan in the country and made it better." It offers 42 standard safety and technology features -- that's not offered by any other minivan at the moment, as well as a family entertainment system. The presentation also included a notalgic look back at an earlier Chrysler minivan.

Chrysler 200

Francois said the early positive media reviews of the Chrysler 200 "meant the world to the Chrysler team." He added that the 200 was "designed with a purpose with performance," including a 283 HP engine and 29 mpg.

His presentation included a brief video with several children of Sterling Heights (MI) Assembly Plant employees repeating some of the positive Chrysler 200 media reviews.

Ram Battle of Bands has started - Send Your Submission NOW!

2011-01-11T12:20:00.000-08:00

The Ram Battle of the Bands is up and running on the Facebook page, and already accepting video submissions. The contest ends February 13th, so you and your country music band need to get your act together and send in a video.

What if you don’t have a band? Or perhaps you do have a band, but you’re just afraid you lack the chops and don’t want to risk the potential humiliation? Fear not, now you’re welcome to simply watch the other entrants and vote for your favorite.

Each vote you place will earn you a chance to win a Ram Music Themed Prize Pack including an Apple iPod — no strings attached and no purchase necessary.

If you do step up to the plate and submit a band video, the rules are equally simple – just enter an original country song and hope your fellow Ram fans are impressed. Once the contest ends, the top ten submissions will be narrowed to just two bands by the Ram Trucks judges, both of which will be slated to play live at the Rodeo Austin event.

First place also takes home a cool $5,000, while silver scores $2,500.

Good luck!

Ram Truck 1500 named All-Star by Automobile Magazine

2011-01-04T05:59:00.000-08:00

It’s always easy to pull off a one-time win. Flukes happen every day, but a repeat performance is a little more tricky. Well, the Ram Truck 1500 has officially beaten the sophomore slump by taking Automobile Magazine’s all-star award for the second year in a row. With one of the best interiors of any truck on the road and its unstoppable Hemi V8 engine as available equipment, it’s little wonder why the automotive experts picked the 1500 to be an all-star. Automobile Magazine said that the handy RamBox storage system, copious creature comforts and tough-truck soul all helped put the 1500 ahead of the competition.

This newest accolade has helped the Ram 1500 keep its title as the most awarded Ram Truck ever forged. This comes on the heels of the new Ram Laramie Longhorn winning top honors as the Truck of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association late in 2010 after a two-day truck rodeo attended by more than 40 automotive journalists. Now more than ever, it’s a good time to be in a Ram Truck.

Chrysler Group: Many Positive Milestones in Year 1

2010-12-30T08:19:00.000-08:00

Nov. 4, 2009, is a big day in Chrysler Group history. That’s the day CEO Sergio Marchionne and other group execs laid out a five-year plan for the company and the vehicle brands.

During the presidential visit to one of our Kokomo, Ind., facilities in November, Marchionne told a reporter, "We're a long way from fully achieving our plan. We're at step one of a five-year plan."

It is a long process – but Chrysler Group is headed in the right direction.

As Marchionne said an email to Chrysler Group employees and contractors this month, “This has been a foundational year for the company….Every day, pride is being restored and confidence in the future is being rekindled.”

That’s true not only within the company but outside as well. Many people in the various online communities are rooting for Chrysler Group to succeed.

So, with 2011 sprouting in a few days, let’s take a look back at what came to fruition in 2010:

Products
In May, the 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee rolled off the line at Jefferson North Assembly Plant (Detroit). Since then, the Grand Cherokee has earned numerous awards, including the Texas Auto Writers Association “SUV of Texas,” “Four Wheeler of the Year” Award from Four Wheeler magazine, “Best Buy” in the Full-size/Luxury SUV Category by Consumers Digest magazine, and The Detroit News’ “Truck of the Year.”

After the Grand Cherokee, the brands continued the momentum to replace or refresh 75 percent of their product portfolio – with 11 launches in the fourth quarter.

The new Pentastar V-6 engine also launched – and earned its share of recognition.

And, Chrysler Group has begun production on the 1.4-liter, 16-valve Fully Integrated Robotized Engine (FIRE), which is set to launch in 2012 Fiat 500.

Sales
In the U.S., through the end of November, Chrysler Group has eight consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains, and total 2010 sales (again, through the end of November) increased by 17 percent compared with 2009.

Chrysler Canada has had 12 consecutive months of sales growth, and grew total 2010 sales by 28 percent through the end of November.

Since June, sales in Mexico have been up every single month, and international sales increased 3.6 percent over the period on a year-to-year basis.

Finances
Chrysler Group exceeded its forecasts through the first three quarters of 2010. It posted an operating profit of $565 million, net revenues of $31.2 billion and a reduction in net loss to $453 million. Cash on hand was increased to more than $8.2 billion at the end of September, up from $5.9 billion at the end of 2009, which brings total available liquidity to more than $10.5 billion, including $2.3 billion that remains available to draw under our loan agreements with U.S. Treasury and Canadian and Ontario governments.

Company management is still considering an initial public offering in the second half of 2011 – if market conditions are favorable.

Investments
Chrysler Group announced nearly $3 billion in total investments during 2010. This included adding more than 2,000 new jobs to support two additional shifts at assembly plants and additional production at our Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance facility in Dundee, Mich.

Manufacturing
The implementation of World Class Manufacturing (WCM) is playing a key role in improving safety, efficiency, quality and flexibility in Chrysler plants.

Dealers
The 2010 Dealer Announcement Show in September attracted more than 2,400 dealers from around the world. In November, they announced the selection of 130 U.S. dealers and 58 Canadian dealers to represent the Fiat brand in its return to North America.

While Year 1 looks good, there are four more to go to finish off the plan – and continue beyond.

Dodge and Mopar® Announce “No-cost Maintenance Plus” Plan for Durango Citadel and Journey Lux Buyers

2010-12-28T14:51:00.000-08:00

2011 Dodge Durango Citadel

Dodge and Mopar® are wrapping customers in a worry-free ownership experience. In addition to a load of standard luxury features, the Dodge brand’s all-new Durango Citadel and Journey Lux models also feature Mopar’s new “No-cost Maintenance Plus” plan, a 3-year or 36,000-mile maintenance plan designed to make lives easier and vehicle ownership hassle-free.

“The new Dodge Durango Citadel and Journey Lux models are loaded with features and content typically found on competitor vehicles priced tens of thousands of dollars more,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “This new no-cost maintenance plus plan gives our loyal customers, as well as customers who are discovering the Dodge brand for the first time, unparallelled peace of mind.”

“Our mission at Mopar is to add value to our customer’s experience with our vehicles and our brands,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO – Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With this specific no-cost maintenance plan, we are offering an added benefit to those customers who check all of boxes on their all-new Durango or Journey. In addition, we are helping these customers build a long-term relationship with their local dealer.”

The “No-cost Maintenance Plus” plan has a retail value of $1,100. Features include:

* Benefits of 3 years or 36,000 miles
* $0 deductible
* Oil, oil filter changes and lubrication (3-month/3,000-mile service intervals)
* Scheduled and recommended maintenance (6,000-mile intervals)
* $35/day car rental allowance (car rental allowance for any overnight dealership mechanical repair, 5-day maximum per occurrence)
* $35/first day rental (car rental allowance or taxi service for any dealership mechanical repair or maintenance service [includes bodywork])
* $100 “Sign-and-go” towing and roadside assistance
- Benefits include towing, flat tire change (with existing good spare) battery jump, out-of-gas fuel delivery (maximum 2 gallons), and lockout service (i.e. keys locked in vehicle or frozen lock), as much as $100 per occurrence
* $1,000 trip interruption coverage. Provides as much as $1,000 for lodging, meals and car rental expenses if:
- The vehicle is inoperable due to a component failure covered by the factory warranty AND
- The failure occurs more than 100 miles from home

2011 Dodge Durango Citadel
From high-style to high-tech, the Dodge Durango Citadel is loaded with luxury. Standard features include 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, seven-passenger Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, perforated leather heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot/rear cross-path detection, forward-collision warning, sunroof, Garmin navigation radio, High-intensity Discharged (HID) headlamps.

2011 Dodge Journey Lux
The 2011 Dodge Journey Lux standard features include seven-passenger seating, Parkview® rear backup camera, ParkSense® rear park assist system, Uconnect Touch 8.4N, heated leather seats, universal garage door opener, premium instrument cluster, premium speaker group and 19-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels.

The “No-cost Maintenance Plus” is available on 2011 model year Dodge Durango Citadel/Journey and Lux vehicles covered by an active 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty at the time of sale.

Chrysler SUVs make finalists for 2011 North American Truck of the Year

2010-12-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

Two Chrysler SUVs were named as the most outstanding cars and trucks of the year, according to a panel of the nation's top automotive journalists who are voting on this year's North American Car and Truck of the Year.

The Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee, both built in Detroit off the same truck platform, as well as the extended-range electric Chevrolet Volt and all-electric Nissan Leaf were among six finalists for the award.

The North American Car and Truck of the Year awards are different from other industry awards because they are given by a jury of 49 veteran automotive journalists from Canada and the United States.

Winners of the contest will be announced Jan. 10 at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

This year, the jury considered more than 50 vehicles. Of those, the jurors voted to put 14 cars and 14 trucks on the ballot.

Here is a closer look at the two Chrysler finalists:

—Dodge Durango: While the Durango is built on a unibody platform, rather than a SUV's traditional body-on-frame platform, the stout truck pulls 6,200 pounds with a V-6 engine and 7,200 pounds with a V-8.

Pricing for the three-row SUV starts at $30,045 for the Express model with rear-wheel-drive and at $32,045 for the all-wheel-drive version, including an $850 destination charge.

—Jeep Grand Cherokee: Introduced in July, sales of the redesigned Grand Cherokee have surged. In November, for example, sales increased 256 percent compared with the same month a year ago. Critics have applauded the Grand Cherokee for its vastly improved interior and new engine.

2010-12-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

The folks at Ram Trucks like to tune a 5.7-liter Hemi® V-8 engine to crank out 390 horsepower and over 400 pound-feet of torque all-day–long. But, tuning a guitar is another issue all together.

They also love some good country music, which is exactly why they’re kicking off the first-ever “Battle of the Bands.” You read that right! If you’ve got a toe-tapping country group, which we know there are plenty of in these parts, submit your country music video starting today on the Ram Truck Facebook page. Voting kicks off on Jan. 3, 2011 and wraps up on Feb. 13, giving fans over a full month to pick their favorite video.

The top 10 videos with the most votes will move on to the Ram Truck panel of judges. Our judges will pick their top two videos; who will perform live at next year’s Rodeo Austin. The first place winner will take home a full $5,000 and the second place winner will go home with $2,500 in their guitar case.

Don’t have a band? Don’t worry. You won’t be left out in the cold. Beginning January 3, 2011,you vote for your favorite video of the bunch and enter for a chance to win the weekly sweepstakes. Each week, one lucky person will win a Ram Music Themed prize pack, including an iPod®. If that’s still not enough to quench your thirst for good tunes, there’s another way to win. From the contest on Facebook, hop on over to RamTrucks.com and you’ll get an additional chance to win. It doesn’t get much sweeter than that.

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Ram Truck Facebook page and upload your video!

That ‘New’ 392 Hemi

2010-12-16T07:37:00.000-08:00

The announcement that Dodge would be revisiting the legendary Hemi displacement of 392 inches for the 2011 Inaugural Edition Challenger reveals that the company is still well-coupled to its heritage. The engine would have to be special, as the original 392 was available only in the top of the line models for just two model years, 1957-58, and was the final revision of the engine architecture that had started in 1951 with the 331-inch Hemi. The 392 was a heavy-walled casting that was reserved solely for the Chrysler New Yorker, 300, and Imperial models; it disappeared into the sands of time for 1959, replaced by the new lighter, larger 413” wedge engine. With twin Carter WCFB carbs, that last first-generation Hemi was rated at 390 horses at the pinnacle of its development (in the 1957 Chrysler 300C and 1958 300D), a forerunner of the horsepower wars that would soon become part and parcel of marketing new cars in the coming decade.

Perhaps that final Hemi might have been just an aside in Chrysler’s storied engineering and performance history except that some hot rodders with names like Garlits, Karamesines, Sullivan, and Ivo figured out you could put one of those big Hemis in a slingshot-type dragster, fit it for a supercharger, tip the can of nitro methane to 95% or more, and HANG ON! The 180-, 190-, and 200-mph barriers in the quarter-mile had all fallen by 1965 as a result. The 392 fuel combination was so strong that it still was being used in the dragster and funny car ranks even after the Ramchargers team and others had gotten a firm grasp on the 426-inch second-generation revision in those applications some years later. In fact, engine builder Ed Donovan took the 392’s basic design to design and build a quite successful all-aluminum race-only version he first produced in the early 1970s and continues to build today.

The new 392 (6.4L”) HEMI is the latest street V8 for Chrysler’s performance models, and will supersede the previous 6.1L (370”) version of the engine. The latest mill to wear the legendary HEMI moniker is the same basic block architecture as its 6.1L predecessor, with the displacement rise coming from both a minor bore increase (up .9 mm) and adding more stroke (3.7 mm). However, though similar to the 6.1, the 392 block is a unique casting, featuring different machining plus changes for strength, as well as modifications to the cooling and internal breathing passages.

The basic block, painted in the traditional Hemi orange hue, is topped with aluminum heads that make use of smooth core technology; this is a casting process that utilizes a special fine sand to form the runner cores. The runners themselves have been further massaged from their previous state, while valve size has also increased from the 6.1L version’s 52.8mm intake / 40.5 mm exhaust to 54.3 mm/42.0 mm, respectively.

However, the crowning touch is the intake, which is why the torque curve was so smooth on the new engine. The SRT’s new ‘active intake’ design harkens somewhat back to the ram-tuning principles Chrysler engineers first comprehended during the late 1950s, but has greatly benefited from the computer modeling of airflow now available. Once reaching approximately 4,900 rpm, the active intake system starts physically revising the intake runner path and geometry (thus actually altering the induction tuning). This process, which was started on the SRV (Short Runner Valve) applications for 3.5L, 4.0L and the 5.7L truck engine, is for increased intake flow. That results in more power output, but the main advantage of the design is to improve low engine torque by having a longer runner available in the lower RPM level. The system uses the same internal parts as the SRV version, with cosmetic changes to its appearance and a different mount for the throttle body.

The engine is rated a 470 lbs-ft…at 2900 rpm! The same number, 470, is also the official horsepower rating, greater than any prior street-based Hemi engine. With the package appearing like an ‘an old school Hemi’ when first seen under the hood, plus the throaty sound from the well-tuned exhaust design, a displacement rich in heritage, and a powerband unlike anything to wear to ever wear that four-letter word before, my opinion is that the 392 Hemi will indeed be a Mopar milestone.

Robert D’Agostino’s survivor 1957 300C convertible. The fact the engine proved so popular on the secondary circuit is one of the reasons these classic behemoths are so scarce today; many cars were bought, had the engine removed, and were unceremoniously sold for scrap.

The original 390-horse 392 Hemi in its dual-quad configuration in D’Agostino’s car. A handful were sold with fuel injection in 1958, though they proved to be very difficult to service and tune. The carburated versions used these twins.

By the mid-1960s, the 392s were out from the fenders of finned classics and wedged down into rail dragsters, topped with a supercharger, and breathing fat amounts of nitromethane. This is Don ‘the Snake’ Prudhomme at NHRA Nationals in 1966. Ray Mann photo / quartermilestones.com archive

Even when the 426 version became popular, the 392 continued to thrive in drag racing. This is Vern Motes’ twin-engined Top Gas car being in the pits at Martin, Mich.,

A ‘grand’ new Jeep Compass

2010-12-14T07:09:00.000-08:00

Offering unsurpassed 4×4 fuel economy and off-road capability in the compact SUV segment, the new 2011 Jeep Compass features a stunning new sophisticated design, with cues coming directly from the brand’s premium icon, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Coupled with a host of interior refinements and improved ride and handling characteristics in all conditions – courtesy of upgraded steering and suspension systems – the new Jeep Compass offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value that is unmatched in the compact SUV segment.

“With the new 2011 Jeep Compass, we’ve applied the premium design cues of our award-winning new Grand Cherokee,” Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC, said. “Combined with new interior appointments and refinements to the suspension and steering systems, Jeep Compass provides consumers the ultimate combination of styling, capability, fuel economy, efficiency, safety and value in the important compact SUV segment.”

Delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car, the new 2011 Jeep Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard side-curtain air bags, electronic stability program (ESC), electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), side curtain air bags for all rows and available front-seat-mounted side air bags.

Design
The new 2011 Jeep Compass has a distinct family resemblance to the all-new, premium 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

With a new hood, new front fenders, new fascia and new headlamps as well as a new grille that has been detailed with a small dose of chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles, the new face of the Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated, appearance. Forward lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlamps, and the fog lamps are now high output projector lamps. Adding an element of muscle, the hood has been enhanced with a subtle power bulge. The result is a vehicle that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the Compass’ capability in all weather and driving conditions.

New brightwork throughout the exterior lends an upscale touch without compromising the off-road performance of the Compass. A band of protective cladding has been added for 2011, serving to fend off debris when driving in challenging weather conditions or off-road and providing a new appearance.

This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the Compass. A new rear fascia, new body-color rear spoiler and subtle, upscale touches including new LED taillamps and on the Limited model, bright trim on the step pad and a chrome exhaust tip adorn the new 2011 Jeep Compass. Topping it off, a new set of roof rails were designed with a slimmed down appearance and a small amount of brightwork. The 2011 Compass sports new, standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, and 18-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels are available on Limited models.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Compass include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; a new center armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, available handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls.

Compass interior
The new 2011 Jeep Compass offers an array of clever features consumers will appreciate whether commuting to work, driving in challenging weather conditions, exploring new trails or out-of-the-way places. Uconnect media center with iPod interface, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link, power sunroof, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, illuminated cup holders, liftgate speakers and fold-flat rear seats are some of the available cool features that make the Compass the perfect compact SUV, enabling consumers to enjoy any adventure.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is packed with standard features that provide value and convenience for drivers and passengers. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, aluminum wheels, fog lamps, cruise control and sunscreen glass.

New for 2011, the Jeep Compass offers an All-weather Capability Group option, which includes Goodyear 17-inch all-terrain tires, all-season floor mats, daytime running headlamps, engine block heater and tow hooks.

Segment-leading Capability
The 2011 Jeep Compass offers customers unsurpassed 4×4 off-road capability with Jeep Freedom Drive II. The new Jeep Compass also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Compass boasts unsurpassed 4×4 fuel economy in its segment.

Jeep Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Compass also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use, including slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated® capability in Compass form. The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated, 17-inch all-terrain tires and aluminum wheels, a one-inch raised ride height, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster. The available Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is recommended for moderate off-road situations that include steep grades, occasional wheel lift and rock or log climbing.

The 2011 Jeep Compass’ powertrain is designed to deliver world-class performance in all weather conditions, fuel economy and refinement, all at an affordable, value-packed price.

Compass features a standard 2.0-liter World Engine for the Compass and Latitude models that provides 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 N•m) of torque coupled with the continuously variable transmission (CVT2), and delivers unsurpassed 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission.

The proven 2.4-liter World Engine produces 172-horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque and is available on all models and standard on the Limited. This 2.4-liter World Engine has dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Jeep Compass’ price class. The Jeep Compass’ 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers unsurpassed 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle on the entry-level Compass and a CVT that is available on the Compass and standard on the Latitude and Limited models. The Compass’ CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response and precise ratio control. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6–8 percent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic. The Compass CVT2 also improves vehicle performance compared with a traditional automatic transaxle because of optimized gear ratios, especially in the 30–60 mph range during passing maneuvers.

The 2011 Jeep Compass also provides up to 2,000 lbs. of towing capacity.

Jeep Compass Model Lineup
The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Compass, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4×4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4×4 system with low-range capability.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in the following exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Clear Coat, Deep Charcoal Gray (limited availability) and Mineral Gray Pearl Coat (late availability).

The new 2011 Jeep Compass models will begin to arrive in Jeep showrooms in December 2010.

Ram Trucks named Manufacturer of the Year

2010-12-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

With 2010 coming to a close, a lot of publications are now announcing their "Of the Year" awards. Ram Trucks just earned the Manufacturer of the Year award from Off-Road Adventures magazine.

In its December 2010 issue, Off-Road Adventures credits Ram Trucks’ commitment to advanced design and the company’s proven powertrains in taking this honor.

And if that news isn’t enough to light your fire and confirm your standing as an extremely savvy truck buyer, Off Road Adventures magazine is offering up a free online subscription to Ram Trucks fans and followers. Visit Off Road Adventures to sign up. To check out the magazine’s digital edition, visit this page.

The 2011 Dodge Charger Police Cruiser Video

2010-12-03T06:34:00.000-08:00

Today’s modern police cruisers are subjected to the rigors of the harsh day-to-day enforcement duties. It takes more than just a big engine, “cop tires and cop suspension” to get the job done. In September, the 2011 Dodge Charger PPV (that’s “Police Pursuit Vehicle” for you civilians) was put through a battery of tests at the annual Michigan State Police Vehicle trials. Even though there was stiff competition, the 2011 Charger PPV still had the performance and handling (along with menacing looks) that would make Jake and Elwood proud.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Adds to List of Accolades

2010-11-30T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today, Emerging Diversity Education Fund (EDEF) and Decisive Media named the all-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee as Decisive Media’s “Urban Truck of the Year.”

The honor was chosen by editors of Decisive Auto Magazine and a panel of 15 independent automotive journalists after they spent several months driving dozens of vehicles in a variety of North American urban settings. Consideration focused on several categories, including styling, practicality and attainability attributes of each vehicle.

“The Jeep’s over-the-road dynamics easily rivals that of its competitors’ less capable crossover vehicles. Meanwhile, the Jeep is also perfectly proficient at traversing any terrain," said Decisive Auto Magazine Editor-in-chief Lyndon Bell.

"Luxurious interior appointments – along with the fact that drivers aren’t penalized into accepting a lower trim level if they opt for the more fuel-efficient engine – speaks volumes to the way Jeep’s engineers and product planners incorporated 21st century realities into America’s most iconic SUV,” he added.

The “Urban Truck of the Year” is the latest in a list of awards the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has captured. Other accolades include:

Consumers Digest “Best Buy”
Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Award for Off-Road Ability
Texas Auto Writers Association “SUV of Texas”
Texas Auto Writers Association “Full-size SUV of Texas”
Ruedas ESPN “Best SUV”
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick

The formal presentation of the Urban Truck of the Year award will coincide with the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) and occur during the 15th Annual Urban Wheel Awards on Jan. 9, 2011, at the Sound Board inside the MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit, Mich.

Ram Truck Presents CMT Artists Of The Year

2010-11-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

Country music is filled with some truly talented people, outstanding performers and wonderful song writers. Luckily, it is also filled with bands and musicians that give back to their communities, serve the underprivileged and recognize their blessings by sharing those blessings with people around them. Now, these talented and giving performers are being recognized and Ram Truck is proud to be a part of this occasion.

The first-ever annual CMT Artist of Year will recognize five amazing honorees – Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood and Zac Brown Band, for their commitment to social responsibility. Aligning with the CMT’s community service arm CMT One County, you can check out a series of custom Ram Truck spots highlighting each CMT Artist of the Year honorees.

After checking out the videos, go to Ramzone.com and share how you support your community for chance to win a music-themed prize pack, including a MP3 player and Ram gear. Whether you help your neighbor or serve at a food kitchen, share your story in the comments (with a valid email address) before 11:59 pm EST Dec. 2, 2010 and be entered to win. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and highlighted right here on RamZone on Dec. 3, 2010, the same day the Artist of Year special will air on CMT.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the 2011 Dodge Challenger, but were afraid to ask

2010-11-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger delivers more of what muscle-car enthusiasts want — a more powerful and efficient engine lineup, maximum grip with an all-new performance suspension design and even more athletic styling — all executed with quality and precision.

“To deliver the most thrilling to drive Challenger lineup ever, Dodge upgraded the iconic coupe’s performance hardware for maximum precision and grip,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “From its lighter aluminum Pentastar V-6 engine with 305 standard horsepower, redesigned aluminum suspension geometry with aggressive negative camber for better cornering grip, improved feel and fade-resistant braking, to a near-balanced 50/50 weight distribution, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger has the hardware to compete.”

Improved Agility, High-speed Stability and Braking Performance
The new 2011 Dodge Challenger combines world-class ride, refinement and braking performance with more power and new track-tuned suspensions to deliver a thrilling driving experience.

Redesigned to handle the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine’s 305 horsepower (227 kW) — 55 more horsepower than the previous V-6 engine — the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE features a new road-gripping touring-tuned suspension with wider 18-inch wheels and tires for added control. In addition, a revised brake-pedal ratio and refined brake booster improve braking response and feel.

Upping the ante for 2011, the new Challenger Rallye with the Super Sport Group features an all-new performance-tuned suspension with larger performance-disc brakes, performance steering, larger and wider 20 x 8.0-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels with new P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires for improved grip and a 3.06 rear-axle ratio for improved all around acceleration.

Challenger’s new second-generation rear-wheel-drive architecture delivers world-class ride and handling with any of its three available suspension tunings and high-performing wheel and tire combinations (in order of increased handling and braking performance):

Touring-tuned:

Standard on Dodge Challenger SE
- 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels with P235/55R18 Michelin MXM4 all-season touring tires
- Touring brake package

Performance-tuned:

Standard on Dodge Challenger R/T, available on Challenger Rallye
- 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels with P235/55R18 Michelin MXM4 all-season touring tires (R/T)
- 20 x 8-inch aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires (available on R/T and Rallye with Super Sport Group)
- Performance brake package

Super Track Pak:

Available on the Dodge Challenger R/T
- 20 x 8-inch aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 three-season performance tires
- High-performance monotube shock absorbers and springs
- Performance brake package with high-performance brake linings
- Three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with “ESC-off” mode

New Second Generation E-segment Architecture Delivers Maximum Grip With World-class Ride and Handling
Performance handling requires maximum grip, and the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE and R/T models feature redesigned front- and rear-suspension geometries with premium suspension hardware for world-class ride and handling.

At the heart of Dodge Challenger’s new suspension design are isolated, lightweight front- and rear-suspension cradles that create a rigid assembly needed for precise performance.

At the front cradle, new monotube front-shock absorbers, springs and a repositioned lower-front shock-to-suspension-link bushing deliver improved control, ride and comfort. Combined, these suspension components provide improved handling and durability, while reducing the harshness from road bumps compared with the previous Dodge Challenger. In addition, all-new front-suspension hydrobushings — a premium suspension component — reduce ride harshness and prolong smooth braking characteristics.

At the rear, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger’s five-link rear-suspension design features new roll-steer geometry, allowing independent control of camber and toe suspension movement for world-class handling. All-new monotube shock-absorbers and springs make the ride more refined, while improving handling and dynamics. Premium urethane jounce bumpers and suspension links with rubber shock absorber bushings help the Challenger’s rear suspension contribute to a quieter interior cabin. In addition, new upper and lower spring-seat isolators provide additional dampening to Challenger’s rear suspension to deliver smooth engagement over bumps.

A more aggressive front- and rear-camber geometry improve, the all-new Dodge Challenger’s road-holding capabilities. Set at -1.0 degrees in the front and -1.75 degrees in the rear, Dodge Challenger is set up for high-speed cornering with its tires leaning inboard at the top relative to the body. New larger diameter front- and rear-stabilizer bars keep the chassis nimble during cornering and make body lean a thing of the past.

Improved Performance Steering Feel With Energy Saving Electro-hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)
An all-new electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system transmits precise road feel to the driver and improves on-center tracking and fuel economy.

Depending on the “control mode” within the EHPS system, the system applies variable steering effort to different driving conditions. EHPS analyzes steering angle, vehicle speed, engine rpm and chassis control systems 13 times per second for precise performance-handling feel. When the Dodge Challenger is stationary or moving at low speeds, the hydraulic pump increases power assistance for a lighter steering-wheel effort. The pump reduces steering assistance at highway speeds to give the performance coupe a firmer feel, and as a consequence, the system delivers a fuel savings of up to 1.5 percent by consuming less energy than a belt-driven pump.

All-new Pentastar V-6 Engine Delivers Added Efficiency and an Impressive 305 Horsepower
With its all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower — 55 more horsepower than the engine it replaces — the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE is the most powerful, refined and technologically advanced entry-level Challenger ever.

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is an all-new design, featuring double-overhead camshafts (DOHC) with dual-independent cam phasers (DICP), integrated exhaust manifolds, polymer-coated piston skirts, forged connecting rods and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration. In addition, Dodge Challenger engineers added an all-new cold-air induction system and dual exhausts from the headers back to the exhaust tips for maximum output. The result is 305 track-ready horsepower (227 kW) at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. (363 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine’s torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm, which provides customers outstanding drivability and responsiveness.

Thanks to its all-aluminum design, the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is 45 lbs. (20 kg) lighter than the previous V-6 engine and provides the new 2011 Dodge Challenger V-6 with a 52.4 / 47.6 front-to-rear weight distribution (compared with 53.5/46.5 previously) for improved balance and handling.

Refinement was a key objective for every component during the design phase of the engine and was achieved by using advanced computer-aided engineering techniques. Structural, intake and exhaust areas of the engine were designed to deliver low levels of overall sound and achieve specific audible quality goals that meet discerning customer requirements. Combined with the use of all-new premium hydraulic powertrain mounts, the all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger delivers refinement in all powertrain applications and RPMs.

Designed to be environmentally responsible, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine features lead-free engine construction and an environmentally-friendly oil filter system. The integrated oil cooler/filter system uses a filter element which can be incinerated, avoiding the land-fill burden of traditional filter systems. The use of long-life spark plugs and a high-energy coil-on-plug ignition system maximizes component life and helps reduce cost of ownership.

The all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is manufactured at Chrysler Group LLC’s Trenton South Engine Plant in Trenton, Mich.

New Challenger R/T Features up to 376 Horsepower With Four-cylinder Mode Efficiency
For the performance enthusiast, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T with its the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivers up to 376 horsepower (280 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m).

When paired with the newly refined Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission’s Track Pak the 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T delivers smoother shifts, while delivering even more power through unique performance-tuned dual exhaust and under-floor mufflers with low-restriction bottle resonators. The result is 376 track-tearing horsepower that can accelerate the performance coupe from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds and a sinister exhaust growl for the cars left in its rear-view mirror.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T’s 5.7-liter HEMI engine with five-speed automatic transmission produces 372 horsepower (277 kW) and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 N•m), plus its FuelSaver technology seamlessly transitions to high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when full V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine also features variable-valve timing (VVT) to improve fuel economy in two ways. First, it reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the wheels instead of being lost out of the exhaust port as heat. VVT improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

Updated Exterior Enhancements Improve Form and Function
To match its unmistakable muscle-car styling, upgraded powertrain and improved handling capabilities, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger features performance-driven exterior enhancements.

At the front of the new Dodge Challenger’s wide stance is a restyled trapezoidal front air dam with a larger opening to cool the legendary HEMI V-8 or potent Pentastar V-6 engine. Providing additional downforce is a larger “duck bill” front spoiler in black to match the coupe’s lower sill.

Larger 18-inch aluminum wheels are now standard equipment on the Dodge Challenger and provide a more athletic stance with wider tires. For added style and performance handling, the Dodge Challenger SE with the new Rallye package now offers the all-new Super Sport Group, providing new five-spoke 20 x 8-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels and even wider low-profile tires. For a touch of nostalgia, Challenger’s iconic bright racing-style fuel-filler door is now standard on all models.

Topping off the new Dodge Challenger SE and the new Challenger Rallye’s good looks are dual-chromed exhaust tips integrated into the lower rear fascia.

Upgraded Race-inspired Interior With More Standard Equipment
The interior equipment in the new 2011 Dodge Challenger is significantly upgraded to give customers added style, convenience, value and best-in-class accommodations.

Transmitting Challenger’s new precision steering and feel of the road is an all-new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for better performance feel and grip. The right-sized hand-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel features silver metallic painted spokes located at the 3-, 6- and 9 o’clock positions. The new sport steering wheel features back-lit cruise, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and available Uconnect® Voice Command controls mounted on the front face, which makes it easier to see at night.

Dodge Challenger’s trapezoidal race-inspired instrument panel now features a new four-bomb gauge cluster with chromed accent rings and new sport-themed graphics. Inside the cluster, a new four-line display EVIC is now standard equipment and shows the driver trip and multimedia information from the Media Center radio.

To make long cruises more comfortable, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger features redesigned seat structures with improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. Challenger’s standard power driver’s seat now features power lumbar for improved back support. To make it easier to get in and out of the backseat, the driver’s seat now features seatback tilt- with memory and an easy-to-reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat adds tilt-and-slide with memory, which makes it even easier to use. When equipped with leather, Dodge Challenger’s new Nappa leather seating surfaces provide a premium look and feel.

Dodge Challenger offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head room (37.4 inches) and legroom (32.6 inches) room compared with its competition. With class-exclusive seating for five, coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), the new 2011 Dodge Challenger is the segments best day-to-day pony-car choice, offering maximum comfort and functionality.

Next to Dodge Challenger’s LED-illuminated cupholders, a new hand-stitched leather-wrapped shift knob is now standard and provides improved feel while toggling between the coupe’s standard Auto Stick transmission gears.

Finishing the Dodge Challenger’s interior upgrade is the addition of standard automatic climate control for added convenience and improved comfort.

Energized Lineup With Lifestyle Packages Equipped With Performance, Technology and Excitement
The new 2011 Dodge Challenger is available in two models: Challenger SE and Challenger R/T. The new Challenger’s product plan now fits in with the Dodge brand’s lifestyle packages, delivering customers more high-value content than ever before.

New 2011 Dodge Challenger SE
With additional standard equipment, improved handling and even more athletic styling than before, the new entry-level Dodge Challenger SE model is well-equipped for the driver who is looking for grand-touring comfort, fun-to-drive handling, iconic styling and an extraordinary value.

New standard equipment includes the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar engine with 305 horsepower (227 kW), 268 ft.-lb. (363 N•m) of torque, E-85 flex-fuel capability , cold-air induction, five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick, second-generation E-segment architecture with Dodge-tuned touring suspension, six-speaker audio system, electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS), new Dodge leather-wrapped sport steering-wheel mounted with audio controls, driver-selectable EVIC with trip computer, leather-wrapped shift knob, mini-carbon trim bezel, Keyless Enter-N-Go with remote-windows down, automatic climate control, seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags, eight-way power driver’s seat with easy in-and-out access, electronic stability control (ESC) with Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support. On the exterior, larger and wider 18 x 7.5-inch aluminum wheels, P235/55R18 all-season performance tires, dual exhausts with chromed tips, bright racing-style fuel-filler door and restyled front fascia with larger front-lip spoiler are now standard.

Additional standard equipment on the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE includes advanced multi-stage air bags, side-curtain air bags, tire-pressure monitoring (TPM), Media Center 130 radio with AM/FM/CD/MP3 capability, front- and rear-climate control outlets, cabin-air filtration, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 140-mph primary speedometer, chromed-interior door handles, vinyl-wrapped armrest, soft-touch door panels, LED-illuminated cupholders, LED-illuminated front map lights, LED-illuminated rear-reading courtesy lamps, power windows with express up/down, fold-away power-exterior mirrors, 12-volt power outlet, premium cloth seats with accent stitching, driver and front-passenger lumbar, front-passenger seat with easy-in-out access, 60-40 split-fold rear seat with armrest, cruise control and rear-window defroster.

An available lifestyle package offers premium features to the powerful and efficient 2011 Dodge Challenger SE model:

Rallye package—For drivers who want even more connectivity, comfort and convenience features, the Challenger Rallye adds Uconnect Voice Command with Uconnect® Phone and Bluetooth® streaming audio, console-mounted USB port with iPod® control, auxiliary audio input jack, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, automatic dimming rear-view mirror, front and rear seating in new premium Nappa leather, heated front seats, six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier, automatic headlamps, fog lamps and sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors

All-new Super Sport Group Improves Challenger Rallye’s All-around Performance

For maximum performance and efficiency, the new Super Sport Group can be added to the 2011 Dodge Challenger Rallye package and includes the new performance-tuned suspension, performance-brake package and larger and wider 20 x 8.0-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels with new P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires for improved grip and thrilling road-handling capability.

New 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T

Upgraded for the performance enthusiast, the new Dodge Challenger R/T includes a new performance-tuned suspension with rail-like handling, more power and more standard equipment than before. Equipped with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, this Challenger is designed for the individual who demands muscle-car power with world-class ride, handling, technology and precision.

The new 2011 Challenger R/T includes all the new features on the Dodge Challenger SE, and adds a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with new cold-air induction system for 372 (five-speed Auto Stick transmission) or 376 track-tearing horsepower (Tremec six-speed manual transmission with Track Pak). In addition, a new performance-tuned suspension delivers world-class ride and handling, while Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth®, console-mounted USB port with iPod® Control and auxiliary audio input jack, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, automatic headlamps, and power fold-away heated-exterior mirrors make life easier for the Challenger’s driver and passengers.

Other standard equipment on the new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T includes performance-disc brakes with vented rotors, performance steering, 3.73 rear-axle ratio, 215 mm rear axle, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 160-mph primary speedometer, instrument panel with mini-carbon bezel, fog lamps, “R/T” grille badge, “HEMI” hood badges and rear body-color deck-lid spoiler.

Two available lifestyle packages pack the new 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T with even more athletic style, premium features and performance hardware:

R/T Plus package—For drivers who want even more feel of the road with premium refinement and details, this package adds larger and wider 20 x 8-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels with new P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires for improved grip, front and rear seating in new premium Nappa leather, heated front seats and six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier
R/T Classic package—Designed for the Dodge enthusiast who wants performance with even more nostalgic muscle-car cues, this package adds dual throwback A-line bodyside R/T stripes in Matte Black, large 20-inch polished-aluminum heritage wheels with new P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires, “Challenger” fender badges in classic script, classic eggcrate grille with heritage “R/T” badge, functional hood scoops, high-intensity discharge headlamps (HID), front and rear seating in new premium Nappa leather, heated front seats and six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier
- For even more style, A-line bodyside R/T Classic stripes are available in Bright White, or new for 2011, Bright Red

Optional equipment groups on 2011 Dodge Challenger SE and Challenger R/T models deliver added value and premium content to pack in even more performance. The following equipment groups are available on the Challenger model lineup:

Connectivity Group—Includes Uconnect Voice Command with Uconnect Phone and Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, console-mounted USB port with iPod® Control, auxiliary audio input jack, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and automatic-dimming rear-view mirror
Electronic Convenience Group—Includes EVIC with compass and outside temperature display, HomeLink universal transceiver, vehicle security alarm, tire-pressure monitoring display for all tires, remote start and power fold-away heated-exterior mirrors (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)
Sound Group II—Includes Media Center 430 6.4-inch touchscreen radio with 30-gigabyte hard drive and CD/DVD/MP3 capability, seven Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 368-watt amplifier and subwoofer (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)
Rallye Appearance Group—Includes instrument panel with mini-carbon bezel, hood and deck-lid dual stripes with accent-color outer stripes, 18-inch machined-aluminum rallye wheels with P235/55R18 Michelin MXM4 all-season performance tires and body-color deck-lid spoiler (Available with Rallye package)
Super Sport Group—Includes 20-inch five-spoke chrome-clad aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires, performance-tuned suspension, performance steering, performance brake package and 3.06 rear-axle ratio (Available with Rallye package)
Track Pak Group—Includes Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission, performance-tuned dual exhaust with two low-restriction bottle resonators, performance brake package with high-performance brake linings, limited-slip rear differential, hill-start assist (HSA), 3.92 rear-axle ratio, “pistol-grip” shifter and bright pedals (Available on R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages [must have 20-inch wheels])
Super Track Pak Group—Includes high-performance steering gear, high-performance brake linings, high-performance tuned monotube-shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode ESC with “full off” (Available on R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages with automatic or manual transmission [must have 20-inch wheels])
Mopar Exterior Appearance Group—Includes body-color Mopar hood with “T/A-style” hood scoop, deck-lid mounted “Go-Wing” spoiler and “Strobe Stripe” performance graphics (Available on R/T and R/T Plus packages)
Mopar Interior Appearance Group—Includes T-handle shifter with “Mopar” logo, bright-pedal kit (automatic only), bright door-sill guards with “Challenger” logo, premium carpet floor mats with “Challenger” logo and car cover with “Challenger” logo (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)

Available stand-alone equipment on 2011 Dodge Challenger SE and Challenger R/T models includes:

Media Center 430N radio—Includes 6.4-inch touchscreen radio with Garmin navigation and guidance with segment-leading ease of use, 30-gigabyte hard drive and CD/DVD/MP3 capability (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages; must have Sound Group II)
Media Center 730N radio—Includes 6.4-inch touchscreen navigation radio, SIRIUS Travel Link with real-time weather, fuel prices and more, 30-gigabyte hard drive and CD/DVD/MP3 capability (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages; must have Sound Group II)
20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels—Includes 3.92 rear-axle ratio, 20-inch five-spoke chrome-clad aluminum wheels with P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires (Available on R/T)
Power sunroof—Includes auto-reverse detection (Available with the Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)
R/T hood-to-fender stripes—Includes parallel “War Paint” style stripes with “R/T” logo. Available in Black, Red and Silver (Available on R/T and R/T Plus package)
Engine block heater—(Available on Challenger SE, Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)
Spare tire delete—Includes TIREFIT tire-service kit (Available with on Challenger SE, Rallye package, R/T, R/T Plus and R/T Classic packages)
Deck-lid Spoiler Delete—(Available with R/T and R/T Plus package)
Stripe Delete—(Available on Rallye package with Rallye Appearance Group)

Innovative Uconnect Media Center Radios Keep Challenger Passengers Connected

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger offers an array of connectivity, infotainment and mobile multimedia options for maximum convenience and to keep passengers connected.

The innovative Uconnect Media Center 430, 430N and 730N radios integrate a 6.4-inch touchscreen display, with a 30-gigabyte hard drive where as many as 6,700 songs – more than 150 hours of music – and photos can be stored. Uconnect Media Center radios also offer two navigation options, including: segment-leading Garmin® Navigation guidance and mapping (Uconnect Media Center 430N), or premium GPS Navigation with SIRIUS Traffic (Uconnect Media Center 730N). Both Navigation solutions feature SIRIUS Travel Link, providing real-time weather, fuel prices and more while on the go. For the driver who needs efficiency, a voice memo-recorder feature allows for convenient reminders up to 3 minutes long. In addition, Uconnect Media Center radios let Dodge Challenger passengers to create a personalized in-vehicle media experience with its available USB port with iPod® control, auxiliary jack for MP3 player input, DVD playback (in Park) and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth®
Uconnect Voice Command is an in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that is standard on new 2011 Dodge Challenger Rallye and Challenger R/T coupes, allowing the driver to control radio stations, mobile devices, including smart phones and iPods, and operate a Bluetooth® compatible phone with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

When the Bluetooth® phone is initially connected, the contact list is automatically downloaded to synchronize as many as 1,000 phone book entries, which can then be selected by simply saying a contact name. It also allows drivers to switch radio modes, tune to AM/FM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio stations and request real-time information from SIRIUS Traffic using voice commands. The handsfree option promotes safety, freedom, value and flexibility (optional with Media Center 130).

USB Port with iPod Control
Integrated conveniently and securely under the center-console armrest, this multimedia input allows the driver to control his or her iPod® or other media device through Dodge Challenger’s Uconnect Media Center radio, Uconnect Voice Command and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. The USB port also provides a mobile recharging station for iPod and USB powered devices. In addition, MP3 and WMA audio files on a USB memory device may also be played and controlled on the Uconnect Touch system.

Uconnect Web
Uconnect Web turns the all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger into a mobile “hot spot” capable of instant access to websites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums and more. This dealer-installed wireless system provides high-speed data transfer and flexibility, combining Wi-Fi and 3G cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology.

SIRIUS Travel Link
Providing the 2011 Dodge Challenger passengers with real-time information and entertainment, SIRIUS Travel Link is available on the innovative Uconnect Media Center 430N and 730N radios. SIRIUS Travel Link provides up-to-the-minute information to make every trip more efficient.

SIRIUS Travel Link includes:

Weather: shows coast-to-coast weather data, current conditions and 5-day forecasts, detailed storm cell information, hurricane and tropical storm tracking, local wind speeds, and even ski resort conditions
Fuel Prices: lists prices, locations and distance to more than 120,000 fuel stations across the United States, and can have the Garmin® navigation system route to a selected fuel station location
Sports: provides scores and schedules from the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR, golf, college football and basketball
Movies: uses listings from more than 4,500 movie theaters across the United States to help consumers plan movie times, theater addresses, ratings and run lengths ahead of time. Dodge Challenger’s passengers also may have the Garmin® navigation system routed to a selected theater location

SIRIUS Satellite Radio
With more than 130 channels of the best music, entertainment and information, SIRIUS Satellite Radio provides customers high-definition entertainment coast-to-coast. SIRIUS Satellite Radio offers more than 60 commercial-free, digital music channels and 60 channels of sports, news, entertainment and children’s programming, 24 hours a day. Regional traffic and weather reports also are included with SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Selecting favorite stations is easy with the Uconnect Media Center radios. Dodge Challenger’s passengers are able to scan channels with steering-wheel controls, utilize presets or select a station with Uconnect Voice Command (e.g. “Tune to Hip Hop Nation”). With premium Uconnect Media Center 430, 430N and 730N radios, SongAlert/Game Alert can notify when a favorite artist or song is playing and can conveniently search both by music category and channel.

More Than 45 Safety and Security Features
The new 2011 Dodge Challenger features more than 45 safety and security features, including standard ESC, now integrating Chrysler Group’s new proprietary Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on and off the track.

In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver’s knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Following are more than 45 safety and security features offered in the new 2011 Dodge Challenger:

Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for 1 second to indicate a lane change (standard)
Advanced multi-stage Air Bags: Inflate with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact. Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants (standard)
All-speed traction control: Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during all speeds by applying individual brakes alone or in combination with engine torque limitation to prevent wheel slip (standard)
Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions (standard)
Anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection: Capable of detecting if the Dodge Challenger is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. When rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses (standard)
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror: Detects and reduces glare from rearward headlamps without driver intervention (standard)
Auto-reverse sunroof: Advanced sensing system that automatically engages and reverses the sunroof to the open position
BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if the Dodge Challenger is driven without belted front-seat occupants (standard)
Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the Challenger’s stopping distance (standard)
Brake Override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the Dodge Challenger (standard)
Brake/Park interlock: Prevents a Dodge Challenger with an automatic transmission from being shifted out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is applied (standard)
Brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s) (standard)
Child Seat Anchor System: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats (standard)
Constant-force retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner (standard)
Crumple zones: Designed to compress during an accident in order to absorb energy from an impact, which decreases transfer of that energy to occupants (standard)
Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations, such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed-surface conditions, including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the Dodge Challenger’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path
Energy-absorbing steering column: The manual-adjust steering column utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy absorption during a crash. The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management (standard)
Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking the Dodge Challenger’s doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine (standard)
Express up/down windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door (standard)
Full-length side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows (standard)
Garmin® navigation: Easy-to-use maps with audible turn-by-turn directions, more than 6 million points of interest and lane guidance
High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
Hill-start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting the Challenger from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released (standard)
HomeLink universal transceiver: Stores three separate transmitter radio-frequency codes to operate garage-door openers, security gates, security lighting or other radio-controlled devices (standard)
Inside emergency trunk release: A glow-in-the-dark release handle that may be activated in the event of an adult or child is inadvertently trapped inside the trunk (standard)
Intelligent battery sensor (IBS): Continually measures the flow of current into and out of the battery. If the battery is running low, the system intelligently shuts off less critical electrical systems to help prevent an owner being stranded due to a low or depleted battery. When IBS conducts load shedding, an icon appears in the cluster display (standard)
Interior head-impact protection: Interior pillars above the belt line and instrument panel, including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side-rail structures are specifically designed to limit head-impact force (standard)
Keyless Enter-N-Go: When an individual enters the Dodge Challenger, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The performance coupe will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition. The sensors also allow the deck lid to open without use of pressing the key fob (standard)
Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively (standard)
Mopar® Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): Available in three packages: Base, Silver and Gold. Mopar’s new tracking system provides vehicle owners the peace of mind that comes with always knowing where their vehicle is located. The system has the ability to alert owners if someone else is driving their vehicle too fast or too far, by sending a text. Mopar’s system is powered by Guidepoint Systems, the leader in GPS-enabled stolen vehicle recovery systems. Unlike other vehicle tracking systems, the Mopar EVTS offers nationwide tracking without a subscription.
Occupant restraint controller (ORC): Detects an impact and determines whether a crash is severe enough to trigger air bag deployment and whether the primary or secondary stage inflation is sufficient. In addition the controller detects side impacts and determines whether the rail-curtain and side seat-mounted (thorax protection) air bags should deploy. Engagement of front seat belt pretensioners are also managed through the controller (standard)
Rain Brake Support: New for 2011, the system uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry (standard)
Reactive head restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger’s head (standard)
Ready Alert Braking: New for 2011, the system anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
Remote (fob) operated windows (front windows – down only): Enable an individual to cool down the Dodge Challenger by opening front windows remotely (standard)
Remote Keyless Entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
Safety cage body structure: Protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact (standard)
Seat belt guide: Allows for optimal positioning of seat belt across shoulder and chest (standard)
Seat-belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat-belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso (standard)
Sentry Key® engine immobilizer: Uses a key fob that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to shut off the engine after a few seconds and discourage vehicle theft (standard)
Side guard door beams: Provide occupant protection during a side impact (standard)
SIRIUS Travel Link: Provides Dodge Challenger passengers with real-time information and entertainment to make every trip more efficient and safe
Seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to the driver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side pelvic-thorax air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side pelvic-thorax air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat (standard)
Three-point seat belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts (standard)
Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system (standard)
Tilt-and-telescoping steering columm: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed (standard)
Uconnect voice command: An in-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows drivers to operate a Bluetooth® compatible phone with their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. When the Bluetooth® phone is initially connected, the contact list is automatically downloaded, synchronizing as many as 1,000 phone book entries, which can then be selected by simply saying a contact name. It also allows drivers to switch radio modes, tune to AM/FM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio stations and request real-time information from SIRIUS Traffic using natural voice commands. The handsfree option promotes safety, freedom, value and flexibility
Uconnect Web: Turns the all-new 2011 Dodge Challenger into a mobile “hot spot” capable of instant access to Web sites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums and more. The wireless system provides high-speed data transfer and flexibility, combining Wi-Fi and 3G cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology
Vehicle theft security alarm: Deters vandalism and theft; frequently lowering insurance premiums. System protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry

A Peek at 2011 Test Drives

2010-11-16T07:29:00.001-08:00

For months we've been reporting in this Blog and on our Facebook page all the buzz about the 2011 Chrysler Group vehicles. Now, we thought it was time for us to stop talking and reporting what Chrysler says, and let you see what others have to say.

So, in recent weeks, the media was invited do their own test drives. Below is a sample of what they think:

First Drive: 2011 Chrysler/Dodge Lineup, via MotorTrend.com

2011 Chrysler Town & Country: First Drive, via Cars.com

2011 Chrysler 200 Limited: First Drive, via TheCarConnection.com

First Drive: 2011 Dodge Charger, via Autoblog.com

Chrysler's 2011 lineup excels from the inside out, via DetNews.com

Veteran's Day 2010

2010-11-11T08:29:00.000-08:00

To many around this world, today is just another Thursday - one day closer to the weekend. To others, it's just November 11 - the day after November 10 and day before November 12.

In the United States of America, this is Veteran's Day. This is a day where we honor our veterans, both past and present, who have served our great country.

Not surprisingly, many confuse Veteran's Day with Memorial Day, which occurs in late May. That day is set aside to remember those who have died in battle or as a result of injuries sustained in battle.

Most people do not know someone who has died in battle. However, most people do know a veteran. That's why this day is very special and a great opportunity to thank someone you know for serving.

Finally, we thought you'd like to see a recent definition we found online of what a veteran is. Please copy and paste and send it along to your friends. Thanks to all our veterans and their families for their service! Happy Veterans Day!

VETERAN - A veteran is someone, who at one point in his/her life, wrote a blank check payable to the United States of America for an amount up to, and including, their life. That is beyond honorable.

2010-11-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

You're a fan of the Ram Truck brand. You're a fan of RamZone.com. Unfortunately, you've been way too busy towing livestock, going to the football game, or doing something else around the house.

We feel your pain.

We're happy to announce that is no longer an issue with the recent announcement of RamZone.com mobile. It's everything from RamZone.com like the popular Ram Truck brand updates and it's all accessible from your cell phone.

How does it work? Just get on your iPhone, Blackberry or other smartphone and log in to RamZone.com. It will identify your phone and load the site for you. It's that simple.

Check it out and tell your friends.

New 2011 Dodge Caravan

2010-11-05T06:09:00.000-07:00

The Dodge Grand Caravan is the indisputable forefather of the minivan as we know it, and for 2011 it’s rising like a Phoenix from the ashes to usher in a new generation of cutting-edge people movers. The 3.3L, 3.8L, and the 4.0L V6 engine options offered in the previous model years have been sent to the glue factory, replaced by Dodge’s newest bomber: the 3.6L Pentastar V6. Mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, the new Pentastar punches in at 283-horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque and easily outpaces the celebrated 3.8L V6 of yore.

As a symbol of the revival under the redesigned hood, the 2011 Grand Caravan’s front fascia has been revised to feature Dodge’s new signature split crosshair grille and aggressively sculpted headlights. The assertive styling cues are continued by Dodge’s new “ring of fire” LED taillights and a ride height now skulking 12 millimeters closer to the ground. Inside, Dodge’s new design direction is even more apparent thanks to completely redesigned soft-to-the-touch surfaces and a bold, futuristic instrument cluster.

Safety, style, and sensationalism are the three core values Dodge sought to integrate into the new Grand Caravan, and it appears they were pretty successful. Check out the gallery below and judge for yourself.

2011 Dodge Avenger debuts with all new interior

2010-11-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

The “look” on the new 2011 Dodge Avenger will have a comfortable familiarity to it — but once you get in and take it for a ride, it won’t be like anything you’ve experienced before.

The 2011 Avenger has an all new interior, performance attributes that put the fun back into driving combined with some exterior enhancements.

Suspension
Dodge engineers retuned or redesigned virtually every part of the suspension for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension and the geometry were completely rethought. The track is an inch wider, tire width increased from 215 to 225 millimeters and the vehicle is 12 millimeters lower in the front and 6 millimeters in the rear for a more aggressive stance.

Customers will feel more confident when driving the new Avenger because of less body roll, less vehicle shake, improved isolation, better steering precision, response and feel and the increased grip of new premium tires.

More power options
A new and improved powertrain lineup also contributes to the 2011 Avenger’s driving experience. The vehicle has a standard 2.4-liter World Gas Engine, which has been recalibrated and is now available mated to a new smooth-shifting six-speed transmission for an exceptionally fun and fuel-efficient driving experience.

Avenger customers also can opt for the new Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that gives customers the best of both worlds – best-in-class 283 horsepower (an increase of 20 percent compared with the engine it replaces) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (an increase of 12 percent) combined with competitive fuel economy.

Ultimate interior
The Chrysler Group LLC’s Interior Design Studio also worked its magic on the new 2011 Avenger. The all-new instrument panel, bezels, gauge faces and new Dodge steering wheel transform the driver seat into a cockpit-like experience. Upgraded seats incorporate more cushion material and revised spring geometry. Dodge Avenger also features several new two-tone interior color schemes, new leather and cloth seating materials and accent stitching. Owners can select from these schemes to design a vehicle that matches their lifestyle needs.

Designers developed the 2011 Dodge Avenger with new “soft touch” armrests and instrument panels, new, premium interior finishes for touch points that are not only pleasing to the touch but also to the eye. They also redesigned the heating and cooling outlets in the instrument panel to make them more appealing and better functioning. The 2011 Dodge Avenger also offers one of the quietest cabins in the segment with 45 new or upgraded sound-deadening treatments integrated throughout the vehicle.

Clever features include new ambient interior lighting and a new multi-function three-spoke Dodge steering wheel with integrated controls that allows drivers to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel.

Available cool technology includes voice command functions for hands-free phones, integrated USB port for streaming music, navigation and memo record, an iPod/MP3 jack, Bluetooth streaming music; Gracenote music identification; a hard drive that stores approximately 6,700 songs and remote start

Exterior enhancements
New exterior styling features clean, smooth aggressive lines. The new fascia sports the new signature Dodge Brand “split crosshair” grille, while an aggressive lower fascia completes the Dodge look from top to bottom.

Made in the U.S.A.
The 2011 Dodge Avenger will be built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich., and will arrive in dealerships during fourth quarter 2010

Back in Time - Jeep CJ Commercial from Yesteryear

2010-10-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Commercials have come a long way. Today, through the use of various types of technology and special effects, it's not uncommon to see commercials in super slow motion or 3-D. If you've flipped on the TV in recent months, chances are you've seen one of the new Jeep commercials with a vehicle in regular motion, then it suddenly slows and you have a close-up, slow-motion look at the vehicle including what's going on underneath.

It wasn't that long ago where life and commercials were much simpler, where the commercial was based solely on the merits of the product. Want an example? Check out this great spot on the CJ Wrangler.

Dodge Journey gets Pentastar engine, new interior for 2011

2010-10-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

It's not over yet. Dodge continues to unleash new products to the market; introducing the new 2011 Dodge Journey, its mid-size crossover with "right sized" proportions, five- or seven-passenger seating, innovative storage solutions, abundant safety and security features, all-wheel-drive capability and models packaged for a variety of lifestyles.

For 2011, Dodge takes what was good and makes it better. The Dodge Journey receives a major overhaul with a completely redesigned and retuned suspension, a new V-6 engine and a gorgeous new interior. And that's not all. Journey also features the latest and greatest in vehicle connectivity and customization with the Chrysler Group's new PowerNet electrical architecture. Owners will feel like they have the world at their fingertips with the Journey's available touch-screen command center, Uconnect Touch.

From navigation to dual-zone climate controls to the ability to check fuel prices, the all-new Uconnect Touch media center makes life in the new 2011 Dodge Journey an excellent adventure for the driver and passengers. Four Uconnect Touch models are available, all featuring easy-to-use controls and class-leading technology. With its touch-screen display and user-friendly touch-key categories, connecting and controlling personal devices is simple, intuitive and customizable.

The 2011 Dodge Journey is nimble, composed and handles well in all driving and road conditions. Chrysler Group engineers improved routine ride handling by re-engineering the suspension geometry, adding new, improved premium tires and redesigning the steering for a more precise and coordinated response. Overall, customers will be treated to an energetic, fun-to-drive experience behind the wheel.

In addition, at 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2011 Dodge Journey equipped with the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers a 20 percent boost in power compared with the V-6 engine it replaces. It's mated to the smooth-shifting six-speed transmission.

Drivers also will be treated to a smooth, quiet ride. Engineers reduced noise, vibration and harshness by installing new, premium sound-deadening treatments and insulation throughout the vehicle.

But perhaps the most rewarding surprise is Journey's new interior. Customers will step into world-class levels of craftsmanship and comfort. A beautifully crafted one-piece instrument panel sets the tone. A new, larger cluster with standard electronic vehicle information center (EVIC) is positioned in the center of the new gauges. It's a full-color display backlit in Dodge red lights, giving it a soft glow unlike any in the segment. New, integrated center stack bezels are less angular and more sculpted, and designers softened the radius to make more room for the driver's knees. The heating and cooling outlets are also redesigned to make them better looking and better functioning.

The center console gets a lot of extra cushion on the tilt-and-slide armrest. Lift the lid, and there's a larger center storage bin with a 12-volt outlet and USB port where owners can hook up their MP3/iPod charging connections and hide them away.

The design team also worked to make the Journey's interior more comfortable. They moved the shifter and cupholders, making it easier for drivers and passengers to get their coffee and soda without having to lean over and under the dash. There's also a larger front storage bin with side nets. The new multi-functioning three-spoke Dodge brand steering wheel with integrated controls and a wider, longer, soft-touch armrest transform the driver's seat into a cockpit-like experience. Comfortable new seats might just make drivers want to take the long way home to get a little extra seat time. The Dodge Journey offers six new interior color and trims to complete the makeover.

On the outside, Journey maintains its sculpted, clean, aggressive lines, and adds a new front fascia that sports the signature Dodge Brand "split crosshair" honeycomb grille. The fog lamp bezels are bigger and bolder, and Journey models with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 get a new, unique more aggressive lower fascia with the honeycomb texture in the grille (late availability). New 19-inch wheels, a new, less angular rear fascia and "ring of fire" LED taillamps wrap it up from front to back.

Journey also is loaded with an abundance of safety and security features, including: standard advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, active head restraints, electronic stability control (ESC) with all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation and brake assist, new driver-side knee blocker air bag, supplemental side-curtain air bags covering all three rows, supplemental front-seat-mounted side air bags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, LATCH child seat anchor system and trailer sway control.

It will arrive in U.S. dealerships in fourth quarter of 2010.

Jeep Sends "Call of Duty" Wrangler Into Battle

2010-10-19T18:51:00.000-07:00

The Jeep name is deeply tied to the go-anywhere, barebones machines of World War II. Though the vehicles themselves have come a long way since then, the association with war--or at least war games--continues with the 2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops edition. Announced today, the vehicle gets a "military-style" visual treatment and a handful of other upgrades.

Thirty-two inch tires, a unique Call of Duty graphics package that adds a military flair, taillamp guards, a Mopar fuel-filler door, and dark Rubicon wheels build on the base Wranger Rubicon package. The overall look is meant to emulate the look of the virtual Jeep vehicles in the Call of Duty: Black Ops game.

“It was important for us to make sure that the Jeep partnership would be authentic and enhance the setting we immerse our fans in with Black Ops,” said Mark Lamia, Studio Head of game developer Treyarch. “Our work with the Jeep team focused around using the Jeep Wrangler in our levels, and gameplay experiences, and translating the style and look of the vehicle in Black Ops to the Jeep on the showroom floor that our fans can own.”

Built in partnership with Activision, the company behind the blockbuster Call of Duty video game series, the COD: Black Ops Edition Wrangler will hit showrooms soon at $30,625 for the two-door and $33,500 for the four-door.

The Ram Truck Brand and Yahoo! Music Launch First-Ever “Ram Country” Music Channel

2010-10-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

You know the Ram Truck Brand loves country music. For example, the partnership with the Zac Brown Band this past summer and fans sending notes to troops overseas. Now, Ram Trucks has taken it to the next level.

The Ram Truck Brand is proud to usher in a new way to experience your favorite country music artists with the launch of “Ram Country” on Yahoo! Music. Sponsored exclusively by the Ram Truck Brand, this new channel combines the best of both worlds to bring you the ultimate music experience.

Not only will Ram Country bring you closer to all of the songs you love, you’ll also have a chance to get up close and personal with your favorite personalities. Short docu-reality segments will get behind the soundchecks and lifestyles of country crooners and will include live acoustic sessions to quick hometown tours.

Check it out.

Laramie Longhorn is the big winner

2010-10-12T12:08:00.001-07:00

While Longhorns fans walked away from the Cotton Bowl disappointed with a 28-20 defeat at the hands of the rival Oklahoma Sooners, in the end, fans of both teams couldn't help but be impressed by another Longhorn -- the Laramie Longhorn truck by Ram.

The folks from Ram introduced the Longhorn edition truck at the State Fair during the Red River Rivalry weekend. Simply put, it was a big hit.

Check out a couple of videos including the official unveiling of the truck by Ram Truck Brand President and CEO, Fred Diaz as well as some of the fun the Ram Trucks team had around the Fair Park grounds.

New 2011 Dodge Charger Recaptures Iconic Past

2010-10-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

In looking to the future, the designers at Dodge sought to recapture the past with the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger – inspired by its iconic second generation 1960s ancestor.

Its iconic design is combined with modern features such as fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, craftsmanship and refinement, and state-of-the-art connectivity features. The efficient and aerodynamic exterior of the 2011 Dodge Charger is sure to strike an emotional chord with Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.

Built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ont., Canada, the 2011 Dodge Charger will rev up showrooms during the fourth quarter of 2010.

While awaiting its arrival, here's a sneak peak of what you can expect:

With its sinister "ready to attack the road" face, the all-new Dodge Charger puts the world's best E-segment sedan competitors between its new "split crosshair" signature grille. Its sculpted all-new body is a conscious nod to its deep heritage and muscle-car roots. The Charger’s profile is the result of countless hours in the wind tunnel, with its lower hood line, faster windshield and radically raked backlight to its tighter wheel openings, lower sill and race-car-like flat underbody.

The aluminum hood features dual “scallops” that bring a sculptured, performance look to the front end, while large body-side scallops deliver a striking undulating A-line across the doors. Iconic horizontal "coke bottle" or "double-diamond" body-side styling runs the length of the car to create a tapering silhouette accented with muscular front and rear fenders. An all-new signature taillamp design incorporates 164 illuminating LEDs to form its signature "racetrack" graphic to give the new Charger its unmistakable character.

The 2011 Dodge Charger’s interior cockpit consists of premium materials throughout. The all-new Charger features a new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for enhanced performance feel and grip. Charger’s passengers will be surrounded with comfort, craftsmanship and style, thanks to premium soft-touch materials and four available distinct interior color combinations.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger’s state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure. Uconnect Touch includes Garmin® navigation, dual-zone climate controls and the ability to check fuel prices with the integration of available SIRIUS Travel Link.

Maximizing its unibody's world-class structural stiffness, Dodge Charger engineers tuned the cabin for sound quality (rather than sound level) by isolating powertrain, road and wind noise. In addition, Charger's unibody packages material and structural design improvements includes dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush roll-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners. All designed to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin.

As the Dodge brand’s flagship, the chassis of the 2011 Charger is designed, engineered and fine-tuned to deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rivals the very best European, Asian and North American E-segment sedans. With its new second-generation E-segment rear-wheel drive (RWD) architecture, Dodge Charger offers world-class suspension-tunings with re-designed geometry making for a nimble, balanced chassis.

Engineered to perform against the best E-segment sport sedans, the 2011 Dodge Charger SE and Charger Rallye feature the new 3.6-liter Pentastar engine. For maximum thrills, efficiency and best-in-class power, the new Dodge Charger R/T lineup features the 5.7-liter HEMI™ V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode FuelSaver Technology.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T with all-wheel-drive (AWD) features a re-thought stance and 19-inch wheels. The AWD preserves the Charger's character and deepens its performance envelope in the most treacherous conditions. The Charger AWD features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Dodge Charger’s innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention.

Finally, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features more than 65 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready-alert Braking and Rainy Day Brake Support safety features. Safety and security features available for the first time on the Dodge Charger include adaptive-cruise control (ACC) with forward-collision warning (FCW), blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with rear cross path (RCP) detection and ParkView™ rear back-up camera with grid lines, all designed to provide the driver with added confidence while behind the wheel.

2011 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee up for North American Truck of the Year

2010-09-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

Dodge and Jeep have one vehicle each up for the Truck of the Year Awards, to be announced in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

About 50 journalists from the United States and Canada have whittled to 28 the list of nominees. Voting takes place in December. Vehicles must be either all new or markedly different from their previous models.

The trucks being considered include the Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Edge, Ford Explorer, Honda Odyssey, Hyundai Tucson, Infiniti QX56, Kia Sorento, Kia Sportage, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz R-Class, Porsche Cayenne, Toyota Sienna and Volkswagen Touareg.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Dodge Durango

Over all, finalists for North American Car of the Year include: Audi A8, Buick Regal, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Volt, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Sonata (including the 2.0T and the hybrid), Infiniti M37/56, Jaguar XJ, Kia Optima, Mazda Mazda2, Nissan Juke, Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen Jetta and Volvo S60.

Now in their 18th year, the awards honor the best vehicles based on innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value.

Ram Laramie Longhorn Edition Rolls Out

2010-09-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

Last month we debuted the Dodge Ram Bulldog Edition. This month, Dodge has unveiled another doozy of a vehicle in the Ram Laramie Longhorn Edition.

Following right on the heels of the Ram Outdoorsman model is the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition (available on the 1500, 2500, and 3500), born and bred as the ultimate combination of luxury and capability.

“The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is going to share a driveway with some fine luxury cars,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The only difference is the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is going to be the vehicle with the fulltime job – towing the horse trailer, taking the crew to the game, picking up supplies. It’s ready to go from the dirt to downtown.”

Exterior
Ram Laramie Longhorn edition models are prominently commemorated with distinctive Western-style exterior badges. A chrome metal Laramie Longhorn edition badge with painted accents is mounted to the tailgate while eye-catching model-specific (1500, 2500 or 3500) Laramie Longhorn edition badges adorn the doors.

Laramie Longhorn edition is available in five color choices, including an exclusive Sagebrush with White Gold exterior paint treatment unavailable on other Ram models. Matching White Gold lower-body two-tone, wheel flares, painted front and rear bumpers and Mopar running boards complement a bright chrome grille and painted tow hooks. Other colors include Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Rugged Brown Pearl or Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl. All Laramie Longhorn edition trucks are matched with the special White Gold accent color.

The Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn edition is equipped with 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, while 2500 and 3500 single-rear-wheel models roll on polished aluminum wheels. Ram 3500 duallies get polished aluminum wheels with Laramie Longhorn edition-badged center caps.

Interior
Ram Laramie Longhorn edition is also distinguished by its unsurpassed interior refinement. Building on the award-winning interiors of the Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 / 3500 Heavy Duty pickup trucks, Laramie Longhorn shatters truck stereotypes.

Interior Themes:
A full leather interior, engraved details and burled walnut woodgrain surfaces lend the Ram Laramie Longhorn edition an unmatched level of sophistication and style.

Laramie Longhorn is available with a choice of dark slate gray and russet or bark brown and light pebble beige interior colors. The interiors feature 100 percent leather seat coverings with laser-etched bolsters (bark brown only). The leather-wrapped steering wheel receives special stitching while door trim front and rear is also wrapped in leather and features special stitching, wood grain and LED door-handle and map-pocket lighting.

Seats:
The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition offers two seating options. The first is a sophisticated dark slate gray with premium russet-hued seat leather. The second is southwestern-influenced light pebble beige with bark brown seat leather. The bark brown interior incorporates laser-etched filigrees, with a hand-worked appearance.

Seat fronts for both themes include a stitched-on leather Laramie Longhorn badge, either branded (russet) or laser-etched (bark brown).

Contrasting leather welts, also called piping, provide seat-edge emphasis. Additional accents are created along either side the welts by tan or dark slate-colored deck-seam stitching.

Ram Laramie Longhorn edition features unique leather front seatbacks distinguished by flap-closure pockets whose details authentically evoke saddlebags. Each pocket is secured with silver steer-logoed, tooled-metal buckle with a magnetic clasp.

Instrument Panel / Dash:
Ram Laramie Longhorn edition owners will be greeted by the highest-quality materials every time they climb behind the wheel.

Laramie Longhorn’s exclusive instrument cluster takes on the appearance of hand-wrought jewelry with six liquid chrome gauge rings set against a painted taupe silver background and a tooled-metal Laramie Longhorn edition badge set inside the left-hand ring.

The two main gauge rings feature a hand-crafted look with a coined inner edge and filigrees engraved on the top surface. Set inside those rings, the lower edges of the gauge cluster dials are detailed with small filigreesthat are softly backlit at night.

The Ram Laramie Longhorn edition’s dash features a center stack trimmed in burled walnut wood graining. The wood grain is stained in one of two complementary shades, matched to either the russet or bark brown interior theme. Chrysler designers borrowed from high-end furniture-grade and gun stock designs in their choice of wood grain.

Painted taupe silver side bezels, resembling polished pewter, are special to the Laramie Longhorn, while chrome vent rings complete the center stack’s details.

On the passenger side, the upper glove box door – there are two – becomes a focal point with the addition of a full-length, filigree-engraved aluminum band and Laramie Longhorn edition badge.

Beneath the instrument panel is soft, new footwell lighting, providing both a functional and aesthetic interior enhancement.

Console:
The Ram Laramie Longhorn’s cavernous double-stacked center console is topped with a soft, double French-stitched full-leather lid featuring either a branded (russet) or laser-etched (bark brown) Laramie Longhorn logo.

The pewter-colored highlights from the center stack flow rearward, continuing along the outer edges of the center console. A chrome ring outlines the console’s center bin and cupholders.

Steering Wheel and Shifters:
Ram Laramie Longhorn’s steering wheel and shifters – console mounted on 1500, column mounted on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models – feature premium leather. Matching X-stitch detailing sets off both the steering wheel and shifter.

The leather console shifter on 1500 models is entirely new, accentuated by taupe silver side panels and a bright chrome base. The leather column shifter on Heavy Duty models is completed by a chrome end cap.

Doors:
Armrest uppers are wrapped in premium leather and accented with the same dual French stitch used on the center console lid and instrument panel. Burled walnut-grained panels trimmed by chrome tracers add to all four doors’ visual appeal.

Ram Laramie Longhorn editions receive remote lighting at the inside door handles and a full-length light that illuminates the truck’s multi-function lower map pockets, front and rear.

Flooring:
Laramie Longhorn’s luxurious carpet is protected by specially designed all-weather rubber mats with polished metal Ram Laramie Longhorn edition Badge and removable carpet inserts. The mats themselves incorporate the filigree designs from the dash and seats, while the snap-in inserts are a high-end, color-flecked Berber-style weave that luxuriously blends the two interior colors.

Along the doorsills new brushed-silver Ram-branded sill plates resist scuffs and add visual appeal.

Other:
Laramie Longhorn comes equipped with all of the standard equipment found on the top-level Ram Laramie and adds a navigational radio, remote start, back-up camera, front ventilated seats and rear heated seats. Power adjustable pedals with memory and front heated seats with 10-way driver’s adjustment – standard on Ram 1500 Laramie models – are also added to Ram Heavy Duty Laramie Longhorn editions.

“Ram Truck owners and dealers tell us they love everything about the new Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500,” added Diaz. “With so many great features, we weren’t surprised to see our most well-equipped model – Ram Laramie – making up 25 percent of our sales. There’s a healthy market for luxury pickup trucks and Ram Laramie Longhorn edition hits the mark.”

Ram Laramie Longhorn will be available in 1500 (half-ton), 2500 HD (3/4 ton) and 3500 HD single and dual rear wheel (1 ton), Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models.

Laramie Longhorn will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, SLT, Outdoorsman, Sport (1500 only) Laramie and Power Wagon (2500 only).

Ram Laramie Longhorn models will go on sale first quarter 2011. Prices will be announced closer to launch.

If you happen to be traveling up to the Texas-OU game at the Texas State Fair, stop by and sneak a quick peek for yourself. Or you can visit it at www.ramtrucks.com.

Chrysler previews future Jeep pickup truck to dealers

2010-09-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

Car enthusiasts and even casual shoppers always want to know, "What's next?" Idle curiosity and fuel for automotive passions are legitimate reasons for wanting a peek at the new hardware. Usually, auto shows satisfy this need but with Chrysler having been rather mute about future product during the last auto show season, consumers are left wondering.

As part of the automaker's restructuring, Chrysler has been rather open about its plans for imminent product freshenings, redesigns, and restylings. It just hasn't shown much to the public until this past month with the revised Chrysler Town & Country, all-new Dodge Durango, updated Jeep Wrangler, and tease of the freshened Sebring, recast as the 200. Now, word has it that dealers were shown several notable concepts at a recent meeting including insight into the future Jeep Wrangler pickup.

The concept vehicles were presented last week at the 2010 Chrysler Dealer Show in Orlando, Florida, according to Automotive News. The event was attended by more than 75 percent of Chrysler Group's 2,314 U.S. dealers.

Redesigned for the 2007 model year, the current Jeep Wrangler marked a dramatic size increase over from the preceding model. Its larger dimensions and styling were foretold by the 2005 Jeep Gladiator concept, a striking green pickup truck that made the show circuit. Could a pickup variation join the traditional Wrangler and the Wrangler Unlimited? It sounds plausible.

The Wrangler is currently the best-selling Jeep model based on August figures, and at the moment, it is outsold by only the minivans and Dodge Ram pickup truck within the Chrysler Group portfolio. Building on this success with a new variation would make sense. The idea has historical precedent with the old Cherokee-based Comanche, CJ-8 Jeep Scrambler, and recent JT military-spec variant spun off the Wrangler Unlimited with a five-foot bed.

The Gladiator has four doors like an extended cab pickup, providing limited second-row seating or storage. (The JT is strictly a standard cab design, like the Scrambler.)

What a production pickup needs is a stronger engine. After all, pickup trucks are often called upon for towing duties. The current 3.8-liter V6 is expected to be replaced by the new corporate Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 now migrating through Chrysler products. In the new Grand Cherokee, the 3.6L makes 290 horsepower–enough to give a small pickup some towing might.

Let's hope Chrysler becomes less shy with the upcoming auto show season, as it clearly has many vehicles up its corporate sleeves.

Courtesy of: Consumer Reports

Dodge Journey commercials make funny comparisons

2010-09-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

The Dodge Journey vs. an M1 Tank? An armored car? How about a monster truck?

In recent weeks, you may have seen the funny commercials on the Dodge Journey comparing it to other "universal" vehicles.

If you haven't seen them, take a look and enjoy.

For the record, here at Cecil in Burnet, we love the Dodge Journey, but the Monster Truck comes in a close second.

Dodge Journey vs. M1 Tank

Dodge Journey vs. Monster Truck

Dodge Journey vs. Armored Car

The New 2011 Chrysler Town and Country

2010-09-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

When we said Chrysler Group LLC’s product onslaught was coming, we weren’t kidding. Here are some new photos of the new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country minivan, which offers consumers a ton of standard safety features, improved driving dynamics, a new powertrain, and innovative technology that keeps Walter P. Chrysler’s legacy of engineering innovations alive and well.

SafetyTec will now come standard on every 2011 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. A package of 40 standard safety and technology features, SafetyTec™, includes Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, which are only available on Chrysler Group minivans.

Improvements are also coming to the wildly popular Stow ‘n Go seating and storage system – including new, more comfortable seats and a one-touch fold down feature for easier access to the third row; a new ‘super’ center console and technology that helps manage the rigors of family life continue to make the Chrysler Town & Country the best choice for families that want a vehicle with style, functionality and value. Chrysler Group is still the only automaker to offer Stow ‘n Go.

Powertrain improvements to the new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country offer more horsepower and torque without sacrificing fuel economy. The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country is powered by the new Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque while still achieving an estimated EPA fuel economy rating to 17 miles per gallon (mpg) City and 25 mpg Highway (compared with the previous 3.8-liter and 3.3-liter V-6 engines, which produced 197 hp and 230 lb.-ft. of torque and 175 hp and 205 lb.-ft. of torque respectively). A new fuel economizer mode helps maximize fuel economy and reductions in noise, vibration and harshness.

The new Town & Country is not only going to save you gas, it’s going to save countless backseat sibling squabbles. A dual DVD system that can play different media at the same time, SIRIUS Backseat TV which offers three channels of children’s programming; and FLO TV featuring 20 channels of live programming – voice command functions for radio, iPod/mp3 players, phone and navigation systems.

And in the captain’s chair, the Town & Country also includes a new instrument panel and instrument cluster; new Chrysler Brand steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; upgraded cloth and leather seating materials; new “soft touch” door trim and new heating and cooling control system.

Ram Trucks smartphone app now available

2010-09-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

For your inner gadget guru, Ram Trucks has unveiled a new (free) Smartphone app engineered to educate you on every aspect of your vehicle – right down to the cup holders. Every convenience that the Internet, your buddy at the dealership, and your friend with the encyclopedic knowledge of trucks can provide is now encompassed in one sleek package.

Vehicle specs, maintenance reminders, warning indicators, customer assistance, official Mopar accessories, and owner communities are all just a touch/click/slide away. It’s all literally just one click away, and can be easily accessed from anywhere: in line at the DMV, the decorative yet uncomfortable bench in that boutique that your wife likes, the sofa in your man cave, etc.

In a nutshell, it gives you the ability to go toe-to-toe with other pickup guys without memorizing everything down to the wiring diagram (even though we’re pretty sure you’ve done that already). To check it out for yourself, head to the iPhone app store, and start downloading!

The 2011 Dodge Durango - Finally Revealed

2010-09-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

From its sleek exterior design to its modern, spacious interior, and intelligent, fuel-efficient and powerful powertrain options, the 2011 Dodge Durango is all-new from the inside out. And the changes are more than skin deep. The Durango’s stiffened unibody structure is engineered with the driving enthusiast in mind. The end result is a vehicle that delivers premium driving performance combined with SUV capability and crossover versatility.

The all-new Durango features two engine options: the standard fuel-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and the available 5.7-liter HEMI engine with fuel-saving, Multi-displacement system (MDS) four-cylinder mode. Both engines feature variable-valve timing (VVT) and are available with all-wheel drive. In addition to great efficiency, the engines provide exceptional V-6 and V-8 towing capability with standard trailer sway control (V-8 - 7,400 lbs. and Best-in-class V-6 – 6,200 lbs.). When equipped with the HEMI® V-8, the all-new Durango can tow more weight than a 24-foot boat and trailer.

The Durango’s all-new interior is a surprise owners always deserved but never expected. Created by the same interior design studio that designed the much-lauded interior in the Ram trucks and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango’s luxurious interior materials and thoughtful touches will make owners and their crews want to jump in, hunker down and thoroughly enjoy even the longest drive.

Everywhere they touch, Durango passengers will feel materials that are refined and soft to the touch. Not only is it a pleasure to behold, it is extremely functional and gives owners a first-class experience, regardless of the trim level. Durango’s interior is also extremely comfortable for all three rows of passengers, and there’s a surprising amount of interior flexibility. With 22 different seating configurations, there’s plenty of room to store and move plenty of people and their gear.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango also offers consumers 45 safety and security features, including standard front seat-mounted side air bags and standard side-curtain air bags that cover passengers in all three rows, as well as all-new standard active head restraints. Electronic Stability Control also is standard. Other available safety and security technologies include Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Keyless Enter-n’ Go.

The best part is, consumers will get all of the all-new Durango’s capability, functionality and flexibility and still get excellent fuel efficiency. In fact, drivers can go more than 500 miles, that’s the distance from San Diego to San Francisco or from Detroit to New York City, without having to stop for fuel.

Built at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Mich., the new 2011 Dodge Durango arrives in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Dodge Charger Police Pursuit Vehicle

2010-09-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

You have the right to remain awed by the new 2011 Charger and should you not already posses a healthy amount of respect for Dodge’s newest road warrior; some will definitely be appointed to you.

Since its original introduction in 2006, the Charger PPV has reigned supreme as the fastest purpose-built pursuit vehicle on the market. Now, it’s even better than before.

Beneath the hood gurgles either the brand new E-85 capable 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with variable-valve timing (VVT) or the 5.7-liter HEMI™ V-8 engine with fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS), depending on which one your chief decided to spring for.

The dedication to more efficient, responsive performance is mirrored inside with the new Police Interface Module, designed with input from the Dodge brand Police Advisory Board to accommodate the unique demands of an officer’s job. To ensure that those who protect us are always protected themselves, the new PPV also comes equipped with standard advanced multistage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers, driver’s knee bag, tire-pressure monitoring and more.

The new model will officially be available for order in September 2010, so BOLO.

2010-08-27T06:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the night.

It's a day this community has been waiting for since the team stepped off the football field at the conclusion of last season.

The players have been prepping for this night, for this season the same amount of time. It started months ago well before the sun began to bake the landscape. It started in homes and gyms around town. It started on the streets around town early in the morning.

In the last month, the intensity of preparation has been ratcheted up in organized practices. And that's where the bonds of team began to form. It's that cohesiveness and your strength as one unit that has allowed each player to endure the two-a-day practices on 100-plus degree days.

But for what?

This isn't about fame. This isn't about fortune.

This is about the guy next to you. The guy who you know has put in as much time and effort as you — blood, sweat, but no tears. This is the guy who you know, no matter what happens on that field, has your back on every snap of the ball.

This is about making your parents proud, making your community proud.

This is about love of the game we've all grown up watching since we were little kids.

This is your time to shine. Get out there and show the opponent your strengths. You have no weaknesses.

After you've given it your all for four quarters and the final seconds tick off the clock, always remember, no matter what the end result, you shake the opponent's hand and congratulate them. They've worked hard as well. They've earned your respect as you have theirs.

Go out there tonight and make Burnet proud! We're behind you all the way in 2010!

2011 Dodge Durango debuts...sort of

2010-08-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Chrysler has finally given a clue as to what the new Dodge Durango is going to look like, if albeit through a few photos and a carefully crafted 3o-second video on YouTube.

While it's hard to get a full grasp on the appearance of the 2011 version of Durango, it's hard not to be impressed by the sleek lines of the vehicle, not to mention the grille and the black crosshair body surrounded by chrome.

Word has it that this new Durango will be built on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee platform, which has received rave reviews by the media and customers alike since its mid-summer introduction.

Here are a few photos and the link to the YouTube video.

The Ram Outdoorsman

2010-08-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

The 21st Century’s first truck made by sportsmen and women, for sportsmen and women, is here: The Ram Outdoorsman.

If you hunt, fish, trek or just plain roam the outdoors, then the Outdoorsman is for you.

“We asked Ram Truck customers -- boaters, campers, fishing enthusiasts and hunters -- what features would they like to see in a truck,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO – Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “They answered ‘more capability, more room for my gear and ready to hit the trail. And make it affordable.'”

Ram Outdoorsman is available in 1500 (half-ton), 2500 HD (3/4-ton) and 3500 HD single rear wheel (1 ton), Regular Cab; Quad Cab, Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models. Outdoorsman will replace the TRX4 trim level in the 2011 Ram Truck lineup. It will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, SLT, Big Horn / Lone Star, Sport (1500 only) Laramie and Power Wagon (2500 only).

Prices for Ram Outdoorsman models start at $28,350, including destination charge. The Ram Outdoorsman models will go on sale third quarter 2010 (just in time for hunting season).

Appearance

Two-tone paint with mineral gray lower
Scratch-resistant steel bumpers
Black door handles minimize glare
Wheel lip moldings

Mopar RamBox Holster

Ram officials also unveiled a new factory-designed fishing rod and gun rack option for RamBox-equipped Ram 1500 trucks. The Mopar RamBox Holster is designed to fit within the Ram’s two unique locked, lighted and sealed exterior storage bins. The Mopar RamBox Holster gently, yet securely cradles two rifles or shotguns, or can be rotated 90 degrees to hold up to six fishing rods.

Towing

Standard Class IV receiver hitch properly equips Outdoorsman for towing campers, boats, ATVs and other trailers rated to vehicle’s max
Available integrated trailer brake controller with driver adjustability and easy-to-see instrument panel readout
Trailer brake controller is standard on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duties
Standard lighted four- and seven-pin harness plugs -- a Ram exclusive -- offer multi-trailer adaptability and clean, above-the-bumper covered access any time of the day or night

Capability

Standard 17-inch wheels and "LT" tires: light-truck-rated tires handle bigger loads and offer stronger sidewalls to resist punctures when driving over sharp, rocky terrain; on/off-road tread pattern provides traction on all highway and trail surfaces (LT275/70R17C OWL on Ram 1500 models; LT265/70R17E on Ram HD models)

New commercials for 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2010-08-10T05:43:00.000-07:00

You've heard all about it since the beginning of the year. Now, we're finally seeing commercials hit the airwaves on the new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Because we know are fans are active and out and about regularly and likely won't see all of these commercials during their run time on TV, we thought we'd round up a few of the latest commercials for you in our Blog, just so you can see how great the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee looks in action.

Official Launch Commercial - Things We Make, Make Us

In the Water

Stronger

Thanks again Captain Jason Holbrook! RIP

2010-08-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on our Facebook page we posted a "thank you" comment and a link to the story on Captain Jason Ellis Holbrook, a 2000 graduate of Burnet High School, who lost his life in Afghanistan last week. The response was amazing.

In the six months we've been running our Facebook page, never have we received so many likes and comments combined on one post.

It really shouldn't come as a surprise when you consider how loving and supportive our tight-knit community is, especially in times when a neighbor needs a hand, or needs a shoulder to lean on.

While the Facebook post will slowly creep its way down the page and eventually be long gone, we wanted to also post it here in this space so it can be found easier later down the road.

Here is our original post and a link to the story.

"Cecil in Burnet would like to say thank you to Capt. Jason Ellis Holbrook, a 2000 graduate of Burnet High School, who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our freedom. In honor of Capt. Holbrook and all our fallen soldiers, we are flying our flag at half mast. Click Like to show your support and tell your friends about this true American hero."

It received 21 likes and 3 comments in less than 24 hours.

Link to the story.

Jeep to undergo overhaul and redesign of vehicles

2010-08-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee isn't the only Jeep to go under the knife as Chrysler revamps the lineup--the iconic Wrangler will get a redesign of its own later this year. And that's not all--the Compass and Patriot will get minor styling updates that will hold those models over until they are replaced by one model in 2013 or thereabouts.

The 280 horsepower V-6 which made its debut in the Grand Cherokee will be available in the next Wrangler, along with body-colored hardtops.

Another product in Jeep's future is a compact crossover that should debut in 2013 and possibly be based on the Fiat Panda Cross. The Liberty will get a minor redesign for this year and be replaced by a Fiat-based crossover, likely in 2012.

Ram 1500 Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) receives jolt from Canadian Government

2010-07-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

Many of you may have missed the news, but this past March the U.S. Dept. of Energy provided a grant for up to $48 million in order for a test fleet of 140 Ram 1500 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) to be produced in the United States.

These Ram 1500 PHEVs will be powered by a 5.7L V8, providing 390 horsepower, 407lb-ft of torque mated to a two-mode hybrid transmission and a 12KwHr lithium ion battery system.

This week, the developer of this battery system, Electrovaya, recently received a contribution of $5 million (CDN) by the Sustainable Development Technology Canada as part of the Canadian Government. This funding will support their further research and development needs in high energy density Lithium Ion SuperPolymer® battery systems that will be in this fleet.

The vehicle is expected to be able to drive up to 20 miles on pure electric power, resulting in zero emissions. Once the vehicles are completed, these extremely efficient Ram 1500 PHEVs will be utilized for a three-year test program throughout the United States showing how quickly this technology can be brought to market.

(Courtesy of Ram Zone)

Thanks for supporting Cecil's

2010-07-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, in this day and age of technology and information bombardment 24/7, often times we fail to stop and appreciate the little, but very important things in life. Stop and smell the roses — is one way to describe it.

So in this space, at Cecil in Burnet we just wanted to tell our current, past, and hopefully future customers - THANKS!

Thanks for supporting Cecil Atkission all these years!

We understand that you have choices in the vehicle marketplace. And in this tough economy as of late, we know how much thought goes into each and every financial decision. But time and again you have chosen to spend your hard-earned dollars with us.

We also understand no two buyers are alike.

Many of you shop for the best deal. To you, we're quite confident we offer some of the best deals in Central Texas and the Hill Country. Others like to shop for a certain brand. For you Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep enthusiasts, we have a great selection to choose from plus a solid selection of non-Chrysler products in our pre-owned inventory.

Regardless of whether you come into our store out of brand loyalty or looking for the best deal, we strive to meet and exceed those initial expectations and then, most importantly, start developing a relationship. Why is our focus the relationship? It's actually quite simple.

If you think about it, buying a car is like any other business transaction. At the same time, it's entirely different and unique unto itself. While at the core there is a business transaction, buying a vehicle is one of those events in life you'll never ever forget. Like the time you bought your first house or welcomed in a new baby. It's just an unforgettable day.

And if it's going to be memorable, we want to make it memorable for the right reasons. From the time you walk in to the time you sign the papers and drive off the lot, it is our job to make sure you have each and every question answered, have a complete understanding about your vehicle and its features, and most importantly, realize that if you ever have a question about anything as it pertains to your vehicle in the future, we're here for you.

So the next time you're considering the purchase of a new vehicle, whether it's price, brand, or just browsing around, remember our core philosophy at Cecil Atkission in Burnet - "When the products are similar, the dealership makes the difference."

Let us make a difference in your vehicle-shopping experience.

2010-07-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Jeep is bringing the “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour,” an on- and off-road driving experience, to consumers in at least 11 cities across the country and it started on Friday, July 16 at the Syracuse Nationals Car Show in Syracuse, New York. The entire Jeep lineup, including the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee, will be on site to test drive.

The “Jeep Rocks and Road Tour” provides the ultimate on- and off-road driving test for attendees at air and auto shows, fairs and festivals all over the country. The program is open to the public and Jeep brand vehicles will be on-hand for participants to drive over a variety of surfaces. Attendees will learn to navigate off-road challenges, such as steep grades, rocky trails and log crossings, under the guidance of a trained instructor. Participation is free to those who pre-register at www.jeep.com/rocksandroadtour and bring a copy of their confirmation receipt. Early registration is highly encouraged for those interested in participating. Current Jeep owners can even drive their own vehicle on a Jeep Owner’s Playground.

“We have created the ‘Jeep Rocks & Road Tour’ to provide our current and potential customers with an adventurous experience that is exclusive to the Jeep brand,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “We are partnering with various venues across the country to reach out to our loyal Jeep consumers, while branching out to those with new interest in the one-of-a-kind Jeep brand. This tour provides an ideal venue to experience the countless features and legendary capability offered in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, as well the as in other vehicles in the Jeep brand family.”

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” features a number of interactive activities, including informative product displays. The family-friendly event offers children the opportunity to take part in the Jeep brand experience as well. Jeep kids can drive “Power Wheels” mini-Jeep vehicles, climb a rock wall and more.

The tour travels cross-country and kicked off in Syracuse on July 16 and concludes with a final stop in Fort Worth, Texas, on Oct. 31.

Tour Locations and Dates:

July 16 – 18 at the Syracuse Nationals Car Show in Syracuse, New York
July 23 – 25 at the Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest in Columbus, Ohio
July 30 – Aug. 1 at Rockford AirFest 2010 in Rockford, Illinois.
Aug. 6 – 8 at the Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis, Indiana
Aug. 20 – 22 at the Westfield International Air Show in Boston, Massachusetts
Aug. 27 – 29 at the Offutt Defenders of Liberty Air Show in Omaha, Nebraska
Sept. 3 – 5 at the Thunder Over the Blue Ridge Air Show in Martinsburg, West Virginia
Sept. 17 – 19 at the Oceana Air Show in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Sept. 30 – Oct. 2 at the Bikes, Blues and BBQ’s Festival in Fayetteville, Arkansas
Oct. 8 – 10 for the Charlotte Fall Home Show at the Metrolina Expo Center in Charlotte, North Carolina
Oct. 29 – 31 at the Forth Worth Alliance Air Show in Forth Worth, Texas

The “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour” is one of several owner-loyalty programs created by the Jeep brand. Jeep Jamborees, which began in the 1950s, are the original off-highway vacation. The success of Jeep Jamborees spawned Camp Jeep, an annual outdoor lifestyle vacation experience launched more than 15 years ago. The enthusiastic response to Camp Jeep and Jeep 101 led to the spin-off “Jeep Rocks & Road Tour.”

Ram throws down "The Gauntlet"

2010-07-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

If you’re looking to kill a little time in the office and have already beaten your best Minesweeper score, look no further than the Ram Gauntlet game.

Once you’ve registered, you can virtually take the wheel of a Ram 3500 and battle the best Mother Earth has to offer in a fight to the finish. You can rely on either a Cummins Turbo Diesel or a gas-powered HEMI to see you safely through the course, it’s your call. Once you’ve chosen, you’ll then be tasked with successfully navigating through a variety of courses, including everything from rocky terrain to a bustling construction site. With any luck, you’ll be able to walk away from the grueling gauntlet with a first-place finish, but even if you don’t you still have a chance to win big. Each gauntlet you finish earns you another shot at snagging one of our great prizes like $25 & $50 Gander Mountain gift cards. On October 1, 2010, one lucky winner will be selected to receive the grand prize: a $1000 prepaid MasterCard gift card.

Participation is limited to one game per person per day, and the promotion will close September 30th, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. ET – so go get your game on!

Jeep introduces new TripCast travel tracker

2010-07-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Jeep has just announced the launch of TripCast, ™ an easy-to-use, free, iPhone app and Web site that enables consumers to plan a trip, share an electronic scrapbook of the adventure and upload photos, video, audio clips and status updates to Facebook and Twitter.

The application allows family and friends to follow a traveler’s trip in real time via the Web or an iPhone. Also included in the application is a “Points of Adventure” function which offers those looking for their next adventure more than 250,000 outdoor recreation spots in the United States.

"TripCast enables everyone with a sense of adventure to plan a trip, share it with friends as their journey unfolds, and find new spots to explore," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "This new app is perfect for Jeep fans, and anyone who enjoys getting out, having fun, and sharing that fun with friends. It also
provides us with a unique way to connect with a wide array of consumers, exposing them to the unique Jeep lifestyle along the way."

Trip Cast is free to consumers and is compatible with 3G, 3GS and 4G iPhones. Family and friends are able to follow traveler’s trips and download the app via jeeptripcast.com.

App Features
Key features of the TripCast app include:
• Web and mobile interface

• Track your Path – Enables the user to track their path in real time

• Share with Friends – Determine what and how much of a trip to share via the Public, Invite and Private settings

• The Public setting shares information with everyone; Invite allows the user to invite friends to follow the trip and the Private setting allows only the user to view the information

• TripCast also notifies users when a friend is in the area and can coordinate a chat

• Post your Finds – Photos, video, audio and text can be posted and shared with friends and all content can be viewed “on location” on a map in real-time

• Trip is downloadable via Google Earth as well

• Points of Adventure – Discover new spots with more than 250,000 outdoor recreation locations by category including parks, bike paths, camping, ski resorts and more

• Create playlists and listen to music while using the app

• Create a personal user profile and customizable Jeep avatar

• Save and view personal or friends’ trips, in real time or for later, on the Web and iPhone

TripCast can be downloaded free beginning today from the TripCast website, www.jeeptripcast.com or from the iTunes App Store using “Jeep” or “Trip” as search words.

Dodge Launches Special-Edition Mopar '10 Challenger

2010-07-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Retro-inspired cars seem to get frequent updates to stay fresh and sell-worthy, as demonstrated by the never-ending stream of special-edition Mustangs and Camaros. Dodge is getting its entry in on that action by releasing the Mopar ’10 Challenger, a factory-customized version of the muscle car.

Dodge will make just 500, all of them painted black with gloss-black 20-inch wheels and a blacked-out grille. Customers get a choice of blue, red, or silver accent stripes and graphics. The Mopar ‘10 Challengers wear a new hood with functional scoop and pins, and an array of Mopar logos. Interior touches consist of Katzkin leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a numbered Mopar ’10 plaque, and a chrome Mopar shifter. All cars come with a signed concept sketch (seen above), a build book, and a Mopar car cover.

Dodge says a cold-air intake and the hood scoop should yield an extra 15 hp, for a total of about 391 with a manual transmission and 387 with the automatic. The Challenger also has strut-tower braces front and rear, and rides on Super Track Pac suspension, a new option for the 2010 model year. Normally a $400 option for the Challenger R/T, the package includes self-leveling dampers, a larger rear anti-roll bar, a 3.06:1 axle ratio, performance brake pads, 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires, and the ability to fully disable the car’s stability control.

Many manufacturers launch tricked-out special editions toward the end of a model’s run to boost sales, but Chrysler says that’s not that case with the Mopar ’10: Challenger sales are reportedly up 125 percent year-over-year. The car will be available from any Dodge dealer in the U.S. or Canada. It costs $38,000 with an automatic transmission or $39,000 with a manual. The company expects about 80 percent of customers to opt for the slushbox.

See the video.

Content courtesy of Car and Driver

Chrysler Group looking at potential Fiat dealers across the U.S.

2010-07-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

The Fiat brand in the U.S. will feature the New Fiat 500, which recently celebrated the 53rd anniversary of its introduction in Europe. Dealers will begin selling the iconic Fiat 500 late this year and the Fiat 500 Cabrio in 2011.

Chrysler Group expects to select dealers in about 125 markets identified for growth potential in the small-car segment. Fiat dealers will be located in approximately 41 states.

“The Fiat dealer network will be appropriately sized to serve the market opportunity,” said Peter Grady, Vice President of Network Development and Fleet, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our vision is to establish a dealer network that will reflect and enhance the brand’s reputation for innovation and fun, and will offer a unique, personalized customer experience.”

Chrysler Group will send Dealer Application Guides to dealers in the identified markets containing specific Fiat dealer requirements and instructions on submitting a proposal. The guide presents details on facility, sales strategy, accessory sales, service and parts departments, training curriculum and financial requirements.

Dealers must demonstrate how they will market, sell and service Fiat vehicles with a new customer service model. Basic guidelines include.

Location – The majority of dealerships will be located in the identified markets
Eligible Dealers – Proposals from Chrysler Group’s best performing dealers will have preference in the identified markets
Dealer Performance – Chrysler Group will evaluate interested dealers on volume performance, minimum sales responsibility accomplishment, capitalization and overall Dealer Standards score. In addition, the company will individually evaluate the proposed facility and customer handling metrics.
Fiat Facility – A completely separate facility will be required to represent the Fiat brand.
Fiat Team – A separate Fiat team will be required to sell and service the Fiat brand.
Fiat Standards – Fiat standards will be unique from existing Chrysler Group Dealer Standards.
Financial – Dealer candidates will have to show that they have the financial resources necessary to support the introduction of the Fiat brand.

Dealers in the target markets will be invited to attend a meeting in Chrysler Group World Headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich. Chrysler Group plans to officially announce its U.S. Fiat dealer network locations in September.

Chrysler unveils smart phone app for 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2010-07-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has received rave reviews for all its features, overall design, and on- and off-road performance. You can add one more thing to the mix — a smart phone app capable of downloading vehicle information.

Chrysler has added a smart phone app available for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee that can download vehicle information that covers warning lights, maintenance schedules, warranties, video demonstrations of features, social media access to other owners, customer service, roadside assistance and instructions for the navigation system.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the first vehicle to receive it but it will be available for all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles by the end of 2010. Chrysler anticipates that customers will prefer to search for vehicle information on an iPhone rather than digging around in the glove box or a storage bin for the owner's manual.

In addition, you don’t have to be an owner to download and appreciate the app. Potential buyers can access all kinds of information about a vehicle they’re interested in.

The app was developed by Tweddle Group and is available only on the Apple iPhone right now. It will soon become available on BlackBerry and Android devices, as well.

Dodge Challenger makes NASCAR debut on Friday

2010-06-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

For those who watch NASCAR, the speed of the vehicles is nothing short of spectacular. To fully appreciate that speed, as well as the smells and sounds, you have to actually attend a race.

Whether you're actually at the track or watching on TV, the cars look like high-tech machines designed for speed and a little bumping and grinding. In other words, none of the vehicles and their cookie-cutter designs really resemble any vehicles you'd see going down the road...until now.

This Friday at the NASCAR Nationwide Series event at Daytona that all changes when Brad Keselowski drives the No. 22 car on the track, a Dodge Challenger R/T.

Before Friday night's highly anticipated return of the Dodge Challenger to NASCAR Nationwide Series' competition after almost 30 years, the Dodge brand will play a key role in providing Challenger owners and fans with a wide array of pre-race action and activities in and around Daytona International Speedway.

- For a list of all the pre-race events, click here.
- For a behind-the-scenes look on the final preparations being made on the car.

Critics weigh in on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2010-06-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

For months you've heard about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's the next best thing since sliced bread, or that's what the folks at Chrysler would have you believe. Now, that it's finally here, automobile critics have had a chance to take it for a test drive and spend some quality time behind the wheel.

What are they saying about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee? We think they like it.

Motor Trend - "With the air suspension raised 2.6 inches, the Grand Cherokee's moderately high and wide stance and precise steering makes rock crawling at Moab easy for a sub-expert off-road driver. Jeep faithful can breath a sigh of relief."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/29mvgme

Autoblog - "The GC's Benz architecture makes for a seriously pleasing ride on the open road, and with a triple-sealing strategy to separate engine and wind noise from the cabin, NVH levels are vastly improved. We're talking Lexus quiet."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/22qyrec

Cars.com- "The new Grand Cherokee manages to provide on-road driving refinement that can go toe-to-toe with the best that the crossover segment has to offer — and it does so without sacrificing its considerable off-road capabilities.

"It's a no-excuses SUV if there ever was one and, in effect, takes on Land Rover at its own game. Let your brain wrap itself around that concept for a moment, and it becomes clear how much the Grand Cherokee has evolved."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/23s3uku

Dodge Challenger kicks England's butt

2010-06-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Last week we previewed the new Dodge Challenger commercial before the U.S. - England game in the World Cup. As we all know in the actual contest, after England jumped out to an early 1-0 lead, the Americans never quit and eventually battled back to earn a 1-1 tie and an important point against a quality English side.

Now, check out the finished commercial. The Americans, led by the Challenger, aren't looking for any ties. Victory is sweet!

General George Washington has a message for England

2010-06-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

My Dear England,

As a gentleman, I feel it is my grim but solemn duty to notify you that it is, indeed … ON. We declared our independence once. And on Friday night (11:00 PM EST on ESPN) I must declare it yet again. Our armies will meet upon the field of battle, but you’ll soon find your “Red Coats” are easily bested by three men … wearing only black. Incidentally, our “minute” men in fact only require a mere 4.7 seconds to reach the 60 mile per hour threshold.

With utmost respect,

George "Can of Whup A**" Washington

(Blog Editor's Note: Please tune into ESPN at 11 p.m. Friday, June 11 to find out how this ends).

Summer Time

2010-06-03T13:01:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day has come and gone. Thanks again to all of our troops around the world, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. And now, school is finally out. Summer is officially here.

So what to do?

In Central Texas, there are tons of camps for kids to attend throughout the summer time. For a comprehensive list, go here.

With the summer comes several holidays. First up is Father's Day on June 20th. We've started a list on our Facebook page that talks about 10 great gift ideas for dad to accessorize his ride. Check it regularly over the course of the next few weeks.

In July we have the big July 4th celebration. Fortunately, this year in Marble Falls they've decided to bring back the fireworks show. That's great news for everyone!

Of course, summer means heat, and a lot of it in these parts. So make sure you take the proper precautions to stay safe. Here are a few summer safety tips.

Have a great summer!

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - The Video

2010-05-25T06:45:00.001-07:00

For a couple of months, the buzz about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has steadily increased as we get closer to its debut this summer. Up until now, we've only seen a few pictures. Now, there's a video.

Check it out.

After you see the video, you'll understand why Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne is confident in the new vehicle and the impact it will have for the company.

“The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a signature vehicle for Chrysler. It represents the best of this company, the direction we’re moving toward producing high quality, technologically advanced vehicles. We are confident the Grand Cherokee will receive the proper recognition for what it stands for when it hits the road in June.”

Happy Trip Car

2010-05-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

We've all been there as kids. Now we get to experience it from the other side as an adult.

The conversation goes something like this.

"Are we there yet?" your child asks.

"Not now, son/sweetie/honey (or use your own word choice). We still have a ways to go."

Ten minutes pass.

"Are we there yet?" the question is repeated by the same child or another child who has completely ignored the question and answer from just minutes before.

According to CNNmoney.com, the Chrysler Town and Country has suddenly become a mute button for that conversation as the vehicle was named one of 7 great road trip cars.

Read more.

Dodge Viper earns high praise in Texas

2010-05-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

When asked, Michael Herzing, president of the Texas Auto Writers Association said this about the Dodge Viper (American Club Racer).

“The Dodge Viper ACR is the worthy recipient of our first Performance Car of Texas award. By topping some of the toughest competitors in today’s performance car marketplace, we feel this award is a real testament to the Dodge Viper’s superior level of overall performance,” Herzing said.

We couldn't agree more. Check out the full story on the Viper and how the Texas writers loved its overall handling and performance.

How Ram Monster Trucks Roll - BIG!

2010-05-06T08:11:00.000-07:00

You love Ram Trucks. You love Monster Trucks. Then you'll love the Raminator and the Rammunition trucks.

These two trucks, which feature stylish graphics courtesy of Mossy Oak in a partnership with Ram Trucks and Hall Brothers Racing, put on a display this past weekend at the 4 Wheel Jamboree in Springfield, Missouri.

The next 4 Wheel Jamboree is in Lima, OH on May 14-16. These weekend-long events feature between 2,000 to 3,000 trucks and draw around 50,000 spectators.

Go big or go home!

The Jeep - Standing the Test of Time

2010-05-03T13:52:00.001-07:00

Through the years, vehicles change. The shape. The size. The colors. One vehicle has stood the test of time sticking to its same basic, yet very memorable and stylish design - the Jeep.

While the Jeep has sometimes been described as a “sardine can on wheels,” since its creation in the 1930s as a vehicle used as a light, rugged “reconnaissance car” to provide speedy movement of key personnel and equipment in the rear and on the battlefield, it has become one of, if not the most recognizable automotive silhouettes in the world. It also made “four-wheel drive” a household term.

Check out this story in the American that says - "...the Jeep is one of the most influential designs in automotive history.

Challenger Chase to Win Contest

2010-04-26T09:43:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful weekend in Central Texas. Now, you can start off your Monday right by entering the “Challenger Chase to Win” sweepstakes at www.dodgemotorsports.com to win a Dodge Challenger R/T. One lucky fan will drive away with a custom HEMI®-powered Challenger R/T to commemorate the Challenger’s debut in the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series.

The Grand Prize 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is finished in a black-and-orange color graphic scheme that resembles Penske Racing driver Justin Allgaier’s No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge which he will race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning on July 2, 2010 at Daytona International Speedway and carries a retail value at close to $40,000.

Read more.

Moms-Dads get navigation and entertainment all in one package

2010-04-21T06:35:00.000-07:00

Dodge recently unveiled its new UConnect system at the New York Auto Show. UConnect is a system that combines the latest in information and entertainment technology to provide the ultimate experience for busy, constantly-connected drivers.

Take a look.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oltNKNYWCH0&feature=player_embedded

Want a spray-on, factory-installed bedliner? Now you can.

2010-04-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

In Texas, even though we have sun more than enough days, spray-on tans aren't uncommon. So maybe that's not your style. But a spray-on bedliner, which is a similar concept in its application process, just might be.

The Ram Truck Brand just introduced a spray-on factory-installed bedliner for 2010, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, an option dealers can order starting now.

Read more.

Win a $25 Gift Card in the Cecil in Burnet Fan of the Week Contest

2010-04-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

Cecil in Burnet Fans:

There's now yet another way to win prizes from Cecil Atkission in Burnet. All you have to do is visit our Facebook page and click on the Sweepstakes tab. Enter your name and email address and cross your fingers!

The 44th Annual Easter Jeep Safari

2010-03-31T07:15:00.000-07:00

Only a few more days until Easter. For Jeep, this time of the year means one thing - a look at the 2010 Easter Jeep Safari vehicles.

Like chocolate to peanut butter, the Safari brings together two of our favorite things: Mopar and Jeep. Mark Allen, Head of Jeep Design as well as Mopar Underground, takes us through the full lineup of Moparized Jeeps as well as a very worthy Ram PowerWagon.

To read more: The 44th Annual Easter Jeep Safari

Fido Likes It Too

2010-03-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

We all love our pets. We love to travel. Many of us take our pets with us when we travel. Ever wondered what was the most pet-friendly car available? Wonder no more.

For five years now the folks at Animal Radio® have been ranking autos based on their Fido-friendly qualities and for 2010, the top two spots go to Chrysler Group brand vehicles. Thanks to their innovative safety features, Animal Radio awarded first and second place to the Dodge Journey and Chrysler Town and Country (respectively), marking the first time a domestic automaker has snagged first place.

In honor of the new award, Dodge CEO Ralph Gilles sat down with Animal Radio hosts Hal Abrams and Judy Francis to dish on the design process behind the two vehicles and share a little about his own furry companions.

To read more or listen to the interview:
CEO Ralph Gilles Talks [Pet] Shop With Animal Radio

Ram Truck Launches New Marketing and Advertising Campaign

2010-03-24T09:55:00.001-07:00

We're kind of biased, but we love the new TV commercials. What do you think?

Ram Truck Brand Launches Marketing and Advertising Campaign for Ram Heavy Duty Pickup

The Ram Truck Brand has continued to establish its own identity and clearly define its customer since its separation from the Dodge Brand. This week marks the debut of the Ram Truck Brand’s new marketing and advertising campaign for the 2010 Ram Heavy Duty. The fully comprehensive marketing and advertising strategy connects with the Ram Heavy Duty customer on a deeper and more personal level than ever before.

New Jeep and Ram Vehicles Debut

2010-03-16T14:05:00.000-07:00

What do you think of the new sketches on Jeep and Ram? We're kind of biased, but we like them.

Cecil in Burnet

Mopar Ready for Moab

Mopar® has Moab on in its sights. Chrysler Group LLC's fifth brand is getting ready reveal a truck-load of "Moparized" vehicles at the 44th annual Easter Jeep® Safari in Moab, Utah which takes place from March 27 through April 4. But we've got a preview for you right now with some sketches of the Jeep Wrangler J7, Jeep Patriot Extreme, Jeep Wrangler Trail Boss and Ram Power Wagon.

The 10 Best Movie Performances Ever By a Dodge

2010-03-11T08:55:00.001-08:00

Our friends at redletterdodge.com have come up with a list of the 10 best movies with a Dodge. We're curious to see what our customers think. Do you have any others?

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In this season of Golden Globes, SAG awards, and Oscars, we couldn’t help but wonder: Where’s the recognition for the real hard-working actors in many movies: the cars? They dominate the screen, they propel the action, they do all their own stunts — and, let’s face it, they often turn in a more nuanced performance than some of the actors in the movies listed below. So, in recognition of a job well done without the perks of magazine covers, big-bucks contracts, or their own trailers, we hereby salute the 10 best performances in a motion picture by the world’s most cinematic car brand. And the nominees, in no particular order, are…

1968 Dodge Charger R/T in Bullitt (1968)

It starts off innocently enough, with a bad guy (Bill Hickman) tailing Bullitt (Steve McQueen) in a black 1968 Dodge Charger 440 through the up-and-down streets of San Francisco. But McQueen quickly turns the tables, Hickman buckles his waist-only seatbelt, floors it, and begins what’s possibly the most famous, and terrifying, car chase in movie history. There’s no dialogue, no music — just nearly 10 full minutes of the ungodly deep growl of the Charger’s engine careening down back roads and highways, before it runs off the road, crashes into a gas station, and goes out the only way a hero can — exploding in a flaming ball of cinematic glory.

Fun fact: The Charger was apparently so much faster than the Mustang that they had to put thinner wheels on to slow it down to film the chase.

Cecil and the 55th Annual Burnet Chamber of Commerce Awards

2010-02-25T07:06:00.000-08:00

Awards. While the awards shows are fun for the general public to watch, for those involved it can be a sensitive subject.

Take the upcoming Academy Awards show, for example. With today's technology, you'll see the faces of all those nominated on your television screen. When the winner of a category is announced, a variety of different things go into motion, including emotion. The winner stands in elation and is congratulated by all those around. While those who came up short, put their best face on--most of the time--but you know deep inside, they're dejected.

Cecil Atkission-Burnet recently found itself in a similar situation at the Burnet Chamber of Commerce’s 55th Annual Banquet and Awards presentation.

We were nominated for Large Business of the Year along with Hoffpauir Chevrolet Buick, Johnson Sewell Ford, Gibralter Materials and Seton Highland Lakes Hospital. Tough competition to say the least.

When the final award was announced, Seton Highland Lakes Hospital was declared the winner.

While it's not the greatest to come up short, when you consider in such a tight-knit community such as Burnet with so many great businesses that we were nominated in the first place, it is a tremendous honor. All of our competitors were worthy nominees as well. And it's hard to argue with Seton Highland Lakes being declared the winner.

Again, we're extremely thankful to have been nominated with so many other great businesses in the mix. In the end, we take away from this experience a great deal of pride and motivation to improve and try and come back again next year and win it.

Congrats to all the winners!

The beautiful white stuff

2010-02-24T07:40:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it snowed so much yesterday? It was a rare site in the Hill Country but one that we truly enjoyed. Hope you, your kids and your friends had an opportunity to get out and enjoy the Winter Wonderland.

Come Have a Cup of Joe at Cecil's

2010-02-19T07:35:00.000-08:00

At Cecil's in Burnet, we love to have a cup of Joe and visit with our customers. We also like to ask questions like - What is a Monroney Sticker? (see the answer on our Facebook page) Or, why is it called a cup of Joe? We tried to find the answer.

Josephus Daniels (1862-1948) was appointed Secretary of the U.S. Navy by President Woodrow Wilson in 1913. Among his numerous reforms of the Navy was the abolition of the officers' wine mess. From that time on, the strongest drink aboard navy ships was coffee and over the years, a cup of coffee became known as "a cup of Joe."

This, however, is just one theory for the name. According to Snopes.com, a website that tries to distinguish rumor from reality, there's not a real conclusion on how the name came about.

http://www.snopes.com/language/eponyms/cupofjoe.asp

Come have a cup of Joe with us!

Welcome!

2010-02-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Cecil in Burnet Blog!

This is our little piece of real estate on the Internet where we will talk - sometimes, in depth - about all things Cecil in Burnet.

Whether it's a story about a new vehicle, a how-to video, or possibly an item of interest from one of our customers, you'll find it here.

Make sure to check back often for updates.

Thanks!

Cecil in Burnet