Dodge Car & Truck Industry Daily Noise News

Chrysler 300-300C Honored As Top Car of the Year at 2005 Detroit North American International Auto Show

2005-01-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

A panel of journalists at the 2005 Detroit North American International Auto Show honored the Chrysler 300-300C as the top car of the year, outclassing other nominees that included the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang. To be eligible, panelists explained, the cars must be "all new" or "substantially changed" from the previous model release.

Chrysler currently produces the rear-drive 300 sedan, which is called a Chrysler 300C when it includes the optional Hemi engine. "The 2005 Chrysler 300 marked the Chrysler brand's return to a rear-wheel drive, Hemi-powered automobile for the first time in more than a decade. Chrysler has single-handedly reinvented the large, V-8 powered American sedan," stated a panel member. "With its bold looks that are uniquely American, growling Hemi power and enough attitude to cut a rap record on its own, the Chrysler 300C is a bad boy for hipsters and yet with its affordable sticker, V-6 optional engines, appeals to traditional full-size American car buyers."

Since 1994 the jury selection committee, comprised of car and truck journalists representing magazines, newspapers and television, honors a new car and a new truck that it believes has achieved a standard in their sectors in categories including value, innovation, ride, safety and handling. The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV was honored as truck of the year.

2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 Released - Part Two

2005-01-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

DODGE PRESS RELEASE PART TWO
The all-new 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is designed for outstanding ride and handling across a dynamic range. Chassis setup for the Dodge Magnum SRT8 is aimed at all-around performance with SRT-tuned dampers, specially tailored spring rates and suspension bushings and large-diameter anti-sway bars. The ride height of the Magnum SRT8 is one-half inch lower than the previous Dodge Magnum, while the ESP has been specially tuned for the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8's performance handling characteristics.

The 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 meets the road with a new wheel and tire assembly consisting of unique 20-inch forged aluminum wheels shod with high-performance Goodyear F1 three-season tires that have asymmetrical tread. Tire dimensions are a hefty 245/45/20 in the front, and 255/45/20 in the rear.

The braking system of the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is engineered to provide benchmark braking performance, setting a new standard for cars in its class. All four wheels feature performance brake calipers developed by Brembo and finished in Dodge SRT red. Each wheel is equipped with four pistons for even clamping performance. The Dodge Magnum SRT8 has 360 x 32mm vented rotors upfront, with 350 x 26mm vented rotors in the rear.

The car is striking with its raised beltline and roofline pulled down tautly around the windows. Stylists made functional improvements that resonate with the Dodge brand's character and contribute to performance, including an all-new front fascia that helps increase cooling through integrated ducts that help direct air to cool the brakes. A front air dam reduces lift, while in the rear, there is an all-new fascia with an integrated wake modifier and aggressive cutouts to accommodate the dual 3.5-inch exhaust tips.

The exterior styling of the Dodge Magnum SRT8 is also unique with a body-color grille insert with chrome trim, satin-finish front and rear bumper inserts, body-color mirrors and door handles, and unique SRT badging. Bright Silver, Brilliant Black and Inferno Red Crystal Pearl coat colors are available.

The 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 interior features power-adjustable, deeply sculpted and highly bolstered sport seats in the front complete with performance suede inserts to hold the occupants during maneuvering. All seats have contrasting red stitching. Other amenities include "carbon fiber" leather trim for better grip on the steering wheel, and special carbon fiber finishing on the center stack. Full instrumentation panel display, including a 180-mph speedometer, tachometer and temperature gauges, befits the performance-oriented character of the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8's interior.

Standard features include AM/FM radio with 6 disc CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, power adjustable pedal cluster and rear cargo net. Available options include power sunroof, heated seats, supplemental side air bags, and the Trailer Tow Group which offers load leveling and height control. SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio and a UConnect(TM) hands-freecommunications system with Bluetooth(TM) technology is also available. Safety and security features come standard.

The 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is assembled in Brampton, Ontario, Canada at the Brampton Assembly Plant.

2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 Released - Part One

2005-01-05T09:40:00.000-08:00

DODGE PRESS RELEASE PART ONE
"The 2006 Dodge Magnum is bold, powerful, street-smart and full of life," stated Darryl Jackson, VP, Dodge Marketing, Chrysler Group. "With a 425-horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI(R) engine up front, and 71.6 square feet of cargospace in the rear, the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 hauls in more ways than one. At Dodge, the HEMI continues to resonate with our customers," Mr. Jackson continued. "The current take-rate for HEMI in the Dodge Magnum is 43%. The all-new SRT 6.1-liter HEMI quenches the thirst for even more power."

The Dodge Street and Racing Technology (SRT) engineers started with a solid foundation - the 2006 Dodge Magnum - and successfully injected SRT DNA in order to produce a car that can cover a quarter mile in the high 13-second range plus haul home a brand-new 27-inch TV. "From the day it was introduced, the Dodge Magnum screamed performance," announced Dan Knott, Director, Street and Racing Technology, Chrysler Group. "Now, SRT engineering and the 6.1-liter HEMI will take Magnum to the next level."

The 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 includes key SRT attributes in ride and handling across a dynamic range Benchmark braking, performance-inspired interior appointments and exterior styling, as well as the raw performance of SRT's big-bore version of the HEMI engine are offered. Performance figures for the all-new 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 include a 0-60mph time in the low 5-second range and 60-0 mph braking in about 110 feet. The Dodge Magnum SRT8 can accomplish SRT's signature performance test of 0-100-0mph in the mid 16-second range due to its capability of covering a quarter-mile in the high 13-second range.

The new 6.1-liter SRT engine version of the legendary HEMI engine was inspired by the original family of HEMIs - particularly the namesake hemispherical combustion chambers that provide power and efficiency. Visual cues, including the classic orange-painted cylinder block and black valve covers are also prevalent. The new engine also matches the legendary "Street HEMI" of the 1960s and 1970s with its 425-horsepower rating. But the Dodge does so with less displacement. The 6.1-liter HEMI's 69.8 horsepower-per-liter rating exceeds that of the Street HEMI. The new SRT HEMI is subject to many requirements that older engines didn't have to meet, including requirements for emissions and fuel efficiency.

With Chrysler Group's clean and efficient all-new 5.7-liter HEMI engine as a starting point, SRT powertrain engineers developed 85 more horsepower by engineering more cubic inches, increasing the compression ratio, redesigning the cylinder head, intake and exhaust systems for increased flow, and increasing engine speed. For more displacement, the Dodge Street and Racing Technology engineers bored out the diameter of the cylinders in the HEMI by 3.5 millimeters each in order to increase the total displacement to 6.1 liters from 5.7 liters. Compression ratio was also increased to 10.3:1 from 9.6:1, adding engine efficiency and power. Engine breathing was increased with new higher-flow cylinder heads, a specifically designed intake manifold, and exhaust headers with individual tubes encased in a stainless steel shell, all unique to the 6.1-liter HEMI engine. Larger-diameter valves and reshaped ports in the heads allow for maximized airflow. The intake manifold was designed with larger-diameter and shorter runners for higher-speed tuning.

Exhaust is routed through a large-diameter (2.75-inch vs. 2.5-inch) exhaust system with 3.5-inch chrome tips. To increase horsepower more, performance-oriented camshaft profiles were developed to allow more air in and out of the cylinders, and manage a higher engine speed. Dodge Magnum SRT engineers increased the HEMI's peak power output engine speed nearly 20%, to 6,000 rpm from 5,000 rpm previously. Intake and exhaust valve stems are hollow, and the exhaust valve stems are filled with sodium to help dissipate heat more efficiently. The high-performance SRT 6.1-liter HEMI is strengthened with redesigned components, including a reinforced engine block, forged steel crankshaft, high-strength powdered-metal connecting rods, floating-pin pistons (cooled by oil squirters), and an oil pan modified to manage oil return to the pan sump at high engine speeds.

Power for the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT 6.1-liter HEMI is channeled through an A580 five-speed automatic transmission with specially calibrated driver-selectable AutoStick(R), which offers fully automatic or manual shifting selection. A heavy-duty four-flange prop shaft sends the torque from the transmission to an upgraded differential and axles.

2006 Dodge Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab Pickup Truck Released

2005-01-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Dodge recently released the Viper-engine powered truck, the 2006 Dodge Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab Pickup Truck. With a base price of $50,850, Dodge is hoping there will be demand for high-end sportster owners looking to add a high-end powerful truck to their stable. Adding versatility while maintaining performance, Dodge introduced the four door quad cab as family friendly with seating for six and automatic transmission.

The Dodge Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab Truck is powered by a 8.3-liter V-10 Viper engine that outputs 500 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque. Estimated fuel rating is 11 mpg. Overall truck length is 227.7 inches and weighs 5618 pounds. The Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab is reported to clock a 5.6-second 0-to-60 time. Other specifications of the Dodge truck include 15.0-inch front rotors, 13.8-inch rear discs and three-channel anti-lock braking system.

Dodge Stratus & Chrysler Sebring to be Discontinued

2004-12-31T13:38:00.000-08:00

Chrysler and Dodge are planning to discontinue the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring hard-top coupes over the next two years due to sagging consumer interest, auto industry insiders reported.

According to Chrysler's senior design chief, Trevor Creed, DaimlerChrysler will be ending production of the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring after the 2006 model year. "If you do a two-door, people say it looks sportier, but that a four-door is more practical," Mr. Creed said. "There is no market for two doors. The decision does not affect the two-door Sebring convertible because 'impracticality' is already built into a convertible, Creed added.

Over 1000 Dodge Sprinter Vans Sold in Canada in 2004

2004-12-29T13:24:00.000-08:00

DaimlerChrysler Canada Inc. announced it had 1002 Dodge Sprinter sales reported so far this year, reaching a milestone in doing so. DaimlerChrysler Canada Inc. introduced the 2004 Dodge Sprinter to the Canadian Market in January 2004.

Sales were made predominantly to commercial users via 28 Sprinter dealers throughout Canada. Comprised of Dodge cargo vans, passenger vans and the soon to be released cab chassis, the 2005 Dodge Sprinter series is designed to meet diverse transportation needs of commercial and business customers.

Dodge Sprinter runs in a 2.7L, five-cylinder CDI Turbo Diesel engine and is ranked among the most efficient light and medium duty vehicles in its class. "We are thrilled at the year-long demand from Canadian business customers," said Bernie Clement, VP of Sales, DaimlerChrysler Canada, Inc. "We knew the Dodge Sprinter was best in class and that we had a strong dealer network, but we are pleasantly surprised that the marketplace has been this strong."

According to Dodge spokesmen, one of the Sprinter's top selling features has been the advanced safety systems normally found in luxury passenger cars, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti Lock Brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist System (BAS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBV), Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), and three adjustable headlight settings.

Dodge reports the Sprinter provides an ergonomic design with 360-degree viewing for both driver and passenger. And is available in three wheelbases - 118, 140 and 158 inches - and two roof heights, allowing up to 73 inches of interior stand-upheight. A brand new cab chassis configuration adds additional flexibility so the user can customize for specific utility purposes.

UAW Wins Dodge Neon Assembly Plant Representation in Michigan

2004-12-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

After pushing hard for representation, the United Auto Workers announced the workers at the DaimlerChrysler Dundee, MI assembly plant, where the Dodge Neon is assembled, have organized under the UAW.

The $700 million plant, which makes 4-cylinder engines for the Dodge Neon, is expected to have around 500 employees in 2005. The plant eventually will manufacture engines for 12 Chrysler models, including replacements for the Dodge Neon and Chrysler Sebring beginning next year. Joint venture plants will supply engines for Mitsubishi later.

The UAW expects that DaimlerChrysler-Dodge management will ask the UAW to allow the Michigan plant to outsource traditional union jobs such as janitorial services, during contract negotiations in 2005.

Dodge Magnum & Chrysler 300 Brampton Plant Helps Ontario to Surpass Michigan in Output

2004-12-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

A major reason why Ontario is poised to overtake Michigan as North America's top producer of cars for the first time this year is the DaimlerChrysler Brampton plant, which currently produces the Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300.

The Brampton plant assembles about 970 vehicles per day currently. Officials have stated that it is set to add a third shift in early 2005, hoping to meet the demands for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. It will also begin producing a new Dodge Charger for 2005. The extra shift is expected to create 900 more jobs, for a total workforce of 3,900 at the Brampton plant.

DaimlerChrysler reported it sold 93,200 Chrysler 300 cars and 33,000 Dodge Magnum vehicles in the first 11 months of 2004. Brampton is an example of a growing number of plants being converted to a "flexible manufacturing" system that allows several models to be produced on a single assembly line.

At the Brampton plant, the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Magnum and soon the Dodge Charger, share many of the same basic components, such as engines, powertrains and floor panels. The three vehicles can be built simultaneously.

Chrysler-Dodge Group & SIRIUS Satellite Radio Announce Factory Install List for 2005

2004-12-20T13:25:00.000-08:00

SIRIUS Satellite Radio and the Chrysler Group recently announced the completion of the launch of the 2005 model year lineup of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. "Production rates for 2004 are on-par with our 100,000 unit goal," stated Mike Kane, Director, Feature Innovation and Advanced Technology Strategy, Chrysler Group.

Beginning with the launch of the Chrysler 300 Series and Dodge Magnum in April, 2004, the Chrysler Group has announced SIRIUS Satellite Radio factory installations on 13 production vehicle lines for the 2005 model year. They include the Chrysler 300, Dodge Ram Pickup Truck, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Dodge Magnum, Chrysler Town and Country, Dodge Dakota Pickup Truck, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Stratus, Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Caravan and Jeep Liberty models.

"This broad and successful factory program is very exciting for SIRIUS, as we build our subscriber base through our exclusive partnership with DaimlerChrysler," stated Doug Wilsterman, Senior Vice President of Automotive OEM for SIRIUS. "We are pleased to participate in the continuing offensive from the Chrysler Group."

Dodge Dakota Includes New Options for 2005

2004-12-17T13:31:00.000-08:00

The 2005 Dodge Dakota has been reported as being the biggest non full size pick up truck on the market. New options include a second V8, heated cloth seats and satellite radio.

The current base two-door Dodge Dakota with front seats only will be dropped from the Dakota lineup in 2005. The Dakota Club Cab with rear-hinged access doors and two small rear seats will now be the introductory model. The popular four-door Dakota Quad Cab with regular back seats and four front-hinged doors will again be priced higher.

The 2005 Dakota “delivers full-size pickup capability in a mid-size package...offering better fuel economy and maneuverability than a full-size pickup,” said Mike Donoughe, vice president of the body-on-frame product team at DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler Group.

The 2005 Dakota is 3.7 inches longer than the 2004 model, for an overall length of 218.8 inches. Sources with Dodge have said they wanted to appeal to truck buyers who use their vehicles every day and "like a roomier interior and strong power." As the only mid-size truck to offer a V8 engine, now in 2005 it will be the only one with two V8s, including a high-output version of its 4.7-liter, single overhead cam, Magnum V8, generating 250-plus horsepower and 300-plus foot-pounds of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Available transmission for the Dakota engine is a five-speed automatic. Testing reports the V8 delivers 14 miles a gallon in city driving and 18 mpg on the highway. The best fuel economy rating for a 2005 Dakota with V6 is 17/22 mpg for a two-wheel-drive model with four-speed automatic. The V6 is available with either the automatic or a new, six-speed manual transmission, replacing the five speed from 2004.

Dodge reiterated that "no other mid-size truck offers a V8. And the Dakota's 7,150-pound towing capacity is still unrivalled. Dodge officials also said 60 percent of all Dakotas sold have a V8.

Safety is improved in several areas, including the addition of a center shoulder belt for the middle person in the back seat of the Quad Cab. The additional length of the vehicle contributes to a longer front end for better crashworthiness, and side curtain airbags are also available for the first time.

Two bed sizes are available on the 2005 Dakotas. The Club Cab is equipped with a 6-foot-6-inch-long bed, while the Quad Cab has a 5-foot-4-inch bed. The height of the bed sides is 176.1 inches.

Dodge officials report that 88% of buyers of the Dakota are men. Median age is 45, and annual household income begins at $40,000-plus.

Dodge to Recall Dakota & Durango Models Due To Ball-Joint Failure

2004-12-15T13:53:00.000-08:00

DaimlerChrysler has announced it will be recalling 600,000 Dodge Durango Sport Utility Vehicles and Dodge Dakota pickup trucks due to a defect that can possibly cause their wheels to fall off.

The recall affects four-wheel-drive vehicles from the 2000-2003 model years. DaimlerChrysler says the company has not substantiated any reports of injuries from the defect. No injuries due to ball-joint failures are listed in government files as of yet.