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Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 30, 2004 - There are spectacular regions of North America you can't see from the paved roads of daily life. Living up to its "go-anywhere, do-anything" motto, the Jeep® brand announces dates and locations for its innovative customer relationship program, Jeep Jamboree, to get you there.

For more than 50 years, Jeep owners and their families have been participating in weekend four-wheel-drive adventures called Jeep Jamborees. Jeep Jamborees are family-oriented events designed to allow Jeep owners to hone their skills in challenging off-highway situations.

"Jeep Jamborees are weekend adventures designed exclusively for Jeep owners and their families who wish to explore seldom-seen, hard-to-reach places that only their Jeep vehicles can travel," said Jeff Bell, Vice President - Jeep. "Our trail instructors help our owners learn how to maximize their Jeep vehicle's capabilities over challenging trails and more importantly, to do so in a safe and environmentally friendly manner."

For 2004, there are 30 remaining Jeep Jamboree events, including the new "Mark A. Smith Rubicon Trail Adventure" August 27-29.

The "Mark A. Smith Rubicon Trail Adventure" is an exclusive crossing of the trail by which all others are measured— the mighty Rubicon. Following a welcome reception in spectacular Lake Tahoe, participants will spend three days and two nights conquering the Rubicon in the company of Four-Wheel Hall of Famer Mark A. Smith and his handpicked personal guides. And they’ll do it all in a custom-prepared Jeep Wrangler Rubicon supplied by Jeep Jamboree USA.

Jeep Jamborees have a trail rating of one -- the least difficult, to 10 -- the most difficult. Levels of difficulty vary depending on trail conditions, but beginners and experts are welcome to participate. These are not competitive events -- they are family oriented outings with fun for everyone.

Cost to participate in a Jamboree is $250 per adult, $125 for children seven to 14, $75 for children three to six, no charge for children under three. Some Jamborees have slightly higher registration fees due to additional program elements and park fees. All registration fees include meals.


2004 Jeep Jamboree USA Schedule - California Only

Jeep Jamboree Date City
12th Big Bear May 14, 15, 16 Big Bear Lake
13th Ghost Town July 9, 10, 11 Bridgeport
8th Rubicon Trail Aug 6, 7, 8 The Rubicon Trail

For further information visit the www.jeepjamboreeusa.com website or call 800-925-JEEP.

Swift has the Best Values in America! Hurry for our 96 Hour Event. You must take retail delivery by April 30th.

"The all-new Chrysler 300C is one stylish ride. With its vertical grille, tall beltline and chop-top-looking greenhouse, this new rear-drive sedan has a presence that is powerful, dramatic and regal. Stylized touches abound inside as well, including tortoise-shell steering wheel trim, analog clock atop the center console and chrome trim accents surrounding the wristwatch-like faces of the speedometer and tachometer and the shiftgate. Add in the 5.7-liter 340-horsepower V-8 Hemi coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission that's lifted straight from the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and you have a lot of class for the cash: Even fully-optioned -- including high-end luxuries such as a navigation system, ultrasonic parking assist, 380-watt sound system with 6-disc CD and MP3 player, and a Uconnect hands-free wireless system that works with your Bluetooth-enabled cell phone -- it's virtually impossible to bump the price of the 300C past the $38,000 mark.

Look for a road test by Executive Editor Douglas Kott in the May 2004 issue."

R&T Photo Galleries: Photo Gallery: Chrysler 300C (5/2004)

"First Place: Dodge Durango Limited
The winner of our big-'ute comparo surprised us. Going in, we figured we'd like the power of its newly optional Hemi V-8 engine. And we were sure the Durango's not-quite-full-size status would make it just a little more pleasant than its competitors to navigate the galaxy. Lingering doubts, however, remained about its build quality and noise, vibration, and harshness levels, based on our experience with the previous-generation (1998-2003) version. And that new look, which took the previous Durango's athletic stand-alone front fenders and bold cross-hair grille through a "Queer Eye for the Ram Guy" process, had us squinting. But as the behind-the-wheel time added up, and the new Durango's dynamics and aesthetics emerged, it all started to come together.

The Durango isn't just Dodge's newest sport/utility vehicle, it's Dodge's only sport/utility vehicle. While competitors such as Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet each offer five different SUVs, Nissan, GMC, and Mitsubishi field four and Honda, Jeep, Isuzu, Lexus, and Land Rover have three, Dodge soldiers on with one. With the 2004 redesign, the Dodge has crept up a few notches in size, gaining seven inches in length, three inches width and height, and roughly 250 pounds in curb weight. More important, it's gained 15 percent more cargo capacity and, thanks to the availability of the 335-horse 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 for the first time, top-notch towing ability. Courtesy of a low hoodline and fast windshield, the Durango looks smaller than the other full-size SUVs in this test.

Don't be fooled. The wheelbase of Dodge's SUV now spans a greater distance than the Ford Expedition's. The new Durango is a few inches longer and a couple dozen pounds heavier than the Chevy Tahoe. Third-seat leg- and headroom best that of the Armada, Tahoe, and Sequoia. Where the previous Durango shared a lot of its parts with the Dakota pickup truck, the latest version has moved to a stand-alone platform. There's a new Watt's Link coil-spring suspension for the live rear axle. Huge four-wheel disc brakes with trashcan-lid-size rotors come via the Ram pickup....

Our staff closed ranks when it came to the interior. From the new electroluminescent gauges to the metallic-look center stack, Venetian-blind-like positive closing dash vents, and rich leather seat trim, there is plenty to like. And here's a switch. The new Dodge impressed many of our editors with its fit and finish. Better yet, instrumented testing confirmed what our ears were telling our doubting minds--the Durango tied with the Sequoia for the quietest cabin.

Where the Dodge put away the competition for good, however, was on the highway. Even though the Durango didn't especially distinguish itself at the track, it morphed from battlestar into Millennium Falcon on long Interstates, twisty two-laners, and suburban boulevards alike...

A perfect storm of generous power, delightful ride quality, and precise handling combined to make the Durango a favorite over-the-road loafer-holder for editorial hot-shoes. A full-throttle matchup of our acceleration champ, the Armada, and Durango at 70 mph was no contest--the Dodge simply engaged warp drive and walked away from the Nissan. "By far, the best dynamically," says one editor. "The steering is agile and the ride quality is delightful--absorbent without any float," says another.

All said and done, the Durango had the stuff, inside, out, and under the hood, to carry itself among this large and ultra-competitive gang of sport/utilities. So the next time you're cruising in your Durango for Moon Pies, we'll understand if you just keep your foot in it right past Stuckey's. Nobody knows what's in those things anyway."

2004 Nissan Pathfinder Armada SE, Dodge Durango limited, Chevy Tahoe LT, Ford Expedition NBX, Toyota Sequoia SR5 - Motor Trend

"We're getting used to Chrysler saving its own skin to the uproarious clash of cymbals. The company stretched a shapely capsule over a huge cabin for the 1993 Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid, and jaws went rubbery. The Canadian-built Concorde and Intrepid are history, but if science ever revives Al Capone, Chrysler has his car.
The brief on the new 300C Hemi starts with two complex axles yanked almost wholesale from a Mercedes-Benz E-class. They are screwed to the far ends of a retro-ritz cockpit and a chrome-bedecked bunker with gun slits for glass. Optional interior fringe includes a choice of real walnut or faux tortoise-shell trim direct from the Gatsby era."

Car and Driver Magazine : 2005 Chrysler 300C Hemi : May 2004

We are rolling out the red carpet

This weekend we are showcasing great new vehicles including the all new Chrysler 300, Town & Country with Stow'n Go, and the PT Cruiser Convertible.

New York, Apr 16, 2004 -Chrysler announced last night the brand will give an all-new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster to the winner of the NBC reality-drama "The Apprentice" as voted on by viewers online. Chrysler also teamed up with Donald Trump, producer Mark Burnett and NBC to host an exclusive "300C Suite" after-party to celebrate entrepreneurial spirit, the brand's sponsorship of the show and the announcement of the new "Apprentice" chosen by Mr. Trump in the live finale.

Chrysler, the exclusive automotive sponsor of "The Apprentice," asked viewers throughout the season to log on to www.nbc.com to choose one of four Chrysler vehicles to be given to the winning Apprentice during the season finale. The winning vehicle, the new 2005 Crossfire Roadster, was unveiled in the finale episode and received 291,000 online votes. Almost 348,000 viewers voted online in total, making the audience response to the Chrysler sweepstakes the highest of any online sweepstakes ever conducted on the NBC site.

"The Chrysler Brand, just like "The Apprentice," is all about the power play," said Jeff Bell Vice president - Chrysler. "Since the show rewards the "drive" to succeed, we wanted to reward the winner with a Chrysler vehicle as a congratulations on their achievement. We are thrilled to announce that Mr. Trump's new Apprentice will be driving a Chrysler Crossfire Roadster."

In order to continue the celebration of the finale, Chrysler turned Trump Tower's famous lobby into the glamorous "300C Suite" for a star-studded party after the live taping of the finale. The exclusive Chrysler 300C Suite named after and inspired by the new luxurious 2005 Chrysler 300 vehicles, provided a place for the entire cast of "The Apprentice" to congratulate the winner and reunite after the close of the show. The event, similar to the Chrysler 300, featured a sleek, distinctive design and sophisticated layout where guests could relax and celebrate the close of the show in style and comfort.

The other Chrysler vehicle choices in the online vote included the all-new 2005 Chrysler 300, the 2005 PT Cruiser Convertible and the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. Visitor to the site were also entered in the Chrysler/Apprentice Sweepstakes for the chance to win the vehicle selected, and one lucky winner will also receive an all-new 2005 Crossfire Roadster.

Each week, "The Apprentice" follows a group of highly motivated and ambitious young entrepreneurs competing for the opportunity to become the protege of Donald Trump. Described as the ultimate job interview, "The Apprentice" is the first reality-drama to focus on surviving in the fast-paced world of business.

The launch this year of the Chrysler 300, Chrysler Town & Country, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible and Chrysler Crossfire Roadster and SRT-6 models continues the Chrysler brand's rapid-fire product offensive and decade-long growth. Chrysler brand sales have increased 109% over the last 10 years -- from 221,990 in 1993 to 463,590 in 2003. The Chrysler brand's objective is to grow market share and brand image through its elegant designs, inspired engineering and exceptional value. Through the first three months this year, Chrysler brand sales increased 11 percent year-over-year.

Incredible but true! For a very limited time... Hurry to get this buzz edition 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible for under $20K.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 12, 2004 -To celebrate the biggest product offensive in Chrysler Group history, the company is inviting millions of consumers to dealerships across America to experience first-hand the nine new vehicles being launched in 2004. Three brand-specific national "Premiere Night/Days" events will give the public a "sneak preview" of the new Chrysler, Jeep®, and Dodge products, some on display at dealerships even before they become widely available.

More than four million consumers have been invited to the first "Premiere Night" on April 22, occurring at more than 2,100 participating Chrysler brand dealerships representing nearly 90% of total Chrysler brand sales volume. Invitations were mailed to current and prospective owners inviting them to see the new face of Chrysler vehicles -- the all-new Chrysler 300, the Chrysler Town & Country with Stow n' Go™ seating and storage system, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible and Chrysler Pacifica.

"'Premiere Night/Days' events are designed to look and feel like a Hollywood premiere with the vehicles serving as the 'stars'," said Gary Dilts, Senior Vice President - Sales, Chrysler Group. "It is an opportunity for us to showcase all of our new vehicles under one roof at the same time, reinforcing the fact that the Chrysler Group has some of the most stylish, innovative and affordable products in the marketplace today."

Participating dealerships will be decorated to create "buzz" and excitement providing the opportunity to spotlight not only the products, but also the latest in vehicle technology and quality.

The April 22 event will be followed by two "Premiere Days" of public celebration when consumers are invited to visit their local participating Chrysler dealer for all of the festivities associated with "Premiere Night."

In addition to direct mail invitations, consumers can learn more about Chrysler "Premiere Days" through owner publications, the brand Web site, www.Chrysler.com/premieredays, and online advertising.

The Dodge "Premiere Night" will be held on June 17, and the Jeep Premiere Night will take place in the fall.

New 2005 Chrysler vehicles showcased at "Premiere Night/Days" include:

Chrysler 300 signals an entirely new design direction for Chrysler. With rear-wheel drive and HEMI® V-8 power, Chrysler 300C redefines the classic American car. Chrysler 300 combines elegance, confidence, power and value. Begins arriving in dealerships in April.

Chrysler Town & Country with Stow 'n Go™ seating and storage system began arriving at dealerships in February. The company that invented the minivan category 20 years ago delivers yet another leapfrog with unmatched convenience, versatility and storage. Stow 'n Go™, fold-in-the-floor second- and third-row seating, is one of more than 15 new Town & Country features and safety enhancements.

Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible looks as good on the inside as it does on the outside. It redefines the segment in much the same way the original PT Cruiser redefined the small car market. With a starting MSRP of $19,995, the PT Cruiser Convertible, which began arriving in dealerships in March, is the lowest-cost four-passenger convertible car available in the U.S.

New York, Apr 07, 2004 -The all-new 2005 Jeep® Grand Cherokee raises the performance bar to a new level by offering improved capability and superior on-road ride and handling in a well-appointed package with a number of premium amenities.

With best-in-class tractive capability and best-in-class power, the newest generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed, engineered and built to master every imaginable day-to-day driving condition, whether on paved or unpaved surfaces.

“The Jeep Brand continues to be the only American brand dedicated solely to the sport-utility market,” said Jeff Bell, Chrysler Group Vice President – Jeep. “Customers expect every Jeep to set the standard for off-road capability, and the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee will not disappoint. What is unexpected is that the Jeep Grand Cherokee will also be the leader in on-road performance excitement.”

Class Leading 4-Wheel Drive Capabilities
Three new full-time four-wheel-drive systems are available on Grand Cherokee.

Quadra-Trac® I utilizes the NV140 single-speed transfer case to provide convenient full-time four-wheel drive with no transfer case lever to shift or driver interaction required.

Offering a single-speed transfer case attracts a new group of buyers to the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup and builds on the capable, entry-level, two-wheel drive versions, which currently account for approximately 25 percent of Jeep vehicle sales.

Quadra-Trac® II incorporates the new NV245 transfer case that provides full-time active four-wheel drive, which anticipates and prevents wheel slip for optimum traction during a wide range of conditions. The NV245 also includes electronic shift with a true low-range gear and neutral for towing Grand Cherokee behind another vehicle.

Quadra-Drive® II takes unparalleled Jeep capability to an even higher plateau using Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) to give customers the ultimate in off-road capability. ELSD replace the Vari-Lock progressive axles used on the Quadra-Drive system from previous generation Jeep vehicles for even quicker response to changing conditions and greater torque capacity.

New Engines Delivering Superior Performance
For the first time ever, the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine is available on a Jeep vehicle to provide best-in-class power. Also, the 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 will replace and deliver even more peak power than the previous 4.0-liter I-6 engine in the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup. The 4.7-liter SOHC V-8 engine will also continue to be available on Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Grand Cherokee is the first sport-utility vehicle to offer the Multi-Dis-placement System (MDS). MDS deactivates half the cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI during cruising and light acceleration to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent, depending on driving conditions. Ninety percent of peak torque is available from 2400 to 5100 rpm for excellent performance while trailer towing, traveling off-road as well as city and highway driving. A sophisticated Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions, and maintains more consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active than the former mechanical throttle control system.

With approximately seven percent less displacement, the 3.7-liter V-6 produces more peak power than the 4.0-liter I-6 engine it replaces, while producing comparable torque. The engine also provides smoother, quieter operation, added durability, and contributes to better packaging. This engine, first introduced on Jeep Liberty and Dodge Ram models, shares many design features with the 4.7-liter Power Tech V-8 engine.

All-New Suspension and Steering System Provides Best-in-Class Ride and Handling
An all-new independent front suspension provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control, more precise steering, and reduces vehicle weight and head toss. Front suspension wheel travel is increased 13 percent over the previous generation vehicle, and a tight turning diameter of 37.1 ft. is improved over the current Jeep Grand Cherokee to provide even more nimble handling.

The new five-link rear suspension geometry, including a track bar, also improves lateral stiffness to match that of the front suspension for optimum handling.

The innovative Dynamic Handling System (DHS) is standard with the 5.7-liter HEMI engine – a Chrysler Group first application of a hydraulic-controlled active stabilizer system. DHS delivers a high level of driver confidence by significantly reducing body roll, resulting in sportier handling when turning or maneuvering, while providing a smoother ride when traveling straight ahead.

Also offered for the first time, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability in severe driving maneuvers on any type of surface. Using signals from sensors throughout the vehicle, the system determines the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability of the vehicle.

Grand Cherokee’s new rack-and-pinion steering system imparts a more precise steering feel translated to the driver through fewer linkages than a recirculating ball steering system. Even with the 2.5-inch increase in track, Grand Cherokee’s nimbleness and tight turning diameter are maintained with the new steering system.

All-New Five-Speed Automatic Offers Premium Refinement
An all-new five-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the 3.7-liter V-6. The carryover 545RFE five-speed automatic transmission used with the 4.7-liter V-8 and 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI has been refined for higher-quality shifts while increasing the Grand Cherokee’s maximum towing capacity.

Both transmissions feature Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver interactive shift control for the first time on Grand Cherokee. The shifter provides fully-automated shifting when in the “drive” position, or the driver can manually select each gear by simply moving the shifter left and right from the “drive” position. This gives the driver control to precisely match any on-road or off-road driving requirement.

A new stamped steel transfer case skid plate mounts to the transmission cross member and fuel tank skidplate to provide off-road protection to the transfer case.

Legendary Grand Cherokee Size, Styling and Comfort
Grand Cherokee’s new design provides a contemporary return of an athletic appearance. Up front, the signature seven-slot grille flanked by the functional round appearance high-performance halogen headlamps boldly dominates the design statement. These round headlamps unify the unmistakable front-end appearance of the entire Jeep lineup. A proportionally longer hood and greater distance between the center of the front axle and base of the windshield visually communicates a more powerful image. A flatter windshield and faster A-pillar achieves a more athletic appearance. The overall design also helps to improve vehicle aerodynamics and vehicle fuel economy. The body is shrink-wrapped to the package, enabling designers to emphasize the powerful wheel flares. Larger taillamps in the rear feature red and clear lenses for an upscale appearance. Overall, the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee preserves the right-size package that is critical for off-road use and provides nimble on-road handling.

All-New Interior Provides Next Generation Sophistication
Grand Cherokee’s new interior is rich and inviting with a two-tone instrument panel, door trim and new finishes. Seat contours are precise and ergonomic with increased seat track travel. Increased headroom adds a feeling of even more spaciousness to the interior. The dramatic and elegant instrument panel design offers a high degree of precision and control. In the cargo area, features such as a reversible load floor panel enhance versatility and storage. New premium amenities – including GPS Navigation radio, rear seat DVD, Boston Acoustics audio, UConnect™ hands-free communication system, Smart Beam® and Rear-Park Assist – will be available on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee as well.

The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be produced at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, starting in the third quarter of 2004. Assembly for markets outside North America will begin in the first quarter of 2005 at the Magna Steyr assembly plant in Graz, Austria.

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 07, 2004 -Time and time again, the Jeep® brand has defined and repeatedly challenged auto industry standards through the innovative use of new technologies. The introduction of the all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee continues this long-standing Jeep tradition.

“The Jeep brand invented the SUV segment, and for over a decade, Grand Cherokee has set the standard,” said Jeff Bell, Chrysler Group Vice President – Jeep. “The new 2005 Grand Cherokee builds on the tradition with an all-new, contemporary style with premium amenities and legendary Jeep capability.”

A History of Innovation
The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee builds on the Jeep brand’s unparalleled reputation for off-road capability and on-road refinement. It’s a reputation earned during more than six decades of SUV mastery.

The first civilian Jeep, CJ2A, was introduced in 1945. In 1949 came the introduction of the two-door Jeepster, which was powered by the famous four-cylinder Willys engine.

In 1963, Jeep vehicles were the first in the automotive industry to offer the combination of four-wheel drive and automatic transmission. The car-like comfort and convenience were unique to four-wheel-drive vehicles. Two years later, Jeep became the first sport-utility brand to offer a V-8 engine. Another Jeep brand exclusive was the completely automatic full-time four-wheel drive system with a unique controlled-slip differential. This innovative system was first offered on the 1973 Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

Then came 1984–a watershed year for the sport-utility market when Jeep created a new segment with the introduction of the Jeep Cherokee, the first Unibody four-door compact SUV and a true car-like alternative.

Further expanding its full line of sport-utility vehicles, Jeep again established itself as the gold standard when it introduced the Jeep Grand Cherokee in 1992. In addition to a number of new technologies, Jeep Grand Cherokee was the first sport-utility vehicle to be equipped with a driver’s side-air bag. And, with its comfort, ride and handling, it created the luxury sport-utility market.

As a precursor to performance-oriented sport-utility vehicles, Jeep, in 1997 introduced the Grand Cherokee high-output 5.9-liter V-8-equipped Limited model. The engine boasted 245 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds, giving it the distinction as the industry’s fastest production sport-utility vehicle. All the while, the 5.9 Limited also maintained the 4 x 4 capability for which the Jeep brand is known.

In 1998, Jeep again raised the standard among SUVs with the introduction of the second generation Grand Cherokee. It featured a new concept in four-wheel-drive systems: a new Quadra-Drive II™ transfer case that incorporated a progressive, speed-sensing torque transfer coupling. The system marked the first industry use of Vari-Lok axles that have progressive, speed-sensing torque transfer differentials, in both front and rear axles. Combining Quadra-Trac II and Vari-Lok yielded the revolutionary Quadra-Drive system which, without any driver involvement, keeps the vehicle moving even if only one wheel has minimal traction – a key customer benefit under all driving conditions.

In 2001, the introduction of the Jeep Liberty expanded the brand lineup and still stood apart from a new generation of less capable compact SUVs. One year later, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model made its debut as the most capable straight-from-the-factory SUV with locking front and rear differentials, front and rear Dana 44 axles and an industry-leading 4:1 low-range transfer case.

All-New Grand Cherokee: The Tradition Continues
Continuing the tradition of Jeep innovation, the all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee is unlike anything else on the market. It brings together Electronic Limited Slip Differentials, Electronic Stability Program, a Dynamic Handling System, a new suspension, new rack and pinion steering and other technologies to yield exceptional on-road dynamics and excellent off-road capability. And all this in the original nimble size of Grand Cherokee that customers know and want.

In addition, the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee is powered by a new optional 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine for a major increase in performance and fuel efficiency. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine is offered as the base engine for the first time on Grand Cherokee, giving it a significant boost in performance versus the engine it replaces.

The all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers premium amenities, such as SmartBeam® headlamps that automatically dim with oncoming traffic, rear seat DVD entertainment, UConnect™ hands-free communication, satellite radio, navigation system, automatic windshield wipers, adjustable pedals and dual zone heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

Also new on the 2005 Grand Cherokee are enhanced safety and security features, including front and side air bags with protection from A to C pillars, tire pressure monitoring systems, available rear park assist, and occupant classification system.

“Whether it’s going into the outback or to the opera, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee has the elegance, sophisticated style and capability to get owners where they want to be, whenever they want,” said Bell. “ We stayed true to our go-anywhere, do-anything Jeep 4 x 4 heritage that customers want, and we also took the refinement, handling and overall enjoyment well beyond customers’ expectations.”

New York, Apr 07, 2004 -Jeep® Liberty will offer the first diesel in the U.S. and Canadian mid-size sport-utility vehicle segment, adding unique capability in support of the Jeep brand’s constant push for innovation and market leadership. This new engine offering will provide increased torque, power and range.

"The availability of a diesel engine on the Jeep Liberty reinforces the Jeep brand’s leadership position in the sport-utility market, underscores our commitment to alternative fuels and technology, and gives customers an optional power plant that no other competitor can offer," said Jeff Bell, Chrysler Group Vice President – Jeep.

Jeep Liberty will be available with a 2.8-liter common rail diesel (CRD) engine for the first time in the United States and Canada. The 2.8-liter CRD is rated at an estimated 160 horsepower (120 kW) at 3800 rpm and with 295 lb.-ft. (400 N.m) at 1800 rpm, providing class-leading torque and towing capability. Diesel engines offer another option for increased torque, towing and range, while improving fuel economy an average of 25 percent and reducing CO2 emissions by an average of 20 percent. The diesel engine will be available on both Sport and Limited models.

The restyled and repackaged Jeep Liberty Renegade becomes the image leader for Liberty, and features a more rugged, classic Jeep appearance.

Liberty Renegade is reminiscent of vintage Jeep vehicles with a new flatter hood, taller grille, off-road foglamps and taillamp guards. This model will feature functional rock rails, four skid plates, and available P235/70R16 all-terrain tires with wider, more aggressive treads, available GPS DVD-based navigation radio and “diamond plate-inspired” seat fabric. The Liberty Renegade is also available with an optional overhead light bar.

The 2005 Jeep Liberty will offer a freshened exterior and refined interior across the line. The new Jeep Liberty is given a freshened exterior design with new front fascia, grille, foglamps, fender flares and body side-moldings. Interior refinements include relocated power window switches, new instrument panel cluster graphics and trim bezels and improved seat comfort.

"True to its Jeep heritage, the 2005 Jeep Liberty continues to give enthusiasts a sense of personal capability and freedom by offering the best four-wheel-drive lineup in the segment," said Bell. "The Jeep Liberty distinguishes itself from less capable 4 x 4s."

Jeep Liberty clearly stands apart among car-based sport-utility vehicles in terms of capability, as well as truck-based offerings in terms of on-road refinement. A coil spring independent front suspension and link-coil rear suspension provide an exceptional on-road ride and legendary off-road capability. Sturdiness and four-wheel drive give Jeep Liberty 5000 lbs. of trailer-towing capability.

The 2005 Jeep Liberty 4 x 4 models are Trail Rated® and meet or exceed the minimum requirements established by the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) and Jeep Engineering. Only Jeep vehicles are Trail Rated.

New York, Apr 07, 2004 -Created to expand the depth and breadth of the Jeep® brand, Jeep Liberty has not only captivated traditional Jeep buyers, but also has attracted a new generation of sport-utility vehicle buyers who value the best combination of Jeep 4 x 4 capability and on-road refinement in the mid-size sport-utility segment.

The new 2005 Jeep Liberty continues to expand the Jeep brand portfolio with its freshened exterior and interior design on Sport and Limited models, new Liberty Renegade design with unique exterior, as well as the addition of the first diesel engine in a compact SUV for North American markets.

» Read More

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 05, 2004 -

Chrysler Group continues its wave of successful sports tourers with a new lineup of 2005 Pacifica models. The new models will include an entry level Chrysler Pacifica priced less than $25,000, a well-equipped Pacifica Touring model and a top-of-the-line Pacifica Limited model. The new Pacifica Touring model will arrive at dealer showrooms this spring.

"The addition of the new Touring model to the family really gives Pacifica customers a wide range of dynamite products well beyond the SUV," said Jeff Bell, Vice President-Chrysler and Jeep®. "With an entry level model priced below $25,000, the six-passenger Touring model and the premium Pacifica Limited, Chrysler offers new levels of refinement, safety and comfort at a great value."

The Chrysler Pacifica received the U.S. Government's highest crash test rating of five stars for both front- and side-impact when equipped with optional side-curtain air bags. In addition, Chrysler Pacifica achieved a "Best Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in its frontal offset test.1

» Read More

Auburn Hills, Apr 01, 2004
• Tested at 150 miles per hour, Crossfire Roadster combines Chrysler brand’s stunning design and convertible leadership with proven engineering
• New 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster offers exceptional body torsional stiffness (29.2 Hz) and more torque (229 ft.-lb.) than Porsche Boxster (192), Audi TT Quattro (207) and BMW Z4 (214)
• Top down in 22 seconds
• Further establishes Chrysler as America’s convertible brand, joining the new Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible and Sebring Convertible
• Roadster is one of nine new vehicles to be launched this year by the Chrysler Group
Just one year after launching the Chrysler Crossfire coupe, Chrysler introduces the new 2005 Crossfire Roadster. First unveiled at the 2004 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), Chrysler Crossfire Roadster will arrive in dealerships this spring.

“The new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster combines stunning, head-turning design with proven engineering,” said Larry Achram, Vice President, Virtual Engineering and Crossfire, Chrysler Group. “Crossfire Roadster effectively captures the spirit of the Crossfire coupe, one of the most beautiful coupes on the road today.”

Proven Performance

The new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster offers exceptional body torsional stiffness (29.2 Hz) and more torque (229 ft.-lb.) than Porsche Boxster (192), Audi TT Quattro (207) and BMW Z4 (214).

The new Crossfire Roadster is low-slung with a sculpted appearance. Under the hood is a 3.2-liter 90-degree, 18-valve SOHC V-6 engine available with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.

Crossfire Roadster comes standard with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake assist, and high-performance, W-rated Continental SportContact 2 tires that are certified to 168 miles per hour. Similar to the Chrysler Crossfire coupe, Crossfire Roadster features a speed-sensitive rear spoiler that automatically deploys when the vehicle reaches 60 miles per hour.

Top Down in 22 Seconds

“While the top goes down in seconds, the ultimate measure of a roadster’s engineering is how quiet the vehicle is with the top up,” said Achram. “We designed Crossfire Roadster to be a 150 mile-per-hour roadster. The result is a stunning roadster that is tight, solid and quiet.”

To remove the top, simply release and pull down the center-mounted handle located on the windshield header, turn the handle, which releases the convertible fabric top and lowers the side glass, and lift the front of the top approximately eight inches. Press the button on the center console and the hard tonneau opens up, the soft fabric top folds in, and the hard tonneau closes again.