Archives
10/26/04: R&T Road Test: Dodge Magnum RT (11/2004)
R&T Road Test: Dodge Magnum RT (11/2004)"Along with its great looks, the Magnum also boasts an excellent drivetrain, starting with the heavily promoted and now again-famous Hemi moniker on the 5.7-liter V-8. This engine produces an abundance of horsepower (340 bhp at 5000 rpm) and all-important torque (390 lb.-ft. at 4000). Considering that the curb weight is 4200 lb., all this power is needed to provide the performance Dodge wanted to offer and buyers demanded. In our track testing, we were delighted to find that the Magnum RT charged from 0-60 mph in a very quick 6.1 seconds, and ran the quarter mile in 14.6 sec. at 97.4 mph. The Hemi has a pleasant rumble to its exhaust note, and it's an engine that hustles up through the rev range with a linear delivery of power."
10/26/04 Permalink
Car and Driver Magazine : Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4WD 5.7L : November 2004"It's been a long time coming, but look at what Jeep has finally produced: a brand-new Grand Cherokee line with a choice of three engines (including a 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi), three four-wheel-drive systems in addition to good ol' two-wheel drive, and prices from the high 20s to the mid-40s. There should be something for everyone in that mix."
10/25/04 Permalink
Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 21, 2004 - Demonstrating “go-anywhere, do-anything” capability and its ability to master every imaginable day-to-day driving condition – whether on-road or off-pavement – the all-new Jeep® Grand Cherokee climbed to new heights today and became the first-ever vehicle to scale a 30-story skyscraper in New York City.
Building on the legendary Jeep 4x4 heritage, the Jeep Grand Cherokee – debuting in Jeep dealerships nationwide this weekend – climbed vertically up Vornado Realty Trust’s 2 Penn Plaza building to a “Jeep Only” parking space at the top of the building, as an estimated 500,000 people viewed the feat on their daily commute.
“Scaling a New York building positions the new Jeep Grand Cherokee at its rightful place in the marketplace, literally above everything else,” said Jeff Bell, Vice President-Jeep Marketing, Chrysler Group. “We wanted to make an impossible-to-miss statement that incorporates the hallmarks of the Jeep brand and the capability and performance of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee.”
See It to Believe It
This bold climb also kicked off the arrival of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee at dealerships nationwide in conjunction with Jeep Premiere 2005 this weekend. Nearly 2,000 Jeep dealerships will showcase the all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, new 2005 Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited.
Consumers can re-live the Jeep Grand Cherokee climb at www.jeep.com/climb or at any of the participating Jeep dealerships nationwide.

“A feat of this magnitude underscores the ‘Only in a Jeep’ brand hallmarks and the only in New York style,” said Bell.
The off-road capability of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee climbs to a new level with a choice of three class-leading 4x4 systems, including the new Quadra-Drive II 4WD system with Electronic Limited-Slip Differentials to automatically shift torque to each of the four wheels as needed to deliver maximum grip. The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee also features a new level of on-road performance, including its new optional 330-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, and new steering and suspension for superior ride and handling, as well as the new Electronic Stability Program for an extra measure of driver control and confidence.
The Vornado Realty Trust owns 2 Penn Plaza, which is located above one of the largest commuter stations in New York and is among the busiest commerce districts in the country.
10/21/04 Permalink
Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 19, 2004 -The Chrysler Group is redesigning its vehicle electrical systems from the ground up to give customers more convenience and features.
“Designing the most sophisticated electrical system is a fair challenge,” said Bill Mattingly, Vice President Electrical/Electronics Engineering Core, Chrysler Group, “but it’s a much greater challenge to design and integrate a high-tech system in mainstream sedans and SUVs at a cost/benefit ratio that’s right for the customer.”
Mattingly participated in a panel today at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Convergence Conference at Cobo Hall in Detroit, Michigan. The Convergence panel brought together the top electrical engineers from six of the world's major carmakers.
"In an environment where the only thing constant is change, we are constantly faced with furthering the electrical capabilities in our vehicles while minimizing cost and continuing to deliver stringent reliability," said Mattingly. "Efforts to increase global electrical engineering standards, supplier involvement and quality gains remain challenges we all face as an industry."
The Chrysler Group continues to enhance its electrical communication systems. In 2004, the company implemented a high-speed Controller Area Network (CAN) bus system, CAN-C, for powertrain and chassis applications, and a low-speed CAN-B for body applications. These changes enable systems to do more calculations at a much higher rate, allow the use of smart sensors and generally add flexibility and capability to a vehicle electrical system.
"The electrical system is asked to do more, and we continue to provide more and more features in the car," said Mattingly. “At the same time we are finding more efficient ways to accomplish this."
Numerous initiatives include consolidating features from separate modules to create one group of systems rather than multiple separate systems. For example, the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum include a Cluster Compartment Node (CCN) which combines the following major content:
Door locking system
Vehicle security
Interior lighting control
Audible warnings
Exterior lighting control
Graphic/text displays
Indicators/warnings
Gauges
CAN-B messages
Rear wiper/washer
Additionally, the Chrysler Group has adopted an aggressive Infotainment strategy bringing customer-feature electronics predominantly into the vehicle. Radio-based multi-media applications such as UConnect hands-free telephone capability, Navigation, DVD, SIRIUS Satellite radio and MP3 are readily available factory-installed options within select Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles.
"As vehicle electronics continue to grow with the needs of our customers,” said Mattingly. "We continue to find smarter ways to meet those needs."
10/19/04 Permalink

- Premium Models Honor Walter P. Chrysler Heritage
- Value Packages Bundle Popular Equipment and Distinctly-designed Interiors
Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 15, 2004 - To celebrate Chrysler Group's proud heritage and further establish premium positioning in the marketplace, Chrysler brand has inked a plan to introduce a limited edition "Signature Series" of vehicles this fall. In addition to popular equipment, each limited edition vehicle features an exclusive Walter P. Chrysler signature badge, reflecting the pride, craftsmanship, heritage and value of Chrysler vehicles.
"The new 'Signature Series' models offer exceptional value with popular equipment packages and one-of-a-kind interior features," said Jeff Bell, Vice President - Chrysler. "It takes a special product to bear the name of our founder. These limited editions of our award-winning, best-selling models would make Walter P. Chrysler proud."
The Chrysler Signature Series package is being offered on these 2005 vehicles: the Chrysler 300 Touring, Chrysler Sebring Touring Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Sedan and Sebring Touring Sedan, Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited, Chrysler Pacifica Touring and Chrysler Town & Country and Town & Country Touring.
Vehicles include popular equipment, such as power moon roofs, navigation systems or rear entertainment systems, at no charge.
Chrysler Signature Series vehicles are available in a range of paint palettes, including a signature Linen Gold color. Each vehicle also will feature special Signature Series badging.
The 2005 Chrysler 300 Touring marks the return of the Great American car with a combination of elegance, confidence, power and value. The Signature Series package adds a no-charge AM/FM/six-disc CD radio with Global Positioning System (GPS) and DVD-based full screen navigation system, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, unique Deep Slate Gray/Light Greystone two-tone leather-trimmed seats, SIRIUS® Satellite radio with one-year subscription provided by SIRIUS, Boston Acoustics six-speaker, 276-watt system, and power sun roof with express open/close. Paint colors include Linen Gold Metallic, Midnight Blue Pearl Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic and Magnesium Pearl Coat. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Chrysler 300 Touring Signature Series package is $2,185.
The 2005 Chrysler Sebring Touring Convertible continues its reign as the best-selling convertible in the United States with elegant style, comfort and class-leading roominess. The Signature Series package includes no-charge navigation AM/FM/CD radio with Global Positioning System, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, cloth top, unique two-tone leather-trimmed seats, six-disc CD changer, six Infinity® Sound speakers and 150-watt amplifier, chrome-clad wheels, chrome inside door releases and bright exhaust tip. Paint colors include Linen Gold Pearl Coat, Midnight Blue Pearl Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Satin Jade Pearl Coat, Graphite Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Magnesium Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat. The MSRP for the Chrysler Sebring Touring Convertible Signature Series package is $2,055.
The 2005 Chrysler Sebring Sedan and Sebring Touring Sedan offer the highest government frontal crash ratings and a slew of premium amenities in a contemporary vehicle. The Signature Series package includes no-charge power sun roof with premium headliner, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, unique two-tone leather-trimmed seats, leather steering wheel and shifter, steering wheel audio control, power driver seat and chrome inside door releases. Paint colors include Linen Gold Pearl Coat, Midnight Blue Pearl Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Satin Jade Pearl Coat, Graphite Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Magnesium Pearl Coat and Stone White Clear Coat. The MSRP for the Chrysler Sebring Sedan and Sebring Touring Sedan Signature Series package is $1,345.
The 2005 Chrysler Pacifica Touring redefines "SUV" to mean safety, utility and value. The vehicle received the U.S. government's highest crash test rating of five stars for both front-and-side impact when equipped with side-curtain airbags. It also received four stars (best of the SUVs tested) in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rollover test and achieved a "Best Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety in its frontal offset test. The Signature Series package includes no-charge power moon roof, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, unique two-tone taupe leather-trimmed seats (first and second row heated) with embossed wings on front-row head restraints, AM/FM/Cassette/CD radio and six-disc CD/DVD changer, unique textured silver instrument panel and door trim panel accents, 17-inch chrome-clad wheels, fog lamps, Cargo Convenience Group (includes cargo net, tonneau cover, roof rack crossbars and rear fascia scuff pad), power adjustable pedals, power liftgate, supplemental side curtain air bags for all three rows on all-wheel-drive (AWD) models, automatic headlamps (AWD), memory system for driver's seat, outside mirrors, radio presets and adjustable pedals (AWD) and auto dimming inside rearview mirror and driver exterior mirror (AWD). Paint colors include Linen Gold, Bright Silver, Brilliant Black and Atlantic Blue. The MSRP for the Chrysler Pacifica Touring Signature Series package is $3,860 for front-wheel-drive models and $3,560 for all-wheel-drive models.
The 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited represents one for the best values in America with unique styling, more size, more flexibility and more power than small car alternatives. The Signature Series Package includes a no-charge navigation system, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, a Chrome Package, unique two-tone Dark Taupe/Light Pearl Beige leather-trimmed seats, including driver and front passenger side airbags, driver power height adjuster and manual lumbar adjuster, AM/FM/CD Full-map Navigation Radio, light pewter instrument panel bezels, 16-inch chrome-clad wheels, driver seat power height adjuster, moon roof, HomelinkTM Universal Transceiver and SIRIUS Satellite radio with one-year subscription provided by SIRIUS. Paint colors include Linen Gold, Inferno Red, Dark Plum, Electric Blue, Midnight Blue, Bright Silver, Black and Cool Vanilla. The MSRP for the Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Signature Series package is $3,085.
The 2005 Chrysler Town & Country Touring includes the new Stow 'n GoTM seating and storage system, as well as 15 other new features and safety enhancements. The Signature Series Package includes a no-charge rear DVD video system, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, two-tone heated leather-trimmed seats with driver and front passenger power adjusters, bright inside front door handles, satin silver center stack bezel, Signature Series floor mats, AM/FM/CD, Navigation System and power sunroof. Paint colors include Linen Gold, Midnight Blue and Atlantic Blue. The MSRP for the Chrysler Town & Country Touring Signature Series package is $3,715.
The 2005 Chrysler Town & Country (Short-wheel base) continues as the premium nameplate in the minivan market segment invented by Chrysler Corporation more than 20 years ago. The short-wheel-base Chrysler Town & Country Signature Series package includes a no-charge Entertainment Group, satin silver center stack bezel, W.P. Chrysler Signature Series badges, bright inside front door handles, two-tone leather-trimmed seats with power adjusters, Signature Series floor mats, 16-inch aluminum wheels, Quad seating with 50/50 rear seats, dual-zone air conditioning and AM/FM/Cassette/CD with six speakers. Paint colors include Linen Gold, Midnight Blue and Atlantic Blue. The MSRP for the short-wheel-base Chrysler Town & Country Signature Series package is $2,810.
The Chrysler brand offers customers inspiration that comes standard on its products. Chrysler brand sales have spiked a remarkable 109 percent over the past decade, from 221,990 in 1993 to more than 463,000 units in 2003. No other American automotive brand has grown by that amount during the same 10-year period. For the year, Chrysler brand sales are 22 percent year-over-year through September.
10/16/04 Permalink

- Most capable production pickup truck delivers best-in-class off-road performance
- Dodge Ram Power Wagon is fifth Dodge truck to claim Four Wheeler award
Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 14, 2004 - The all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon is Four Wheeler Magazine’s 2005 "Pickup Truck of the Year." After a rigorous, in-depth series of evaluations, the Dodge Ram Power Wagon outperformed the competition in every driving environment included in the test.
"The 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon could well be the perfect full-size pickup truck," said Ken Brubaker, senior editor, Four Wheeler. “It can effortlessly scamper up rocky, off-camber terrain like a mountain goat, can tow up to 11,000 pounds, and seats six comfortably. Ultimately, the Dodge Ram Power Wagon’s stunning capability earned it the top spot.”
With best-in-class off-road performance, bold Dodge truck styling and HEMI® power, the all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon excelled in every category of Four Wheeler’s evaluation: trail performance, mechanical performance, highway performance, interior and exterior fit and finish.
“With the all-new Dodge Ram Power Wagon, Dodge has established a benchmark,” said Robin Stover, feature editor, Four Wheeler. “The Dodge Ram Power Wagon is the first and only production pickup truck built to represent the interests of four-wheel-drive consumers who want to own a truck that can play as hard as it works. Combining electronic-locking front and rear differentials, a class-exclusive disconnecting sway bar, a custom-built Warn® 12,000 lb. winch and a factory warranty, Dodge has an inarguable recipe for success among four-wheel-drive enthusiasts.”
Four Wheeler conducted its evaluations in a variety of driving conditions, which included mountain trails, desert sand and every type of terrain in between. Editors noted that the Dodge Ram Power Wagon clearly stood out in every driving environment tested.
“Earning the top spot in Four Wheeler’s ‘Pickup Truck of the Year’ competition is a tremendous accolade for the all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon,” said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge Marketing. “We set out to build a best-in-class off-road production pickup truck beyond anything created by the competition, designed to tackle any severe off-road work condition imaginable. This award substantiates the Dodge Ram Power Wagon as the most capable production pickup truck on the planet.”
Some of the competitors for the 2005 Four Wheeler “Pickup Truck of the Year” award included Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado gas-electric hybrid, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma. The all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon’s win marks Dodge’s fifth in the competition since it was established in 1989.
The all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon is the latest addition to the Dodge truck lineup, which continues to haul the most leadership claims:
- Dodge Ram 1500 with legendary HEMI power is the most powerful mass production light-duty pickup on the market
- Dodge Ram SRT-10 is the Guinness Book of World Records’ fastest production pickup
- Dodge Ram SRT-10 Quad Cab is the fastest, most powerful four-door pickup in the market
- Dodge Ram Heavy Duty Cummins Turbo Diesel is the strongest pickup on the market with 610 lb.-ft. of class-dominating torque
- Dodge Ram Power Wagon is the most capable off-road production pickup, geared for severe off-road work conditions
Complete test results and evaluations will be available in Four Wheeler’s January 2005 issue, on sale Nov. 23, 2004.
10/16/04 Permalink
2005 Dodge Power Wagon - Four Wheeler Magazine"Quick! Print this story out and frame it, because we predict that the new Dodge Power Wagon you're looking at will go down in automotive history as one of the most important fullsize trucks to ever roll off the end of an assembly line. What we're talking about here, folks, is a vehicle that sports a comprehensive list of real-world, honest-to-goodness off-highway mods. But be warned, the capabilities of this vehicle may cause true fullsize-loving four-wheel-drive fans to totally lose their composure and exhibit schoolboy giddiness."
10/11/04 Permalink
The Chrysler Group is redefining the small-car segment with the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, offering an entry-level model priced at $13,995.
“The PT Cruiser is the best small car alternative in the United States,” said Jeff Bell, Vice President—Chrysler. “With more size, more flexibility and more power than other small cars, this vehicle represents one of the best values in America!”
The newly repositioned Chrysler PT Cruiser will be available in four models for 2005: PT Cruiser, PT Cruiser Touring, PT Cruiser Limited and PT Cruiser GT.
Chrysler PT Cruiser owners will be able to choose from three engine options, including two turbos that blow away its compact car competition, a slew of feature choices and an interior that can be configured in more than 30 different ways.
The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s one-of-a-kind styling is a dramatic alternative to the typical small car found in this price class. Owners can express their sense of style and individuality while enjoying the peace of mind that the PT Cruiser’s best-in-class quality offers—quality that has earned the Chrysler PT Cruiser recommendations from leading consumer magazines, as well as Strategic Vision’s Total Quality Award.
10/11/04 Permalink
Continuing its legacy of being fun-to-drive and a great value, the 2005 Dodge Neon lineup offers compact car customers added dimensions in style and performance.
"From the well-equipped Dodge Neon SE to the turbo-charged Dodge SRT-4, these vehicles are simply an outstanding value," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President-Dodge Marketing. "Their attributes underscore what the Dodge Neon really is: the coolest compact car on the road, wrapped in a very smart package."
For 2005, Dodge Neon SXT introduces a new package with styling cues inspired by the performance-driven SRT-4 and a new Kicker® audio package.
10/11/04 Permalink
With its bold design, spacious interior and 3.0-liter, 200-horsepower V-6 engine, the 2005 Dodge Stratus coupe is a “Best Buy” for consumers looking for performance and value.
Consumers Digest magazine rated the Dodge Stratus coupe an Automotive Best Buy for the 2004 model year, saying it offers the most value for the money, based on a variety of measures including styling, performance, fuel economy, purchase price and ownership costs.
The Dodge Stratus Coupe also won the 2004 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study Award for the sporty car segment. The survey is based on responses from buyers and lessees of new 2004 model-year cars and trucks after 90 days of ownership.
“The Dodge Stratus coupe provides the power and pizzazz that coupe buyers want at a price they can afford,” said Darryl Jackson, Vice President—Dodge. “With its bold styling cues, low stance and cross-hair grille, the Stratus coupe is unmistakably Dodge.”
For the 2005 model year, Dodge will offer two Stratus coupe models, including Stratus SXT and R/T.
10/11/04 Permalink

Crisp handling, powerful performance, chiseled lines, a spacious interior and superb value define the 2005 Dodge Stratus sedan.
“When you get behind the wheel of the Dodge Stratus sedan, you feel like a kid in a candy store,” said Darryl Jackson, Vice President—Dodge Marketing. “With its 200-horsepower, V-6 engine and performance-tuned suspension, the Stratus R/T sedan is a blast to drive. It’s a mid-size sedan that drives like a sports coupe.”
Dodge will offer two models of the Stratus sedan for 2005: Dodge Stratus SXT and Dodge Stratus R/T. Both models will be available in the new Dark Taupe over Light Taupe interior scheme for 2005.
10/11/04 Permalink
Chrysler Group products are designed to improve not only handling and accident avoidance, but also to provide excellent crash protection as well. With the use of emerging technologies, the Chrysler Group is able to incorporate both passive and active safety features into vehicles.
“The Chrysler Group delivers safety to its customers by applying a broad range of technologies. Through advancements in computer aided engineering and the use of emerging technologies, practical safety innovation is achieved,” said Scott Redman, Manager Safety Planning and Strategy, Chrysler Group. “Our mission is to continuously improve each new generation of vehicles.”
Several innovative safety features have been developed to protect vehicle occupants in regulatory, consumer ratings and real-world impacts, including NCAP (New Car Assessment Program), SNCAP (Side Impact New Car Assessment Program), and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) offset impacts.
FRAME RAIL TIP
A patented, hydroformed tubular front body structure replaces a stamped, welded structure. Its attachment to the car is designed to prevent intrusion into the passenger space. Along with the frame, the front body panels are extended three inches farther forward of the wheels to enhance frontal and offset impact performance. This also helps focus the impact in the frame, which is the primary structural impact absorber. The octagonal front frame tips debuted on the 2004 Dodge Durango to absorb frontal impacts.
REAR STRUCTURE
The rear sill reinforcement was optimized through simulation to ensure consistent impact performance. The rear structure, including the sill reinforcement, was designed to allow the spare tire to rotate out of the way during a rear impact.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM (ESP)
Electronic Stability Program aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability, providing oversteer and understeer control to maintain vehicle behavior on road surfaces.
ALL-SPEED TRACTION CONTROL (TCS)
This system enhances mobility and prevents wheel slip when accelerating on road surfaces (up to 80 mph) by operating both the brakes and the Electric Throttle Control (ETC). It also provides a measure of directional stability control.
PANIC BRAKE ASSIST
Panic Brake Assist notifies the active brake booster electronically of the need for increased brake output, providing minimal stopping distances in emergency situations.
ENERGY-ABSORBING STEERING COLUMN
Manual-adjust steering columns utilize two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other to allow the column to move forward and enhance energy absorption during a crash. The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element, which deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
Equipped with electronic sensors that help prevent wheel lockup, the ABS offers improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions. The control modules for both systems communicate with sensors via the new CAN-C data bus.
ADVANCED AIR BAG SYSTEM
Enhanced protection for a wider range of occupants, this system is also designed to identify the size of front passenger occupant based primarily on weight.
KNEE BOLSTERS
The steering column lower cover and the glove box door are reinforced to protect unbelted occupants during frontal impacts. They both restrain and position the occupant to enable the air bags to work effectively.
MULTI-STAGE AIR BAGS
Multi-stage air bags deploy at three different rates depending on the severity of the crash. In lower-severity collisions, the air bag deploys with less force, and the force is increased during more severe collisions.
OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS)
The OCS measures the conditions for activation or deactivation of the front passenger-side air bag based upon the weight of the occupant.
PRETENSIONERS
During a collision, the impact sensors initiate the front seat-belt pretensioners to immediately remove slack from the seat belts.
SUPPLEMENTAL SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS
Optional side curtain air bags extend head protection to all outboard front and rear seat passengers. These are available for the first time on the Dodge Dakota Club Cabs and Quad Cabs.
THREE-POINT SHOULDER BELTS
All rear seat positions feature three-point shoulder belts, including a new center position on the Dodge Dakota Quad Cab. Rear seats on the new Dakota Club Cab feature fixed outboard rear head restraints, mounted to the roof and cab back. Dakota Quad Cab also features head restraints that are fixed to the top of the outboard rear seats.
Along with the many safety features that Chrysler Group vehicles offer, the company also has a long history of helping to reduce risks faced by drivers and pedestrians through safety programs, such as:
- Road Ready Teens
- Fit for a Kid
- SeatCheck
- The Back is Where it’s At
Through the innovative use of emerging technologies and education, the Chrysler Group will continue to support the goal of reducing roadway fatalities.
10/07/04 Permalink

- Up to 30 Percent Better Fuel Economy Compared to Equivalent Gasoline Engines
- An Average of 20 Percent Reduction in CO2 Emissions Compared to Equivalent Gasoline Engines
- Fun to Drive Diesels
Auburn Hills , Mich, Sep 27, 2004 - Diesel engines have come a long way from the loud, noisy power plants of an earlier time. Today’s diesel engines utilize advanced technology to offer smooth, responsive performance while increasing fuel economy approximately 30 percent and reducing CO2 emissions an average of 20 percent, compared to equivalent gasoline-powered vehicles. Chrysler Group’s new diesels are a key technology available today that can dramatically reduce the amount of crude oil consumed worldwide with an existing infrastructure.
"Modern diesel engines offer our customers a combination of smooth power delivery, great low-end torque and excellent fuel economy," said Eric Ridenour, Executive Vice President of Product Development, Chrysler Group. "Unlike other options, diesels give these customer benefits in both city and highway driving conditions."
Chrysler Group's new 2.8-liter Common Rail Diesel (CRD) engine will join the line up of engines offered in the Jeep® Liberty. The sophisticated power plant has the torque of a V-8, the acceleration of a V-6 and the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder engine. Although it's equipped with 160 hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2.8-liter is designed to be a quiet, smooth-running engine that produces lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions without sacrificing performance.
“The 2.8-liter CRD is among today’s advanced diesel engines that emit 60 percent less emissions than diesel engines of 20 years ago,” said Craig R. Love, Vice President – Rear-Wheel Drive Product Team and Core Team Leader, Chrysler Group. “Additionally, the noise, vibration and harshness issues that characterized early diesel-powered vehicles have been dramatically reduced in the 2.8-liter CRD.”
A long standing member of Chrysler Group's powertrain offerings is the Cummins Turbo Diesel. Better drivability, clean and quiet, the new Cummins 610 Turbo Diesel sets the standard for advanced diesel technology. In 1988, Chrysler Group and Cummins revolutionized the diesel pickup with the Cummins Turbo Diesel. In 2005, the newest version of the engine was introduced, the Cummins "610". With 610 lb.-ft. of end torque and 325 hp, the new engine provides better performance for trailer towing, acceleration, throttle response and drivability.
Advanced diesel is a proven technology. For years, Europeans have enjoyed the fuel economy benefits that diesel engines provide. More than 42 percent of all passenger vehicles sold in the European Union, and an even higher proportion of luxury vehicles sold there today, are powered by diesel engines.
"New sophisticated diesels offer a fun-to-drive experience with performance amplified by low-end torque," said Love. "For example, the 2.8-liter CRD in the 2005 Liberty adds to the already high Jeep utility and makes for a great overall package for our customers."
Advanced diesels are one of the sophisticated technologies available today in coexistence with hybrids as a short-term solution while fuel cell technology is a potential long-term solution to the fuel economy enigma. Chrysler Group continues to invest in and develop diesel technology for better fuel economy and fewer emissions as a core competence.
Light-duty diesel nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) have already been reduced by over 60 percent. In the last 20 years further improvements are required and will be achieved under Tier 2 and LEV II. The use of bio-diesel in these engines can contribute to further reduction of petroleum consumption and CO2 emissions.
10/05/04 Permalink
10/05/04: Dodge Charger is Back!
Auburn Hills, Mich., Oct 04, 2004 -The Dodge Charger returns to Dodge showrooms and NASCAR race tracks around the country in 2005. Stay tuned. . . .
Car and Driver Magazine has an exclusive first look at Dodge's hot revival.
10/05/04 Permalink
10/02/04: Legendary Dodge Ram Power Wagon Returns
The big, bad Dodge Ram Power Wagon is back.
After nearly 25 years, Dodge's legendary 4x4 icon - the Dodge Ram Power Wagon - returns as the most capable off-road production pickup truck ever created.
The all-new 2005 Dodge Ram Power Wagon is reborn with class-exclusive electric-locking front and rear differentials, a class-exclusive electronic disconnecting sway bar, the 345 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® engine, the tallest standard tires offered on a pickup truck - 33-inch BF Goodrich® All Terrain tires - a custom-built Warn® 12,000 lb. winch, and available three-inch heavy-gauge tubular steel rock rails from Mopar®.
"The Dodge Ram Power Wagon obliterates the competition," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge Marketing. "It is the only pickup for severe off-road work conditions. With best-in-class off-road performance and HEMI power, the Dodge Ram Power Wagon goes way beyond anything ever created by the competition."
Built to master the most rigorous off-road trails, the all-new Dodge Ram Power Wagon is based on the Dodge Ram 2500, and is available in either regular or Quad Cab body styles.
"The Dodge Ram Power Wagon is built for extreme off-road conditions, but will attract a wide variety of buyers," Jackson continued. "In addition to extreme off-roaders, Dodge Ram Power Wagon will be used in agricultural and forestry applications, and by enthusiasts in extreme recreational situations or on their daily drive route."
10/02/04 Permalink

• 15 more inches more than doubles cargo volume behind second seat to 22.3 cubic feet
• Improved on-road comfort and quietness
• Best-in-class towing
The Jeep Wrangler legend grows again, this time delivering Rubicon capability in a package Unlimited in scope.
With the all-new 2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, Jeep celebrates the marriage of its ultimate off-road rig – the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – to the new, roomier, versatile Wrangler – the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
“The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is the ultimate Wrangler and will attract a broad spectrum of buyers,” said Jeff Bell, Vice President, Jeep. “Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has been a tremendous success for the extreme off-road enthusiast, as well as for consumers looking for superior capability in everything they do. Combine that with the spacious Unlimited model, and the result is the best of all things Wrangler: the all-new 2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon.
“Jeep Wrangler is the icon of the Jeep brand,” Bell continued. “With the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, we have expanded the rugged appeal of the standard Wrangler to bring new customers into the fold, whether to conquer extreme off-road trails with added room to bring along gear, or to have the ultimate showpiece of Jeep capability – now with more space.”
Like all Jeep Wranglers, the all-new 2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon wears the Jeep Trail Rated® badge, indicating that the vehicle has been designed to perform in a variety of challenging conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording.
Jeep Wrangler continues to be a success in the marketplace, with sales up 24 percent in 2004 (through August). Jeep Wrangler sales have also posted several monthly records during the year.
10/02/04 Permalink



