Archives
All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, with 35 new and improved features, have earned quadruple five-star crash test ratings from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Here are the direct links to pages on the NHTSA Web site:
09/26/07 Permalink
09/23/07: Fresh Ideas for the Minivans
- Thirty-five new or improved features make the 2008 Chrysler Group minivans “family rooms on wheels”
- Fifth generation of industry-leading Chrysler Group minivans to arrive this fall
- All-new exterior and interior design for a more contemporary appearance
- Five models, three distinct seating and storage systems and three powertrains, including a minivan-first six-speed transaxle, offer clever versatility for active lifestyles
The all-new 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans offer fresh ideas for consumers looking for the best vehicles to move people and cargo. With 35 new or improved features, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country aren’t just practical vehicles, they also have the right mix to be “family rooms on wheels,” with something for everyone to enjoy.
“Family transportation has changed since the introduction of the original Dodge Caravan in 1984,” said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President – Chrysler Group NAFTA Sales, Global Marketing, Service and Parts. “The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan set the family transportation standard with an all-new ‘grown-up’ appearance, five different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and the safety consumers expect and deserve. Add in three powertrain options, clever interior features and industry-leading functionality and you have a recipe that will be a favorite with any family.”
The newest idea that has popped in the family seating arena is the all-new Swivel ’n Go™ seat system. Swivel ’n Go offers second-row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor of the second row, third-row uncovered storage and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating. The table stores out of sight in the second-row covered storage bins when not in use. Swivel ’n Go also offers an available minivan-first integrated child booster seat in the second-row quad chair (late availability) and an available minivan-exclusive one-touch power-folding third-row 60/40 bench seat. With Swivel ‘n Go, everything from dinner on the go to card tournaments is possible.
“Chrysler Group engineers continue to bring fresh ideas to the minivan segment,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Chrysler Group Front-wheel-drive Product Team. “This time, we turn the tables on traditional seats with a technology that lets families have more choices of how to spend their time while traveling. With Swivel ’n Go, second- and third-row passengers can face each other to have a conversation, play games or have a meal on the go.”
Safety is a key part of any minivan, and that continues to be true with the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. All-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control and brake assist, LATCH child seat anchor system and an energy-absorbing steering column are among the standard safety features included in the 2008 Dodge and Chrysler minivans. Innovations like ParkView® rear back-up camera, a rearview interior conversation mirror, integrated child safety seat, ParkSense® rear back-up system and a minivan-first integrated child booster seat (late availability) also ensure peace of mind while traveling.
09/23/07 Permalink
- The Chrome Grille from Mopar® allows customers to personalize their Jeep® Wrangler to make a bold statement
- Provides a bright complement to any Wrangler body color for a stylish exterior
- The chrome grille features precise fit and long-lasting good looks
Mopar®, the Chrysler LLC's original equipment parts manufacturer, announced it offers a new Chrome Grille for the Jeep® Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. An Authentic Jeep Accessory from Mopar, the chrome grille kit also includes a Jeep emblem, hood seal and fasteners.
Installing in less than 20 minutes, the chrome grille has a durable and long-lasting finish. Designed and engineered to meet all Chrysler O.E. corrosion protection specifications and standards, the chrome grille also doesn’t affect the Wrangler’s cooling system performance.
“Our new chrome grille, an Authentic Jeep Accessory from Mopar, dresses up the Jeep Wrangler so it’s sure to turn heads on the trail or at a red-carpet event,” said Chris Cortez, Senior Vice President – Global Service & Parts, Chrysler LLC. Cortez added, “Our factory-engineered Jeep accessories are designed as well as performance and safety tested to provide compatibility in function, fit and finish.”
The U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the chrome grille (P/N 82210558AC) is $299.
Mopar offers a complete package of chrome accessories including front and rear tubular bumpers, fog lights, wheels, tubular side steps, taillamp guards, fuel filler door and exhaust tip.
The chrome grille from Mopar is available for purchase and installation at Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships across the country. Mopar accessories are covered under Chrysler’s 3-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty or Mopar’s 12-month/12,000-mile Limited Warranty, whichever is more favorable to the customer. These warranties are serviced by Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealerships.
09/20/07 Permalink
- Iconic off-roader returns to its storied roots with J8 multipurpose model primarily developed for military use – but also suitable for civilian government applications
Chrysler LLC unveiled the Jeep® J8 multipurpose vehicle at the 2007 Defence Systems & Equipment International (DSEi) military trade show, making the legendary vehicle available for reenlistment in active military service.
“Jeep vehicles made their original debut in 1941 for military duty, and have built their reputation with more than 65 years as the world’s benchmark for off-road capability and versatility for civilian and military vehicles,” said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC. “The new Jeep J8 marks the brand’s return to vehicle production for military and civilian government use – the same capability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited famous also makes the Jeep J8 a truly multipurpose vehicle.”
With the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, Jeep engineers increased its capability and versatility. The frame of the Wrangler Unlimited is reinforced for increased ruggedness and to allow greater payloads – up to a maximum of 1,339 kg (2,952 lbs.). Axles, brakes and suspension components are engineered specifically for more demanding military and civilian government use, including utilizing a leaf-spring suspension system in the rear. The J8’s Command-Trac® four-wheel-drive system allows maximum versatility and performance in both on- and off-road conditions.
The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 N•m (295 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs.). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to ford water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and operate in sandstorm conditions for up to five hours.
The Jeep J8 is available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle. It may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand or left-hand drive.
While not designed for front-line combat operations, the Jeep J8 is fully armour capable and excels in a variety of duties ranging from command vehicle to troop/cargo carrier, ambulance, communications vehicle and other duties – also making it suitable for civilian government applications. Tow eyes and heavy-duty bumpers allow the Jeep J8 to be easily transported by airplane or helicopter.
The Jeep J8 will be produced in a Chrysler LLC joint-venture facility in Cairo, Egypt, and will be available beginning in spring 2008.
Jeep in the Military
In June 1941, the U.S. Army received its first shipments of the Willys MA, the rugged 4x4 vehicle that came to be called the Jeep. This predecessor to today’s Jeep Wrangler would prove so vital to the Allies’ World War II effort that Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower declared that the war could not have been won without the Jeep vehicle.
Jeep vehicles have been produced for various militaries around the world. The Jeep J8 marks the start of Jeep’s renewed commitment to supply the defence community with the highest-quality 4x4 vehicles available anywhere in the world.
09/20/07 Permalink
09/17/07: Dodge to Auction First 2008 Challengers
Proceeds to Benefit Charitable Organizations
- Dodge Challenger No. 1 to benefit notMYkid
- Dodge Challenger No. 2 to benefit United Way of Southeastern Michigan
- A Third Dodge Challenger will be auctioned off on eBay.com in early 2008
- All three vehicles will be 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® models, featuring HEMI® Orange paint, hood stripes and a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine
- All 2008 Dodge Challenger models to include numbered dash plaque
Bidders get ready. Chrysler announced today that the first two all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger vehicles off the Brampton (Ontario) Assembly Plant production line will be auctioned, with proceeds benefiting local charities.
The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger — the ultimate modern American muscle coupe — will make its worldwide debut at the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6, 2008.
"Dodge is thrilled to build on the excitement of the countdown to the return of the Challenger by giving consumers the chance to get one of the first all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger vehicles produced," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Marketing. "The Dodge Challenger is an icon and the revival of this storied nameplate has enthusiasts chomping at the bit to get one. Consumers now have the opportunity to not only own the car of their dreams, but to help those in less fortunate circumstances as well."
The vehicles chosen to be auctioned for charity will all be Street and Racing Technology (SRT®) models. Each will feature a HEMI® Orange exterior, hood stripes, a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine, and a five-speed automatic transmission with Autostick®.
Proceeds from Dodge Challenger No. 1 will benefit notMYkid, an organization dedicated to facilitating improved understanding about youth behavioral health issues including suicide, drug abuse, eating disorders and depression. Dodge Challenger No. 1 will be auctioned at the 37th annual Barret-Jackson Collector Car Auction Event in Scottsdale, Ariz., Jan. 12-20, 2008.
Proceeds from Dodge Challenger No. 2 will benefit the United Way of Southeastern Michigan, through a private auction for Dodge dealers. The auction begins Sept. 26.
Information about the third Challenger to be auctioned via eBay.com will be announced at a later date.
The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger is the ultimate modern American muscle coupe. The new icon stays true to both its historical and modern concept roots. It is a modern vehicle that follows the authentic Dodge muscle car formula — a two-door, HEMI V-8-powered rear-wheel-drive coupe. The 2008 Dodge Challenger is the true evolution of an iconic muscle coupe and the perfect compliment to the four-door Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300.
09/17/07 Permalink
09/17/07: Dodge VANtastic Holiday Voyage
- Most efficient team in each city wins family vacation in 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
- Enter online at www.DodgeVantasticHolidayVoyage.com by October 23
The “Dodge VANtastic Holiday Voyage” competitions — taking place in Charlotte, N.C., on Nov. 8 and in Minneapolis on Nov. 13 — will test family teamwork and vacation packing skills in a fun contest, resulting in one family in each city winning road trip getaways, including $5,000 in vacation expenses and the use of a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan for their travels.
Coinciding with the launch of the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, a virtual “family room on wheels,” the “VANastic Holiday Voyage” challenge will require families to pack the Grand Caravan full of vacation travel items while utilizing the vehicle’s many interior storage compartments, including the Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system, dual glove boxes and front-row sliding console. Packing and travel expert, Susan Foster will kick off the competition by providing families with practical packing tips to reduce stress this upcoming holiday season.
“Today’s families are on the move, and the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is purpose-built to serve their everyday needs,” said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Jeep®/Truck, Advance Interior and Component Design, Chrysler LLC. “The Grand Caravan brings the comforts of home on the road and offers families more choices of how to spend their time while traveling.”
Teams of up to four participants residing in a 150 mile radius of Charlotte or Minneapolis can register for the challenge online at www.DodgeVantasticHolidayVoyage.com by October 23. Up to 16 teams will be chosen for each contest. Full contest details and rules are available at the contest Web site.
09/17/07 Permalink
09/05/07: 2008 Jeep Liberty
- All-new 2008 Jeep® Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage
- Improved on-road ride and handling with new independent front and new five-link rear suspension systems
- All-new Jeep classic exterior styling, functional interior space and upgraded amenities designed to broaden its appeal to consumers
- Industry-exclusive Sky Slider™ full-length open canvas roof
All-new from the ground up for 2008, the Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems – Command-Trac® and the all-new Selec-Trac® II. On-road ride and handling have been improved and refined with the new independent front suspension, new five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.
The Liberty’s exterior has been redesigned, and takes on a more rugged, classic Jeep look that is sure to captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners and broaden its consumer appeal. Inside, cargo and storage space, and seat comfort improves. Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider™ full-length open canvas roof, an industry-exclusive – giving the Liberty that “Have Fun Out There” open-air Jeep brand experience. Remote start, rain-sensing wipers*, memory seats, mirrors and radio controls, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle’s ever-growing list of available features and options. There are two models – Jeep Liberty Sport and Jeep Liberty Limited.
“The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty stands out from the competition by offering customers classic Jeep design, two four-wheel-drive systems, refined on-road ride and handling, cargo and utility, as well as standard and optional features that are not typically found on vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment,” said John Plecha, Director – Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications, Chrysler. “And, the Jeep Liberty Limited sets the bar high with the most combined comfort and convenience features available in its segment.”
The all-new Jeep Liberty is designed to appeal to customers who are looking for Jeep 4x4 capability as well as comfort and convenience. It is targeted to young couples and new families, as well as professional, young single men and women between 30 and 40 years of age, balanced male to female. Jeep Liberty owners will balance day-to-day responsibilities with their passion for adventure as well as the outdoors. They are athletic, and pursue activities that combine their various interests with their active lifestyle. The Jeep Liberty will be available at Jeep dealerships starting in the third quarter of 2007.
09/05/07 Permalink
09/02/07: Raminator Pictures
09/02/07 Permalink

