Thursday, October 28, 2010

Chrysler reveals upgraded 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | detnews.com | The Detroit News

Chrysler reveals upgraded 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan | detnews.com | The Detroit News

Chrysler Group LLC released details of changes to the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan today in a bid to hang on to its prominence in the minivan sector in the face of competition from a new Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey introduced this year.

The Dodge Caravan has Chrysler's new Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine for 283 horsepower replacing three old V-6s.

The new engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and there is a Fuel Economizer Mode that changes the shift schedule for better fuel efficiency.

The suspension has been re-engineered and the van lowered. Lower-rolling resistance tires are designed to improve gas mileage.
The strength of a minivan is the utility of the interior. To that end, for 2011 there is a new one-piece instrument panel with larger gauges and a new center console for storage and an area for large items such as a purse.

The Stow 'n Go seats are more comfortable and can be operated with a one-touch button.

The Grand Caravan introduces a heated steering wheel to the segment.

Safety features include a rear park-assist system and backup camera as well as blind-spot monitoring and a system that detects vehicles crossing the van's path from behind.

There is a new front fascia, grille, hood and quad headlights to make it look more aggressive than its Chrysler Town & Country counterpart. In back there is a new rear fascia, liftgate and LED taillamps.

For 2011 there are four trim levels of Grand Caravan. The Express, Mainstreet and Crew go on sale this quarter and the R/T — dubbed the "man van" — follows next spring.

The minivans are built at the assembly plant in Windsor, Ontario.

[Read More: The Detroit News]

2011 Dodge Avenger Reworked

2011 Dodge Avenger Reworked
Chrysler has revamped the Dodge Avenger sedan for 2011, mildly reworking the sheet metal but dramatically upgrading the interior and suspension, while offering new powertrain combinations.

The look hasn't changed much, unlike the situation with the Avenger's longtime stablemate, the Chrysler Sebring, which has morphed into the 2011 Chrysler 200.

Under the skin, however, the 2011 Avenger is quite a different animal. Chrysler extensively re-engineered and retuned the suspension, lowering ride height, widening the track, reducing body roll and improving steering response and precision.

The standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is supplemented this year with the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which in the 2011 Avenger is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and makes 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

A heavy interior makeover includes a new instrument panel and steering wheel, upgraded seats and new color and fabric choices.

The 2011 Avenger will begin reaching Dodge dealerships later this quarter.

[Read More: Inside Line]

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Rises to Head of Muscle Car Class | Red Letter Dodge

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Rises to Head of Muscle Car Class | Red Letter Dodge
Over half a century ago, Chrysler rolled out the first iteration of their now iconic V8 engines with the FirePower lineup. Leading the pack was the 392 HEMI which quickly established itself as the engine to beat on the drag strip. Or the engine to try to beat, at any rate, since there were little stock options that put up as much of a fight on the quarter-mile as the 392.

Next week, the 392’s battle will wage on when the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 makes its premiere debut on the SEMA showroom floor. In place of the 6.1L HEMI V8 that so faithfully served the SRT8 models of years past sits the brand new 6.4L 392 cu. in. V8, churning out 470-horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. Control of the beast is aided by both a modified front chin spoiler and bigger front splitter, and the suspension has been recalibrated to respond more swiftly to the jerk-your-head-back muscle. The end result is a seamless expression of brute force, almost delicate in its perfect execution.


To commemorate Dodge’s newest comeback kid, the first 1,492 SRT8’s will be designated Inaugural Edition models of the Challenger SRT8 392 and feature several unique calling cards. Chief among them will be the two available paint combinations, either Deep Water Blue with standard Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes. 20” SRT wheels, Pearl White leather-trimmed seats, unique blue stitching accents, and two “392 HEMI” fender badges round out the exterior trademarks – all of which leads to an unmistakable, formidable presence.

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 will be built at the Brampton Assembly Plant and will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2010.

[Read More:  Red Letter Dodge]

Ram Truck Carves Up Some Halloween Fun | Ram Zone

Ram Truck Carves Up Some Halloween Fun | Ram Zone
Be the envy of every truck guy on the block and celebrate Halloween Ram style, with our new pumpkin style carving stencils.

Click here to get started, click on the thumbnail to the left to download the stencil and don’t forget to read the directions – we don’t take responsibility for any missing body parts.

[Read More: Ram Zone]

Monday, October 25, 2010

Mopar® Previews Customized Vehicles for 2010 SEMA Show


Mopar® Previews Customized Vehicles for 2010 SEMA Show
Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep® and Ram Truck Vehicles Get Mopar® Treatment

Mopar® is preparing 35 vehicles for the upcoming 2010 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which takes place Nov. 2-5 in Las Vegas. Mopar will fill its 15,300-square-foot space with customized Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep® and Ram Truck vehicles.

“With five exhibits, the Mopar brand will have a major presence at SEMA,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer – Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “Mopar will showcase cutting-edge technology, innovative accessories, authentic parts, and new customer-care initiatives. And our Moparized vehicles will be must-see.”

“We created an amazing cast of Mopar image vehicles for SEMA,” said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Car Brand and Senior Vice President – Product Design. “As all of our new vehicles arrive in dealerships this year, we want to inspire customization and personalization. Our Mopar image vehicles will definitely turn heads.”

The Mopar Underground group and the Mopar design team worked together to create these image vehicles. Projects originated in the Chrysler Group Product Design office and were led by Mark Allen, Chief Designer – Head of Jeep Design Studio, and Jeff Gale, Advance Studio Design Lead. In addition to image vehicles, other “Moparized” vehicles for the show were developed under the direction of Brian Rogos, Head of Accessories and Performance Parts, and Pat Muldoon, Head of Mopar Product Development.

Following are Mopar image vehicles that will be on display at SEMA:

All-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Named "SUV of Texas" by Texas Auto Writers Association

All-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Named "SUV of Texas" by Texas Auto Writers Association
Dozens of journalists representing the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) spent two days driving the industry's newest sport-utility vehicle lineup late last week, over a variety of on-road and rugged off-road terrain. When the dust settled and ballots were counted, the all-new 2011 Jeep® Grand Cherokee was named "SUV of Texas" by the influential group of automotive journalists.

The automotive industry's new benchmark, premium SUV was also named "Full-size SUV of Texas," and the 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara - complete with an all-new interior, body-color hard top, and legendary Jeep capability - took home the "Mid-size SUV of Texas" crown.

Ram Claims Coveted “Truck of Texas” Title | Ram Zone

Ram Claims Coveted “Truck of Texas” Title | Ram Zone
This year, Ram has swept the competition in the annual battle for the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) “Truck of Texas” award. All vehicles up for the award were subjected to rigorous testing designed to mimic the everyday demands of the average truck in Texas. The award is surrounded by some stiff opposition and the “Truck of Texas” title is generally regarded as one of the most prestigious in the pickup community.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Pentastar V6 to Find its Way Into 13 Models Across the Chrysler Group Range, Including 2011 Challenger - Carscoop

The Chrysler Group's new Pentastar V6 gasoline engine will either replace current six-cylinder units or be introduced for the first time on a total of 13 vehicles across the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep range by 2013, the company announced this week.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Chrysler Blog - Jeep Brand Exclusive Vehicle for Call of Duty: Black Ops

Chrysler Blog - Jeep Brand Exclusive Vehicle for Call of Duty: Black Ops
The Jeep® brand is the exclusive automotive partner for Call of Duty®: Black Ops (Activision Publishing Inc.), scheduled for release Nov. 9.

The partnership includes an in-game integration into both the epic single player storyline of Call of Duty: Black Ops and the title’s much anticipated multiplayer experience.

In addition to being part of the game, Jeep Brand is selling a limited-edition 2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition. Available in November, the limited-edition Jeep Wrangler is based on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model and features dark Rubicon wheels in a high-gloss Mineral Gray.

[Read More: Chrysler Blog]

Chrysler Blog - Dodge continues to unleash new products; next up 2011 Dodge Journey

Chrysler Blog - Dodge continues to unleash new products; next up 2011 Dodge Journey
The Dodge Brand continues Chrysler Group's vehicle momentum with the new 2011 Dodge Journey – designed to be a mid-size crossover with “right sized” proportions for today's family that wants it all

For 2011, Dodge takes what was good and makes it better. The Dodge Journey receives a major overhaul with a completely redesigned and retuned suspension, a new V-6 engine and a new interior with room from up to five- to seven-passenger seating.

And that's not all.

[Read More: Chrysler Blog]

Chrysler reveals upgrades to 2011 Dodge Journey | detnews.com | The Detroit News

Chrysler Group LLC today released pictures of the upgrades to the 2011 Dodge Journey midsize crossover that goes on sale this quarter.

The Journey, which comes as a five- or seven-passenger vehicle, has a new suspension, the new Pentastar V-6 engine and upgrades to the interior.

The big news here, of course, is the Journey's newly crafted interior with higher-quality materials which puts the outgoing model's cabin to shame (not that it was hard..). Just about everything you see on the dashboard is new, including the sporty looking instrument panel with a standard electronic vehicle information center featuring a full-color display backlit.

The makeover is completed with a new multi-functioning three-spoke steering wheel, larger front storage bin with side nets, newly designed seats and controls, as well as an available Uconnect Touch media center with a touch-screen display. Dodge said the mid-size crossover offers six new interior color and trim options.

On the outside, the cosmetic changes are far less prominent and are limited to the new front fascia sporting the brand's signature "split crosshair" honeycomb grille, restyled fog lamp bezels, available 19-inch wheels, a less angular rear fascia and LED tail-lamps. In addition, the V6 models get a more aggressive lower fascia with a honeycomb grille.

[Read More: The Detroit News]

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Police Try to Thumb a Ride With Anti-Texting Message - WSJ.com

Police Try to Thumb a Ride With Anti-Texting Message - WSJ.com
Iowa police are on the lookout for drivers who send text messages behind the wheel. So far, the effort is all thumbs.

Instead of tickets, police are giving texting drivers colorful bands to wear on their thumbs that say: "TXTNG KILLS."

The bands are part of a statewide campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of texting while driving under a new law prohibiting the practice that took effect July 1. For the first year, police can give scofflaws warnings only. Next year, fines will kick in.

[Read More: TheWallStreetJournal.com]

Monday, October 18, 2010

2010 PT Cruiser couture edition - Anaheim automotive photography | Examiner.com

2010 PT Cruiser couture edition - Anaheim automotive photography | Examiner.com
Bright silver metallic on the bottom half and black crystal pearl on the top with a red accent pinstripe demands attention to this special edition PT Cruiser. The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser Couture edition is the 16th variation of the PT Cruiser since its introduction. The Couture edition is a throwback version to the 1930s and 40s American romantic period. Tinted glass, Chrome trim, satin silver instrument panel, analog clock, radar red leather seats and retro styling brings the look together.

[Read More: Examiner.com]
[Download a PT Cruiser Brochure]
[Buy a PT Cruiser]

Friday, October 15, 2010

DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge donates to Susan G. Komen for the Cure

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the team at DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula is joining forces with the community to help find a cure.

Breast Cancer affects 1 in every 8 women, and we know that with those kinds of odds it's highly likely that one of our mothers, daughters, grand-daughters, aunts, nieces or just a good friend will be touched by this deadly disease. To help support those who are working for a cure, DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula is devoting the month of October toward raising funds for Breast Cancer research.

Please plan to visit us this Friday through Monday and help support this worthwhile cause that impacts us all. See you soon!


Mention This Message
For every vehicle sold this
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
 DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge will 
donate $50.00 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure

State Farm Data Shows That October Remains Most Dangerous Month for Teen Crashes - Forbes.com

State Farm Data Shows That October Remains Most Dangerous Month for Teen Crashes - Forbes.com
Newly analyzed State Farm claims data shows the trend continues - October remains the most dangerous month of the year for teen driver crashes. According to claims data spanning the last seven years, the highest number of injury or collision claims filed by 16- and 17-year-old drivers continues to hit a high point in October, spiking by about 15 percent when compared to other months of the year.

[Read more Forbes.com] [State Farm Teen Driver Site]

Thursday, October 14, 2010

The Ram Trucks Brand and Yahoo! Music Launch First-Ever “Ram Country” Music Channel | Ram Zone

The Ram Trucks Brand and Yahoo! Music Launch First-Ever “Ram Country” Music Channel | Ram Zone
Today, the Ram Truck Brand is proud to usher in a new way to experience your favorite country music artists with the launch of the “Ram Country” on Yahoo! Music. Sponsored exclusively by the Ram Truck Brand, this new channel combines the best of both worlds to bring you the ultimate music experience. Not only will Ram Country bring you closer to all of the songs you love, you’ll also have a chance to get up close and personal with your favorite personalities. Short docu-reality segments will get behind sound checks and lifestyles of core of country crooners and will include live acoustic sessions to quick hometown tours.

We’re ecstatic to see two of our most intense passions fuse together in such a big way, and we hope you share the excitement. Check out Ram Country for yourself here, and try not to wake your neighbors.

[Visit "Ram Country" on Yahoo! Music]
[Visit the DCH Dodge Showroom]

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Teens Not Exposed to Diverse Driving Experience Prior to Licensing, Finds AAA Foundation Study
In advance of National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 17-23), today the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety released the first naturalistic study using in-vehicle cameras to capture teenage drivers and their parents during their supervised driving phase. Nearly half (47 percent) of parents in the study reported that after the year-long learner’s stage, there was still at least one condition in which they did not feel comfortable letting their teen drive. Yet, more than one-third (37 percent) of these families allowed their teen to obtain a license within a month of being eligible, although a few families restricted driving in certain scenarios.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in this country. The first few years of unsupervised driving are the most dangerous – 1,368 U.S. teen drivers age 15-18 died in traffic crashes in 2008. However, teens are clearly a danger to others as well because the total number of deaths resulting from these crashes was 3,431. 

[Read More: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety] [SeeVideo footage of the study]

Friday, October 8, 2010

Chrysler Blog - A Peek Inside the 2011 Dodge Durango Citadel

Chrysler Blog - A Peek Inside the 2011 Dodge Durango Citadel
Thought you'd like to see a shot of the interior of the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango Citadel.

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

Look for it in showrooms starting the fourth quarter of this year.

[Read More: Chrysler Blog]

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Jeep shows off 2011 Grand Cherokee decked out with Mopar bits — Autoblog

Jeep shows off 2011 Grand Cherokee decked out with Mopar bits — Autoblog
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is already earning high praise in its standard form, and now Chrysler's Mopar division has released a host of accessories to beef up the new sport-ute's style and functionality.

Grand Cherokees can now be fitted with the usual collection of exterior bolt-ons, including a range of new wheel options, skid plates, and side steps. What's more interesting, however, is the stuff available for the Grand Cherokee's interior. Mopar is offering FLO TV, a live, mobile television streaming service, making the big Jeep the first SUV available with this feature. That sure beats listening to the same episode of Yo Gabba Gabba over and over. Additionally, the latest version of Chrysler's UConnect infotainment software is available, which can turn the SUV into a mobile wi-fi hotspot.

[Read More: Autoblog]
[Contact DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula for a full list of available Mopar goodies]

2011 Mopar® Challenger V10 Drag Pak - Order Now!

2011 Mopar® Challenger V10 Drag Pak
The Next Generation Mopar Challenger Drag Pak has a V-10 and is ready to go.  Racers rejoice. Mopar is dropping a V-10 into the iconic Dodge Challenger.

Package Car Spec Sheet
The Drag Pak includes several features that make it truly unique as a turn-key racing machine. Download this PDF for a comprehensive overview of the 2011 Mopar Challenger V10 Drag Pak.

Ordering Guidelines
Customers are required to submit a completed application form to DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula.
Download this PDF for complete ordering guidelines and eligibility requirements for the 2011 Mopar Challenger V10 Drag Pak.

Application Form
Is your mind made up? Ready to purchase the 2011 Mopar Challenger V10 Drag Pak?
Download the PDF application and get ready to race!

[Read More: Mopar] [Contact DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula]

2011 Dodge Charger Revives Iconic Muscle Car Styling | Red Letter Dodge

2011 Dodge Charger Revives Iconic Muscle Car Styling | Red Letter Dodge
Dodge has just released these first photos of the 2011 Charger sedan. In a full release, Dodge says the 2011 Dodge Charger "will rev up showrooms during the fourth quarter of 2010."In looking to the future, the designers at Dodge sought to recapture the past with the all-new 2011 Charger inspired by its iconic second generation 1960s ancestor.

Its iconic design is combined with modern features such as fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, craftsmanship and refinement, and state-of-the-art connectivity features.

The efficient and aerodynamic exterior of the 2011 Dodge Charger is sure to strike an emotional chord with Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.

[Read More: Red Letter Dodge]
[Buy a 2010 Dodge Charger from DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula]
[Download a 2010 Dodge Charger Brochure]

2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak unveiled with Viper V10 power — Autoblog

2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak unveiled with Viper V10 power — Autoblog
In 2009 and 2010, Dodge released a special edition Challenger called the Drag Pak. Both editions sold out fast so the Mopar boys are building another one for 2011. If the '09 and '10 models went quick, this one is going to be gone before you're done reading this paragraph.

Instead of sticking with the 6.1-liter Hemi V8 used last year, the 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak crams a 512-cubic inch, 8.4-liter V10 engine and mates it to a two-speed automatic transmission. If those engine numbers sound familiar, and they should, it's because that's the same unit used in the Dodge Viper – which produces 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque.

Go back and re-read that last line – Viper-V10 powered. Drag-race ready. Mopar Challenger.

[Read more: Autoblog] [Source: Red Letter Dodge Blog]
[Buy a 2010 Dodge Challenger from DCH Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Temecula]
[Download a 2010 Dodge Challenger Brochure]