2008 Chrysler Town and Country

General Motors and Ford are quitting minivans in favor of crossovers, but Chrysler, the company that invented the modern minivan, is bringing out its fifth generation of the family favorites. Chrysler's outgoing vans ushered in fold-into-the-floor second-row seat stowage (dubbed Stow 'n Go) - a meaningful advantage, particularly for those who regularly carry large pieces of cargo. Other than that, though, the last-generation Chrysler minivans seemed like a halfhearted update. They didn't look very different from their predecessors, and they lost ground to top-flight competitors from Toyota and Honda (note that those companies' interest in minivans does not seem to be waning). The 2008 Chrysler/Dodge vans are an entirely more convincing effort, narrowing the gap in mechanical refinement and bolstering the company's historic penchant for innovation.

Unlike the fourth-generation vans, the new Chrysler and Dodge minivans at least look new. The roof and the sills have been widened, creating flatter sides, and the nose has been pulled out, making it more distinct from the body. The whole effect is to make the vans more squared-off and trucklike, moving them away from their egg-shaped predecessors and, perhaps, making them a bit less emasculating for dads who have to be seen in them.

Underneath the new skin, the basic chassis design carries over, with key alterations such as a longer wheelbase and a revised suspension. The new top engine, an enlarged version of Chrysler's 3.5-liter V-6, displaces 4.0 liters and cranks out 251 hp. Both the 4.0-liter V-6 and the 197-hp, 3.8-liter unit use a new six-speed automatic that gives the whole powertrain more polish. The taller top gear helps make highway cruising quieter - as does the im-proved drag coefficient and the thicker side glass - although the engines' sound quality still isn't as refined as that of the best Japanese competitors. The six-speed has Chrysler's AutoStick manual shift capability, but the movement of the dash-mounted gear lever felt sloppy in the preproduction examples we drove. The base engine soldiers on with a four-speed transmission, although it has a revised cam profile that helps extract more power and torque from its 3.3 liters.

© Source: automobilemag

Chrysler LLC Announces Overall November 2007 U.S. Sales Down 2 Percent

Blames Flat Consumer Spending

Chrysler LLC dealers delivered 161,088 new vehicles to U.S. customers in November 2007, down 2 percent compared with a year ago. All sales figures are reported as unadjusted.

Highlights:
- Chrysler brand car sales rise 9 percent over November 2006; led by Chrysler Sebring Convertible
- Chrysler Town & Country up 10 percent on the success of the new model
- Jeep(R) brand sales down 2 percent year-over-year
- Dodge brand sales up 6 percent from the same period last year led by Dodge Avenger, Charger, and Nitro
- Dealer inventory down 4 percent or 18,612 units versus November 2006

"Despite consumer concerns, Chrysler LLC sales are off only 2 percent showing customers are still purchasing quality and value. High fuel prices and falling home prices continue to impact vehicle sales in November which remain below trend," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - U.S. Sales. "We remain optimistic moving into December due to the growing availability of new models, including Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan and the Jeep Liberty."

Chrysler brand car sales were led by the Sebring Convertible, which increased sales to 2,039 units compared with 195 units a year ago, up 946%. Chrysler Town & Country sales rose 10 percent to 12,629 units versus November 2006 with 11,507 units.

High fuel prices impacted Jeep(R) brand results, down 2 percent versus November of last year. Large SUVs saw the greatest impact with Jeep(R) Commander down 45 percent at 4,391 units versus November 2006.

Dodge brand car sales increased 75 percent over last year by steady sales of the Dodge Charger with 10,341 units delivered.

"The recently launched "Event of a Lifetime" program has resonated well with customers and will be continued through January 2, 2008," said Michael Keegan, Vice President - Volume Planning and Sales Operations. "We continue to offer customers a great value package and on select 2008 models we will extend the 0% APR through 60 months."

Chrysler finished the month with 480,424 units of inventory, or an 75-day supply. Inventory is down by 4 percent compared to November 2006 when it was at 499,036 units.

Chrysler LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru November 2007

Month Sales DR % Vol %
Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change
Sebring 8,708 7,582 15% 15%
300 11,512 10,772 7% 7%
Crossfire 193 62 211% 211%
PT Cruiser 6,769 13,629 -50% -50%
Aspen 1,515 2,365 -36% -36%
Pacifica 4,184 6,483 -35% -35%
Town & Country 12,629 11,507 10% 10%
CHRYSLER BRAND 45,510 52,400 -13% -13%
Compass 2,683 3,723 -28% -28%
Patriot 4,199 0 0% 0%
Wrangler 8,333 8,735 -5% -5%
Liberty 6,813 7,360 -7% -7%
Grand Cherokee 8,489 7,944 7% 7%
Commander 4,391 8,023 -45% -45%
JEEP BRAND 34,908 35,785 -2% -2%
Caliber 6,313 7,008 -10% -10%
Avenger 10,242 0 0% 0%
Charger 10,341 7,247 43% 43%
Viper 5 76 -93% -93%
Magnum 2,417 2,138 13% 13%
Dakota 3,257 4,538 -28% -28%
Ram P/U 24,488 27,826 -12% -12%
Caravan 13,347 14,240 -6% -6%
Durango 3,190 5,935 -46% -46%
Nitro 5,795 5,489 6% 6%
Sprinter 1,275 1,587 -20% -20%
DODGE BRAND 80,670 76,371 6% 6%

TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC 161,088 164,556 -2% -2%

TOTAL CAR 47,671 33,760 41% 41%
TOTAL TRUCK 113,417 130,796 -13% -13%
Selling Days 25 25

Sales CYTD DR % Vol %
Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change
Sebring 83,856 57,200 46% 47%
300 110,686 127,397 -13% -13%
Crossfire 8,594 8,206 4% 5%
PT Cruiser 89,847 130,435 -31% -31%
Aspen 25,766 4,623 455% 457%
Pacifica 51,938 72,946 -29% -29%
Town & Country 123,940 148,228 -17% -16%
CHRYSLER BRAND 494,627 549,035 -10% -10%
Compass 36,196 13,513 167% 168%
Patriot 35,447 0 0% 0%
Wrangler 110,236 71,648 53% 54%
Liberty 82,164 121,578 -33% -32%
Grand Cherokee 109,184 126,295 -14% -14%
Commander 57,206 80,931 -30% -29%
JEEP BRAND 430,433 413,965 4% 4%
Caliber 92,228 82,799 11% 11%
Avenger 75,658 0 0% 0%
Charger 108,174 103,634 4% 4%
Viper 389 1,387 -72% -72%
Magnum 27,978 37,360 -25% -25%
Dakota 47,829 70,954 -33% -33%
Ram P/U 326,177 331,302 -2% -2%
Caravan 154,824 197,045 -22% -21%
Durango 43,023 66,284 -35% -35%
Nitro 67,475 9,499 608% 610%
Sprinter 14,934 20,653 -28% -28%
DODGE BRAND 960,167 989,090 -3% -3%

TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC 1,885,227 1,952,090 -4% -3%

TOTAL CAR 491,608 460,536 6% 7%
TOTAL TRUCK 1,393,619 1,491,554 -7% -7%
Selling Days 281 280

2008 Chrysler 300 Review

What's New for 2008
Significant changes are in store for the 2008 Chrysler 300. An updated interior includes new soft-touch surfaces, revised instrument panel and console designs, and available LED accent lighting. New luxury-oriented options include adaptive cruise control, a surround-sound audio system, a dedicated iPod interface, Sirius Backseat TV for the rear entertainment system and a new hard-drive based MyGIG multimedia system with optional navigation.

Safety has been enhanced with new front seat-mounted side airbags added to the 300's available side curtain airbag system. Wrapping everything up is freshened front and rear exterior styling and Chrysler's new limited lifetime powertrain warranty.

Introduction
Mold-breaking cars don't come along very often. But that's exactly what happened when the Chrysler 300 debuted four years ago. Previous to the 300, modern full-size cars provided plenty of interior room and comfort but typically generated all the pizzazz and excitement of an ice cream social in a Florida retirement community. With the 300, Chrysler proved that this type of car could actually be fun and desirable. Shoppers loved its artful, edgy styling, rear-drive layout and powerful V8 engine options, and it was an immediate hit.

Powertrains and Performance
The base rear-wheel-drive 300 LX comes with a 2.7-liter V6 good for 178 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. Touring and Limited models upgrade to a 3.5-liter V6 capable of 250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. These two models are available with your choice of either rear- or all-wheel drive, as is the more muscular 300C with its 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that generates 340 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque.

2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited

With a starting U.S. MSRP of $36,400 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited sets the standard for luxury minivans. In addition to the standard equipment included on the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring model, the Town & Country Limited also includes a new 4.0- liter V-6 engine that produces 251 hp (189 kW) and 259 lb.-ft. (350 N*m) of torque and is mated to a new, minivan-first six-speed transaxle; three-zone automatic temperature control; luxury front- and second-row floor mats; High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps; auto-dimming rearview mirror; power, foldaway, heated multifunction chrome mirrors with supplemental side signals and driver-side memory; ParkSense rear park assist system,
MyGIG AM/FM/CD/DVD/HDD/MP3 Multimedia Entertainment system, ParkView rear back-up camera and SIRIUS satellite radio; remote start system; leather-trimmed first- and second-row seats with suede microfiber accents; security alarm; premium sound system which includes ten speakers with a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system with Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and 17-inch chrome-clad wheels.

Available equipment for the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country models includes Swivel 'n Go Seat system; three-zone automatic temperature control; remote start; foldaway, power-heated chrome mirrors that include supplemental signals and driver-side memory; auto-dimming exterior driver side mirror; ParkSense rear park assist system; ParkView rear back-up camera; SIRIUS Satellite Radio; SIRIUS Backseat TV satellite TV with three channels of family programming including Disney Channel, Nickelodeon Mobile and Cartoon Network Mobile; heated first- and second-row seats (cloth or leather); second- and third-row retractable sunshades; premium sound system which includes ten speakers with a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system with EVIC; integrated child booster Seat (late availability); power sunroof; remote start; one-touch power folding third-row seat; sunroof; trailer tow package; single or dual DVD entertainment systems and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited

With a starting U.S. MSRP of $36,400 (including $730 destination), the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Limited sets the standard for luxury minivans. In addition to the standard equipment included on the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country Touring model, the Town & Country Limited also includes a new 4.0- liter V-6 engine that produces 251 hp (189 kW) and 259 lb.-ft. (350 N*m) of torque and is mated to a new, minivan-first six-speed transaxle; three-zone automatic temperature control; luxury front- and second-row floor mats; High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps; auto-dimming rearview mirror; power, foldaway, heated multifunction chrome mirrors with supplemental side signals and driver-side memory; ParkSense rear park assist system, MyGIG AM/FM/CD/DVD/HDD/MP3 Multimedia Entertainment system, ParkView rear back-up camera and SIRIUS satellite radio; remote start system; leather-trimmed first- and second-row seats with suede microfiber accents; security alarm; premium sound system which includes ten speakers with a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system with Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) and 17-inch chrome-clad wheels.

Available equipment for the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country models includes Swivel 'n Go Seat system; three-zone automatic temperature control; remote start; foldaway, power-heated chrome mirrors that include supplemental signals and driver-side memory; auto-dimming exterior driver side mirror; ParkSense rear park assist system; ParkView rear back-up camera; SIRIUS Satellite Radio; SIRIUS Backseat TV satellite TV with three channels of family programming including Disney Channel, Nickelodeon Mobile and Cartoon Network Mobile; heated first- and second-row seats (cloth or leather); second- and third-row retractable sunshades; premium sound system which includes ten speakers with a minivan-first subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier; premium removable front center console that slides rearward 21 inches and offers four cup holders, a 12-volt power outlet and multiple storage areas; premium tire pressure monitoring system with EVIC; integrated child booster Seat (late availability); power sunroof; remote start; one-touch power folding third-row seat; sunroof; trailer tow package; single or dual DVD entertainment systems and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

US to get Chinese Chrysler cars

Chrysler minivans have been shunned in favour of smaller models

The struggling US Chrysler arm of carmaker DaimlerChrysler has announced plans to develop cheap small cars with Chinese auto firm Chery for export.

The cars produced under the deal could be the first to be made in China and sold in Europe and the US.

The agreement could be a huge boost for Chery amid rising competition to meet China's demand for cars.

The partnership should also improve Chrysler's ability to meet consumer demand for more fuel-efficient cars.

The first car, a Dodge model based on Chery's A1 hatchback, could be available in Latin America or Eastern Europe next year and should be available in the US within two-and-a-half years.

Future models will follow, the companies' said.

The deal will allow Chery to expand its own range into lucrative overseas markets, using Chrysler to help it meet international standards on safety and pollution-control.

It follows DaimlerChrysler agreeing to sell a majority stake in its US Chrysler business to Cerberus Capital Management, a private equity firm, for 5.5bn euros ($7.4bn; £3.7bn).

'Immediate effect'

"Chery's participation in this agreement and their focus on small and sub-compact cars will have a nearly immediate effect on Chrysler Group's offering in the small-vehicle segment," said Chrysler Group's chief executive Tom LaSorda.

Chrysler has suffered in recent years from an over-reliance on sports utility vehicles (SUVs), which have been shunned by increasingly environmentally-aware consumers.

The group booked a loss of 1.46bn euros ($1.98bn; £985m) for the first three months of the year, which included charges associated with the restructuring of the business.

source: BBC news

Chrysler Group Reports June 2007 US Sales, International Sales Highlights

- Chrysler Group car sales rise 55 percent fueled by "Maximize Your Miles" program
- Jeep(R) brand up 19 percent
- Jeep Wrangler increases 93 percent
- Dodge Charger gains 19 percent
- Inventory down by 25 percent or 162,266 units
- Sales outside of North America up 21 percent -- highest month ever

Chrysler Group reported sales for June 2007 of 183,347 units; down 1 percent compared to June 2006 with 185,946 units. All sales figures are reported unadjusted.

"In a challenging market, Chrysler Group had softer sales in June than a year ago. We saw strong customer interest in our newly launched, fuel efficient models," said Darryl Jackson, Vice President - U.S. Sales. "Supported by the fuel economy message of our 'Maximize Your Miles' program, Chrysler continued to show strong car sales with an increase of 55 percent over the previous year."

Chrysler brand car sales in June were up 104 percent year-over-year, while Dodge brand car sales increased 30 percent. Chrysler Group's offerings in the car segment include the Chrysler Sebring Sedan and Sebring Convertible, the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Avenger, Dodge Caliber and Dodge Charger.

Jeep brand sales continued to increase in June and posted a gain of 19 percent over the previous year. This result was again driven by the continuously strong Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot. Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited posted sales of 10,952 units, up 93 percent compared to June 2006 with 5,674 units. The Jeep Patriot also kept its momentum and finished June with sales of 4,633 units, up 3 percent from May 2007. The vehicle is one of Chrysler Group's recently introduced models that achieve 30 miles per gallon or better in highway driving. In addition, the Jeep Grand Cherokee also posted a gain of 3 percent year-over-year.

The Chrysler Sebring Convertible finished the month with sales of 3,759 units which is 22 percent over May 2007. The recently launched redesigned model offers what no other convertible has offered before - three automatically latching convertible top options: vinyl, cloth and a body-color painted steel retractable hard top, all of which can be retracted with a push of a button on the key fob.

Sales of the Dodge Charger increased in June by 19 percent with 11,529 units compared to 9,710 units in the previous year.

"As our strong car sales in May and June demonstrate, our 'Maximize Your Miles' program resonated well with customers," said Michael Keegan, Vice President - Volume Planning and Sales Operations. "Moving forward, Chrysler Group will extend its low-rate financing plus additional bonus cash in July, with a 0% APR offering for 60 months on select models. These great value packages were successful in the recent months as well."

Chrysler Group finished the month with 485,429 units of inventory, or a 71-day supply. Inventory is down by 25 percent compared to June 2006 when it was at 647,695 units.

Posting its highest month ever of sales outside of North America and sustaining 25 consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains; Chrysler Group's International monthly sales increased 21 percent to 22,901 units in June 2007 compared to 18,971 units in June 2006.

"The strength of our new product portfolio coupled with the support of our dealer network outside North America is driving the growth we have seen so far this year," said Thomas Hausch - Vice President of International Sales. "We expect to maintain the double digit growth this year, including record export numbers, and continue to strategically grow production volumes and sales outlets outside North America for all three brands."

       DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S. Sales Summary Thru June 2007

                                           Month Sales      DR %    Vol %
                Model                   Curr Yr    Pr Yr    Change  Change
Sebring                                 10,249     1,329    643%    671%
300                                     11,796     9,140     24%     29%
Crossfire                                1,708       364    352%    369%
PT Cruiser                              10,047    14,693    -34%    -32%
Aspen                                    1,846         0      0%      0%
Pacifica                                 3,861     6,516    -43%    -41%
Town & Country                           8,151    19,944    -61%    -59%
  CHRYSLER BRAND                        47,658    51,986    -12%     -8%
Compass                                  3,393         0      0%      0%
Patriot                                  4,633         0      0%      0%
Wrangler                                10,952     5,674     86%     93%
Liberty                                  8,554    12,155    -32%    -30%
Grand Cherokee                          10,968    10,688     -1%      3%
Commander                                6,100     8,958    -34%    -32%
  JEEP BRAND                            44,600    37,475     15%     19%
Neon                                         0       848   -100%   -100%
Caliber                                 10,815    12,098    -14%    -11%
Stratus                                      0       778   -100%   -100%
Avenger                                  8,261         0      0%      0%
Charger                                 11,529     9,710     14%     19%
Viper                                       22       106    -80%    -79%
Magnum                                   2,523     2,281      7%     11%
Dakota                                   4,812     7,120    -35%    -32%
Ram P/U                                 31,114    32,375     -7%     -4%
Caravan                                  9,342    21,937    -59%    -57%
Durango                                  5,277     7,366    -31%    -28%
Nitro                                    5,768         0      0%      0%
Sprinter                                 1,626     1,866    -16%    -13%
  DODGE BRAND                           91,089    96,485     -9%     -6%

  TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP                 183,347   185,946     -5%     -1%

          TOTAL CG CAR                  55,498    35,739     50%     55%
          TOTAL CG TRUCK               127,849   150,207    -18%    -15%
Selling Days                                27        26

                                            Sales CYTD       DR %   Vol %
                Model                     Curr Yr     Pr Yr  Change Change
Sebring                                   49,046     42,669    13%    15%
300                                       62,995     73,135   -15%   -14%
Crossfire                                  6,252      5,221    18%    20%
PT Cruiser                                53,192     70,153   -25%   -24%
Aspen                                     12,778          0     0%     0%
Pacifica                                  32,363     42,468   -25%   -24%
Town & Country                            75,102     88,887   -17%   -16%
  CHRYSLER BRAND                         291,728    322,533   -11%   -10%
Compass                                   22,205          0     0%     0%
Patriot                                   14,969          0     0%     0%
Wrangler                                  65,651     35,265    84%    86%
Liberty                                   50,114     70,106   -29%   -29%
Grand Cherokee                            60,461     72,871   -18%   -17%
Commander                                 33,742     39,674   -16%   -15%
  JEEP BRAND                             247,142    217,916    12%    13%
Neon                                           0     16,381  -100%  -100%
Caliber                                   59,379     43,694    34%    36%
Stratus                                    1,478     48,564   -97%   -97%
Avenger                                   40,628          0     0%     0%
Charger                                   65,972     59,005    10%    12%
Viper                                        249        743   -67%   -66%
Magnum                                    15,988     22,013   -28%   -27%
Dakota                                    29,155     40,497   -29%   -28%
Ram P/U                                  185,257    183,174     0%     1%
Caravan                                  103,562    125,813   -19%   -18%
Durango                                   28,905     38,871   -27%   -26%
Nitro                                     37,212          0     0%     0%
Sprinter                                   6,438     10,342   -39%   -38%
  DODGE BRAND                            574,223    589,097    -4%    -3%

  TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP                 1,113,093  1,129,546    -3%    -1%

          TOTAL CG CAR                   293,219    296,527    -2%    -1%
          TOTAL CG TRUCK                 819,874    833,019    -3%    -2%
Selling Days                                 154        152


Global Sales Reporting & Analysis
July 3, 2007

2005 Chrysler Akino Concept Vehicle

Chrysler Akino Concept Redefines Luxury and Spaciousness

The unique and artistically sculptured appearance of the Chrysler Akino concept vehicle and its one-box, compact size certainly turns heads. However, after the fifth person settles comfortably into the vehicle, one clearly gets the idea there is more to this concept than meets the eye.

"Our job as designers is to push the boundaries of conventional thinking, said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design, Chrysler Group. "On this project we imagined a new small super-efficient powertrain that allows freedom for the designer to create a new solution for future transportation."

Design
The vehicle name comes from Interior and Exterior Designer, Akino Tsuchiya, a 37-year-old who was born in Japan and is based at the Chrysler Group's Pacifica Design Studios in Carlsbad, California. The meaning of the name Akino is "autumn field." The feeling of serenity that is evoked with these words is a theme present throughout the vehicles design.

"I wanted the soothing, comforting feeling of a living room on the interior all surrounded by an elegant form that reflects the Chrysler brand," Tsuchiya said of her concept vehicle revealed at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. "We very much wanted a feeling of being at home on the road." Tsuchiya added that for those in Japan, driving on a weekend or free time is an experience of being together such as through family outings or traveling with friends.

Oasis
The Chrysler Akino concept has a single door on the driver side, and two doors on the passenger side that open in opposite directions. This arrangement allows the interior to have a booth-like rear seat with a swiveling passenger seat. The roof features an unusual interlocking form toward the rear which punctuates the design and provides more headroom for the rear seat passengers.

"In the Chrysler Group, we take pride in employing the best designers in the industry," said Joe Eberhardt, Executive Vice President Global Sales Marketing and Service. "The fresh thinking and diversity in our design team enables us to develop vehicles that answer the specific demands of the varied world markets in which we operate. While the Chrysler Akino may be a concept at this stage, it shows how we can meet the rational needs of customers in our international markets, while infusing the product with all the emotion of the Chrysler brand," he said.

According to Tsuchiya, the unique seating configuration provides an oasis which is designed for a safe, comfortable and social environment to experience travel on an entirely new level.

Nature
The selection of materials and colors used in the interior are composed of natural and recyclable synthetic fabrics: bamboo flooring, a throw rug, lighting sconce, mood lighting and even throw pillows.

The driver and passenger front seats are treated like arm chairs and the rear seat like that of a sofa in a traditional living room setting. Color is used to separate the working space from the living room area also – a Salon Blue Suede in the driver and cockpit area with a Cream Suede on the passenger and rear seat surfaces with a similarly colored lower door trim.

Function
The exterior features a side glass that has an unusual graphic breakup while the rear glass is specially coated with texture to give passengers a sense of privacy and comfort.

"We wanted an artful, sculptural and graceful form that was influenced by artwork and architecture," Tsuchiya said. "Refinement is at the heart of the Chrysler brand. The combination of those brand attributes and artistic grace helped us to bring much of the home into the automobile."

Vehicle Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 2413 mm
Length: 3724 mm
Width: 1799 mm
Height: 1604 mm

Chrysler Phoenix V6 to feature cylinder deactivation

Chrysler has announced the adoption of a range of new fuel-saving technologies to improve mileage rates of its vehicles. The major news is the development of a family of V6 engines with cylinder deactivation technology, similar to GM’s displacement on demand. This means that three cylinders can be turned off by the engine during low load situations, such as cruising on a highway, thus saving fuel. Associated Press reports that this could improve fuel-economy by 6 to 8%.

Other initiatives include the introduction of two-mode hybrid powertrains in more vehicles, more efficient drivetrains and new clean-diesel motors. The two-mode hybrid system will first appear in the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango models, and is claimed to improve fuel-economy by up to 40% in the city.

Chrysler is also investigating the possibility of a range of new four-cylinder powerplants for North America, as well as the addition of new fuel-efficient dual-clutch gearboxes by 2010.

Finally, Chrysler has also revealed that it will offer “mild hybrid” powertrains for some vehicles within the next couple of years, a system that will allow an engine to shutdown when a car is stuck in traffic or at a stop light.

First Drive: 2008 Chrysler Sebring

Previews

Three tops, a restyled body, and generous feature content bring the ’Bring sort of almost up to par.

Chrysler’s perennial rent-a-convertible has been one of America’s most common ragtops since its 1996 introduction. Stunningly attractive in its day, the first Sebring had undeniable appeal, even if no one that drove it would attribute its commonality to more than its styling. Now, after a brief drive of the all-new 2008 Sebring convertible, which, for better or worse, falls in line with the unattractive, redesigned 2007 Chrysler Sebring sedan, we find that in spite of offering more technology, more engine choices and, for the first time, an optional retractable hardtop, the new Sebring lacks even the sort of charisma that made the first Sebring so popular in the first place.

No longer the ugly duckling, but hardly a swan

While still far from a beautiful, the Sebring looks much—make that much, much—better as a convertible than a sedan. The convertible top design dictated a longer trunk lid compared with the sedan, so an additional three inches of length were added, stretching those deep strakes further down the body in a far more becoming way. Furthermore, said contours are interrupted only by the small cutlines of one door, as opposed to two, and the simple, two-window greenhouse is far less cluttered than that mess of glass, pillars, and plastic trim found on the upper half of the sedan. Still, she’s got a face only a manufacturer could love, and even with the Limited’s 18-inch wheels, the body appears thick-waisted.

The Three Tops: Motown’s newest trio

Perhaps the most interesting thing about the Sebring is the fact that Chrysler gives its customers—whether they are fleet or retail—no fewer than three choices in convertible top materials. No other convertible has more than one except the Mazda MX-5 (which has two). Base-base-base models (obviously mostly intended for rental fleets) and mid-grade Touring models will come with an easy-to-clean vinyl soft top. A cloth top is part of an upgrade package on Touring models and is standard on top-shelf Limited models, with the aforementioned retractable hardtop optional on both.

The differences among all three are only skin deep, as all three tops use the same motors and structure assembly and fold under the same decklid, which thankfully has been left free of the hood’s silly pinstripes. This cost-saving measure means that even the soft tops gobble up as much trunk space as the hard ones when sandwiched in back, a configuration that leaves just seven cubic feet of space—enough for two squished golf bags. Top raised, however, all three models boast a huge-for-a-convertible 13 cubic feet, which, incidentally, measures just half a cube less than the sedan. They also share the same big, attractively curved, heated glass rear window. Thanks to the lack of pillars and the large rear window, the outward vision is excellent from any of the four spacious seating areas.


Three Trims, Three Engines

Feature content for the ’08 Sebring Convertible generally follows that of the sedan, but unlike the sedan, trim level and engine choice are intrinsically tied. Base models, which start at $26,145, are outfitted on the okay side of not bad, with lots of power goodies but few luxury items, while power comes from the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder “world” engine found in everything from the Dodge Caliber to the Kia Rondo. In the Sebring, the motor sends 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque to the 16-inch front wheels, reasonable output for a naturally aspirated four-pot but hardly soul-stirring when there’s 3750 pounds to lug around and a four-speed slushbox to work with.

The jump to the $28,745 Touring model is more than worth the additional $2600, not only on account of its dressier satin silver interior trim, stain- and odor-proof seat fabric, remote starter, 17-inch wheels as well as additional options, but for the two extra cylinders of its 189-hp, 191 lb-ft, 2.7-liter V-6. Unfortunately, the four-speed remains the sole transmission, even though most of its competitors offer at least one more forward gear.

We’re conflicted about the $32,345 Sebring Limited model. On one hand, who can complain about leather upholstery, Boston Acoustics speakers, fog lamps, 18-inch wheels, and, best of all, Chrysler’s 235-hp 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 232 lb-ft of torque? Even better is its quick-shifting six-speed automatic. On the other hand, how much fun can you really have when within your field of vision are two lengthy swaths of tortoise-shell trim (did ’ya hear that, Grandma?) surrounded by metallic trim pieces that don’t come close matching those on the center stack? The rear seating area is the opposite, appearing to have been covered in a thick coat of paint, and is particularly dreary when the gray interior is selected. It’s almost worth saving $3600 by opting for the Touring model with the cloth seats.

All Sebring stereos are well suited to vacation duty, playing as they do MP3s, DVDs, and anything that you might be able to plug into the auxiliary input jack. SIRIUS and Bluetooth connectivity are optional on all, while Touring and Limited models offer Chrysler’s nifty, voice-activated Harman/Kardon MyGIG navigation/audio system, which includes a touch-screen, voice commands, available real-time traffic reports, and a 20-GB hard drive capable of storing 1600 songs and an octet of jpeg photos for display on the LCD screen. Also available is a single heated/cooled cupholder capable of heating your latte to 140 degrees, or chilling your soda to just above freezing.



Driving Impressions and Pricing

Driving Impressions

During our brief first drive through Malibu, California, the Sebring offered few surprises. The four-banger/four-speed automatic is ho-hum, fine for the rental crowd but nothing we’d want in our driveway for longer than maybe a day. No, probably less. The 2.7-liter V-6’s additional torque and broader torque curve makes the Sebring Touring much more palatable, if not as robust as the Limited’s 3.5-liter/six-speed combo.

Turning the wheel revealed the same odd steering sensations that we found on earlier Sebring and Avenger drives, specifically sharp turn-in followed by vagueness. The light steering effort didn’t help us get our bearings, either. The structure, however, is very rigid, providing a good enough foundation for a decent suspension setup. The strong brakes followed suit with good feel and predictable stops. The Limited comes with the most aggressive rubber (215/55 performance tires), and equipped thus, made squirting through the twisty mountain roads into “the Valley” sort of fun, that is, once you got used to the steering. It certainly runs rings around the last one from a driving perspective.

The value question

All that said it’s hard to consider the Sebring convertible a terribly good value. After all, its $26,145 base price is $7150 more than a base Sebring sedan. The $32,345 Limited model starts some $8350 more than its four-door counterpart. Want that hard top? Get ready to shell out an additional two grand. Priced such, the Sebring convertible is sailing into some rough competitive waters, where it will face predators such as the vivacious Volkswagen Eos and the tire-burning Ford Mustang GT convertible. For that kind of coin, charisma should be included for no extra charge.

Chrysler Announces Pricing on 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

• With a starting U.S. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more standard content
• Chrysler Sebring Convertible delivers open-air freedom with elegant coupe styling and functionality of a year-round car
• Designed and engineered to deliver all-season driving comfort
• Model line-up offers a broad range of powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain and feature combinations

Chrysler is raising the roof on the convertible segment, introducing the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the Chrysler Sebring Convertible is priced $645 below the comparable outgoing model with $2,965 more content, including standard side seat-mounted air bags for head and thorax protection, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, tire-pressure monitoring system, automatic latching convertible top, standard hard tonneau cover, AM/FM stereo with six- disc CD player, six-way power driver and passenger seats and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

This completely redesigned Sebring Convertible is built on the company's new D-segment platform and offers what no other convertible on the road can: Chrysler's sleek and elegant design, exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably seats four adults and enough room in the trunk to hold two golf bags, even when the top is dropped.

"America's favorite convertible is now better than ever," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President-Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. "The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the unprecedented combination of unmistakable road presence, agile performance, innovative technologies, as well as plenty of room for people and gear. In fact, the all-new Sebring Convertible is the only retractable hard top in the segment that can pass the two-golf-bag test. The sky's the limit on what this vehicle can accomplish in the marketplace."

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the only four-passenger convertible to offer three automatically latching convertible top options: vinyl, cloth and a first for this new 2008 Sebring Convertible, a body-color painted steel retractable hard top, all of which can be retracted with a push of a button on the key fob. Top that with a standard power hard tonneau cover on all models, and top up or down, Sebring Convertible provides the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprisingly affordable price.

The Chrysler Sebring Convertible has long held the honor of America's favorite convertible, solidly leading the segment for the past decade. In fact, Sebring Convertible has earned the title of best-selling convertible in the United States for seven of the past 11 years. The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is poised to reign supreme when it becomes available in U.S. dealerships in the second quarter of 2007 and in global volume markets in the second half of 2007.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Model Lineup

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is available in the United States in three models: Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring and Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $26,145 (including $675 destination), the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model features a standard 2.4-liter World Engine that produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 N*m) of torque coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. Other standard equipment includes side seat-mounted head and thorax air bags, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), Tire Pressure Monitoring system, automatic latching vinyl convertible top, hard tonneau, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescoping steering column, power windows with express down feature, power locks and mirrors, AM/FM radio with six-disc CD player and DVD/MP3 connectivity and play capability and six speakers, six-way power driver seat with driver adjustable lumbar, six-way power adjustable passenger seat, visor mirrors, floor mats, passenger seat back map pocket, an electroluminescent cluster with outside temperature display, Chrysler signature analog clock in the instrument panel, rear window defroster, speed control, locking glove box, sliding front center armrest, an upper and lower bin in the center console and a second power outlet.

On the exterior, the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model features standard heated power mirrors, quad headlamps with off-time delay, bright beltline molding and 16-inch tires with wheel covers.

Available options on the Sebring Convertible model include remote start with auto down windows, automatic retracting top that retracts with the press of a button on the key fob, automatic window down on the key fob, remote start, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, UConnect Hands-free Communication System with automatic-dimming rearview mirror, daytime running lamps, Smoker's Group, engine block heater, cast-aluminum wheels and a Travel Convenience Group (which includes YES Essentials(R) premium seat fabric, cabin air filtration system and theft alarm).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring has a starting U.S. MSRP of $28,745 (including $675 destination). In addition to the standard features on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible model, the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring model includes a standard 2.7-liter V-6 Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) engine that produces 189 horsepower (141 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. (259 N*m) of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transaxle. Additional standard equipment includes YES Essentials stain-resistant seat fabric, Electronic Vehicle Information Center, Tire Pressure Monitoring display, travel computer, Satin Silver accents and chrome interior door handles.

Standard exterior equipment on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring includes a Touring badge, heated body-color exterior mirrors, automatic headlamps and 17-inch tires with aluminum wheels.

Available options on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring model, beyond the options available on the Sebring Convertible model, include a cloth or retractable hard top convertible top, a MyGIG(TM) navigation/entertainment/infotainment system, an Electronic Convenience Group (which includes heated/cooled cupholder, remote start, single-zone automatic temperature control, automatic headlamps, cabin air filtration system, universal garage door opener, automatic-dimming rear-view mirror and security alarm) and a Special Touring Group (which includes 18-inch tires and aluminum wheels, cloth convertible top, windscreen, leather/chrome shift knob, leather- wrapped steering wheel, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, leather trimmed and heated seats and fog lamps).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $32,345 (including $675 destination). In addition to the standard features on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Sebring Convertible Touring models, the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited features a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower (175 kW) and 232 lb.-ft. (232 N*m) of torque coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick.

Additional standard features include a cloth convertible top, leather- trimmed seats, leather shifter knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, tortoise shell accents on the steering wheel, instrument panel and doors, chrome exterior door handles, Satin Silver door handles and PRNDL bezel, premium Boston Acoustics sound system, cabin air filtration system, bright sill scuff pad, automatic-dimming rearview mirror and theft alarm.

Standard exterior equipment on the Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited model includes a Limited badge, fog lamps and 18-inch tires with aluminum wheels.

Options, beyond those available on the Sebring Convertible and Sebring Convertible Touring models, include a Luxury Group (which includes 18-inch tires and chrome-clad wheels, heated front seats and a windscreen) and an Electronic Convenience Group (which includes automatic headlamps, remote start, single-zone automatic temperature control, universal garage door opener and heated/cooled cupholder).

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Production

Production of the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible began in the first quarter of 2007 at the newly refurbished Sterling Heights (Mich.) Assembly Plant. Sebring Convertible's new 173 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine is built in the state-of-the art Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) plant in Dundee, Mich. The 2.7-liter V-6 engine and the 3.5-liter V-6 engine are built at the Kenosha (Wis.) Engine Plant.

Source: Chrysler Group

Accubuilt Introducing New Chrysler Interior at New York City Event

Accubuilt, Inc. will host an event on April 5th to introduce the new Dark Slate Gray interior now available in its W.P. Chrysler Executive Series 300 long-wheelbase Chrysler model. The new interior also features premium leather Seat trim as well as genuine California Walnut wood accents throughout. All livery operators in the Metro NYC-NJ-CT area will be formally invited but the event is open to all livery operators, regardless of location.

The event will take place at the Marriott LaGuardia Airport and will be held from 9:00 a.m. until approximately 1:00 p.m.

“We'll have 300s available to ride and drive and will be offering heavy snacks and refreshments (including adult beverages from 11:00 a.m. on) to all attendees. Attendees can come anytime in that time span and stay as long or as little as they want,” Accubuilt says. Accubuilt will also pay attendee's parking charges at the Marriott.

Accubuilt President Don Cuzzocrea will personally host the event and Chrysler fleet sales and Chrysler Financial personnel are scheduled to attend as well. They will answer questions about the car, its no charge 4 year/150,000 DaimlerChrysler extended service contract that covers 800+ components, and financing.

Japanese Models Shut Out Rivals on Consumer Reports' 2007 Top Picks List

YONKERS, N.Y. — All of the vehicles in the 2007 Consumer Reports Top Picks List for 2007 are Japanese nameplates, as vehicles from the Motor City continue to be shut out of the prestigious lineup. The Toyota Prius remains the top pick in the "green" car category for the fourth year in a row.


The Honda Fit was singled out as the best overall in a new class of fuel-efficient subcompact cars.

The Honda Civic was named the best small sedan and the Honda Accord was praised as the best family sedan. The Infiniti G35 was picked as best upscale sedan, while the Infiniti M35 earned honors as best luxury sedan.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata was named most "fun to drive."

The redesigned Toyota RAV4 was chosen as best small SUV. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid snagged the honors as best midsize SUV, while the Toyota Sienna earned the best minivan rating.

Detroit automakers were shut out of the list, in part, because the magazine decided not to name a pickup truck winner, "pending upcoming testing of newly released full-size pickup trucks." It also did not select a winner in the best full-size SUV category, another category in which Detroit would have been expected to perform well.

The top picks came from a list of more than 250 vehicles recently tested by the magazine. The candidates must have at least average reliability and must have performed adequately in overall crash protection if tested by the government or insurance industry, the magazine said. The list was released ahead of the magazine's annual April auto issue.

The news wasn't all good for Toyota, however. The Japanese automaker's upscale Lexus brand slipped to 5th place from last year's number-one ranking in new-car predicted reliability, based on Consumer Reports' annual Car Reliability Survey. The magazine explained that the drop "can be attributed to its GS models receiving only an average rating."

The publication acknowledged that, overall, "Most models with the best predicted reliability are again from Asia." Ford's Mercury brand was the only domestic brand to land in the top 10, while most domestic brands slipped in the rankings. According to the list, Toyota is predicted to have the most reliable cars, moving up to 1st from 3rd place last year. Honda remained unchanged in 2nd place and Scion, Toyota's youth brand, leapfrogged up to 3rd place from the seventh spot. The top five most reliable brands of vehicles are all made by Toyota or Honda, according to the Consumer Reports survey.

In an extensive "auto report cards for 2007" segment, the magazine found that Volkswagen and Audi lead the pack in overall test performance, but Honda, Subaru and Toyota are best when it comes to reliability. However, it leveled criticism at the Toyota FJ Cruiser and the Toyota Yaris for scoring near the bottom of their classes in tests.

Chrysler had the lowest average test score. Consumer Reports castigated several new Chrysler products, including the Sebring and the Dodge Caliber, slamming them for having "noisy engines, bad visibility and cheap interiors."

Consumer Reports noted that some recent models from Ford and GM are "competitive with the better Japanese or European models." It singled out the Cadillac CTS, Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, noting that those three vehicles scored well in testing. But the Motor City got a dressing-down. Consumer Reports said: "U.S. automakers build some good models. But many vehicles are mediocre, and even the best seldom rise to the top of their categories against stiff competition."

Chrysler Rumor Mill Reaches a Fever Pitch

DETROIT — Even as Chrysler Group CEO Thomas LaSorda sought to soothe the company's uneasy employees via e-mail, media speculation over the ultimate fate of Chrysler reached a frenzied pitch on Friday.

Volkswagen was the latest multinational carmaker to deny an interest in acquiring the ailing U.S. auto group from parent DaimlerChrysler. DCX Chairman Dieter Zetsche triggered the initial spate of publicity with his announcement that the company would pursue "all options" in response to Chrysler's financial skid, including a spin-off or sale.

In Europe, the Financial Times reported that at least four private-equity groups are holding preliminary talks to buy Chrysler. Reports in Europe say DaimlerChrysler's asking price is 10 billion euros — about U.S.$13 billion.

Among the U.S. private-equity groups said to be in discussions with DaimlerChrysler are Apollo Management, Blackstone Group, Carlyle Group and Cerberus Capital Management. The auto unit of Cerberus is run by David Thursfield, an auto-industry veteran who once ran Ford's European operations.

VW joined a string of corporate deniers that now includes Fiat, Hyundai, Mitsubishi and Renault-Nissan. In response to press speculation, all have said they have no interest in acquiring Chrysler, which posted an operating loss of $1.5 billion in 2006.

Press pundits also suggested that one or more state-owned Chinese automakers could be preparing to make a bid for Chrysler. Prospective bidders could include First Auto and Shanghai Auto, the country's two largest carmakers.

Another oft-rumored suitor, General Motors, has declined to comment on media speculation that it has discussed a possible platform-sharing arrangement with Chrysler, similar to the deal under which Chrysler next year will provide VW with a version of its redesigned 2008 Town & Country minivan.

In Detroit, LaSorda has sought to reassure nervous employees and dealers with a series of e-mails and conference calls, according to local press reports.

Chrysler began sending out terms of its latest early-retirement and buyout packages, which aim to cut 13,000 blue- and white-collar workers from the payroll. The initial package, which is being presented only to salaried non-union employees, offers early-retirement incentives to workers as young as 53. Chrysler hopes to eliminate 1,000 white-collar jobs by June and another 1,000 by 2008. The company's contract with the United Auto Workers expires later this year.

LaSorda told employees that a potential deal to sell or spin off Chrysler could take "months" rather than weeks to negotiate.

Chrysler Group SRT and Richard Petty Announce Partnership

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — It seems like a natural. Chrysler Group's Street and Racing Technology and the Richard Petty Driving Experience announced a new partnership on Thursday designed to make the average Joe or Jane into a better driver.

In a joint statement, the two said more than 60 events are planned this year at such venues as Daytona International Speedway, Road America in Wisconsin, Watkins Glen in New York and Phoenix International Raceway. The first event will be held at the Texas Motor Speedway starting on February 23.

Programs include autocross, advanced car control, performance driving and drifting. At the end of each day, participants can ride shotgun and take a hot lap around the track with a Richard Petty Driving Experience professional driver. Vehicles in the program include the Dodge Viper SRT-10 coupe and roadster, along with the Dodge Charger SRT8.

SRT owners get a one-day session rolled into the purchase of their vehicle. Non-SRT owners can participate for $500. The 2007 schedule is available at the Drive SRT Web site.

America Vs. Germany In The U.K. - Chrysler 300C SRT-8 Vs. BMW M5

Yes, we love the UK’s Top Gear, despite their derisive (and incessant) “Yank Tank” jokes. In this clip, we see Jeremy Clarkson take on one of our favorite big American sedans, the Chrysler 300C SRT-8. The boys at TG have a little sideways fun with the car, and then put it up against BMW’s all-conquering M5 at Willow Springs.

Our end assessment of the SRT-8 differs rather sharply with that of Mr. Clarkson, but that doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy seeing it drifting about in tire-smoking anger.

Enjoy.

source: TopGear

Daimler Sell Chrysler?

STUTTGART, Germany — DaimlerChrysler boss Dieter Zetsche is studying a proposal to sell the Chrysler Group, as the company's financially embattled U.S. subsidiary unveiled the latest in a series of massive restructurings aimed at returning Chrysler to profitability by 2008.

In a company statement describing details of the Chrysler restructuring plan, Zetsche said: "We are looking into further strategic options with (other) partners....We do not exclude any option in order to find the best solution for both the Chrysler Group and DaimlerChrysler."

It is the first official indication that the parent company is considering a potential spin-off or sale of the U.S. automaker it acquired in a controversial 1998 "merger of equals."

As part of Chrysler's latest overhaul, the company will shed another 13,000 jobs and will shutter its truck plant in Newark, Delaware, in 2009. Chrysler said it is also reducing the number of vehicle platforms from 12 to seven by 2012, while investing $3 billion in new engines and transmissions.

In Germany, the newspaper Handelsblatt, citing sources on DaimlerChrysler's supervisory board, reported that Zetsche has commissioned a U.S.-based investment bank to examine all possible options for Chrysler following news that the American company posted losses totaling nearly $1.5 billion in 2006.

"Everything is possible," a board source told Handelsblatt, adding, "It is more likely that something drastic will happen than that nothing will happen." Handelsblatt said Zetsche's options include a partial or complete sale of the company.

Among the possibilities open to Zetsche is the formation of an alliance with another carmaker. Recent speculation within European automotive and financial circles has linked Chrysler with Renault, though both sides deny talks have taken place.

A further alternative before Zetsche, according to Handelsblatt, is spinning off Chrysler and refloating it on the New York Stock Exchange.

In Detroit, Chrysler said key elements of its latest three-year "recovery and transformation plan" include reducing the company's longstanding focus on trucks, utility vehicles and minivans, and broadening its sales reach beyond North America.

As part of its product offensive, Chrysler said it will launch more than 20 new and 13 refreshed vehicles by 2009, including the redesigned Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, the Dodge Avenger and the Jeep Liberty. The company also plans to introduce a new B-segment compact imported from Chinese automaker Chery.

Chrysler's powertrain plan includes provisions to develop a new family of V6 engines under the internal name Phoenix, as well as a new dual-clutch transmission in partnership with Getrag.

Cool Chrysler Car Pack

Up for grabs this month is this cool Chrysler car pack, given to us at the launch of the 300C SRT8 Touring.


The car packs more than 425bhp, so the bag could be handy for the contents of your passengers' stomachs. To bid for this unique piece of motoring memorabilia, follow follow this link.

Last month all the Christmas goodies went for a seasonably charitable £410.

Chrysler's new V8 coupe

Can a coupe have four doors? Chrysler says yes, reports TOBY HAGON from DETROIT.

The environment and economical vehicles may have been a strong theme at the 2007 Detroit motor show, but that didn’t stop Chrysler unveiling a potent V8-powered four-door coupe.

The Nassau concept car is said to explore a “new expression of the Chrysler brand”.

“(The Nassau) is a more emotional and artistic articulation of what is means to be a Chrysler,” says the car’s designer, Alan Barrington.

Similar in length to the large Chrysler 300C sedan, the Nassau’s compact hatchback-like shape cleverly disguises the size of the one-off concept machine.

Its more wagon-like proportions appear aimed more at European markets – Chrysler is expanding into more export markets – rather than sedan-loving America.

Inside, too, it’s a spacious four-seater vehicle with classic Chrysler cues but more modernity to help it appeal to a younger audience.

“The look of various components inside the vehicle was inspired by the design of contemporary cell phones, computers, iPods and MP3 players,” says interior designer Ben Chang.

“We paid close attention to the graphics and finishes of these technologically advanced products, seeking to make controls in the Nassau’s interior that the driver interfaces with similar to what you’d find in the office or among personal electronic devices. We strived to achieve a seamless interface between your car and the rest of your electronic world.”

Under the bonnet, the Nassau gets a hefty 6.1-litre V8 engine capable of launching it to 100km/h in five seconds.

No mention of the car’s fuel usage, which will presumably not be as impressive as its design and thoughtfulness.

Still, the Nassau is very much a dream machine for now, a one-off concept car that gives a clue to Chrysler’s thoughts on future production models.

source: smh

Chrysler’s and Dodge’s Minivans Topping Popularity Charts

Chrysler Corporation invented the minivan in 1980s and begun a new vehicular genre. The minivans became very popular due to their small size, easiness to park and drive. The popularity of the minivans was said to cause the demise of full-size station wagons.

Chrysler and Dodge minivan entries still top the popularity charts, that is, in spite of the effort from other automakers such as Ford, GM, Honda, Toyota and Kia to topple down their sales lead. There are over 55 minivan models from which customers may choose from and it is vital for customers to select carefully before buying.

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