autoMedia Auto News Blog : Jeep

Future Product Plans: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:23:00 GMT

Chrysler LLC hosted a multi-hour business plan meeting last week where the reborn automaker detailed its strategy for the next few years. Enabled by its new partner Fiat, Chrysler will consolidate platforms, expand product offerings, and aim to boost sales volume and profit. All while significantly increasing product quality. Sounds good so far. The basic breakdown begins with reducing the number of unique platforms. Aside from pickup trucks, Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep count 11 platforms today. For 2014, the aim is to use just six, and that includes expanding into the A/B subcompact/compact-car segments thanks to Fiat. The trick is to move C and D segment vehicles, including small and midsized crossovers and sedans, onto a single, versatile platform. The Jeep Wrangler will have the distinction of having its own platform. (There’s only one, as they say.) The large sedans, minivans, and larger SUVs will each ride on three distinct platforms. There are several tangible benefits to this strategy. Chrysler lost its engineering partner with Daimler divested its interests. While Chrysler continues to use variations of Mercedes platforms, access to such resources is finite going forward. New...(read more)

autoMedia CARnival 11-06-09: This week in Auto Blogs

Brandy Schaffels — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

It's the week ending November 6, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather the highlights from each. ...(read more)

Chrysler To Offer Live, Mobile TV In Cars And Trucks

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 03:04:00 GMT

Too much time spent watching television may rot your brain, but video entertainment on the road can make long trips pass by more quickly for all aboard. A clever new digital pacifier will be available on select Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models starting late December providing live television on the go. And, with 20 channels to select from, there will be much more than cartoons to entertain travelers. Where previous mobile television systems have focused on the kids, Chrysler is touting a broad selection of cable-type channels that includes CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, NBC 2Go, and Nickelodeon. The Flo TV system will cost $629 plus installation, and it includes one-year service subscription. Offered as a Mopar accessory, the entertainment package will be available as a dealer-installed option on the following 2008-2010 model year vehicles with factory DVD entertainment systems: Chrysler Town & Country , Jeep Grand Cherokee , Jeep Commander , Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey , Dodge Nitro , Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500. The service also can be added to select 2008-2010 model-year vehicles when new Mopar headrest or seat-top DVD entertainment systems are...(read more)

SEMA: Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty Concept

admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:23:00 GMT

This year, Jeep has announced four vehicles will be introduced at SEMA, including the Dodge Challenger 1320 Drag Pak, upscale Dodge Ram Bianco, Jeep Wrangler Overland camp-anywhere concept, and the Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty....(read more)

What’s New for Chrysler in 2010?

admin — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 03:30:00 GMT

Not much in the way of new product. Remember, the company is rapidly reinventing itself, now that it has purged billions in so-called bad assets and almost 800 dealerships, leaving a leaner Chrysler Group to develop a revised product portfolio with its new corporate partner Fiat. (Read: "Like a Phoenix, New Chrysler Group LLC Rises.")

For the imminent future, there simply isn’t much happening. The products are largely in a holding pattern for another model year. However, if you look closely, there are numerous refinements that should make the vehicles more satisfying to own than before, though not the kind of breakthrough changes that are likely to spark showroom traffic. Below are the highlights of the Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep product updates for the 2010 model year.

We have already blogged on the notable update to Dodge Caliber’s interior. Most other vehicles that receive any update for the new model year are given a light touch. The one exception is the 2010 Dodge Ram heavy-duty pickups to be offered for the first time in a true crew-cab configuration, complimenting the regular and mega cab. All heavy-duty trucks are distinguished from their light-duty brethren by a unique grille, hood, and bumpers. Refinements throughout promise reduced noise, and the cabin boasts more storage locations. The Ram sees its various tow and capacity ratings increased, though these reflect more a change in how Dodge chooses to make its claims, more closely matching the competition, than representing engineering changes. The powerplants for the heavy-duty trucks include the venerable 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 and a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel. Chassis cab 3500, 4500, and 5500 Rams will be available for 2011.

The Ram Power Wagon returns, with electric-locking front and rear differentials, electronic disconnecting sway bar, Bilstein shocks, 32-inch BF Goodrich off-road tires, underbody skid-plate protection, 4.56 axle ratio for hill climbing, and a custom-built Warn 12,000-lb. winch is accessible through the front bumper. The exterior has been enhanced with a new two-tone paint scheme and graphics package.

Fuel economy tweaks are made on several models, including the light-duty Ram, Dodge Nitro, and Jeep Liberty. These models now have a fuel cut off indicated by an “Eco” light activated during deceleration. Other vehicles, including Jeeps, have had this feature previously. The Nitro and Liberty have some detail updates to their various trims, such as materials updates and larger, standard floor mats.

The Jeep Wrangler receives a long list of minor updates that should add appeal to the legendary rock crawler. On all models fog lamps, tow hooks, compass, outside temperature readout, larger visors, fuel-saver indicator, and front dome lamp are standard. The Sunrider soft-top has been made easier to install. Other changes depend on the trim and options, with changes such as uplevel seating surfaces, new colors, new wheels, and the addition of Uconnect Phone added to the navigation system.

The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee in its final year sees the model line simplified to the Laredo and Limited trims, dropping the Overland. An all-new, larger Grand Cherokee will be introduced for the 2011 model year based on the Mercedes-Benz ML platform.

The Chrysler Sebring convertible and sedan has a minor exterior freshening with a new hood and wheels. Inside, the cars receive a new instrument panel and active head restraints.

And the PT Cruiser lives on for another year, despite its planned discontinuation. There is a new Classic trim that bundles popular features in a value package.

Even the Chrysler 300 receives minor updates, with the 300C now claiming keyless entry/keyless go and rear park assist as standard. Side-curtain air bags are standard on all models. An all-new 300 is expected for the 2011 model year.

The Town & Country and Dodge Caravan minivans now have active head rests and rear obstacle detection on all models.

The Dodge Journey gains the “eco” feature also added to the Nitro, seeing highway fuel economy increase 1 mpg on the highway with the V-6 model. Active head restraints are standard on all trims, as well we four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Those models with a video entertainment system now have a larger, nine-inch screen.

The Dodge Challenger adds even more performance and excitement for 2010 with the Super Track Pack, includes 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires, front and rear Nivomat self-leveling shock-absorbers, a larger rear stabilizer bar, a 3.06 rear-axle ratio, performance brake linings, and enthusiast-desired “ESP-off” stability calibration. A less extreme nostalgia trip can be taken with the SE Rallye package featuring a dramatic stripe package alternative to the R/T Classic with dual hood and decklid stripes, chromed fuel filler door, 18-inch rallye wheels with all-season performance tires, body-color deck-lid spoiler, and Micro Carbon interior accents.

And finally, the Dodge Viper lives on despite Chrysler’s previous efforts to sell it off. There are four new paint colors and tan Nappa upholstery to mark the new year.

So, while the engineers learn Italian and put together the pieces for what will be the new Chrysler going forward, these enhancements will have to see consumers and dealers through. Again, while there is little drama, the vehicles are more appealing than before.

Chrysler Offers “Double Cash For Your Old Car” Incentive

admin — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 21:21:00 GMT

With consumers itching to take advantage of the new Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS) program that is rolling out nationwide, Chrysler is looking to sweeten the pot by offering similar additional incentives on many cars and trucks. The “Double Cash For Your Old Car” incentive has the automaker offering $3,500 to $4,500 off the purchase of new 2009 Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, potentially doubling the discount some customers can get this summer.

Customers will be able to choose the Double Cash program, or zero percent financing for 72 months. (Run your own numbers before deciding, as in many cases the rebate will save more money in the long run.) The program is in place through August 31, 2009.

Eligible 2009 vehicles and rebate about listed below, notably excluding the iconic Jeep Wrangler and SRT models. Additional local and owner loyalty incentives may be available.

Double Cash For Your Old Car

Chrysler 300 - $3,500
Chrysler Aspen - $4,500
Chrysler PT Cruiser - $4,500
Chrysler Sebring - $4,500
Chrysler Sebring Convertible $3,500
Chrysler Town & Country $3,500
Dodge Avenger $4,500
Dodge Caliber $3,500
Dodge Grand Caravan $3,500
Dodge Charger $3,500
Dodge Dakota $3,500
Dodge Durango $4,500
Dodge Journey $3,500
Dodge Nitro $3,500
Dodge Ram 1500 $4,500
Dodge Ram 2500 $3,500
Jeep Commander $4,500
Jeep Compass $3,500
Jeep Grand Cherokee $4,500
Jeep Liberty $3,500
Jeep Patriot $3,500

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles in the 2009 new car buyer's guide.

Like a Phoenix, New Chrysler Group LLC Rises

admin — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:32:00 GMT

Just hours after the U.S. Supreme Court approved the split of Chrysler into an old company and new company, Chrysler Group LLC proudly emerged under new ownership. Under the terms approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York, the key assets from old Chrysler LLC, without certain debts and liabilities, were sold to the new company.

The Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep , and Mopar brands, along with new partner Fiat, hit the ground running, rapidly remolding the company and preparing to face the formidable challenges that lay ahead.

As part of the alliance, Fiat will share its technology, platforms, and powertrains for small- and medium-sized cars, allowing the new company to offer a full product portfolio—a critical weakness with old Chrysler that contributed to its downfall. Chrysler will also benefit from Fiat's management expertise in business turnaround and access to Fiat's international distribution network with particular focus on Latin America and Russia.

"This is a very significant day, not only for Chrysler and its dedicated employees, who have persevered through a great deal of uncertainty during the past year, but for the global automotive industry as a whole," said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, who today was named Chief Executive Officer of Chrysler Group LLC.

Former Chrysler President Jim Press, a Toyota veteran, was named Deputy CEO of the new Chrysler. Beneath him, management is being reorganized to more closely match Fiat with an eye on speeding decision making. Former Chrysler CEO Bob Nardelli, who has served as the public faced for the troubled company, has stepped aside to join Chrysler-parent Cerberus as an advisor.

Mr. Marchionne added, "We intend to build on Chrysler's culture of innovation and Fiat's complementary technology and expertise to expand Chrysler's product portfolio both in North America and overseas. Those Chrysler operations assumed by the new company that were idled during this process will soon be back up and running, and work is already underway on developing new environmentally friendly, fuel-efficient, high-quality vehicles that we intend to become Chrysler's hallmark going forward.

Even with the 789 dealers closed, this remains a great time to buy a Chrysler product, as the remaining dealers in many cases have flooded their lots with the excess inventory. You could jumpstart the new Chrysler, and get a great deal, by shopping your local dealer.

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep in the new car buyer's guide. Read "Fiat 500: On Its Way."

Supreme Court Paves Road for New Chrysler

admin — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 02:04:00 GMT

Today was a fateful day for Chrysler. June 9th will be remembered through automotive history as the day Chrysler let go one quarter of its dealers, or 789 total. (Check to see if any closed dealers are near you.)

Friday, federal bankruptcy court had approved the split of old and new Chrysler, enabling the new company to slough off debts and obligations, while restructuring with new owners. That move was pending Supreme Court approval, enabling consideration for appeals. Monday, the Supreme Court issued a stay, buying time to review the claims, lead by an Indiana pension plan. Today ended with the Supreme Court ruling that the new Chrysler LLC is clear to proceed.

Jim Press, Vice Chairman & President, Chrysler LLC released the following statement:

“We are pleased with the Judge’s decision allowing us to go forward with the realignment of our dealer network. A financially strong, competitive dealership network can increase sales and afford to invest in facilities, in people, in training, and in amenities, with a major focus placed on customer satisfaction. The 2,392 U.S. dealers that will move forward will be integral to the success of the new Chrysler.”

Read: “New Chrysler Emerges from Bankruptcy.”

Great Time to Buy Chrysler Cars – Incentives, Out-of-Business Sales

admin — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 01:02:00 GMT

For car shoppers, this weekend could be a great time to purchase a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle. Chrysler is forcing the closure of 789 dealers by June 9th (provided there aren’t successful appeals), meaning about one fourth of the dealerships will be looking to liquidate their inventory. Further, Chrysler is offered factory-backed incentives to keep the sales rolling.

Of course, it is important to understand that these closing dealers may not be able to provide after-sales support, so you want to be aware of what dealers in your area are retaining their new-car franchise. Likely, the closing dealers will be available for routine maintenance and possibly repairs.

Most closing dealers will be shuffling inventory to the remaining 2,392 stores at deep discounts, meaning even those stores will be offering great deals over the next few weeks from their overstocked inventory. We have seen advertised new-car prices showing 25 to 40 percent discounts, promising terrific upfront savings. Of course, these will be somewhat offset by accelerated depreciation.

To move the metal, Chrysler is offering zero-percent financing for 60 months through GMAC Financial Services on select 2009 model vehicles, or up to $4,000 rebates on 2009 model vehicles. Plus, current Chrysler vehicle owners are eligible for $1,000 Owner Loyalty cash on most 2008 and 2009 Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles. These incentives are valid through July 1, 2009.

Now that Chrysler’s fate through bankruptcy proceeding looks certain, with final court approval for the sale to Fiat expected Monday, consumers can buy with confidence. And they have been based on sales trends.

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep in the new car buyer's guide.

New Chrysler Emerges from Bankruptcy

admin — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 01:34:00 GMT

Just was General Motors entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Chrysler exited from its filing as Chrysler Group LLC. Two months after it entered bankruptcy protection, Chrysler Group emerged from its chrysalis with a firm alliance with Fiat. A key condition for government-assisted Chapter 11, versus liquidation through Chapter 7, was the teaming with Fiat. The Italian automaker will work with Chrysler to offer the award-winning Fiat 500 subcompact in the United States, as well as develop future models, both those retuned from Europe and those specifically engineered for this market.

Fiat brings to the table vast global resources, with a product and technology portfolio that dovetails with Chrysler’s thirsty, truck-heavy line-up. With the federal government significantly raising fuel economy standards for 2016, the ready access to small car platforms and high-tech, small-displacement engines will prove essential. Without Fiat, the government felt Chrysler would simply not be able to return to profitability even with appealing models in the pipeline such as the very impressive 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2011 Chrysler 300. The reality is, Chrysler simply did not have a good, small or midsized, fuel-efficient car in the pipeline – until now.

The Autos Task Force will serve in an advisory role on the board, though will leave the day-to-day management to Chrysler Group. The Task Force is looking out for its investment, or rather the taxpayer investment, as the U.S. and Canadian governments have a combined 12-percent stake in the new company. The majority share hold is the United Auto Workers health care/retirement program, known as VEBA, with a 68-percent interest.

Through its restructuring, Chrysler ordered that 789 dealerships forfeit their franchise rights by June 9th. In a monthly sales call today, Chrysler management said the standing inventory reduction was going well, and unsold vehicles would be redistributed. In the meantime, there are tremendous deals on Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep products.

The factories that went idle on April 30th will be running again by late June. The downtime will enable the marketplace to absorb many of the 44,000 cars that had been on the lots of the 789 dealers.

The so-called “bad” assets from the old Chrysler still need to be sold off, or otherwise disposed of, though the process if moving quickly.

The key message here is that the new Chrysler is in business, full swing.

Read "Fiat 500: On Its Way."

Old Chrysler Fights to Become New Chrysler in Bankruptcy Court

admin — Thu, 28 May 2009 03:11:00 GMT

The fate of Chrysler LLC is being decided in New York bankruptcy court, where the first day’s proceedings have ended with positive signs for moving forward with an imminent $2 billion sale to Fiat, United Auto Workers, and the Canadian and U.S. governments. With encouragement from the Autos Task Force, Chrysler is looking to rapidly restructure its business into a “new” Chrysler. But before doing so, the court must sort through approximately 340 objections, including those from the nearly 800 dealers who will lose their Chrysler franchises in early June.

The swift sale would free Chrysler from $6.9 billion in debt and potentially preserve more than 100,000 auto-related jobs, according to a Reuters report.

As Bloomberg.com has outlined, the proceedings are filed with complexities and conflicting view points, as dissenters struggle to have their concerns and objections heard.

The proceedings are expected to extend into Friday, when in all likelihood, a green light will be given for this government-favored “new Chrysler” scenario.

For car buyers, this continues to be a great time to consider a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep product, with the greatest incentives to be found at the 789 cut dealerships.

Chrysler Seeks High-Voltage DOE Funding for EVs

admin — Wed, 27 May 2009 01:37:00 GMT

Even as the details are being sorted out with “Old Chrysler” versus “New Chrysler” in the bankruptcy-lead restructuring, Chrysler LLC has submitted three proposals to the Department of Energy (DOE) seeking $448 million to accelerate the development of electrified vehicles. The proposed vehicles to include Dodge Ram 1500 plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEV), Chrysler Town & Country PHEVs, and Chrysler Town & Country electric vehicles (EV). (See our Chrysler Town & Country minivan review.)

The funds were requested from the DOE Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative and the Transportation Electrification Initiative. Through these programs, if approved, the DOE would match funding from Chrysler and its partners for the development of advanced powertrains.

With support, Chrysler would build and distribute a test fleet numbering 365 vehicles to aid in developing the powertrains for practical, real-world applications. In addition, Chrysler LLC will deliver 165 Chrysler Town & Country EV cargo minivans for daily mail service in four regions throughout the country.

With the government moving to raise the fleet average requirement to 35.5 mpg, electrified vehicles will prove essential to attain such ambitious requirements by 2016. Late to the hybrid party, Chrysler may be able to make up lost time with additional funding to supplement its own R&D budgets. We hope there are a few dollars left over to put toward readying a Jeep Wrangler EV for production, the ultimate in treading lightly as seen on the auto show circuit this past year.

Read: “Shocking: Chrysler to Sell Electric Vehicles.”

Chrysler to Close 789 Dealers – Any Near You?

admin — Fri, 15 May 2009 00:54:00 GMT

Chrysler filed a motion with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court today to essentially cull 789 dealerships from its herd. On a conference call today, Chrysler LLC executives explained that they sought to cancel franchise agreements with the least successful dealerships, thereby strengthening the remaining 2,392 dealers will be a part of the "new company" being developed. It is expected that the targeted dealers, which account for just 14 percent of the corporation’s sales volume, will be closed by June 9th.

Chrysler says that about 80 percent of the remaining dealerships will carry all three brands. Down the road, any of the dealers may be tapped to add Fiat or Alfa Romeo. (Read "Fiat 500: On Its Way.")

Due to bankruptcy laws, Chrysler LLC is not required to purchase parts, tools, or vehicles from the shuttered dealerships. Those dealers have a combined inventory of 44,000 vehicles, which Chrysler LLC will facilitate selling to retained dealers.

The move will impact hundreds of communities, though Chrysler execs say by targeting small, less successful dealers, they have lessened the impact from the franchise reduction. Since many dealers also sell products from other brands, those may remain in business and conceivably some may continue servicing Chrysler products.

The U.S. Treasury released a statement today underscoring this message:

A month ago, Chrysler faced the real prospect of liquidation, which would have eliminated all 3,200 of the company's dealers. As a result of the successful Chrysler-Fiat partnership and the backing of the President's Auto Task Force, Chrysler is now positioned to move forward with a plan that retains 75% of its dealers – representing 87% of Chrysler sales. Consistent with the Task Force's role in the restructuring process, it was not involved in the specific design or implementation of Chrysler's dealer consolidation plan. The Task Force played no role in deciding which dealers, or how many dealers, were part of Chrysler's announcement today.

Without question, the move does impact everyday people. For consumers, it means the greatest deals on Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles ever may be available over the next two weeks.

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle this month, check to see if the dealers in your area are on closure list (pdf).

If you’re a current owner, be aware that future service and repair may need to be conducted at another dealership (check here to see the dealers that will remain) or at an independent shop.

Owner, shopper, or simply enthusiast, wish the dealers well who drew the short straw.

For more information, visit: chryslerrestructuring.com

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep in the new car buyer's guide.

Chrysler Offers Big Incentives up to $6,000

admin — Thu, 07 May 2009 02:03:00 GMT

Now that Chrysler has filled for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and is moving forward with an alliance with Fiat, its future seems more certain. Time to focus attention on selling cars--essential to keep the money flowing while it builds a new car company. To that end, Chrysler is now offering up to $4,000 Consumer Cash on 2009 model vehicles; $1,000 Owner Loyalty for current Chrysler LLC vehicle owners that is good towards most 2008 and 2009 Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles; and up to $1,000 Credit Union Bonus Cash for qualified members who finance their new vehicle purchase through a participating Credit Union. These incentives are valid through June 1, 2009.

In addition, given that most dealers have bloated inventories, remember that there is additional negotiation room. The amount of haggling a dealer will do will likely decrease along with their inventory as plants idled during the Chrysler restructuring.

So, for those considering a Chrysler, this is a great time to buy. Especially if you’re looking for a memorable Mother’s Day gift.

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep in the new car buyer's guide.

Ad Watch: Chrysler Builds a New Car Company

admin — Wed, 06 May 2009 01:31:00 GMT

…starting with an ad campaign. Over the weekend, Chrysler ran an ad campaign in dozens of major newspapers across the country, and it continued the promotion Monday in the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and USA Today. The message was simple, announce to America that the company is working hard to rebuild itself.

Beneath an image of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 200C concept, and Dodge EV concept, ran the following:

"At Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep, we’re restructuring the way we do business. We’re committed to being stronger, leaner and more competitive. To help us achieve these goals quickly, we’ve formed a strategic alliance with Fiat. This alliance gives us access to advanced small car technology, enabling us to build high-quality, environmentally friendly, fuel-efficient vehicles. Together, we’re poised to serve our customers and dealers better, with a broad lineup of car and trucks you’ll want to drive. Plus, we still have the best powertrain warranty in the industry, backed by the U.S. Government. At Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep, we’re building a new car company."

The print ad will be supported with an on-going print, radio, and television campaign. Let’s hope it aids sales during its restructuring period. Which, by the way, may be the best time ever to get a great deal on a Chrysler product, as idled factories reduce dealer inventory and bring supply in closer alignment with demand.

Research Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep in the new car buyer's guide.