The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is no more for 2019, but that doesn't mean it hasn't influenced the lineup.

Lets begin with the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. Under its dual cowl hood is a revamped supercharged 6.2L V8 producing 797 horsepower and 707 pound-feet of torque. Power flows through an eight-speed automatic to the rear-wheels. Dodge claims the Redeye is the "most powerful production V8" and "quickest production muscle car," most likely because the Demon doesn't exist anymore. Here are the numbers,

• 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
• Quarter-Mile: 10.8 seconds
• Top Speed: 203 mph

This increase in power is due to Dodge upgrading 25 major components including a bigger supercharger, strengthened engine internals, high-capacity fuel injection system, second-fuel pump, and improved lubrication. The Demon also hands over the Torque Reserve system that builds up power before launching from a standing stop, and After-Run Chiller that cools down the supercharger when the engine is off.

Down one rung is the regular Hellcat. Dodge has increased horsepower to 717, along with adding Launch Assist, Torque Reserve, Launch Control, and Line Lock. A dual-cowl hood is standard.

Both Hellcat models will have the option of a widebody that features larger fender flares to make room for the wider tires.

Dodge also announced the R/T Scat Pack Widebody that features the same wide fender flares as the Hellcat, rear spoiler, SRT tuned chassis, and adaptive dampers. The changes make a huge difference as the Scat Pack Widebody is about two seconds faster per lap than the standard Scat Pack. All Scat Pack models get Launch Assist, Launch Control, Line Lock, SRT Drive Modes, and SRT Performance Pages.

Wrapping up the 2019 Challenger lineup is the R/T and GT rear-wheel drive. The previously-optional Super Track Pak is now standard for both models and includes a performance suspension, enhanced steering, a new front splitter and hood, 20-inch wheels, and bolstered cloth Houndstooth seats.

The 2019 Challenger family arrives in the fourth quarter.

Source: Dodge

New 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye: Possessed by the Demon

• New Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye and Its 797-horsepower Supercharged HEMI® High-output Engine Drive 2019 Challenger Lineup
• Dodge launches most powerful SRT Hellcat lineup ever
• The new 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye is the most powerful, quickest and fastest muscle car
• Most powerful production V-8 engine with 797 horsepower and 707 lb.-ft. of torque
• Quickest production muscle car with 0-60 miles per hour (mph) acceleration of 3.4 seconds
• Fastest grand touring (GT) production car with a ¼-mile elapsed time (E.T.) of 10.8 seconds at 131 mph; and reaches a new top speed of 203 mph
• 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat boasts new rating of 717 horsepower and 656 lb.-ft. of torque
• A new dual-snorkel hood on all Hellcat models pays homage to the distinctive Dodge design themes from some of its most famous muscle cars, including the 1970 Dart Swinger and 1971 Demon 
• Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody features the same fender flares from SRT Hellcat Widebody, which add 3.5 inches to the overall width
• R/T Scat Pack Widebody rides on sticky 305/35ZR20 Pirelli tires mounted to 20 x 11-inch forged “Devil’s Rim” aluminum wheels  
• All 2019 R/T Scat Pack models feature the power-bulge aluminum hood with heat extractors formerly featured on the Challenger SRT Hellcat
• Challenger R/T and GT RWD models get standard high-performance suspension

June 28, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - No rest for the wicked, indeed.
 
Dodge continues to push the performance envelope in 2019, using its high-performance engine street credibility to elevate its entire Challenger lineup, introducing the most powerful supercharged SRT Hellcat lineup ever with horsepower output now starting at 717.
 
And that’s just the beginning.
 
Following a record-setting year with the introduction of the limited-production Dodge Challenger SRT Demon – the quickest, fastest and most powerful muscle car ever – Dodge//SRT is going back to its muscle car roots by taking its biggest, most powerful engine – the supercharged HEMI® Demon V-8 – and leveraging its enormous power output to boost the performance of the Hellcat. The result: the 797-horsepower 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye.
 
“With 840 horsepower, a 9.65 quarter-mile time and Guinness World Record certification that it’s the first production car to lift the wheels at launch, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon earned its place in the record books,” said Steve Beahm – Head of Passenger Cars, Dodge//SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA North America. “The Dodge Brothers would be proud that we’re leveraging the power and performance of this proven engine to bring a Demon-possessed Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye to an even wider high-performance enthusiast audience.”

Also new for 2019, Dodge offers the Widebody Package on the Challenger R/T Scat Pack model, which adds 3.5 inches to the overall width, improving handling and braking to the naturally aspirated muscle car. At the track, larger six-piston Brembo front brakes, wider wheels and tires, and suspension upgrades featured on the R/T Scat Pack Widebody equate to 2-second faster lap times or approximately 12 car lengths at a 2.1-mile road course, compared with the non-Widebody Challenger R/T Scat Pack.
 
Production of the 2019 Dodge Challenger lineup starts at the Brampton (Ont.) Assembly Plant in the fall of 2018, with vehicles starting to arrive in dealerships in the fourth quarter.

Demon engine drives most powerful Hellcat lineup ever   
Designed and engineered with more power to appeal to an even broader muscle car enthusiast audience, the heart of the new 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye comes from its limited-production big brother – the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon. The supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI high-output V-8 engine is rated at 797 horsepower and 707 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission.
 
Like its Demon brethren, it has 25 major component upgrades, including a larger supercharger, strengthened connecting rods and pistons, high-speed valve train, fuel injection system and improved lubrication system.
 
Compared with the standard SRT Hellcat engine, the Redeye’s supercharged high-output engine features:

• Largest factory supercharger of any production car – 2.7 liters versus 2.4 liters
• Increased boost pressure: 14.5 psi versus 11.6 psi
• Higher rpm limit: 6,500 rpm versus 6,200 rpm
• Fuel: Two dual-stage fuel pumps versus one
  • At full throttle, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye’s high-output engine consumes 1.43 gal/min (5.4 liters/min) of fuel – enough to drain the fuel tank in just under 11 minutes, yet is still rated at 22 miles per gallon (mpg) when driven in normal highway conditions
• Larger induction air box with three sources of intake air:
  • New dual-snorkel hood
  • Driver-side Air Catcher headlamp
  • Inlet near the wheel liner 

Additional features from the SRT Demon that help the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye achieve its status as the most powerful, quickest and fastest muscle car:

• Torque Reserve delivers up to 3.9 psi of boost at launch and up to 55 percent more engine torque  
• Only factory production car with both SRT Power Chiller™ and After-Run Chiller
• High-strength steel prop shafts provide a 15 percent increase in torque capacity
• 41-spline half shafts provide a 20 percent increase in torque capacity 

New for 2019, SRT Hellcat Redeye offers two final drive ratios, a standard 2.62:1 or available 3.09:1 for enhanced launch capability. 
 
The 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat lineup delivers improved performance numbers, including a new top speed of 203 miles per hours (mph), making the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye the most powerful, quickest and fastest muscle car.

Functional and intimidating exterior design
The newly designed, fully functional dual-snorkel hood provides maximum air intake to the supercharged powerplant and pays homage to the distinctive design themes from some of the most famous mid-1960s and early-1970s Dodge muscle cars, like the 1970 Dart Swinger and 1971 Demon. 
 
"We designed the SRT Hellcat Challenger’s new dual-snorkel hood to focus on another key historical Mopar design element and pay homage to our past with a modern interpretation that looks even more sinister," said Mark Trostle – Head of Performance, Passenger and Utility Vehicle Exterior Design, FCA US LLC. “Whenever we design a new exterior element, we work hand-in-hand with the SRT engineering team to ensure that everything we create resonates with SRT DNA, is functional and meets their performance goals."
 
Even the dual carbon or gunmetal stripe packages have been skillfully tailored to enhance the new dual-snorkel hood design.
 
In addition to the new dual-snorkel hood, the exterior of Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye receives enhanced badging showing a sinister red jewel-like eye design on the Hellcat that jumps off the Midnight Grey Metallic finish fender badge. A new die-cast SRT emblem on the supercharger housing also features the new Redeye logo. 
 
Available on Challenger SRT Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack models for 2019 is the Widebody Package first seen on the 2018 Challenger SRT Hellcat. Wider fender flares add 3.5 inches to the overall width of the vehicle resulting in a more muscular, planted stance. The new flares are expertly integrated into the body design with concealed attachments to amplify the Challenger SRT Hellcat’s width. The front side marker lights are styled to flow with the shape of the fender flares.
 
An available new Satin Black spoiler on both SRT Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack models is both wider and longer, offering a more expressive look while meeting all SRT performance objectives.
 
Standard on 2019 SRT Hellcat models are 20 x 9.5-inch SRT Low Gloss Black lightweight performance wheels while new 20 x 9.5-inch split five-spoke wheels with Brass Monkey finish are available.   
 
Customers opting for the Widebody Package will get available split-five spoke, 20 x 11-inch “Devil’s Rim” forged aluminum wheels, riding on sticky 305/35ZR20 Pirelli P-Zero tires for improved performance while accentuating the menacing look.

Beating the heat
Heat is the enemy of any high-performance powertrain, so Dodge//SRT engineers looked for more ways to keep the intake air as close to the optimum temperature as possible.
 
One key to the engine’s imposing power output is air – and plenty of it. The new, low-restriction, dual snorkel hood is fully functional and sealed to the air box.

When combined with the Air Catcher headlamp and an inlet near the wheel liner, these three sources give the SRT Hellcat Redeye’s high-output engine an 18 percent greater air-flow rate than last year’s SRT Hellcat engine (1,134 cubic feet per minute). At full power, this is the equivalent flow rate to 89 adults simultaneously emptying their lungs in 1 second.
 
The revised air inlet path on the new dual snorkel hood results in an intake air temperature reduction of 4 degrees Fahrenheit.
 
The innovative, award-winning SRT Power Chiller™, standard on the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye only, diverts the air-conditioning refrigerant from the interior cabin to a chiller unit mounted by the low-temperature circuit coolant pump. Charge air coolant, after being cooled by ambient air passing through a low-temperature radiator at the front of the vehicle, flows through the chiller unit, where it is further cooled. The chilled coolant then flows to the heat exchangers in the supercharger.
 
The SRT Power Chiller™ lowers the intake air temperature further on the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye, resulting in improved performance.
 
The After-Run Chiller, also an industry first, minimizes any heat soak effects, allowing the engine to stay in optimum operating temperature. When the engine shuts down, the After-Run Chiller, now standard across the Challenger SRT Hellcat model lineup in 2019, keeps the engine’s cooling fan and low-temperature circuit coolant pump running to lower the supercharger/charge air cooler temperature. The driver can track the supercharger coolant temperature on the SRT Performance Pages in the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen and know in real time when the supercharger is at the optimum temperature for another run.

2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat lineup: more horses, expanded technologies and more features  
From 717 to 797 horsepower, Dodge is delivering the most powerful Challenger SRT Hellcat lineup ever.  Both a manual and automatic transmission are available to handle the immense horsepower and torque output.
 
The Challenger SRT Hellcat receives a standard Tremec six-speed manual transmission, while the efficient TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission is available.
 
The Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye’s supercharged high-output engine is paired to the TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission. Internal changes to the transmission include an upgraded torque converter that delivers an 18 percent increase in torque multiplication when compared with the standard Challenger SRT Hellcat.
 
All 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat models are loaded with standard performance features, including:

• Adaptive Damping Suspension — SRT-tuned Bilstein three-mode Adaptive Damping Suspension system includes: Auto Mode = sporty but compliant ride; Sport Mode = firm, maximum handling; Track Mode = firm, maximum handling plus performance shifting and gear-holding feature
• Braking system — braking power comes from the standard Brembo brake system with two-piece, 15.4-inch front rotors and six-piston front calipers for outstanding heat management, thermal capacity and longevity
• Electric power steering (EPS) — electric power steering delivers better steering feel and ease of turning efforts at parking lot speeds. It can be calibrated to optimize steering effort for a variety of driving situations via settings in the SRT Performance Pages
• Launch Assist — launched on the Challenger SRT Demon as a factory-production car first, Launch Assist helps resolve one of the biggest challenges to clean launches and driveline integrity – wheel hop, which happens when tires quickly slip and regain traction at launch, rapidly storing up and releasing energy in the driveline. These high torque spikes can quickly and severely damage driveline components, and up until now, the only solution was to back out of the throttle. The 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat models use the wheel speed sensors to watch for signs that the tires are slipping/sticking. If hop is detected, the engine control module momentarily reduces torque to maximize traction almost instantly – without the driver having to lift the throttle. Launch Assist reduces loads in the driveline from wheel hop by up to 20 percent
• Torque Reserve — becomes active once the engine speed passes 950 rpm. The system closes the bypass valve, “prefilling” the intake with boost, manages fuel flow to cylinders and manages spark timing to balance engine rpm and torque
• Launch Control — holds the engine at optimal launch RPM and waits for the driver to release the brake. Launch Ccontrol then uses engine torque management to optimize wheel slip for maximum acceleration. All 2019 Challenger models with Launch Control receive an improved system that increases hold time from five to 10 seconds for optimal launch and consistent straight-line acceleration
• Line Lock — engages the front brakes to hold the Challenger stationary but leaves the rear wheels free for a burnout to heat up and clean the rear tires. The system will also let the driver perform a controlled rolling burnout and can engage for up to 200 rear wheel revolutions
• Larger induction air box — with three sources of intake air: new dual-snorkel hood, driver-side Air Catcher headlamp and inlet near the wheel liner
• SRT Drive Modes — accessed via the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen, drivers can tailor their experience by adjusting horsepower, transmission shift speeds, steering effort, paddle shifters, traction and suspension settings. SRT Drive Modes offer selectable settings for Street (Auto), Sport and Track. There is also a Custom setting for the driver to select individual preferences
• SRT Performance Pages — bring critical vehicle performance data to the driver’s fingertips, including a real-time dyno graph, g-force heat map and much more

Also available on Challenger SRT Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack is the Rear Seat Delete Group, which allows customers to delete the rear seats, rear seat belts and add a rear cargo net. 

Race-inspired, high-performance interior
Refocusing the Hellcat on its performance roots, the 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat lineup features standard Houndstooth cloth performance seats.
 
Three other seat options are available:

• Nappa leather/Alcantara with embroidered SRT Hellcat logo (available with Plus Package)
• Laguna leather with embossed SRT Hellcat logo (available with Laguna Leather Package)  
• Laguna leather/Alcantara with embossed SRT Hellcat logo (available with Alcantara Appearance Package)  

The SRT Hellcat interior features a signature leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering wheel with a backlit SRT logo and paddle shifters. Red gauges with a 200-mph speedometer flank the 7-inch display screen, which features performance timers and a Hellcat logo splash screen at start-up.
 
Complementing the race-inspired cockpit are silver seat and console stitching, Light Black Chrome accents and a Gunmetal SRT Hellcat instrument panel badge.
 
The 2019 Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye has several unique interior features, including:

• 220-mph red speedometer
• SRT Hellcat Redeye logo splash screen
• Light Black Chrome instrument panel badge with SRT Hellcat Redeye logo
• SRT Hellcat Redeye logo on the key fobs

Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack offers new standard hood; Widebody exterior available
The Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack continues to offer the most muscle for the dollar in the segment with 485 horsepower and a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) less than $40,000. Power comes from the proven, naturally aspirated, 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8 engine’s best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque.
 
New for 2019, all Challenger R/T Scat Pack models get a new look, courtesy of the 2018 Challenger SRT Hellcat. The power-bulge aluminum hood features a dedicated air intake flanked by dual-air extractors to ensure effective removal of heat and reduced air turbulence in the engine compartment. Standard illuminated Air Catcher headlamps feed additional air directly into the engine bay. 
 
Also new for 2019, R/T Scat Pack buyers can leverage the on-track performance capabilities of the SRT Hellcat Widebody.    
 
Featuring the same fender flares from SRT Hellcat Widebody, which add 3.5 inches to the overall width, the new R/T Scat Pack Widebody rides on sticky 305/35ZR20 Pirelli tires mounted to 20 x 11-inch forged “Devil’s Rim” aluminum wheels.   
 
Many high-performance features are now standard on all a Challenger R/T Scat Pack models, including:

• Launch Control
• Launch Assist
• Line Lock
• SRT Drive Modes
• SRT Performance Pages

The Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody adds:

• SRT-tuned chassis, featuring stiffer front springs, retuned shock absorbers and larger sway bars in both front and rear
• SRT-tuned high-performance adaptive damping suspension 
• Front fascia with integrated splitter optimizes airflow to the cooling modules without compromising vehicle balance
• Rear spoiler from the Hellcat helps to deliver responsive and balanced handling

As a result, the R/T Scat Pack Widebody delivers its best on-road and on-track performance ever, with an improvement of close to 2 seconds per lap or 12 car lengths compared with the R/T Scat Pack. In a quarter-mile comparison, the new Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody gained .2 seconds – running 12.1 seconds E.T. at 112 mph.
 
The Challenger R/T Scat Pack’s superb stopping power comes from the SRT-engineered Brembo brake system with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, resulting in braking (60-0 mph) performance improving to 108 feet (from 111 feet). 
 
Exterior badging on the R/T Scat Pack includes new Scat Pack Bee badges that face forward on both fenders. Challenger script and R/T logos flank both sides of the front grille.
 
Inside the performance interior are front seats that feature the Scat Pack Bee logo embroidered into the seat backs; new Dark Dub Plate finish on instrument panel and console and new Liquid Titanium accents on the steering wheel, shifter and cluster bezels.

Challenger R/T and GT RWD Models Gain More Performance
Not to be outdone, the 2019 Challenger R/T and new GT rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models extend their performance capabilities with standard Super Track Pak features, including:

• Performance suspension
• Enhanced steering
• 20-inch Granite Crystal painted wheels
• Steering wheel mounted paddle shifters (with automatic transmission)
• Performance hood and front splitter
• Performance bolstered cloth Houndstooth seats

Available on both the Challenger R/T and GT RWD models for 2019 is the Performance Handling Group, which brings enhanced braking and handling capabilities. On GT RWD, the Performance Handling Group features four-piston Brembo brakes (front and rear), wider 20 x 9-inch Black Noise wheels and a larger rear sway bar for improved driving experience and reduced understeer.
 
The Performance Handling Group on the Challenger R/T adds upgraded springs, sway bars, Bilstein shocks, bushings and mounts, helping to improve performance and response during spirited driving. For the driver looking to get even more out of the Challenger R/T model, the new Performance Plus Package adds track ready 20 x 9.5-inch forged wheels riding on 275/40ZR20 Pirelli P-Zero tires, limited-slip differential and enhanced handling balance for improved cornering performance.

Fourteen different distinct Dodge//SRT colors available across Challenger lineup
Dodge Challenger customers have a wide array of exterior colors and stripes from which they can choose to customize their muscle car. Fourteen different exterior colors and a wide variety of interior trim selections, including:

• B5 Blue
• Destroyer Grey
• F8 Green
• Go Mango
• Granite Crystal
• Indigo Blue
• Maximum Steel
• Octane Red
• Pitch Black
• Plum Crazy
• TorRed
• Triple Nickel (NEW)
• White Knuckle
• Yellow Jacket

Available Interior Colors:

• Black
• Black/Caramel
• Black/Ruby Red
• Demonic Red
• Sepia

While we're still waiting on anything concerning the next-generation Charger, Dodge has gone ahead and made a number of changes to the current model for the 2019 model year.

We'll begin with the base SXT and work our way to the SRT Hellcat, highlighting the various changes.

• SXT: All-wheel drive becomes available on the base trim, bringing with it the more powerful 3.6L Pentastar V6 (300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet). Options now include  Houndstooth cloth sport seats, Caramel Nappa leather interior, updated Blacktop Package, and new Cold Weather Package.
• GT: This model will now be positioned as performance-oriented model for the V6. It gets the 3.6L Pentastar V6 from the SXT AWD, but sends power to the rear-wheels. Previously, the GT was only available with AWD. Other mechanical changes include a performance suspension, 3.07 rear axle ration, and enhanced steering system. The exterior boasts a new performance hood, sculpted side sills, and a spoiler. A set of Houndstooth cloth bolstered performance seats, paddle shifters, and 8.4-inch UConnect system with Dodge Performance Pages make up the interior.
• R/T: Becomes more aggressive in the looks department with a new performance hood, fascial, side sills, and spoiler. Under the skin is a standard performance suspension, 2.62 rear axle ration, and enhanced steering system. Power remains the 5.7L HEMI V8 with 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet.
• R/T Scat Pack: Gains Launch Assist (help minimize wheel hop and maximize grip) and Line Lock (to do those smoky burnouts). A new front grille features dual air inlets to provide additional cooling for the 392 HEMI V8 engine (485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet). A Satin Black-painted hood and Bilstein three-mode Adaptive Damping Suspension are on the options list.
• SRT Hellcat: Adds Launch Assist, Line Lock, After-Run Chiller (keeps cooling down the supercharger/charge air cooler when the engine is turned off), and Torque Reserve (closes a bypass valve to prefill the supercharger and manages fuel flow and spark to create a "reserve of torque that is delivered upon acceleration from a standing stop). Other changes include a new grille with dual air inlets, optional Satin Black painted hood, and Alcantara interior package. 

The 2019 Charger lineup arrives at Dodge dealers in the third quarter.

Source: Dodge

Imposing New Face, Interior and New Performance Upgrades Lead Revamped Dodge Charger Performance Lineup for 2019

• Dodge repositions the Charger lineup to include a new SXT all-wheel-drive (AWD) model and new Charger GT rear-wheel-drive (RWD) performance model; both are powered by the award-winning Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine, which delivers up to 300 horsepower and up to 30 miles per gallon
• Charger GT and R/T models receive a full complement of race-bred chassis upgrades and features along with new performance looks, such as a performance hood with air induction, styled fascia, sculpted side sills, decklid spoiler and seats
• New for 2019, Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack feature standard performance upgrades, including Launch Assist and Line Lock; a new performance grille with dual air inlets; new Launch Control switch on R/T Scat Pack; and Torque Reserve, After-Run Chiller on SRT Hellcat

June 28, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge//SRT continues to run at full throttle in the North American large sedan segment, revamping the entire Charger lineup for 2019. As America’s only four-door muscle car and the sales leader in the segment five years running, Dodge continues to charge ahead of its competition with upgrades both inside and out.
 
New for 2019, Dodge is repositioning the Charger lineup into six distinct, attitude-infused models that offer a range of performance and powertrain options for every modern muscle-car customer. The lineup ranges from the 707-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat – the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan in the world – to the efficient V-6 power of the new Charger GT RWD performance model and the all-wheel-drive capability of the new SXT AWD model.
 
“Despite a shift toward utility vehicles in the United States over the past decade, the Dodge Charger and Challenger continue to buck the trend,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge//SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America. “Charger and Challenger retail sales have increased 70 percent since 2008, and since the launch of Scat Pack in August 2014, high-performance model sales increased from 4 percent to more than 25 percent. Charger is on track to lead the large car segment in the United States for the fifth straight year in 2018, and we intend to keep that string alive by updating the product to deliver the performance and capability that our customers demand.”
 
Dealer orders for the 2019 Dodge Charger open in late June 2018 and vehicles are scheduled to arrive in Dodge dealerships in the third quarter of 2018.

Charger SRT Hellcat
The 2019 Charger SRT Hellcat remains the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan in the world with the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V-8 that delivers 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to the quick-shifting TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.
 
New for 2019, the Charger SRT Hellcat features a new performance grille with dual inlets that feed cooler, outside air into the engine compartment. Bolstering the performance is the addition of four race-inspired technologies that come standard on Hellcat, including:

• Launch Assist, which uses wheel speed sensors to watch for driveline-damaging wheel hop at launch and, in milliseconds, modifies the engine torque to regain full grip
• Line Lock, which engages the front brakes to hold the Charger SRT Hellcat stationary, but leaves the rear wheels free for a burnout to heat up and clean the rear tires
• After-Run Chiller, which keeps cooling the supercharger/charge air cooler after the engine is shut off
• Torque Reserve, which closes a bypass valve to prefill the supercharger and manages fuel flow and spark advance to balance engine rpm and torque, generates a reserve of torque that is delivered upon acceleration from a standing stop

New instrument panel badging, a Satin Black painted hood option, available Brass Monkey 20-inch forged wheels and an Alcantara interior package are also new to Charger SRT Hellcat for the 2019 model year.
 
Charger R/T Scat Pack 
The 2019 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack is the most muscle for the dollar, powered by the naturally aspirated 392 HEMI V-8, it delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, priced less than $40,000.
 
New for 2019, Launch Assist and Line Lock are now standard features on the R/T Scat Pack for optimum performance at launch from a standstill. A new switch on the dashboard provides quick access to initialize Launch Control, which coordinates the engine, transmission, driveline and suspension for an optimal launch and consistent straight-line acceleration.
 
R/T Scat Pack features the same new performance grille with dual air inlets as the SRT Hellcat and adds a new Scat Pack bee badge on the decklid, replacing the R/T badge. New Dark Dub Plate instrument panel and Houndstooth cloth performance seat with an added Scat Pack bee logo are also standard. Dual Carbon stripes, a Satin Black-painted hood and Bilstein three-mode Adaptive Damping Suspension are added to the available options.
 
Charger R/T 
The 2019 Dodge Charger R/T is powered by the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, rated at 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque and mated to the standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.
 
For 2019, the Charger R/T adopts new performance looks and features standard, including the performance hood, fascia, sculpted side sills, spoiler and seats. Race-bred chassis upgrades, including a standard performance suspension, 2.62 rear axle ratio, enhanced steering, steering wheel with paddle shifters, Dodge Performance Pages with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, Houndstooth cloth bolstered performance seats, new Dark Dub Plate instrument panel, and new 20-inch Satin Carbon and Black Noise wheel options.
 
Available on the R/T is the new Cold Weather Package, which includes heated steering wheel, heated cloth driver and passenger seats.
 
Charger SXT AWD 
The Charger SXT AWD model, new for 2019, is powered by the award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 300 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, and mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to 27 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive system is automatic with an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect, which helps minimize powertrain parasitic losses.
 
Available options on the SXT AWD are a new Caramel Nappa leather interior, Houndstooth cloth sport seats and the Blacktop Package, which includes a new 19-inch Black Noise wheel. The new Cold Weather Package is also available on the SXT AWD, which includes heated steering wheel and heated cloth driver and passenger seats.
 
Charger GT 
The new Dodge Charger GT RWD performance model is powered by the award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 300 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque and mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.
 
For 2019, the GT adopts new performance looks and features standard, including performance hood, fascia, sculpted side sills, spoiler and seats. Race-bred chassis upgrades, including a standard performance suspension, 3.07 rear axle ratio, enhanced steering with paddle shifters, Dodge Performance Pages with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, Houndstooth cloth bolstered performance seats, new Dark Dub Plate instrument panel, and new 20-inch Satin Carbon and Black Noise wheel options.
 
The new Cold Weather Package is also available on GT, including heated steering wheel and heated cloth driver and passenger seats.
 
Charger SXT 
The powerful, roomy and solid Charger SXT model is powered by the standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6, rated at 292 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, working with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. For 2019, Charger SXT includes electronic stability control, remote start, cruise control, electric power steering, capless fuel filler, automatic halogen projector headlamps with LED accents and three 12-volt power outlets.
 
Available options for SXT include Houndstooth cloth sport seats, a new Caramel Nappa leather interior, the popular Blacktop Package, which includes a new 20-inch Black Noise wheel, and the new Cold Weather Package, which includes heated steering wheel and heated cloth driver and passenger seats.
 
Charger Exterior Colors
Available exterior colors for all 2019 Dodge Charger models include B5 Blue, Destroyer Grey, F8 Green, Go Mango, Granite Crystal, IndiGo Blue, Maximum Steel, Octane Red, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy, TorRed, Triple Nickel and White Knuckle.

There will soon be another police vehicle you'll need to keep an eye out for. Today, Dodge announced the Durango Pursuit which will give police departments another choice in the utility segment.

Power comes from the 5.7L HEMI V8 producing 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. This comes paired with an eight-speed automatic and full-time all-wheel drive system. A two-speed transfer case should help out if a chase goes off-road. There are numerous upgrades including stronger brakes, heavy-duty oil cooler and water pump; and larger alternator. Standard equipment includes tri-zone temperature control, eight-way power adjustments for the driver, and trailer sway control.

“Unofficial testing results at the Michigan State Police 2018 model-year vehicle evaluation event created such a stir among law enforcement agencies that we simply had to find a way to build this vehicle. The Dodge Durango is already known as the Charger of SUVs, so it is only natural that the new Durango Pursuit complements the Charger Pursuit in police fleets across the country,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge//SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America.

Police departments will need to be quick on ordering one, as Dodge will only be offering the Durango Pursuit for a limited time.

Dodge Announces Police Pursuit Version of 2018 Durango

May 10, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge is expanding its police vehicle lineup, adding a new Pursuit version of its Dodge Durango.

“Unofficial testing results at the Michigan State Police 2018 model-year vehicle evaluation event created such a stir among law enforcement agencies that we simply had to find a way to build this vehicle,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge//SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America. “The Dodge Durango is already known as the Charger of SUVs, so it is only natural that the new Durango Pursuit complements the Charger Pursuit in police fleets across the country.”
 
The 2018 Dodge Durango Pursuit is powered by the legendary 5.7L HEMI® V-8, coupled with a full-time, active all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This is the same powertrain combination most commonly deployed in the Dodge Charger Pursuit, the top-selling police sedan in the U.S. market. The Durango Pursuit also offers a two-speed transfer case for true low-range off-road capability and incorporates larger, heavy-duty anti-lock brakes that deliver a 60-0 mile per hour (mph) stopping distance of 134 feet.
 
Other notable standard features of the 2018 Dodge Durango Pursuit include:

• 5.7L V-8 HEMI with Fuel Saver Technology delivers best-in-class horsepower (360) and torque (390 lb.-ft.)
• Eight-speed automatic transmission delivers quick shifts and improved fuel economy
• Rear-wheel-drive-based drivetrain is the foundation for Durango’s outstanding on-road driving performance. Standard AWD further enhances driver confidence by leveraging the SUV’s 50/50 weight distribution
• Segment’s longest wheelbase (119.8 inches) provides added stability and improved handling
• Best-in-class 7,200 lb. towing capability
• 8.1 inches of ground clearance
• ParkView® rear backup camera with ParkSense® alert
• Eight-way power adjusting driver seat controls
• Air conditioning with air filtration
• Under-vehicle mount for spare tire, maximizing interior cargo space and accessibility
• Class-exclusive, K-9 friendly Tri-Zone interior temperature control
• Trailer sway control
• Spot lamp wiring prep package
• 220-amp alternator
• 800 cold cranking amp (CCA) battery
• Heavy-duty oil cooler and water pump
• Power locking fuel filler door

The new 2018 Dodge Durango Pursuit V-8 AWD is available for order for a limited time. For more information, law enforcement agencies should call (800) 999-3533.

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

January 8, 2013

Dodge will be expanding the Dart lineup with the introduction of the new GT model at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Hitting Dodge dealerships later in the year, the GT uses a 2.4L TigerShark MultiAir2 four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque that goes through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. There is also sports suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and and integrated exhaust tips.

On the outside, the GT model gets black elements in the front bumper, headlights and grille, body-color door handles, GT badging, and twelve different exterior colors.

Inside, the GT gets plenty of luxury and technology appointments including perforated and heated, 10-way adjustable Nappa leather seats; heated steering wheel, dual zone automatic climate control, 8.4-inch touch-screen Uconnect interface, a reconfigurable digital instrument cluster, a backup camera, and an optional Alpine sound system with 10 speakers.

Dodge says the Dart GT will start at $20,995 (excluding destination charges).

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

New 2013 Dodge Dart GT Model to Debut at North American International Auto Show

Dart GT model hits the mark with 184 horsepower, premium Nappa leather and a sport-tuned suspension that caters to the driving enthusiast for a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of only $20,995

- Dart GT is powered by the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four-cylinder engine, which produces 184 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, providing just the right balance of power and fuel efficiency

- New 2013 Dart GT model features a sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks that delivers ride and handling attributes designed to cater to driving enthusiasts

- Unique exterior and interior design elements, including standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and premium perforated Nappa heated leather seats, differentiate the GT model from the rest of the Dart lineup

- Standard class-exclusive features include racetrack LED taillamps, integrated dual exhaust, 8.4- inch touchscreen, 7-inch TFT display, in-seat storage and much more

- The new 2013 Dart GT delivers an incredible value, with a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of just $20,995

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 8, 2013 - The Dodge brand dug deep into its rich, nearly 100-year history to name its all-new compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart, and is again drawing on the storied history for the newest Dodge Dart model.

The sporty Dart GT model originally made its debut in 1963 and offered drivers enhanced performance and style, including a heavy-duty suspension that delivered improved ride and handling characteristics.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart GT model delivers sport-tuned suspension attributes that cater to the driving enthusiast, distinctive styling, including standard class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps and integrated dual exhaust, and it's loaded with premium standard features, including perforated heated Nappa Leather seats, 8.4-inch touchscreen and 7-inch TFT for an outstanding value, with a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of only $20,995 (excluding destination).

"The new Dart GT embodies the best attributes that compact car buyers are looking for, including outstanding style, performance, technology and value," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO Dodge Brand. "With 184 horsepower, 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension, premium leather interior and several class-exclusive features, the Dart GT represents the sweet spot in the compact car market, offering mid-size roominess combined with premium amenities for only $20,995 MSRP."

The Dart GT model is the latest addition to the 2013 Dodge Dart lineup, which currently includes the Dart SE, SXT, Rallye, Aero and Limited models. Dodge continues to investigate a high-performance R/T model.

Building off the exceptionally well-equipped Dart Limited, the GT adds: 184 horsepower 2.4-iter Tigershark with MultiAir 2 with six-speed manual or available six-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick; 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black projector headlamp bezels; body-color door handles; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; class- exclusive racetrack LED taillamps; unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats in Black with Ruby Red stitching or two-tone Black/Ruby Red; class-exclusive heated steering wheel; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic temperature control; remote start (with automatic transmission); universal garage door opener and GT badge.

Additional standard equipment on the 2013 Dart GT model includes: projector fog lamps; power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps; class-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen; class-exclusive floating island bezel; ParkView rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces; leather steering wheel with audio controls and speed control; accent stitching on the instrument panel; power 10-way driver seat, including power lumbar support; driver and front passenger seatback pockets; overhead console with sunglass holder; front passenger in-seat storage; illuminated front cup holders; illuminated vanity mirrors; temperature and compass gauge; 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console; speed-sensitive power locks; power windows with express one-touch up/down front windows; ambient LED interior lighting; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; underbody aerodynamic treatment; tire pressure monitoring display; air conditioning with micron filter; power mirrors; remote keyless entry; front center console with fore and aft sliding armrest; 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest with storage/cup holders and trunk pass-through; six-speakers; security alarm; front and rear floor mats and 600-amp maintenance-free battery.

A variety of options are available to allow the GT customer the ability to personalize their Dart to their exact specifications. It starts with a choice of 12 exterior colors – all available at no extra charge – including Redline Red, Header Orange, Blue Streak, Citrus Peel, Laguna Blue, Pitch Black, Tungsten, Bright Silver, Bright White, True Blue, Maximum Steel and Winter Chill.

Optional equipment includes:

- Six-speed Powertech automatic transmission with AutoStick

- Technology Group (push-button start, keyless Enter 'N Go, rain sensing wipers, smart beam headlamps, blind spot monitoring with rear cross path detection)

- 18-inch Hyper Black Aluminum Wheels

- Power Sunroof

- HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps

- SiriusXM Satellite Radio

- Garmin Navigation with Sirius XM Travel Link

- Alpine Premium Sound System with 10 speakers, including subwoofer and 506 watt amplifier

- Engine block heater

For the 2018 model year, Dodge will be introducing the 475 horsepower Durango SRT. Before it hits dealers later this year, Dodge has announced pricing for this high-performance crossover.

For $64,090 (includes a $1,095 destination charge), you get a 6.4L HEMI V8 hooked up to an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. 0-60 will only take 4.4 seconds and will reach the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds. Other performance tweaks include adaptive dampers, new springs, larger Brembo brakes, and a new body kit. Buyers will also get a day session at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Arizona to hone their driving skills.

“The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is America’s fastest, most powerful and most capable three-row SUV. This is what you get, when you take everything great about the Durango and combine it with the performance of the Charger SRT: a 12-second quarter mile, 8,700-pound-toy hauling, three-row muscle car,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America in a statement.

Source: Dodge
Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Announces Pricing for 2018 Dodge Durango SRT: America’s Fastest, Most Powerful and Most Capable Three-Row SUV

• New Dodge Durango SRT starts at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $62,995 (excluding $1,095 destination)
• New 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is the most powerful three-row SUV with its 475-horsepower legendary 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V-8 engine
• Fastest and most capable three-row SUV with a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)–certified quarter-mile time of 12.9 seconds and capable of 0-60 miles per hour (mph) acceleration in 4.4 seconds
• Durango SRT out-hauls every three-row SUV on the road with best-in-class towing capability of 8,700 pounds
• New exterior performance features include widebody exterior design and functional SRT hood with center air inlet duct flanked by heat extractors, as well as a new front fascia and lower valence to house new cold-air duct and LED fog lamps
• Standard leather and suede, available high-performance Demonic Red Laguna leather seating and new carbon-fiber trim distinguish Durango SRT’s performance interior
• All customers who buy a new Durango SRT will receive one full-day session at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving
• The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT will start arriving in Dodge dealerships during fourth quarter 2017

July 6, 2017 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Dodge and SRT brands are rocking the high-performance automotive world once again, bringing a huge burst of American power, acceleration and best-in-class tow capability to the three-row SUV segment with the new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT – the fastest SUV in its class.
 
With the proven 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V-8 under its new functional SRT hood, the new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT delivers 475 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, and a wicked fast time on the drag strip – from 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.4 seconds, covering the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds as certified by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA).
 
“The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is America’s fastest, most powerful and most capable three-row SUV,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America. “This is what you get, when you take everything great about the Durango and combine it with the performance of the Charger SRT: a 12-second quarter mile, 8,700-pound-toy hauling, three-row muscle car.”
 
Vehicles will start arriving in Dodge dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2017 with a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $62,995 (excluding $1,095 destination).

The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is loaded with standard performance features, including:

• Proven 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8 delivers 475 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque and 4.4-second 0-60 mph times
• New performance-tuned AWD system helps the Durango SRT set world-class performance marks
• Standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission specifically calibrated for the Dodge Durango SRT to optimize shift points and deliver maximum torque to all four wheels
• Massive new Brembo high-performance six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) calipers and vented rotors at all four corners, measuring 15 inches (front-slotted) and 13.8 inches (rear)
• Bilstein active-damping high-performance suspension
• 20 in. x 10 in. Goliath wheel with Low Gloss Black Noise finish
• New Pirelli 295/45ZR20 Scorpion Verde all-season tires or available Pirelli P Zero three-season tires
• New widebody exterior brings the Durango SRT together as a true performance SUV
• Newly designed SRT hood with a functional cold-air duct and heat extractors to cool the engine and improve overall performance
• New front fascia and lower valence to house new cold-air duct and LED fog lamps
• New performance AWD badging on liftgate
• New interior appointments including SRT flat-bottom performance steering wheel with SRT paddle shifters, heated and ventilated front and heated second-row captain’s chairs with embroidered SRT logos
• New driver-oriented electronic T-shifter, standard on all 2018 Durango models, provides the driver with intuitive gear selection and offers an Auto Stick selector gate for added control
• Premium velour-bound floor mats with embroidered SRT logo
• New SRT rear body-color lower fascia with Gloss Black accent surrounds the 4-inch dual round exhaust tips finished in Nickel Chrome
• New 180-mph speedometer
• New SRT seven-mode drive system gives the driver the ability to precisely adjust drive settings to maximize performance or comfort
• New Sport Mode reduces shift times by up to 50 percent versus Auto Mode and delivers up to 65 percent of the 392 HEMI engine’s torque to the rear wheels
• New Track Mode delivers maximum performance track driving with 160-millisecond shifts and up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels for the most pronounced rear-wheel-drive experience
• Sophisticated Active Damping System opens and closes the Durango SRT’s suspension’s damper valves, according to which of the seven modes is chosen, giving the driver options for any driving style
• Stiffer front springs (3 percent), stiffer rear springs (16 percent) and stiffer rear sway bar (18 percent) give Durango SRT drivers outstanding high-speed cornering capability
• New exhaust system tuned to offer an unmistakably deep, high-performance Dodge SRT exhaust note modeled after the Dodge Charger SRT

Available options include 20 in. x 10 in. split-five spoke wheels with Low Gloss Black Noise finish, three-season tires, trailer tow, power sunroof, Demonic Red Laguna leather seating, rear DVD entertainment and technology group. Durango SRT also has an available premium interior, which includes suede-wrapped headliner and A-pillars, true carbon-fiber instrument panel and door bezels (late availability), and a hand-wrapped instrument panel with live black and silver accent stitch.

The 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is available in seven exterior colors, including B5 Blue (late availability), Billet Clear Coat, Bruiser Grey Clear Coat, DB Black Clear Coat, Granite Clear Coat, Octane Red Pearl Coat and White Knuckle Clear Coat.  

Another day and another Challenger variant has been revealed. This time it is the 2018 Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody.

The Widebody features the wide front fenders and splitter found on the Demon. The new fenders add 3.5-inches in overall width - perfect to fit the 305/35R20-size Pirelli P Zero tires with a set of 20-inch wheels. Dodge claims the changes make the Widebody faster around a track than a standard Hellcat - about 2 seconds on a 1.7-mile road course according to testing done by Dodge. (We'll be waiting for a magazine to do a test to see how much of a difference there is. -WM).

Dodge also says the Hellcat Widebody will be quicker to 60 mph and quarter-mile (0.1 and 0.3 seconds respectively). 

The Hellcat Widebody also features a new electrically assisted power-steering system. This allows for new various steering modes to be selected from the SRT driving mode system.

Price? The Hellcat Widebody begins at $72,590 (after $1,700 for the gas guzzler tax and $1,095 destination). It goes on sale in the third quarter.

Source: Dodge 
Press Release is on Page 2

New Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Completes Dodge’s Most Powerful Muscle Car Lineup Ever for 2018

• New SRT Hellcat Widebody model has a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $71,495 (including $1,700 gas guzzler tax, excluding $1,095 destination).
• Widebody design brings new fender flares first seen on 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon to the Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody, adding 3.5 inches of width
• New 20 x 11-inch “Devil’s Rim” split-five spoke aluminum wheels riding on 305/35ZR20 Pirelli P-Zero performance tires answer enthusiasts who have been clamoring for a factory-production Hellcat with even more grip
• Road course lap time on a 1.7-mile track lowered by approximately 2 seconds per lap in Widebody vs. standard Hellcat, approximately 13 car lengths after one lap
• New standard electric power steering (EPS) system with SRT Drive Modes add new selectable steering tuning to Hellcat, to help manage increased grip for improved acceleration and handling performance 
• Powered by proven 707-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine
• 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody model is open for dealer orders in July; will start arriving in dealerships in the third quarter

June 27, 2017 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - When the new 840-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon raced down the drag strip to open the New York Auto Show in April, Dodge unleashed the ultimate street-to-strip car. Today, the brand is following up on its performance car mantra, introducing the new 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody, answering enthusiasts who have been clamoring for a factory-production Hellcat with even more grip.   
 
“The new Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody completes our strongest Dodge muscle car lineup in history,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America. “Our brand, engineering and design teams poured a ton of effort into making the new SRT Demon the world’s fastest quarter-mile production car, so now we’re leveraging that know-how, and some of those vital elements and transferring them to the new Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody for improved performance on the street and a bolder, more aggressive new look.”
 
With a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $71,495 (including gas guzzler tax, excluding destination $1,095), the new Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody model features the same fender flares first shown on the SRT Demon. These wider fender flares add 3.5 inches to the SRT Hellcat’s overall width, covering the new 20 x 11-inch “Devil’s Rim” split-five spoke aluminum wheels, which ride on new, wider 305/35ZR20 Pirelli P-Zero tires with a new tread pattern. A new electric power steering (EPS) system with SRT Drive Modes adds new selectable steering tuning for the first time on a Hellcat model.
 
In addition to its wider, more menacing stance, this new Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody delivers improved lap times, lateral grip, acceleration and braking, compared with the already ferocious performance numbers of the Hellcat:

• Road course lap time on a 1.7-mile track lowered by approximately 2 seconds per lap, approximately 13 car lengths after one lap
• ¼ mile elapsed time (ET) improved by approximately .3 sec (10.9 ET in Widebody vs. 11.2 ET in standard Hellcat)
• Lateral skid pad grip increased by .04 g (.97 g in Widebody vs. .93 g in standard Hellcat)
• 0-60 mph acceleration improved by .1 second (3.4 in Widebody vs. 3.5 in standard Hellcat)
• Top speed of 195 mph

 
New EPS – a First for Hellcat  
The 2018 Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody features a new standard electric power steering (EPS) system – a first for Hellcat. The system uses SRT Drive Modes with selectable settings for Street (Auto), Sport and Track.
 
Not only does the EPS system improve handling performance, owners will also notice better steering feel and ease of turning efforts at parking lot speeds. 
 
With EPS and SRT Drive Modes, drivers can tailor their experience by controlling horsepower, transmission shift speeds, steering, paddle shifters (automatic transmission only), traction and suspension. There is also a Custom setting lets the driver use individual preferences.
 
Functional and Intimidating Exterior Design
With the new Widebody fender flares that add 3.5 inches to the overall width of the Challenger Hellcat, the Widebody model joins the Challenger SRT Demon as the widest Challengers ever.
 
The new flares are expertly integrated into the body design with concealed attachments to amplify the Challenger SRT Hellcat’s menacing stance, while making room for the new 20 x 11-inch “Devil’s Rim” split-five spoke aluminum wheels that ride on 305/35ZR20 Pirelli tires for improved performance while filling the wheel wells for a stronger planted appearance. The front side marker lights are styled to flow with the shape of the fender flares.
 
The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody carries numerous exterior styling cues Dodge//SRT owners expect, such as:

• Power-bulge aluminum hood with center intake and dual heat extractors
• Exclusive illuminated Air-Catcher headlamps that feed air directly into the air box and engine bay through the center of the parking lamps
• Quad projector headlamps give a unique detailed appearance, while the aggressive brow “chops” the upper portion of the lamp design exudes a sinister look
• Front splitter (shared with Demon) and rear spoiler (from Hellcat) deliver responsive and balanced handling at high speed
• Hellcat-exclusive new grille and fender badges, along with raised SRT Hellcat badge on the rear spoiler
• Standard Brembo brake system includes two-piece 15.4-inch rotors and six-piston front calipers provide outstanding heat management/thermal capacity and longevity

 
Proven Supercharged Hellcat Performance    
The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody is powered by the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 with 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. torque and can be paired to either the Tremec six-speed manual or TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. 
 
The proven Hellcat HEMI engine features additional cooling measures including a low-temperature circuit with two air/coolant heat exchangers integrated into the supercharger housing. This setup is designed to keep air temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit, under extreme ambient conditions, while enabling air flow of up to 30,000 liters per minute.

So effective is this feature that engine power will not be de-rated due to cooling demands after 20 minutes of hard driving on a road course at an ambient temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
 
Before the new SRT Demon V-8 engine was introduced, the supercharged Hellcat HEMI V-8 was the most powerful passenger-car engine ever produced by FCA US, which made the Challenger SRT Hellcat and Charger SRT Hellcat models the most powerful and fastest coupe and sedan ever. The new engine was also named to Ward’s 10 Best Engines list for 2015.
 
Race-inspired, High-performance Interior
The cockpit of the Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody remains true to its performance-oriented design and execution with world-class materials; high-sill center console and driver-focused instrument panel with 200-mph speedometer; SRT performance leather-wrapped flat-bottom, heated steering wheel; standard SRT Laguna leather performance seats with SRT Hellcat logo, and new red Hellcat instrument panel badge.
 
SRT Performance Pages are accessible through the latest 8.4-inch touchscreen display media center with standard Uconnect 4C NAV system featuring performance improvements with faster startup time and enhanced processing power offering multi-touch gestures, vivid imagery, sharper graphics and the ability to support smartphone integrations.
 
The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody will be available 15 exterior colors: B5 Blue (late availability), Billet Silver, Destroyer Grey, F8 Green (late availability), Go Mango, Granite Crystal, IndiGo Blue (late availability), Maximum Steel, Octane Red, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy (late availability), Redline Tri-Coat, TorRed, White Knuckle and Yellow Jacket.
 
Production of the 2018 Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody begins later this summer with deliveries to Dodge//SRT dealers in the third quarter.
 
Official Driving School of Dodge//SRT
All customers who buy the new 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody receive one full-day session at Bob Bondurant School of High-performance Driving. The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Arizona, is the Official High Performance Driving School of Dodge//SRT. All customers who buy a new model SRT will receive one full-day session of high-performance driving with professional instruction and time on the track as part of the Dodge SRT Package. For more information, visit www.driveSRT.com.

It goes without saying that whenever a hotly awaited vehicle comes out, some dealers will mark them up to make a bit of cash. Recently, a picture was floating around of a Honda Civic Type R with $25,000 markup. The upcoming Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is another model that is prime for a markup. But the brand is taking steps to prevent this.

Today, the brand announced their plans on dealers ordering a Challenger Demon. To be eligible for ordering a demon, a dealer must have sold more than one Hellcat in the last year. From there, Dodge will calculate a dealer's allocation based on sales performance - 60 percent SRT Hellcat and 40 percent Charger and Challenger sales.

Dealers will only be allowed to order as many Demons as they are allocated, which will disappoint some dealers as they have been taking deposits on the Demon.

If a dealer is considering marking up their allotment of Demons, their orders will be pushed to back of the line. Those who sell at MSRP or lower will get priority scheduling, meaning the buyer could end up with a lower build number.

“We know some dealers may be tempted to sell to the highest bidder, but we are encouraging them to leverage the Demon as a halo for both the brand and their dealership, to bring customers into their showrooms and see everything we have to offer.” said Tim Kuniskis, head of Dodge.

Source: Dodge
Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Announces U.S. Dealer Allocation Plan for 840-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

Demon allocation process designed to build the Dodge brand halo; prioritizes orders that are at or below Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)

• New Dodge Challenger SRT Demon starts at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $84,995 (including $1,700 gas guzzler tax, excluding $1,095 destination); Demon crate unleashes full power for $1
• Demons sold at or below MSRP will receive priority scheduling resulting in lower serial numbers; Demons sold at a price that exceeds MSRP will be produced after priority production is completed
• Dealers can only order as many Demons as they are allocated
• New Demon Concierge hotline and website to provide direct communication for customers and dealers to track their order
• U.S. dealers can start placing orders for the Demon on Wednesday, June 21
• Production of limited-edition, serialized, single model-year (3,000 United States/300 Canada) Challenger SRT Demon begins later this summer; deliveries to Dodge//SRT dealers to begin this fall

June 20, 2017 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The limited-production, 840-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon – the fastest quarter-mile production car ever – is due to start arriving in dealerships this fall. Today, Dodge is announcing just how it will allocate these rare beasts to its dealer body.

“We learned a lot when we launched the wildly popular SRT Hellcats,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT—FCA North America. “We’ve taken that information and created an allocation plan that is clear and concise, builds on Demon’s position as the Dodge//SRT halo and makes it easy for our customers to understand how they can put a Demon into their garage and, ultimately, out on the drag strip.”
 
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is the first-ever production car to do a front-wheel lift, as certified by Guinness World Records, and it’s the world’s fastest quarter-mile production car with an elapsed time (ET) of 9.65 seconds at 140 miles per hour (mph), as certified by National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). It also registers the highest g-force (1.8 g) ever recorded at launch in a production car.
 
“The 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon represents the best of what Dodge//SRT stands for – performance capabilities that are second to none, iconic styling and a heritage built on pushing the boundaries of what is possible at a price that is attainable,” Kuniskis added. “We know some dealers may be tempted to sell to the highest bidder, but we are encouraging them to leverage the Demon as a halo for both the brand and their dealership, to bring customers into their showrooms and see everything we have to offer.”

The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon allocation plan is consistent with that philosophy. Here is how Demon will be allocated to dealers:

• To be eligible to order a Challenger SRT Demon, dealers must have sold more than one SRT Hellcat in the last 12 months
• Dealer allocation will be based on 60 percent SRT Hellcat and 40 percent Charger and Challenger sales performance
• Dealers can only order as many Demons as they are allocated
• Demons sold at or below MSRP will receive priority scheduling resulting in lower serial numbers
• Demons sold for a price that exceeds MSRP will be produced after priority production is completed

Dodge is also creating a new Demon Concierge hotline (800-998-1110) to provide direct communication for customers and dealers. A new website will also allow them to track their orders at www.dodge.com.
 
To qualify as a verified sold order, an acknowledgement document must be completed and signed by the customer, the dealer and be notarized. The document must be received by the Demon Concierge before the vehicle will be slated for production. This important document serves two purposes:

• Provides a detailed list of safety considerations, technical specifications and features on the vehicle; and
• Helps determine priority production based on customer-facing contract price

Dealers can start placing orders for the Demon on Wednesday, June 21. Production of the limited-edition, serialized, single model-year (3,000 United States/300 Canada) Challenger SRT Demon begins later this summer; deliveries to Dodge//SRT dealers to begin this fall.

The madness that is the 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon has been priced. It will set you back $86,090 - includes $1,700 gas guzzler tax and $1,095 destination charge. That will get you 808 horsepower and 717 pound-feet of torque from the 6.2L supercharged V8. If you want the full monty - 840 horsepower and 770 pound-feet of torque, you'll need the optional Demon Crate which will only set you back a $1.00. (FCA says the Demon Crate's true is $6,140). Other $1.00 options include,

• Cloth rear seat
• Leather rear seat
• Front passenger cloth seat
• Demon trunk carpet kit

There are other options available for the Demon that will push the pricetag up,

• Red Seat Belts - $195
• Comfort Audio Group: Cloth Seats, includes front passenger cloth seat, 18-speaker Harman Kardon Audio, including two subwoofers and 900W amplifier, premium floor mats and bright pedals - $995
• Leather Front Seat Group: Laguna leather and Alcantara suede covered seats with embossed Demon head logo, front passenger seat, heated and ventilated leather front seats with heated steering wheel, premium floor mats, power tilt/telescoping column and bright pedals - $1,595
• Painted Black Satin Hood - $1,995
• Comfort Group, Leather Seats: Laguna leather and Alcantara suede covered seats with embossed Demon head logo, front passenger seat, heated and ventilated leather front seats with heated steering wheel, premium floor mats, power tilt/telescoping column, bright pedals, 18-speaker Harman Kardon Audio, including two subwoofers and 900W amplifier - $2,495
• Painted Black Satin Graphics Package: satin black painted hood, roof and decklid $3,495
• "For buyers who must have a sunroof – Power sunroof" - $4,995

All Challenger Demons will also come with a one-day session at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Chandler, Arizona - hopefully reducing the number of accidents involving Demons within the first few months.

Dodge is planning on building 3,000 Demons for the U.S. and 300 for Canada. Deliveries are expected to begin this fall.

Source: Dodge
Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Announces Pricing for 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon — Owners Can Unleash Full Power for $1

Dodge is doing something that can be considered as sacrilegious in the muscle car class. They are adding an all-wheel drive version of the Challenger to their lineup.

The 2017 Challenger GT will go on sale early next year with a base price of $34,990 (includes $1,095 destination charge). The all-wheel drive system that the Challenger will use is the same one found in the Charger AWD - power is sent to the rear wheels until slip is detected, at which point the front axle will hook up to the transfer case and get power. The bad news is that you can only get the GT with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with 305 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque, and eight-speed automatic. On the plus side, the GT will come with the Super Track Pak that brings launch control, performance pages, and other items.

Not much sets the Challenger GT apart from other models in terms of the exterior. The GT comes with a new hood, LED head and taillights, decklid spoiler, and a set of 19-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires.

Source: Dodge
Press Release is on Page 2

New 2017 Dodge Challenger GT Is World’s First and Only All-wheel-drive American Muscle Coupe

• Dodge Challenger GT Joins Charger AWD to Complete the Dodge Lineup of All-wheel-drive Muscle Cars, Delivering Unparalleled Year-round Performance
• Segment-first: 2017 Dodge Challenger GT is the first two-door American muscle car with all-wheel drive, providing muscle car enthusiasts all-weather driving confidence exclusive to Dodge
• Challenger GT features the same high-performance all-wheel-drive system found in the award-winning Dodge Charger AWD with active transfer case and front-axle disconnect
• Dodge’s award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is standard, delivering 305 horsepower at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm
• New 2017 Dodge Challenger GT model has a starting U.S Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $33,395 (excluding $1,095 destination charge)
• Dodge Challenger GT AWD production is scheduled to begin in January 2017 and vehicles will be available in dealerships the first quarter of 2017

December 7, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Designed and engineered for world-class precision, the new 2017 Dodge Challenger GT all-wheel drive (AWD) delivers the performance, power and all-weather capability to carve through some of the worst weather Mother Nature can dish out.
 
From winding through twisty stretches of mountain roads, escaping away to a snow-covered ski resort, to daily commutes through the slush and snow of Northeastern and Midwestern winters, the Challenger GT AWD is built to handle it all.
 
“Dodge is shifting the muscle car paradigm with the new 2017 Dodge Challenger GT – the world’s first and only all-wheel-drive American muscle coupe,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “The Challenger has always been the most wide-ranging and functional muscle coupe, and now, with the new 305-horsepower all-wheel-drive Challenger GT, we are stretching the functional and geographic boundaries even further.

Available this winter
The new 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD model has a starting U.S Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $33,395 (excluding $1,095 destination charge).
 
With production beginning in January, the all-wheel-drive Dodge Challenger GT is scheduled to arrive at Dodge dealerships nationwide in the first quarter of 2017.

Power, precision and prowess
The 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD features Dodge’s award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, delivering 305 horsepower at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.
 
A tuned induction system and dual exhaust from the manifolds back to the tips help deliver more than 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm – all for outstanding drivability and responsiveness. With the standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, Challenger GT offers up to an EPA-estimated 18 city/27 hwy miles per gallon (mpg).

The Dodge Challenger GT features Dodge’s high-performance all-wheel-drive system. Also found in the Charger AWD, this technologically advanced system includes an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect for excellent all-season performance and fuel economy. The Challenger GT seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with no driver intervention. Under normal driving conditions, the front axle is disengaged and 100 percent of the engine’s torque is directed to the rear wheels. This preserves the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling characteristics inherent to rear-wheel-drive vehicles. When sensors indicate the need for additional traction, the system automatically engages the front axle, instantly transitioning Challenger GT into all-wheel-drive mode.
 
Enhanced with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), the Challenger GT AWD has impressive handling on all surfaces, especially snow and ice. VDC provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces and also helps the driver maintain the desired vehicle path. Enhancing the on-road dynamic performance using precise front-to-rear torque control integrated with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, VDC maintains Challenger’s fun-to-drive character, regardless of road conditions.
 
In addition, the new Dodge Challenger GT AWD features paddle shifters and Sport mode. With Sport mode active, gear changes are quicker and revs are held higher for even more performance-oriented acceleration and higher shift dynamics. For even more control, the driver can also use the die-cast steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and view gear election through the full-color Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) centered in the instrument cluster.
 
The Challenger GT Super Track Pak button activates Dodge Performance Pages and launch control features embedded in the 8.4-inch touchscreen radio. Visible performance information, such as reaction times, 0-60 times, G-force indicator and lap times, can be monitored, and even mirrored, in the 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) customizable cluster display. The new Challenger GT model also features three-mode ESC with “full-off” mode, a fun feature for drifting through snowy scenes.

All-weather traction all year long, rain, sleet, snow or shine
For muscle car enthusiasts who want more all-weather traction, the new 2017 Dodge Challenger GT delivers premium amenities inside and out, including 19-inch aluminum wheels with Hyper Black finish and P235/55R19 BSW all-season performance tires, projector fog lamps, a deck-lid rear spoiler, ParkSense rear park assist and ParkView rear backup camera.
 
Challenger GT is equally well equipped on the inside with standard features, such as premium Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats with four-way power driver lumbar adjustment, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping column, Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six Alpine speakers with 276-watt amplifier, bright pedals, universal garage door opener and Hectic Mesh aluminum bezels.
 
GT Interior Package
The all-new GT Interior package, which is unique to this Challenger AWD model, includes performance Nappa leather and Alcantara suede seats – available on a V-6 for the first time – nine Alpine speakers, including a subwoofer and a 506-watt amplifier, and the Dodge performance steering wheel. U.S MSRP for the GT Interior package is $995.

Performance-inspired design, all year round
1971-inspired design, both inside and out, the Dodge Challenger GT features refined exterior styling and heritage muscle-car appearance with split grille, pronounced and functional power bulge hood, LED halo headlamps and LED tail lamps.

A week ago, Dodge dropped a teaser announcing the return of the Demon nameplate. It will appear on the Challenger SRT and become the "new ultimate performance halo" vehicle of the lineup. Yes, there will be a model that usurps the SRT Hellcat. Dodge for its part has released two teaser videos about the Demon. The most recent video reveals that the Demon will be 200 pounds lighter than the Hellcat. It is suggested in the video that various components in the suspension, steering, and interior have been swapped for lighter parts.

Dodge will be revealing the Challenger SRT Demon at the New York Auto Show in April.

Source: Dodge 
Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Resurrects the Demon

• Challenger SRT Demon Begins Next Chapter of the High-performance Muscle Car
• Dodge’s new ultimate performance halo – the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon – to be unveiled during New York International Auto Show week
• Dodge to debut "Cage," the first in a series of pre-reveal teaser videos giving fans and followers insight into Demon’s engineering prowess
• Fans can check out www.ifyouknowyouknow.com website for weekly updates, to download sharable content and for a countdown to the New York reveal
• Use hashtag #DodgeDemon to be a part of the next chapter in the Dodge performance story
• Demon name first introduced to the Dodge lineup in 1971

January 12, 2017 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge shocked the performance world when it launched the most powerful and fastest muscle cars in the world – the Challenger SRT Hellcat and Charger SRT Hellcat. Now, two years later, Dodge is raising the bar again with the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon.

“Most cars attempt to be everything to everybody. Then there are the rare few that revel in a single objective, rendering them totally irresistible to a subculture," said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America. "The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is conceived, designed and engineered for a subculture of enthusiasts who know that a tenth is a car and a half second is your reputation."
 
Leading up to the New York reveal, Dodge is launching its first-ever pre-debut video teaser campaign, including a new website www.ifyouknowyouknow.com, where fans and followers can get weekly updates, download sharable content and gain insight into the SRT Demon’s engineering prowess.

In the first video, “Cage,” which debuts today, the ferocious animated Hellcat is back. Refusing to be caged, the beast transforms, thus beginning a new chapter in the Dodge brand’s performance legacy.  

Fans are encouraged to watch the 90-second “Cage” video multiple times at www.ifyouknowyouknow.com for clues to follow the story of what’s next from Dodge and SRT.

In the coming weeks, Dodge will bring fans and followers in on more details by slowly peeling away layer upon layer of the new Challenger SRT Demon via video shorts that highlight the engineering prowess that has gone into its development.  

All videos in the series will be featured at www.ifyouknowyouknow.com. A countdown clock tells viewers when the next installment will be uncaged. The final chapter arrives when the SRT Demon is revealed in New York City, prior to the New York International Auto Show.

Dodge will promote the teaser campaign on its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram social media pages, directing fans to www.ifyouknowyouknow.com and encouraging them to use the hashtag #DodgeDemon.

After eight months of rumor and speculation, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has made it official; the Dodge Viper will be no more after the 2017 model year. To mark the end of a 25-year life, Dodge has announced five limited edition models. They are as followed,

• Viper 1:28 Edition ACR: Pays tribute to the current production car lap record (1:28.65) set at Laguna Seca Raceway last October. Comes finished in black with red ACR stripes and a 1:28 Edition exterior sill decal. The Viper's optional extreme aero package and carbon-ceramic brakes come standard. Dodge is planning to build as many as 28 models.
• Viper GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR: Honors the Viper GTS-R GT2 race car from the late nineties. Painted in Pearl White with Blue Pearl GTS stripes. Comes equipped with the extreme aero package, exterior carbon package, and carbon-ceramic brakes. 100 models are expected to be built.
• Viper VoooDoo II Edition ACR: Modeled from the 2010 VoooDoo Edition with black exterior and gray stripe and VoooDoo II exterior sill decals. Follows other ACR models with the extreme aero package and carbon-ceramic brakes. 31 models are expected to be produced.
• Viper Snakeskin Edition GTC: Only special edition model not be based on the ACR trim. Features a Snakeskin Green exterior with a custom snakeskin patterned stripe. About 25 models are expected to be built.
• Dodge Dealer Edition ACR: Only available at the two highest volume Viper dealers - Tomball Dodge of Tomball, Texas, and Roanoke Dodge of Roanoke, Illinois. Finished in white with a blue center stripe. Gets the extreme aero package and carbon-ceramic brakes as standard equipment. About 33 models are expected to be built.
  

“The Dodge Viper has had a great run, and 25 years after it was first introduced, it leaves the supercar world reaching for the records it continues to set. With more track records than any production car in the world, the Dodge Viper ACR will live on as the fastest street-legal Viper track car ever, the car that has set the benchmark for all that follows in its tracks,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler, and Fiat – FCA, North America in a statement.

Source: Dodge

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Celebrates 25th Anniversary and Final Year of Viper Production with Five Exclusive Limited-edition Models

• New 25th anniversary limited-edition models feature exclusive content to commemorate the final year of Viper production
  • 1:28 Edition ACR (American Club Racer) – Celebrating the current Laguna Seca single-lap record of 1:28.65
  • GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR – One of the most iconic Viper liveries of all-time
  • VoooDoo II Edition ACR – Rebirth of the VooDoo ACR
  • Snakeskin Edition GTC – Inspired by the original Snakeskin, now with unique snakeskin stripe
  • Dodge Dealer Edition – Viper ACR special edition available through Tomball and Roanoke Dodge dealers
    

  [*]Each limited-edition Viper model features a serialized instrument panel badge with the model name that can be customized with the customer’s name [*]Customers can begin ordering special edition Vipers on June 24, 2016 [*]The 2017 Viper is available in more than 50 million unique build configurations, including the ACR package, through the “1 of 1” customization program for a truly one-of-a-kind snake American hand-built supercar
  

June 21, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Dodge brand is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Dodge Viper with five limited-edition models that commemorate the final year of Viper production and highlight several of the most iconic special edition Vipers of the past.

“The Dodge Viper has had a great run, and 25 years after it was first introduced, it leaves the supercar world reaching for the records it continues to set,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler, and Fiat – FCA, North America. “With more track records than any production car in the world, the Dodge Viper ACR will live on as the fastest street-legal Viper track car ever, the car that has set the benchmark for all that follows in its tracks.”

One of the most unique and exotic high-performance machines on the road today, Dodge is honoring the Viper’s rich, colorful and exceptional performance heritage on and off the track by paying tribute to some of the most iconic Vipers in its history. Beginning on June 24 and new for 2017 model year, customers can order their special snake in the following exclusive special edition configurations:

Viper 1:28 Edition ACR

• Pays tribute to the current production car single lap record of 1:28.65 set by champion driver Randy Pobst in a 2016 Dodge Viper ACR at historic Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, Calif., in October 2015
• Features black exterior and painted rear wing with red ACR stripes, Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, 1:28 Edition exterior sill decal, ACR interior with red accent stitching, serialized instrument panel 1:28 Edition badge, along with a custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• As many as 28 units of this new special edition configuration will be built for the 2017 model year
• Looking back in Viper history: Using the same track record theme, Dodge previously produced 33 units of the 2010 Viper ACR 1:33 Edition to tout its previous track record of 1:33.915 set by SRT dynamics engineer Chris Winkler at Laguna Seca Raceway in November 2009
  

Viper GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR

• Designed to pay tribute to one of the most distinguishable and iconic Viper paint schemes of all time – the white and blue combination of the 1998 Viper GTS-R GT2 Championship Edition
• Features Pearl White exterior with Blue Pearl GTS stripes, Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, Exterior Carbon Package, unique red Stryker badge decal, GTS-R exterior sill decals, USA flag B-pillar decals, ACR interior with red accent stitching, Header Red seat belts, serialized instrument panel GTS-R badge and a custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• As many as 100 units of this new special edition configuration will be built for 2017
• Looking back in Viper history: 100 units of the 1998 Viper GTS-R GTS Championship Edition were produced to commemorate the Viper winning the 1997 FIA GT2 championship
  

Viper VoooDoo II Edition ACR

• Modeled after the original 2010 Viper VooDoo edition
• Features black exterior and graphite metallic ACR driver’s stripe with red tracer outline, Extreme Aero Package, Carbon Ceramic brakes, VoooDoo II exterior sill decals, ACR interior with silver accent stitching, serialized instrument panel VoooDoo II badge and custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• As many as 31 units of this new special edition configuration will be produced for 2017
• Looking back in Viper history: 31 units of the original VooDoo Viper ACR were built in 2010
  

Viper Snakeskin Edition GTC

• Color was inspired by the original 2010 Snakeskin ACR
• Features new Snakeskin Green exterior with a custom snakeskin patterned SRT stripe, Advanced Aerodynamics Package, GT black interior, serialized instrument panel Snakeskin badge and a custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• As many as 25 units of this new special edition configuration will be produced for 2017
• Looking back in Viper history: 31 units of the original Snakeskin Viper ACR were built in 2010
  

Dodge Dealer Edition ACR

• Available exclusively through Dodge’s highest sales volume Viper dealers, Tomball Dodge of Tomball, Texas, and Roanoke Dodge of Roanoke, Ill.
• Features Viper White exterior with Competition Blue center stripe, Adrenaline Red driver stripe, Carbon Ceramic brakes, Extreme Aero Package, ACR interior with red accent stitching and custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• Serialized instrument panel ACR badge
• As many as 33 units of this new special edition configuration will be produced for 2017
  

Industry-first ‘1 of 1’ Viper customization program continues
Continuing for the 2017 model year is the exclusive Viper “1 of 1” customization program that enables buyers to create their one-of-a-kind “Snake” from the ground up. With 16,000 exterior color options, including matte exterior finishes, 24,000 custom stripe colors, 11 wheel options, 16 interior trims and seven aero packages, three brake packages and four suspension options, there are more than 50 million ways for buyers to customize their one-of-a-kind Dodge Viper. Each “1 of 1” model Viper features a personalized instrument panel badge with customer’s chosen name to commemorate their exclusive design. No two customers can order the same configuration, including color, in the same model year

ACR model returns as ultimate street-legal racer
The Dodge Viper ACR returns in 2017 as the indisputable “ultimate street-legal race car” with significant aerodynamic and suspension upgrades. Relaunched in 2016, the third edition (1999-2002, 2008-2010) of the Viper ACR has taken the performance car world by storm with more track records than any production car in the world — a total of 13 road course lap records as certified by the Sports Car Club of America.

Before the 2016 Woodward Dream Cruise kicks off in Detroit later this week, Dodge has revealed two heritage-inspired packages: the 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona.

The Challenger T/A package adds “air catcher” headlights, ducted hood and modified cool air box from the Hellcat; new exhaust system, and wider wheels. The T/A also adds the 'Super Track Pak' which includes a lowered suspension, high-performance Bilstein shock absorbers, performance brake linings, a three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) system, and a set of Goodyear F1 tires. Outside, the hood is finished in satin black along with various accents. This package is available with either the 5.7 or 6.4L HEMI V8. If you opt for the 6.4, you will get a set of Brembo brakes. Prices will range from $38,485 to $45,090. (All prices include a $1,095 destination charge).

The Charger Daytona features all of the same improvements as the T/A, along with a beefier rear differential, large rear wing, satin black roof, and Daytona graphics. Prices range from $40,985 to $46,090. The order books will open in September for the Charger, with the Challenger following a month later.

Source: Dodge

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Kicks Off Annual Woodward Dream Cruise With Debut of New 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona – Two Performance-upgraded Models Infused With Heritage Style

• New 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona models offer even more performance and heritage-inspired styling to the naturally aspirated Dodge 5.7- and 6.4-liter “392” HEMI® lineup
  • Unique SRT Hellcat- and R/T Scat Pack-inspired functional performance styling for an even more menacing appearance
  • New cold-air engine induction components unique to Challenger T/A models:
    • New SRT Hellcat-inspired driver and passenger side “Air Catcher” headlamps add even more fresh air and feature unique LED-illuminated “T/A” logos
    • New directed cold-air hood system feeds a modified SRT Hellcat air box on Challenger T/A models
      

    [*]Mopar cold-air induction system with conical air filter system included on all Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona models [*]New 2.75-inch electronically controlled active exhaust system on 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 models delivers a signature muscle-car sound [*]Wider, 20 x 9-inch and 20 x 9.5-inch wheels with high-performance Goodyear and Pirelli tires help improve handling on 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter HEMI-powered models, respectively [*]Increased stopping power with performance brake linings on 5.7-liter models, while 6.4-liter models add an ultra-high performance Brembo brake system with six-piston front and four-piston rear brake calipers [*]Unique Satin Black exterior graphics and appointments, including available hood pins on Challenger T/A, highlight Dodge brand’s cultivation of its storied performance history [*]For the driving enthusiast, performance bolstered seats and Dodge performance steering wheel with available die-cast paddle shifters are included
    

  [*]All-new and limited-production Green Go, plus a revised Yellow Jacket hue add to Dodge brand’s High-Impact Paint (HIP) legacy, debuting with Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona [*]Production for 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona models will begin this fall with ordering for Charger Daytona beginning in September and Challenger T/A in October
  

August 16, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge believes the golden age of performance cars is now, making this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise the perfect time and place to reintroduce the brand’s two famed, race-bred nameplates — the new 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona, muscle cars that deliver even more performance and precision to the naturally aspirated HEMI® V-8 lineup with unique powertrain induction and exhaust enhancements, chassis upgrades for greater handling and braking, plus functional performance styling appointments inside and out.

“More than 1.5 million enthusiasts are expected to come to Woodward to celebrate classic muscle cars this week, so it’s a perfect opportunity to pay tribute to the Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona with new special editions,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “We’ll continue to celebrate the brand’s muscle car performance heritage with another special-edition announcement later this fall.”

The new 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona models are available with the 6.4-liter “392” HEMI V-8 naturally aspirated 485-horsepower engine, or the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with up to 375 horsepower with the all-new electronically controlled active performance exhaust system. Production for both Challenger and Charger models will begin this fall with Charger Daytona models available for order in September, followed by Challenger T/A models this October.

New 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A models
Initially built for the Sports Car Club of America’s (SCCA) Trans Am racing series in 1970 with only 2,399 ever built, and considered one of the most sought after muscle cars of all time, the new 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A model lineup builds on this legacy with three track-capable models loaded with unique appointments and performance hardware – Challenger T/A, Challenger T/A Plus and the Challenger T/A 392.

Challenger T/A
For drivers who want to be a part of the Dodge T/A legacy, the new 2017 Challenger T/A builds on the standard content of the 375-horsepower Challenger R/T model, adding functional performance hardware, which includes the new “Air Catcher” headlamps with LED-illuminated T/A logos; NACA ducted hood now designed to feed a modified SRT Hellcat air box with Mopar conical filter, which optimizes cold air intake through these two signature fresh-air inlets; an all-new 2.75-inch electronically controlled active performance exhaust system; and 1-inch wider 20 x 9-inch Mopar lightweight forged-aluminum wheels finished in Hyper Black II.

The Super Track Pak is added for a full complement of race-bred chassis upgrades, including a 0.5-inch lowered suspension, high-performance Bilstein shock absorbers, performance brake linings, three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) calibration with “full off” and high-performance Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. The Tremec six-speed manual is standard, while the innovative TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission is available and includes Sport mode with paddle shifters, plus Fuel Saver Technology with four-cylinder mode and interactive Decel Fuel Shut Off (iDFSO).

Heritage-inspired Dodge exterior appointments include a new Satin Black painted hood and Satin Black front fascia, roof and deck-lid graphic paired to the T/A bodyside stripes; new wheel center caps featuring the Dodge stripes; “Challenger” script grille badge; Satin Black fuel-filler door with heritage “FUEL” lettering and black deck-lid spoiler with Challenger T/A badge. For an even bolder throwback look to the original 1970 model, factory-installed hood pins are available, along with all-new and limited-production Green Go and Yellow Jacket High-impact Paint (HIP).

Authentic aluminum interior bezels combined with Black and Gloss Black appointments provide Challenger T/A with an athletic cockpit. Premium Black performance seats with signature Houndstooth cloth inserts give the driver and front passenger greater lateral support. The Dodge performance steering wheel features performance contouring, and for added retro style, the 1971-inspired “tic-toc-tach” gauge cluster features Bright White concave faces and Gloss Black details. Premium velour-bound floor mats with embroidered Dodge logo are also included.

The new 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A model has a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,390. (All prices exclude $1,095 destination).

Challenger T/A Plus
Adding to the Challenger T/A model’s standard equipment, the new 2017 Challenger T/A Plus includes unique heated and ventilated Nappa leather performance seats in Black with Tungsten accent stitching and embroidered “T/A” logo; all-new fourth-generation Uconnect 8.4 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integrations, faster startup time, enhanced processing power, vivid imagery, plus higher resolution and sharper graphics; Dodge Performance leather-wrapped steering wheel with power tilt-and-telescoping column; six premium speakers and 276-watt digital amplifier.

Expanding on the Super Track Pak’s capability, the Challenger T/A Plus adds a shortcut button to the Dodge Performance Pages embedded in the class-exclusive and all-new Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen fourth-generation radio, which provides visible performance information, such as a programmable shift light indicator, reaction time, 0-60 times, G-force indicator and lap times in the 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) customizable cluster display. This new Uconnect system also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to further smartphone integration.

The new 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A Plus model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $40,140.

Challenger T/A 392
The new Challenger T/A 392 ups-the-ante with its best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering up to 113 more horsepower and a 65-lb.-ft. leap in torque compared with the 5.7-liter Challenger T/A models, representing more than a 30 percent jump in horsepower and 18 percent jump in torque. The coupe’s best-in-class power enables it to turn mid 4-second 0-60 mph times and low 12-second quarter mile times.

Adding to the standard equipment found on the Dodge Challenger T/A Plus, the new 2017 Challenger T/A 392 includes a 6.4-liter (392 cu in) HEMI V-8 engine with 485 horsepower, plus signature “T/A Air Catcher” headlamps and directed cold-air NACA duct hood systems connected to the more powerful mill; ultra-high performance Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes with vented rotors, unique front suspension geometry, all-new 20 x 9.5-inch forged aluminum wheels finished in Low Gloss Black, P275/40ZR20 Pirelli three-season performance tires, “392” fender decals, 180-mph primary speedometer, electronically controlled active performance exhaust system and 220-amp alternator.

The new 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A 392 model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $43,995 (excluding gas-guzzler tax).

New 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona models
Created in 1969 as a 501-unit, purpose-built production run for NASCAR, the Charger Daytona set records with its distinct aerodynamic styling and legendary power. The new Charger Daytona models build on this celebrated history by adding more performance to North America’s only four-door muscle sedan, as well as add to the momentum Dodge enthusiasts have generated for the limited edition 2006–2009 and 2013 models.

Charger Daytona
Delivering the most performance in the 5.7-liter Charger lineup, the new 2017 Charger Daytona builds on the Charger R/T model by improving the engine’s intake and exhaust with a Mopar cold-air induction system with conical air filter; plus an all-new electronically controlled 2.75-inch active performance exhaust system with 4-inch round tips. Also included is the Super Track Pak with its performance-tuned suspension, performance brake linings, three-mode ESC calibration with “full off” and high-performance Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. For improved acceleration and speed, Charger Daytona includes a rear differential with a 2.62 axle ratio, plus performance engine and transmission calibration with a high-speed engine controller (150 mph, up from 135 mph).

For a menacing look, the new Charger Daytona includes SRT- and R/T Scat Pack-inspired front and rear performance fascias, performance side sills and a one-piece Satin Black performance spoiler. A Satin Black hood graphic with cutout “HEMI” logo highlights the aluminum hood’s NACA duct, while cutout “Daytona” deck-lid to rear-quarter graphics are paired with the Satin Black roof treatment for a bold, heritage-inspired appearance. Completing the athletic styling are wider 20 x 9-inch Mopar lightweight forged-aluminum wheels finished in Hyper Black II, P245/45ZR20 Goodyear all-season performance tires (three-season tires are optional) with the new center caps that feature the Dodge stripes, plus signature “Daytona” grille badging.

The new Dodge Charger Daytona’s interior is highlighted by unique Black heated and ventilated Nappa leather performance seats with horizontal Alcantara suede plowthroughs with Brazen Gold accent stitching, “Daytona” embroidered seat backs and 12-way power adjust for driver and front passenger. Use of Brazen Gold accent stitching also is added to the center console armrest, along with door panels and door panel armrests for even more detail. All-new Carbonite authentic aluminum interior bezels and Gloss Black interior accents are paired to the Dodge performance steering wheel with performance contouring provide an athletic look. Completing the high level of standard equipment are premium velour-bound floor mats with embroidered Dodge logo, bright performance pedals and “Daytona” instrument panel badge.

Additional premium content over the Charger R/T model includes driver’s seat memory and steering column with memory, bi-function high-intensity discharge (HID) projector headlamps, LED ambient cabin lighting, ParkSense rear park assist system and vehicle security alarm.

The new 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $39,890.

Charger Daytona 392
With a best-in-class 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque from its 6.4-liter HEMI powertrain, new air box with directed cold-air induction and Mopar conical air filter, plus a 3.09 final drive with 230mm limited-slip rear axle, the new 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona 392 delivers 0-60 mph performance in the mid 4-second range, plus quarter-mile times in the low 12-second range.

In addition to its track-proven HEMI V-8 powertrain, the Charger Daytona 392 builds on the 5.7-liter model’s standard content with ultra-high performance Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes with vented rotors, Mopar conical cold-air intake filter, wider 20 x 9.5-inch forged aluminum wheels finished in Low Gloss Black, P275/40ZR20 Pirelli all-season performance tires (three-season tires are optional), “392” fender decals, 180-mph primary speedometer, electronically controlled active performance exhaust system and 220-amp alternator.

The new 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona 392 model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $44,995.

High-impact Paint (HIP) legacy continues
Adding even more excitement to the new 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona models, all-new and limited-production Green Go, plus a revised Yellow Jacket hue, build on Dodge brand’s HIP legacy. Go Mango and TorRed hues from the exclusive HIP collection are also offered. Also joining the paint lineup for 2017 are Destroyer Gray and Octane Red shades, while White Knuckle, Redline Red, Pitch Black, Granite, Billet, Contusion Blue and Maximum Steel are also available.

Last week, we brought you news that Dodge was planning to build a number of special edition Vipers to commemorate its 25th anniversary and the end of the production run. This week, we bring you the news that all of these models are sold.

According to Dodge, all of the special edition models sold out in five days. Here is the breakdown,

• 1:28 Edition ACR: Sold out within 40 minutes
• VoooDoo II Edition ACR: Sold out in 2 hours
• Snakeskin Edition GTC: Sold out in 2 days
• GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR: Sold out in 2 days
• Dodge Dealer Edition ACR: Sold out in 5 days
  

Because of the rapid sales, Dodge is introducing one more special edition. The Snakeskin Edition ACR features a new green color with a snake-skin stripe, the ACR Package, Extreme Aero Package, and a set of carbon ceramic brakes. Like the GTC, there will only be 31 Snakeskin Edition ACRs built. The order books for this model will open later this month.

Source: Dodge

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Viper 25th Anniversary Limited-edition Models Sold Out

In Response to Customer Requests New Snakeskin ACR Added to Special-edition Viper Lineup

• 1:28 Edition ACR (American Club Racer) – all 28 units sold out within 40 minutes
• VoooDoo II Edition ACR – all 31 units sold out within two hours
• Snakeskin Edition GTC – all 25 units sold out within two ordering days
• GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR – all 100 units sold out within two ordering days
• Orders for the 2017 limited-edition models opened on Friday, June 24
• Responding to customer requests, Dodge is introducing Snakeskin ACR Edition and will build as many as 31 units
  

June 30, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge Vipers certainly do go fast, both literally and figuratively. After first going on sale Friday, June 24, 206 special-edition 2017 Dodge Vipers designed with exclusive content to celebrate the 25th anniversary and final year of Viper production are totally sold out.

Leading the selling spree was the new 1:28 Edition ACR. All 28 units sold out in just 40 minutes. All 31 units of the VoooDoo II Edition ACRs had new owners within two hours. The Snakeskin Edition GTC (25 units) and GTS-R Commemorative Edition ACR (100 units) took only two ordering days to sell out. All 22 units of the Dodge Dealer Edition ACR sold out within five ordering days.

"From just 40 minutes to five days, the 25th Anniversary special-edition Dodge Vipers sold out incredibly fast, insuring their future collectability,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “Our customers are asking, so we’re adding one more special edition — the Dodge Viper Snakeskin ACR.”

An all-new ACR version of the Snakeskin Edition will be made available with up to 31 units to continue the 25th Viper Anniversary celebration. Orders for the Snakeskin ACR special edition will open in mid-July.

New 2017 Viper Snakeskin Edition ACR

• Color was inspired by the original 2010 Snakeskin ACR
• Features new Snakeskin Green exterior with a custom snakeskin-patterned SRT stripe, ACR Package, Extreme Aero Package, carbon ceramic brakes, ACR interior, serialized instrument panel Snakeskin badge and a custom car cover that matches the exterior paint scheme and showcases the customer name above the driver’s side door
• As many as 31 units of this new special-edition configuration will be produced for 2017
• Looking back in Viper history: 31 units of the original Snakeskin Viper ACR were built in 2010
  

The Dodge Dart will be going away sometime in the near future and to prepare for this, Dodge has revamped the lineup to help dealers move them out. For the rest of the 2016 model year, the Dart will only be available in the SXT Sport, Dart Turbo, and Dart GT Sport.

• SXT Sport: This is the new base model in the Dart lineup with a base price of $18,990 with destination. Power comes from a 2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder with 160 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual or automatic are available. Standard equipment includes remote keyless entry, UConnect voice command with Bluetooth, four-speaker audio system, satellite radio, cruise control, and 16-inch alloy wheels
• Dart Turbo: Positioned as the sporty version, this Dart comes with the 1.4L turbo-four with 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet, and six-speed manual. A sport appearance hood, dual exhaust tips, and the Rallye Appearance package are standard. Base price for the turbo starts at $20,490.
• Dart GT Sport: Sitting as the top model in the Dart lineup, the GT Sport gets a 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder with 184 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of a six-speed manual or automatic. It comes with a lot of equipment such as push-button start, digital instrument cluster, a 10-way power driver seat, dual-zone climate control, an 8.4-inch UConnect system, and backup camera.
  

“We are repositioning the Dart lineup to better align production and dealer inventory with consumer demand and preference. The simplification of Dart models, coupled with the availability of popular Rallye, Blacktop and Chrome appearance packages across more of the line-up, makes it easier for dealers to order and stock vehicles that customers are looking for,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FCA's Passenger Car Brands in a statement.

Source: Dodge

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Simplifies Dart Lineup, Appealing to Both the Value Conscious Consumer and the Driving Enthusiast

• Dodge simplifies the 2016 Dodge Dart lineup to three models: Dart SXT Sport, Dart Turbo and Dart GT Sport, delivering small-car consumers the content they desire at a lower starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)
• Buyer can customize their Dart exterior to stand out in a sea of sameness with the available popular Rallye and Blacktop packages or the all-new Chrome package that offers an upscale look at an affordable price
• The new Dodge Dart SXT Sport is the new entry-level Dart model with a starting U.S. MSRP of $17,995 (all prices exclude destination) and is powered by the 2.0-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine
• The new 2016 Dart SXT Sport delivers the features small-car customers want as standard equipment, including remote keyless entry Uconnect voice command with Bluetooth, Sirius Satellite radio, air conditioning, cruise control, steering wheel audio controls and 16-inch aluminum wheels
• The new Dart Turbo model is powered by the 1.4-liter MultiAir2 Turbo engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission for the customer who wants to ‘save the manuals’ and actively enjoy the drive, all for a starting U.S. MSRP of $19,495. The Dart Turbo model comes standard with a sport appearance hood, integrated dual exhaust and 17-inch Granite Crystal aluminum wheels
• The new Dart GT Sport model is reconfigured to offer the features consumers desire at a starting U.S. MSRP of just $20,995 (excluding destination), a price decrease of $1,100. The Dart GT Sport is powered by the 184-horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed manual or an available Powertech six-speed automatic transmission. The popular Dart GT Blacktop package continues as an option.
  

April 11, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge is simplifying the 2016 Dart model lineup with three new models packed with the features small-car customers want at a value every consumer will appreciate. The Dart SXT Sport, Dart Turbo and Dart GT Sport will comprise the Dodge Dart lineup for the remainder of the 2016 calendar year. Available Chrome, Rallye and Blacktop appearance packages give drivers the option to have an exterior style that will stand out from the crowd in the small-car segment.

“We are repositioning the Dart lineup to better align production and dealer inventory with consumer demand and preference,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “The simplification of Dart models, coupled with the availability of popular Rallye, Blacktop and Chrome appearance packages across more of the line-up, makes it easier for dealers to order and stock vehicles that customers are looking for.”

Dealers can begin ordering for the repositioned 2016 Dodge Dart this month.

Simplified Dart Lineup continues to deliver small car pricing with mid-size interior space; comfort and unique Dodge design
The 2016 Dodge Dart continues to deliver a distinctive appearance with an athletic, stylish exterior design; a modern, sleek interior design that’s well-crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail; class-leading safety and security features, including 10 standard air bags; easy-to-use technology including hands-free calling and dynamics engineered for the driver who loves to drive.

The Dart is loaded with more than 60 available safety and security features, which give both drivers and passengers peace of mind. Constructed of 68 percent high-strength steel, among the highest in the industry, the Dodge Dart’s key available safety and security features include 10 standard air bags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes standard on every model, electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, all-speed traction control, ParkView rear backup camera, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, ParkSense rear park assist with dynamic grid lines, LATCH anchors, which allow a child seat to be placed in any of the three rear seat positions, and much more.

2016 Dodge Dart SXT Sport
The Dart SXT Sport has a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $17,995 (all prices exclude destination), which is $1,400 less than the current SXT model, and is powered by the 2.0L Tigershark MultiAir2 engine that produces 160 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a standard six-speed manual transmission or available Powertech six-speed automatic transmission, with an EPA fuel economy rating of up to 29 miles per gallon (mpg) highway. Standard equipment includes: 10 standard air bags, air conditioning, active grille shutters, Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free calling, SiriusXM satellite radio with one-year free subscription, electric power steering, electronic brake assist, electronic stability control, Hill-Start Assist (HSA) all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation, four-wheel anti-lock power disc brakes, black Sedoso cloth seats with mesh inserts, six-way manual adjust driver and front passenger seat, driver seat height adjuster, front-seat active headrests, three rear-seat head restraints, sun visors with vanity mirrors, floor console with covered storage, Uconnect AM/FM/CD, four speakers, remote USB port, audio input jack for mobile devices, satin silver shift knob, two front cup holders, power windows with driver one-touch, solar control glass, Sentry Key theft-deterrent system, standard instrument cluster with tachometer, dual-note electric horns, outside temperature display in odometer, front courtesy map lamps, headlamp off-time delay, bi-function halogen projector head lamp, LED corner tail lamp, body-color crosshair grille with body-color surround, chrome headlamp bezels, tilt and telescopic steering column, and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

2016 Dodge Dart Turbo
With a starting U.S. MSRP of $19,495, the new Dodge Dart Turbo model is the vehicle for consumers who are passionate about the driving experience and are proud to “save the manuals.” Powered by the 1.4-liter turbocharged I-4 engine and mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the Dart Turbo model delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, offers an enthusiastic driving experience and exceptional fuel economy with an EPA highway rating of 41 mpg. Standard equipment includes a sport appearance hood, integrated dual exhaust and Rallye Appearance, which includes black headlamp bezels, a black grille surround with black crosshair and 17-inch Granite Crystal aluminum wheels.

2016 Dodge Dart GT Sport
The Dart GT Sport model sports a new, lower starting U.S. MSRP of $20,995, a price decrease of $1,100 from the Dart GT it replaces. Powered by the 2.4-liter, 184-horsepower Tigershark four-cylinder engine mated to the standard six-speed manual transmission or optional Powertech six-speed automatic transmission, the Dart GT model has EPA fuel economy ratings of up to 27 mpg highway. Standard equipment includes the sport appearance hood, performance gear ratios, unique engine calibration, Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start, 17-inch Granite Crystal aluminum wheels, integrated dual exhaust with bright tips, black fascia with Hyper Black grille, dark-tinted automatic headlamps, projector fog lamps, power heated exterior mirrors with courtesy lamps and supplemental signals, 10-way power driver seat, Uconnect 8.4 AM/FM/MP3 radio with 8.4-inch touchscreen display, 7-inch full-color reconfigurable digital gauge cluster display, ParkView rear backup camera, dual-zone automatic temperature control, tire-pressure monitoring display and SiriusXM Radio.

Customization from the factory
Drivers who want a vehicle that doesn’t look like every other small car on the road can choose from three packages that offer a style from stealth to sophisticated.

• Chrome package: available on the Dart SXT Sport model, the Chrome package offers an upscale look at an affordable price. The package includes a unique bright grille, bright automatic headlamps, bright door handles, fog lamps and 17-inch polished Silver aluminum wheels
• Rallye package: available on the Dart SXT Sport model, the Rallye package includes a black crosshair grille with black surround, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, touring suspension, rear stabilizer bar, LED racetrack tail lamps, floor mats and 17-inch Granite Crystal aluminum wheels
• Blacktop package: available on the Dart SXT Sport model, the Blacktop package includes black crosshair grille with black surround, fog lamps with black fog lamp spear and bezel, gloss black exterior mirrors, unique frequency-sensing sport suspension, rear stabilizer bar, LED Racetrack tail lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, floor mats and 18-inch Gloss Black 10-spoke aluminum wheels
  

Positioned at the heart of the compact car market, the new 2016 Dart models offer something for every consumer looking for a small car, from stylish transportation they are proud to drive, to the driver who loves the art of driving, to the person who wants a unique style that stands out in the compact car segment, the 2016 Dart has a model to fit the bill.

The 2016 Dodge Dart is available in the following colors: TorRed Pearl Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, True Blue Pearl Coat, Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Pitch Black Clear Coat and Go Mango Pearl Coat.

The Dodge Challenger and Charger Hellcat has been a large success since going into production for the 2015 model year. The factory hasn't been able to keep up with the demand, so they had to put on hold on orders and increase the production of the Hellcat engines. That wasn't enough, so Dodge has announced they will be doubling production for the 2016 models.

There is a downside to this announcement. Anyone who has a 2015 Challenger or Charger Hellcat on order may find out it has been cancelled. Dodge says they will finish building vehicles that are scheduled, while the remaining orders will be cancelled. Now Dodge is offering those whose order has been cancelled the chance to get 2016 models at 2015 prices.

Not changing is how many Hellcats every dealer will get. Allocation will be decided by how many Dodge models are sold and how long the Hellcats stay on their lots.

Source: Dodge

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Launches 2016 SRT Hellcat Plan of Attack; Increases Production; Set to Open Orders for the Fastest, Most Powerful Muscle Cars Ever

• Due to unprecedented demand for the 2015 models, Dodge significantly increases production for 2016 model-year Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcats
• Plan includes building the remaining 2015 SRT Hellcat scheduled orders at Brampton (Ont.) Assembly
• All unscheduled 2015 model year SRT Hellcat sold orders will be cancelled; these customers will receive discounted 2016 model year pricing
• Dealers will receive details on the full 2016 model year allocation plan in August 2015
• Two allocation cycles to occur – August 2015 and February 2016
• 2016 model year SRT Hellcat allocation eligibility will continue to be based on past Dodge sales performance
• Allocation will be adjusted based on dealers’ average historical Dodge SRT Challenger and Charger Hellcat “days on lot” performance
• If dealers keep inventory moving, they will qualify for February allocation plan
• Dealers will only be able to order their given allocation.
• SRT Hellcat orders open in the second week of August 2015; production starts in September 2015
• New for 2016, both Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat now feature standard ultra-premium Laguna Leather interior appointments, Uconnect 8.4AN with navigation, HD radio and five years of SiriusXM Travel Link and SiriusXM Traffic
  

July 27, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge will soon be opening the dealer order banks for 2016 model year Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcats, streamlining the process and significantly increasing production to ensure that the fastest, most powerful muscle cars ever continue to move off dealer lots.
“We could not have asked for a more enthusiastic response to the Charger and Challenger SRT Hellcats – it was absolutely unprecedented, but then again, these 707-horsepower muscle cars are unprecedented,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge and SRT brands, FCA US. “To meet this demand, we are more than doubling our SRT Hellcat production for 2016 and simplifying the process to make it easier for our enthusiasts to get their hands on the hottest muscle cars in history. In addition, customers with verified sold orders that weren’t built in the 2015 model year will receive special discounted pricing if they re-order in 2016.”
The plan for 2016 model year includes:

• Remaining 2015 SRT Hellcat scheduled orders will be built at Brampton (Ont.) Assembly
• All unscheduled 2015 model year SRT Hellcat orders will be cancelled; these customers will receive discounted 2016 model year pricing
• Dealers will get a 2016 model year potential allocation total for the entire model year in August 2015
• 2016 model year SRT Hellcat allocation eligibility will continue to be based on past Dodge sales performance
• Allocation will be adjusted based on dealers’ average historical Dodge SRT Challenger and Charger Hellcat “days on lot” performance
• They will receive half of the 2016 model year allocation (net of adjustments) beginning in August 2015. They will receive the second half of the 2016 model year allocation (net of adjustments) in February 2016
• Dealers will only be able to order their given allocation
  

The ordering system will open the second week of August. Production of the 2016 Dodge Charger and Challenger is scheduled to start at the Brampton, (Ont.), Assembly plant in September.

Every generation of the Viper has had a hardcore version known as the ACR which can be described as a street-legal race car thanks to a number of changes to the aerodynamics and suspension. There was question of whether or not an ACR version would appear for this generation. Well on Friday, Dodge answered this question by rolling out the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR.

Now before you start expecting the big news to be an huge increase in power, it isn't. The 8.4L V10 sees an increase of five horsepower to 645, while torque remains at 600.

The big news is the work Dodge did to the Viper's aerodynamics. The body boasts an adjustable, twin-element, carbon-fiber rear wing; carbon-fiber diffuser, an extendable front splitter, and dive planes. Dodge says this package helps give nearly a ton of downforce at the Viper's maximum speed of 177 MPH.

The suspension has been given the once-over with coil-over Bilstein shocks that offer ten different settings and up to three inches of height adjustment. A set of carbon-ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers help rein the Viper, while specially built Kumho Ecsta V720 with 19-inch wheels can pull 1.5Gs of cornering. The ACR has seen a bit of weight loss with a number of features such power seats and lighter carpet.

Pricing hasn't been announced, but Dodge says the Viper ACR will begin rolling off the line in third-quarter.

Press Release is on Page 2

New 2016 Dodge Viper ACR – Fastest Street-legal Viper Track Car Ever

• The next chapter in the history of Dodge and SRT’s ultimate American hand-built, street-legal race car begins with the return of the new 2016 Dodge Viper American Club Racer (ACR).
  
• The new Viper ACR honors its long-standing legacy as the ultimate street-legal race car through significant aerodynamic and suspension upgrades, new Carbon Ceramic brakes with six-piston calipers and high-performance tires specifically designed for ACR
  
• New ACR Extreme Aero Package delivers nearly 1 ton of peak downforce at top speed through massive adjustable dual-element carbon fiber rear wing, rear carbon fiber diffuser, unique SRT hood with removable louvers, detachable extension for the front splitter and additional dive planes
  
• Delivers ultimate in stopping performance with unprecedented brake fade resistance through ACR-exclusive Carbon Ceramic Matrix 15-inch two-piece rotors and six-piston front calipers from Brembo®
  
• Unique race-tuned suspension features 10-setting, double-adjustable, coil-over Bilstein racing shocks and unique race alignment delivering up to 3 inches of suspension height adjustment for fine tuning corner weight
  
• The latest race tire compound technology with massive Kumho® Ecsta V720 high-performance tires (295/25/19 front, 355/30/19 rear), designed specifically for the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR, delivers laps times that are 1.5 seconds faster than off-road only race tires
  
• Combination of suspension, aero treatment and ACR-specific tires delivers sustainable 1.5 g cornering during high-speed turns
  
• Lightweight carpet, minimal three speaker audio, manual seats and Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes offset added performance elements while maintaining optimal 50/50 weight distribution
  
• Powered by iconic, hand-built 8.4-liter V-10 engine rated at 645 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world
  
• Unique Alcantara hand-crafted interior features iconic ‘ACR’ dash badge and accent stitching
  
• Offering ‘1 of 1’ customization option for the ultimate personalized Viper ACR
  
• Production of the hand-built 2016 Dodge Viper ACR begins in Detroit in the third quarter of 2015
  

May 8, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The next chapter in the history of the ultimate street-legal, track-focused, hand-built American supercar begins with the return of the new 2016 Dodge Viper ACR.

Certified for public roads and engineered to wring every last hundredth of a second out of road course lap times, the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR combines the latest in aerodynamic, braking and tire technology – a recipe designed to carry on the ACR’s lap-time busting reputation that has made it a legend on race tracks around the world.

“The Viper has always been more of a street-legal race car than a track-capable streetcar, and the new 2016 Dodge Viper ACR is the fastest street-legal Viper track car ever,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and Chief Executive Officer – Dodge Brand and SRT Brand, FCA – North America. “Our goal is to arm our enthusiasts with the ultimate Viper track car to dominate road courses around the world.”

The SRT engineering team that developed the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR is well-stocked with members who race their own cars, as well as learning from the factory-based racing Viper GTS-R that competed in the American Le Mans Series and IMSA United SportsCar Championship from 2012-2014, capturing the GTLM class driver and team championships in 2014. For the new Viper ACR, the team focused its efforts on three areas: aerodynamics, chassis and tires to maximize grip, producing never-seen-before handling capabilities and unprecedented lap times.

Ultimate aerodynamic performance

The 2016 Dodge Viper ACR with the available Extreme Aero package produces the highest aerodynamic downforce of any production car. During on-track testing, development engineers have experienced nearly 1 ton of downforce at top speed of 177 mph.

The Extreme Aero Package includes a huge (1,876-mm wide) adjustable dual-element rear wing, rear carbon fiber diffuser, unique SRT hood with removable louvers, detachable extension for the front splitter and four dive planes. The Extreme Aero rear wing, specifically designed for air flow around the Viper’s body, stands taller, sits further rearward and features unique end-plates and gurney lip to produce maximum downforce while minimizing straight line drag. The Extreme Aero package delivers more than three times the downforce of the Viper TA (Time Attack) 2.0 package.

The rear carbon fiber diffuser extends forward of the rear axle. It includes six removable strake extensions, designed to rub against the track surface for increased straight-line stability and optimized downforce. Removable hood louvers over the front tires reduce air pressure in front wheel wells to provide additional downforce. The detachable front splitter extension and dive planes work with the rear aero treatment to provide outstanding grip and balanced performance on the track.

Ultimate brake performance

Track duty can punish the brakes. The 2016 Dodge Viper ACR features new Brembo® Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes for optimum braking performance with unprecedented brake fade resistance, and greater handling capability through reduced un-sprung weight. The system uses 390-millimeter (15.4-inch) two-piece front rotors and 360-millimeter (14.2-inch) two-piece rear rotors. Front brakes use six-piston Brembo® calipers while the rear brakes use four-piston calipers.

The new Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes have the largest brake pad area ever on Viper. The brakes work in conjunction with ABS and ESC specifically tuned for ACR to take into account the extra grip provided by the additional aero and specifically designed Kumho® tires. Detachable front brake ducts provide additional cooling to the brake calipers for optimum track performance.

Tire, Chassis Combo Keeps Viper ACR Glued to the Road

The 2016 Dodge Viper ACR is fitted with Kumho® Ecsta V720 high-performance tires designed specifically for the car with unique tread pattern and compounds for front and rear. In testing, the new tires produce laps times that are 1.5 seconds faster than off-road only race tires.

Low-profile front tires measure 295/25/19 and are mounted on wider 11-inch wide wheels and when combined with the 355/30/19 rear tires provide the largest combined tire patch available on any production car. On the sidewall of the new tires is a unique raised ACR logo.

The Viper ACR’s ABS and five-mode Electronic Stability Control system (Full-on, Sport, Track, Rain, Full-off modes) are specifically tuned for the car to take into account the extra grip offered by the extreme aerodynamic and tire package.

Aluminum bodied, double-adjustable coil-over Bilstein race shocks are designed specifically for the Viper ACR and work in conjunction with ride height adjustment for optimal control of weight transfer and handling performance. Each shock provides independent 10-way rebound and compression adjustability. The suspension package also provides more than 3 inches of ride height adjustment.

Front springs are rated at 600 lbs./in. and rear springs at 1,300 lbs./in., more than double the suspension stiffness of the Viper TA model. With unique race alignment and 1.4 degrees more negative camber than the entry SRT model, the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR is capable of sustaining more than 1.5 g on high-speed turns due to the combined chassis and aerodynamic improvements.

“This car is not a 1-3 lap track special. You can run the car at the track all day, and the performance doesn’t fall off,” added Kuniskis.

Awe-inspiring V-10 Powertrain

At the heart of the 2016 Viper ACR is the handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4-liter V-10 overhead-valve engine, rated at 645 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world. Unique exhaust tips have been added to the side-mounted exhaust pipes to provide reduced exhaust pressure. All Vipers are engineered to withstand severe track duty in ambient temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit with a professional driver. Power reaches the pavement through the standard Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission.

ACR-exclusive Interior Appointments

The instrument panel cluster hood, lower instrument panel and door armrest panels of the race-inspired interior are wrapped in unique Alcantara suede. A new, ACR-exclusive Alcantara wrapped high-grip steering wheel with color racing stripe and unique badging sets the ACR apart from other production models. New high-grip seats also carry the Alcantara inserts, while the unique dash plaque is finished in carbon fiber. Customers can choose between silver or Header Red accent stitching throughout the interior.

‘1 of 1’ Viper Program Offers One-of-a-Kind Street-Legal Race Car

Applying Viper’s exclusive ‘1 of 1’ customization program to Viper ACR allows customers to have more than 25 million build combinations to create their one-of-a-kind Snake from the ground up. With 8,000 exterior color options, 24,000 custom stripe colors, 11 wheel options, 16 interior trims and seven aero packages, three brake packages and four suspension options there are more than 25 million ways for buyers to customize their one-of-a-kind Dodge Viper.

Hand-built in Detroit at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant; the 2016 Dodge Viper ACR goes on sale in third quarter 2015.

Dodge has announced some changes to the Viper for 2015 which include a increase to 645 horsepower, a one mile per gallon improvement on the highway, and a new GT model which gets an adjustable suspension and five-mode stability control. But Dodge saved the best change for last.

Announced today, all 2015 Vipers will see a price cut of $15,000. Here's how it looks,

• Viper SRT - Orignal Price: $99,885, 2015 Price: $84,885
  
• Viper GT - $94,995
  
• Viper T/A - Orignal Price: $115,885, 2015 Price: $100,985
  
• Viper GTS - Orignal Price: $122,385, 2015 Price: $107,995
  

Prices don't include destination.

Dodge says the price cut also extends to the 2014 models currently sitting on dealer lots. The hope is the price will help jump start Viper sales

Now if you bought a current Viper before the price cut, you might be a bit peeved. But Dodge has you covered as well. The automaker announced that all fifth-gen owners will be given a certificate worth $15,000 towards the purchase of a new Viper. That will go on top of the current $15,000 cut.

Dodge also announced that all of Dodge dealers will finally be allowed to sell the Viper.

Production of the 2015 Viper is expected to begin in the forth quarter of this year.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Embraces Viper's Roots and Revs Up Excitement, Delivering the Ultimate Hand-built American Exotic Supercar with a New Starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $84,995

• New for 2015, Dodge is reducing the Viper's starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) by $15,000 to start at $84,995
  
• Adjusting for inflation, the 2015 model year Viper is priced competitively to the first generation Viper, which launched in 1992, as calculated by Kelley Blue Book
  
• The Dodge Viper was first introduced in 1992 with a starting U.S. MSRP of $50,700. Adjusted for inflation, the equivalent in today's dollars would be $86,130
  
• Current Gen 5 Viper owners to receive a certificate worth $15,000 to be redeemed toward the purchase of a new Dodge Viper. This $15,000 certificate is in addition to the $15,000 price reduction
  
• All existing 2014 model year dealer inventory will be reduced by $15,000, effective immediately
  
• 2015 Dodge Vipers will be sold throughout the entire Dodge dealer network
  
• New for 2015, the Viper's refined 8.4-liter V-10 engine and Tremec six-speed manual transmission delivers 645 horsepower and up to 20 miles per gallon on the highway
  
• Production of the 2015 model year Dodge Viper will begin at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit in the fourth quarter with vehicles arriving in dealer showrooms in the first quarter of 2015
  

September 8, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge is reconfirming its commitment to the future of the Viper and repositioning the iconic Detroit-built supercar for 2015, giving the snake more horsepower, improved fuel economy and a new starting price $15,000 less than the 2014 model it replaces.

For 2015, the hand-built American exotic now delivers an increased 645 horsepower, gets up to 20 miles per gallon and is offered at a new starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $84,995 (all prices exclude tax, title, license, destination and gas guzzler tax).

Reaching back into its 100-year history, Dodge is using the formula that successfully launched the original 1992 Dodge Viper, but with even more power, refinement and craftsmanship. Adjusting for inflation, the 2015 model year Viper is priced competitively to the first generation Viper, as calculated by Kelley Blue Book. When Viper was first introduced, the U.S. MSRP was $50,700. Adjusted for inflation -- that equates to $86,130 in today's dollars.

"The Gen 1 Viper had 400 horsepower. It didn't have air conditioning, anti-lock brakes, traction control or stability control. It didn't even have real windows. It was the purest, rawest and most visceral American performance car of its time," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO - Dodge and SRT Brands. "The Gen 5 Viper maintains the purity of the original car, with its seductive design, perfect weight balance and all-aluminum V10 with an additional 245 horsepower. But the rawness has been tamed with state-of-the-art five-mode ESC, two-mode suspension, ABS, traction control, launch control and a lightweight structure comprised of carbon fiber, magnesium and aluminum. Despite the Gen 5's massive leap forward in technology and performance, we're pulling its starting price back to the equivalent of the original Gen 1 car."

Dodge is repositioning every Viper model with a lower starting price.

In addition to the new starting price, all existing Gen 5 Viper owners will get a certificate worth $15,000 that can be redeemed toward the purchase of a new Dodge Viper. This $15,000 certificate is in addition to the $15,000 price reduction.

Effective immediately, all existing 2014 model year Vipers in dealer inventory will also be re-invoiced and receive a new Monroney label that highlights the $15,000 price reduction.

Dodge is also expanding Viper sales beyond the current SRT network of dealers. More than 2,300 Dodge dealers will be able to sell the 2015 Dodge Viper.

"We have a saying at Dodge: 'If you know... you know,' and if you know Viper, you know this is big news," Kuniskis added, "and if you don't know Viper, it's time to check it out and see what makes owning and driving the iconic Viper so much more unique, exclusive and interesting than any other American performance vehicle."

New 2015 Dodge Viper models and features

For 2015 model year, Dodge is also introducing a number of product enhancements, new packages and new colors, including:

SRT – new accent stitching on the seats and instrument panel, Alcantara accents on the doors and instrument panel and 'Viper' badged aluminum sill plates

GT – new model with Nappa leather seats with Alcantara inserts, Alcantara accents on the doors and IP, 'Viper' badged aluminum sill plates, two-mode suspension, five-mode ESC, 'GTS' hood and two-piece StopTech slotted rotors

GTS Ceramic Blue Special Edition with an exclusive Ceramic Blue exterior color and Black stripes

TA 2.0 Special Edition with high-performance Aero Package

High-impact Y'Orange, Stryker Orange and Stryker Purple exterior colors – arriving to dealers in early 2015

Production of 2015 model year Vipers will begin at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit in the second half of the fourth quarter of 2014. Vipers will start arriving in dealerships in the first quarter of 2015.

A few weeks back, we reported on a filing for the SAE which listed the Dodge Charger as getting the brand new supercharged 6.2L V8 engine named Hellcat which appeared in the 2015 Challenger. Well today at a event held near Detroit, Dodge revealed the 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat, the world's most powerful sedan.

Much like the Challenger, the Charger SRT Hellcat has the supercharged 6.2L V8 engine with 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a eight-speed automatic transmission which was specially designed for this engine. This gives the Charger SRT Hellcat performance figures of 3.7 seconds to hit 60 MPH (0.2 seconds slower than the Challenger SRT Hellcat), 11 seconds to complete the quarter mile, and a top speed of 204 MPH.

There are a number of changes for the Charger SRT Hellcat along with the supercharged V8. A new hood features a scoop and air extractors to keep the engine cool. Meanwhile a rear spoiler helps add downforce to keep the twenty-inch wheels wrapped in P Zero tires on the ground.

Dodge hasn't announced pricing on the Charger SRT Hellcat, but did announced that production will begin sometime early next year.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

New 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is The Quickest, Fastest and Most Powerful Sedan in The World

• With 707 horsepower, an NHRA-certified quarter mile elapsed time of 11.0 seconds on street tires and a top speed of 204 miles per hour, the world's only four-door muscle car is the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan ever
  
• Supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat engine produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful V-8 Chrysler Group LLC has ever produced
  
• Unrivaled four-door performance includes quarter mile elapsed time in 11.0 seconds on street tires, 0-100-0 mph in under 13 seconds and a top speed of 204 miles per hour (mph)
  
• Dodge and SRT designers re-sculpt and refined nearly every body panel with functional performance cues, including heat extractors in the hood, unique front and rear fascias and dramatic LED lighting in both front and rear
  
• Segment-first TorqueFlite heavy-duty eight-speed automatic transmission capable of delivering fuel-efficient street driving and maximum performance track driving with 160 millisecond shifts with rev-matching
  
• New performance attributes include the largest brakes ever offered in a Chrysler Group vehicle – 15.4-inch Brembo two-piece rotors with six-piston calipers, 20 x 9.5-inch wide forged aluminum wheels with Pirelli P Zero performance tires, adaptive damping three-mode suspension and three-mode, heavy-duty eight-speed automatic transmission
  
• New SRT Performance Pages allow drivers to tailor the driving experience by controlling horsepower, transmission shift speeds, paddle shifters, traction and suspension
  
• Two key fobs – one black and one red. The red fob unlocks all 707 horsepower
  
• New interior design elements, including SRT three-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel, 7-inch reconfigurable digital gauge cluster, 8.4-inch touchscreen, Nappa leather and Alcantara suede seating, premium materials and a choice of four new trim and color combinations
  
• Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat features a slew of the latest high-tech features, including the new award-winning available Uconnect Access system, Uconnect Access Services with roadside assistance, theft-alarm notification, voice texting, new 3-D navigation and the ability to turn the Charger into a Wi-Fi hotspot
  

August 13, 2014, Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge is upping its high-performance game again with the unveiling of the new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat.

The new Charger SRT Hellcat will feature the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Hellcat V-8 engine that produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque – making it the quickest, fastest, most powerful production sedan in the world, as well as the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in America.

"For the last eight years, a large part of the Dodge Charger's successful formula has been its many personalities. It's a muscle car, a performance sedan, a family capable sedan; its success is that it can be any or all of those things, depending on how the customer chooses to equip their car," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO - Dodge and SRT Brands. "And now, with a NHRA-certified quarter mile time of 11.0 seconds and a 204 mph top speed, the new 2015 Dodge Charger Hellcat redefines itself again, as the quickest, fastest, most powerful sedan in the world!"

The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat will be built at the Brampton (Ont.) Assembly plant. Production is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2015.

Awe-inspiring powertrain; largest brakes ever offered in a Chrysler Group vehicle

The new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is powered by the new supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Its 707 horsepower matches the highest rating of any V-8 engine in Chrysler Group's celebrated history – that of the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.

The all-new supercharged V-8 engine is mated to the beefy new TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission.

This new Hellcat engine is Dodge and SRT's first application of V-8 supercharger technology, featuring a forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces. The result is a crank so well-engineered it can withstand firing pressures of 110 bar (1,595 psi) – the equivalent of five family sedans standing on each piston, every two revolutions. And its unique, specially tuned crank damper has been tested to 13,000 rpm.

High-strength, forged-alloy pistons, developed using advanced telemetry measurement, are coupled to powder-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity bushings and diamond-like-carbon-coated piston pins.

The supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 has premium-grade, heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads, which are optimized for superior thermal conductivity. And its die-cast aluminum rocker covers are HEMI Orange.

Standard on the Charger SRT Hellcat is the largest front-brake package ever offered in a Chrysler Group vehicle, which were first introduced on the 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat, featuring all-new 390-mm (15.4-inch) Brembo two-piece rotors with six-piston calipers for outstanding heat management and thermal capacity and longevity.

The unrivaled four-door performance numbers tell an impressive story with the quarter mile in 11.0 seconds, 0-100-0 mph in under 13 seconds, and a top speed of 204 mile per hour (mph).

All-new Drive Modes tailor the driving experience to each individual driver

Whether its on-road or on-track, Charger SRT Hellcat owners can personalize their drive experience, via the all-new Drive Modes feature. Drive Modes tailor the driving experience by controlling horsepower, transmission shift speeds, paddle shifters, traction and suspension. Drive Modes are pre-configured for Sport, Track and Default settings, while the Custom setting lets the driver customize the drive experience to their favorite settings.

Custom - Allows the driver to personalize the vehicle's performance

Sport - Delivers increased vehicle performance capability over the Default Mode

Track - Delivers maximum vehicle performance capability on smooth, dry surfaces

Default - Activates automatically when starting the vehicle

Eco - Maximizes fuel economy with a revised shift schedule, pedal map and second-gear starts

The Drive Modes feature is controlled through the Uconnect system and may be accessed by performing any of the following:

Pushing the SRT button on the instrument panel switch bank

Selecting "Drive Modes" from the "SRT & Apps" menu

Selecting "Drive Modes" from within the Performance Pages menu

Unlocking the power

The all-new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat comes standard with two key fobs – red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full horsepower and torque potential of the SRT Hellcat engine; while the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output.

When Valet Mode is activated, the following vehicle configurations are enabled:

Engine is remapped to significantly reduce horsepower and torque; limited to 4,000 rpm

Transmission locks out access to first gear and upshifts earlier than normal

Transmission will treat the manual shifter position the same as the drive position

Traction, steering and suspension are set to their "Street" settings

Steering-wheel paddle shifters are disabled

Drive Mode functions are disabled

Electronic stability control (ESC) is enabled to Full-on

Launch Control is disabled

The driver can activate and deactivate Valet Mode with a four-digit PIN code they create.

Sinister, functional exterior design

Inspired by its performance-enthusiast roots when Charger first launched more than 45 years ago, the new Charger successfully pays homage to past muscle cars while offering distinctly modern all-new exterior and interior appointments.

The Dodge and SRT design team builds upon the 2015 Dodge Charger's new modern four-door fastback coupe's already iconic exterior styling by adding a sinister-looking, unique front fascia, hood, rear fascia and spoiler.

The new exterior of the 2015 Dodge Charger is spiritually inspired by the iconic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, and for 2015, specifically draws its cues from the 1969 model. With its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) platform and proven power, the Charger's modern take on old-school muscle is sure to resonate with today's enthusiasts.

Up front, the Charger SRT Hellcat receives the larger, power-bulge aluminum hood, which features a dedicated "cold-air" intake – a visual styling cue from the first Viper coupe built in 1996 – and dual air extractors to ensure effective removal of heat and reduced air turbulence in the engine compartment.

The redesigned front fascia and grille use unique, blacked out upper and lower textures to produce the menacing look that is sure to make onlookers notice the ultimate performance sedan.

An integrated front splitter optimizes airflow to the cooling modules without compromising vehicle balance.

Filling the wheel wells are "Slingshot" split-seven spoke 20 x 9.5-inch, lightweight forged-aluminum wheels with either standard Matte Black or available Brass Monkey/dark bronze finishes.

Two new 275/40ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tires provide performance for all seasons. Both Pirelli P Zero Nero and P Zero tires are Y-Plus rated to handle the extreme speeds the Charger SRT Hellcat is capable of producing.

At the rear, a single piece decked spoiler is painted in body color while the unique fascia and valence showcase the 4-inch round exhaust tips.

The Dodge Charger SRT's signature "racetrack" LED tail lamps take on the same continuous glowing ribbon of light that debuted on the new 2014 Dodge Durango.

The center high-mounted stop lamp is relocated from the top of the deck lid to the roofline inside the back glass, allowing centering of the Charger SRT's backup camera.

The rear styling makeover begins at the touchdown point of the C-pillar, which is moved rearward to create an even more pronounced fastback appearance combined with a shorter rear overhang.

High-performance driver-oriented interior

The 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat's restyled driver-focused interior features premium, soft-touch materials, a new 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) customizable digital instrument gauge cluster and a new instrument panel center stack with the latest generation 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen media center.

New for 2015, drivers can select one of the many offered backgrounds to connect the digital look and feel with their chosen interior package. In addition, the Charger SRT Hellcat comes standard with a premium 900 watt, 18-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system.

An all-new and class-exclusive electronic shifter with an all-new driver-oriented T-handle provides the driver with intuitive gear selection and offers an Auto Stick selector gate for added control.

A redesigned SRT-branded heated steering wheel features a flat bottom and thick rim for the high-performance driver. Standard paddle shifters are located on the back of the upper spokes. The buttons to control the driver-configurable, full-color thin-film transistor (TFT) display are large and illuminated. Buttons for Uconnect and phone access now reside along the bottom edge of the horizontal spokes. Optional adaptive cruise control is configured by buttons that are symmetrically opposite on the right-hand side of the wheel. As before, the highly praised audio controls are still found on the back of the upper spokes. This new power tilt-telescoping steering wheel also has a 360-degree heat element.

The new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat features redesigned seats with improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. For improved comfort and convenience, the SRT Hellcat includes standard heated and ventilated front high-performance seats and heated rear seats.

One the big mysteries that has been surrounding the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is how much power does the 6.2L supercharged Hellcat V8 engine make. We've been hearing reports of somewhere 600-plus horsepower when this engine was still a rumor, and Dodge said the engine was capable of producing more than 600 horsepower. Well Dodge has finally answered the question and its a doozy.

The 6.2L supercharged Hellcat V8 engine makes 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. No that is not a misprint. This is most powerful muscle car on offer. This will be routed to the rear-wheels via a TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission that has been upgraded to handle all of the power.

There's more to the Hellcat. Much like the track key Ford used on the Boss 302, Dodge will offer two key fobs – one red, one black. The red key gives you the full 707 horsepower, while the black key restricts that to 500 horsepower.

Dodge says pricing for the Hellcat will be coming very soon, and production will begin sometime in the third quarter.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Is The Most Powerful Muscle Car Ever -- 707 hp!

July 1, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT, with its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat engine, produces an unprecedented 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful Challenger ever, Dodge's most powerful V-8 ever and the most powerful muscle car ever.

The Challenger's new 6.2-liter Supercharged Hellcat engine is also the first factory supercharged HEMI, as well as Dodge and SRT's first application of V-8 supercharger technology. For the first time in Chrysler Group history, the all-new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine comes standard with two key fobs -- red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full 707 horsepower and torque potential of the Challenger SRT Hellcat engine; while the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output of 500 horsepower.

In addition to the awe-inspiring 707 horsepower of the new Hellcat HEMI, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has been redesigned and totally re-engineered to be the most true-to-form muscle coupe on the market with performance-enhancing technologies inside and out, including the new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-new interior inspired by the classic 1971 Challenger.

The Dodge and SRT brands now offer the most complete lineup of muscle cars in the market, including the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT with its standard powerful and fuel-efficient Pentastar V-6 engine combined with the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission that delivers 300 horsepower and an estimated 30 miles per gallon; the 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T with the high-torque 5.7-liter HEMI now paired with the TorqueFlite eight-speed or six-speed manual transmission; and the all-new 6.4-liter HEMI Challenger Scat Pack that delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque with the TorqueFlite eight-speed or six-speed manual.

The 2015 Dodge Challenger and Challenger SRTs are built at the Brampton, Ontario, Assembly Plant and will start arriving in Dodge dealerships in the third quarter of 2014.

For the past year, the rumormill has been churning with reports of Dodge working on a HEMI V8 engine with a supercharger that was capable of producing over 600 horsepower. This engine, codenamed 'Hellcat' would be placed in the Challenger. When the refreshed Challenger was shown at the New York Auto Show, many expected an announcement, but there was none. Was this just a rumor?

One month later, Dodge has revealed the Challenger SRT Hellcat. Those rumors were very true.

The SRT Hellcat features a 6.2L HEMI V8 with "over 600 hp" (Dodge said they are finalizing performance figures) which goes through a six-speed manual or a new eight-speed automatic. Like most performance vehicles, the Challenger SRT Hellcat has a number of driving modes that adjust such items as power, shift points, steering effort, and traction control sensitivity. The SRT Hellcat also comes with two different keys: a red key that unlocks the full power of the vehicle and a black key that acts as a valet mode which limits the output of the V8.

Other changes for the SRT Hellcat include a set of 15.4-inch, two-piece Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers, Pirelli PZero Nero tires, a new hood with a functional scoop and air extractors, and supercharged badging on the fenders.

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is due out sometime in the third quarter of this year.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Unleashes Most Powerful Challenger Ever All-new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with 600-plus horsepower HEMI® Hellcat engine delivers unrivaled performance, race-inspired interior and new technologies geared toward the driving enthusiast

• New 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat features the all-new supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® – the most powerful V-8 engine Chrysler Group LLC has ever produced
  
• New Challenger SRT's standard 392 HEMI V8 delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of peak torque
  
• Segment-first TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmissions available on both new Dodge Challenger SRT models
  
• Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine features new Pirelli tire technology with class-exclusive standard Y-Plus rated four-season tires to help handle extreme loads
  
• Both 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT models ride on new, SRT-exclusive forged-aluminum wheels
  
• New Dodge Challenger SRT with the HEMI Hellcat features the largest front-brake package ever offered in a Chrysler Group vehicle as standard equipment
  
• All-new, driver-focused cockpit is designed for true performance enthusiasts with stunning style, premium materials, world-class craftsmanship and state-of-the-art technology
  
• Functional, performance-designed exterior maintains Challenger's original muscle car heritage and key Dodge brand hallmark
  

May 20, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The newly consolidated Dodge and SRT brands are launching out of the gate at full throttle, introducing the new 600-plus horsepower 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine and its stablemate – the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT – just one month after taking the wraps off the new Dodge Challenger 392 HEMI® Scat Pack Shaker at the New York Auto Show.

Driven by the five SRT performance hallmarks, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT and Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine are re-designed and totally re-engineered to be the most true-to-form muscle coupes on the market with performance-enhancing technologies inside and out. The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat will feature the most powerful V-8 engine ever produced by Chrysler Group – the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8.

“The new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is the ultimate performance muscle car,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO – Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Dodge is the Mainstream Performance brand, and now combined with SRT, we are able to unleash a true GT car with an all-new driver-focused interior and the TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission combined with the most powerful V-8 Chrysler has ever produced. The Challenger Hellcat has been released!”

The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT coupes will be built at the Brampton (Ont.) Assembly plant. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2014.

Awe-inspiring powertrains

For 2015, the Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine is propelled by the new supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8. Its 600-plus horsepower rating will be the highest of any V-8 engine in Chrysler Group’s celebrated history. The all-new V-8 engine can be mated with an upgraded six-speed manual transmission or a beefy, new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic – the first such gearbox ever offered in the Dodge Challenger SRT’s time-honored segment.

This new HEMI® Hellcat engine is Dodge and SRT’s first application of V-8 supercharger technology, delivering the full brand experience with fresh potency.

The breakthrough supercharged engine features a forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces. The result is a crank so well-engineered it can withstand firing pressures of 110 bar (1,595 psi) – the equivalent of five family sedans standing on each piston, every two revolutions. And its unique, specially tuned crank damper has been tested to 13,000 rpm.

High-strength, forged-alloy pistons – developed using advanced telemetry measurement – are coupled to powder-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity bushings and diamond-like-carbon-coated piston pins.

The new supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 has premium-grade, heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads that are optimized for superior thermal conductivity. And its die-cast aluminum rocker covers are HEMI Orange.

In addition to the supercharged HEMI V-8 in the Challenger SRT Hellcat, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT model also gets a power boost with upgrades to the 392 HEMI V-8. Horsepower climbs to 485 from 470, while peak torque jumps to 475 lb.-ft. from 470 lb.-ft.

The 392 also can be mated with a new TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic or the proven six-speed manual transmission.

All-new Drive Modes tailor the driving experience to each individual driver

Whether its on-road or on-track, Challenger SRT owners can personalize their drive experience via the all-new Drive Modes feature. Drive Modes tailor the driving experience by controlling horsepower, transmission shift speeds, steering (Challenger SRT only), paddle shifters (automatic transmission only), traction and suspension. Drive Modes are pre-configured for Sport, Track and Default settings, while the Custom setting lets the driver customize the drive experience to their favorite settings.

• Custom - Allows the driver to personalize the vehicle’s performance
  
• Sport - Delivers increased vehicle performance capability over the Default Mode
  
• Track - Delivers maximum vehicle performance capability on smooth, dry surfaces
  
• Default - Activates automatically when starting the vehicle
  

The Drive Mode feature is controlled through the Uconnect system and may be accessed by performing any of the following:

• Pushing the SRT button on the instrument panel switch bank
  
• Selecting “Drive Modes” from the “SRT & Apps” menu
  
• Selecting “Drive Modes” from within the Performance Pages menu
  

Unlocking the power

For the first time in Chrysler Group history, the all-new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine comes standard with two key fobs – red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full horsepower and torque potential of the Challenger SRT Hellcat engine; while the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output.

Valet Mode is offered on both Challenger SRT and Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine. When Valet Mode is activated, the following vehicle configurations are enabled:

• Engine is remapped to significantly reduce horsepower and torque; limited to 4,000 rpm
  
• Transmission locks out access to first gear and upshifts earlier than normal
  
• Transmission will treat the manual shifter position the same as the drive position
  
• Traction, steering and suspension are set to their “Street” settings
  
• Steering-wheel paddle shifters are disabled
  
• Drive Mode functions are disabled
  
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is enabled to Full-on
  
• Launch Control is disabled
  

The driver can activate and deactivate Valet Mode with a four-digit PIN code they create.

Outstanding ride and handling

The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT rides on new, SRT-exclusive “77” eight-spoke 20 x 9-inch forged-aluminum “Hyper Black” wheels. Standard 245/45ZR20 (front and rear) Goodyear RSA2 All-Season or available Goodyear F1 Supercar Three-Season tires deliver serious grip and handling.

Standard wheels on the Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine are new SRT-exclusive “Slingshot” split-seven spoke 20 x 9.5-inch, lightweight forged-aluminum wheels with a matte black finish; available on the SRT 392 as part of the SRT Track Pack. New P275/40ZR20 Pirelli P Zero Nero tires (front and rear) provide all-season traction while the newest tire technology from Pirelli includes the class exclusive four-season tire that is Y-Plus rated to handle the extreme speeds. Pirelli P Zero tires are available for three-season performance driving.

Available on the Challenger SRT Hellcat are 20 x 9.5-inch, lightweight forged-aluminum wheels with a Brass Monkey/dark bronze finish.

Benchmark braking

Standard on the 2015 Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine is the largest front-brake package ever offered in an SRT vehicle, featuring all-new 390-mm (15.4-inch) Brembo two-piece rotors with six-piston calipers for outstanding heat management/thermal capacity and longevity. This upgraded high-performance brake package is available on the 392 HEMI® SRT model as part of the SRT Track Pack.

New anti-lock braking system (ABS), ESC and traction control systems are uniquely tuned and configurable for specific tire and powertrain configurations.

Aggressive and functional exteriors

Dodge and SRT designers and engineers spent 35 percent more time in the Chrysler Group’s full-scale wind tunnel in Auburn Hills, Michigan, (compared with the previous-generation Dodge Challenger SRT) developing and further refining the aggressive and functional exteriors on the Challenger SRT and Challenger SRT Hellcat. The result is a re-engineered Challenger capable of maximum aerodynamic performance for spirited driving on the road or the race track.

At the front, new fascia designs and all-new vertical-split grille provide a menacing update of its 1971 inspiration. A larger, power-bulge aluminum hood features a dedicated “cold-air” intake – a visual styling cue from the first Viper coupe built in 1996.

The hood on the new Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine also includes dual air extractors to ensure effective removal of heat and reduced air turbulence in the engine compartment. The hood is standard in body color and is available in a Satin Black finish. Both models of the Challenger SRT feature all-aluminum hoods designed to reduce weight.

Another key design element on the Challenger SRT Hellcat is the exclusive Air Catcher inlet port, which feeds ram-air directly into the engine air box through the driver-side parking lamp.

All-new quad projector headlamps give a more detailed appearance, while a more aggressive brow “chops” the upper portion of the lamp design for an even more sinister attitude.

Integrated projector fog lamps on the Challenger 392 SRT are pushed to the lower corners to help accentuate the car’s width while illuminating the road. A new duck-bill fascia splitter helps improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

The Dodge Challenger SRT with a Hellcat engine features a larger front splitter designed for optimal downforce to minimize lift.

From the side, the signature muscular proportions and large thruster rear-quarter panels stand out from the crowd, while fender and belt lines tie together at the front and rear of the car to create a sleeker appearance. Differentiating the Challenger SRT Hellcat from the rest of the Challenger lineup are its “SUPERCHARGED” fender badges. Black sills accentuate the proportions of the muscle coupe and have been tuned in the wind tunnel to improve aerodynamics.

Out back, the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT recalls the historic 1971 model’s styling with a new split tail-lamp design and rear fascia. The tail lamps feature the new signature LED graphic with its smooth glow of light that can be seen from blocks away. A redesigned rear valance helps the 2015 Challenger SRT models look more planted on the ground. A unique, taller rear spoiler on the SRT Hellcat features a raised SRT logo.

Race-inspired, high-performance interiors

Inside the 2015 Dodge Challenger is an all-new enthusiast-centric cockpit with world-class materials, execution and technology. Key elements are inspired by the interior of the 1971 Challenger.

The performance cockpit of the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT carries an essence of the 1971 Challenger, in an artistic and more organically styled way.

The all-new cleanly executed instrument panel features a stamped aluminum bezel, which sets the tone for the driver’s display. For a high-tech look, an innovative 7-inch driver-selectable driver information display (DID) screen is centered in the gauge cluster and provides an almost infinitely customizable display. The all-new DID screen is flanked by new analog speedometer and tachometer gauges, which provide a heritage-inspired look with concave shapes and a hub-covered needle design, reminiscent of the “tic-toc-tach” gauges from the 1971 Challenger. For the Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine, the fixed gauges and digital graphics are finished in a Dark Radar Red tone to make it even more unique.

Additionally, the dashboard’s center stack neatly houses the new standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen. New for 2015 drivers can select one of the many offered backgrounds to connect the digital look and feel with their chosen interior package.

A new, trapezoidal shaped stamped aluminum center console provides Challenger SRT’s interior with a fresh look. The aluminum trim gets one of two finishes, “Hectic Mesh” for the Challenger 392 SRT and “Dark Engine Turn” for the Challenger SRT Hellcat. The console also exudes craftsmanship and style with leather-wrapped surfaces and French-seamed accent stitching running from the back to the front. Employing a unique, elevated design, the all-new center console houses ergonomically located redundant button and knob controls for audio and climate functions. An all-new media hub with an SD card slot, USB outlet and audio jack is neatly housed inside the center console’s flocked armrest.

For those who opt for the segment-first TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, an all-new and class-exclusive electronic shifter with an all-new driver-oriented T-handle provides the driver with intuitive gear selection and offers an Auto Stick selector gate for added control. For those who prefer having a third pedal, the precise and track-proven Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission is fitted with a throwback ball shifter.

A redesigned SRT-branded heated steering wheel features a flat bottom for the high-performance driver. Available paddle shifters (with automatic transmission) are located on the back of the upper spokes. The buttons to control the driver-configurable full-color thin-film transistor (TFT) display are large and illuminated. Buttons for Uconnect and phone access now reside along the bottom edge of the horizontal spokes. Optional adaptive cruise control is configured by buttons that are symmetrically opposite on the right hand side of the wheel. As before, the highly praised audio controls are still found on the back of the upper spokes. This new tilt-telescoping steering wheel also has a 360-degree heat element.

To make cruises more pleasurable, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT features redesigned seats with improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. For improved comfort and convenience, new for 2015 are standard heated and ventilated front seats. The passenger seat also has an easy exit/entry function to provide access to the rear seat – this is controlled by a release handle on the top shoulder of the seat.

Challenger SRT offers performance seats with large side bolsters for maximum lateral support in hard cornering. The seats can be covered in Nappa leather/Alcantara material with embroidered SRT logos. Laguna premium leather, colored either sepia or black with embossed SRT logos, is available as part of an equipment package.

High-impact exterior colors

Many of the most memorable paint colors in automotive history have been found on the Challenger. The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 and SRT with the HEMI Hellcat will be available in 11 exterior colors: B5 Blue Pearl Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Pearl Coat, Ivory White Tri-Coat Pearl, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat Pearl, Pitch Black Clear Coat, Redline Tri-Coat Pearl, Sublime Metallic Pearl Coat and TorRed Clear Coat.

Twin, full-body stripes are available in Black Satin Gloss and Silver High Gloss on the SRT 392.

Whenever an automaker reveals a new model at an auto show, they tend to have a difficult time trying to sell the current model. But Dodge is going to try something new they hope will alleviate that problem.

The Dodge Double-Down will offer buyers a one-year lease on a 2014 Charger and Challenger starting on April 17, the same day the brand will be showing off the new 2015 versions of the two models. After a year, a buyer can move into a three-year lease on a 2015 model of either vehicle for the same payment and no more money down. If a buyer decides to buy either 2015 model, they'll get a $1,000 incentive.

“If you have your eye on a new Challenger or Charger, there’s no need to wait for the new models to arrive. The Dodge Double-Up program lets you drive today’s Charger or Challenger and trade to the 2015 with no increase in payment. This is our way of thanking our loyal Charger and Challenger customers, and extending this offer to any new customers longing to get into one of these iconic muscle cars,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand President and CEO, Chrysler Group LLC.

Now there are exceptions to this deal. You cannot get a Charger SE or any SRT models under this plan. Also, you have you use the same dealer that you do the one-year lease to do the other part of the deal.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Dodge Brand Offers ‘Double-Up’ Program on 2014 Dodge Charger and Challenger

• Get a 2014 Charger or Challenger now; trade to a 2015 Charger or Challenger and keep the same payment
  
• Innovative, industry-exclusive lease program offered through end of August 2014
  
• No additional down payment required on eligible 2015 models
  
• Flexibility to choose a Charger or Challenger now and switch to the other model later
  
• Augmented reality App coming in May; experience 2015 Charger and Challenger on tablets and mobile devices
  

April 14, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - New 2015 Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger muscle cars are coming later this year, but there is no need to wait to get into one of these performance icons.

The Dodge brand has crafted the “Double-Up” program for Charger and Challenger enthusiasts. Eligible customers can lease a 2014 Charger or Challenger for 12 months, and leave the dealership with a guarantee that when they return in a year and follow program rules they will have the same lease payment on a new 2015 Charger or Challenger.

Customers can take advantage of this innovative program now through the end of August 2014.

“If you have your eye on a new Challenger or Charger, there’s no need to wait for the new models to arrive,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand President and CEO, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dodge Double-Up program lets you drive today’s Charger or Challenger and trade to the 2015 with no increase in payment. This is our way of thanking our loyal Charger and Challenger customers, and extending this offer to any new customers longing to get into one of these iconic muscle cars.”

Both the Charger and Challenger were strong sales performers during 2013. Last year, the Charger recorded its best annual sales since 2007, while the Challenger posted its best annual sales ever.

Under this new “Double-Up” program, eligible customers may enter into a 12-month lease for a 2014 Charger (excluding Charger SE and Charger SRT) or a 2014 Challenger (excluding Challenger SRT).

When their 12-month lease is up these eligible customers who follow program rules are guaranteed the same lease payment on a 36-month lease, with no additional down payment, on select all-new 2015 Charger or Challenger models. Customers may lease any 2015 Charger (excluding Charger SE and Charger SRT) and any 2015 Challenger (excluding Challenger SRT). If customers choose to purchase the 2015 model, they will receive $1,000 bonus cash toward the purchase of the vehicle.

Customers must use the same Dodge dealership for both transactions, lease through Chrysler Capital and follow program rules for eligibility. Customers interested in this offer should see their Dodge dealer for program terms and conditions and further information.

In addition to revealing the 2015 Dodge Charger and 2015 Dodge Challenger this week at the New York Auto Show (NYAS), the brand has created a "Dodge 2015 Experience," which provides consumers a unique browser-based 360-degree sneak preview of the new vehicles before they are available in dealer showrooms.

Dodge enthusiasts attending the New York Auto Show, and those visiting Dodge dealerships afterwards, will have the opportunity to check out the "Dodge 2015 Experience" on iPads programmed with 2015 Charger and Challenger photos, videos and 360-degree exterior and interior views.

They will also get the first peek at the upcoming three-dimensional augmented reality App coming in May. The App will allow consumers to experience the 2015 vehicles through their own tablets or mobile devices. Users can change the vehicle color and wheels, take 360-degree tours of the inside and outside of the new vehicles and drive their Chargers or Challengers on a virtual track.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 5, 2013

The Dodge Challenger is getting some love for the 2014 model year with the introduction of a new package and special edition at the 2013 SEMA Show tonight.

First up is the return of the Shaker for the Challenger R/T. The Shaker refers to Shaker performance hood scoop which directs cool air to the HEMI V8 and 'shakes' with the engine.

"The legendary Shaker performance hood is back, with its engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element that produces cold-air induction – making the new 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker the real deal," said said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge Brand.

The R/T Shaker package includes the 'Shaker' hood scoop, Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter, and optimized air box improve performance. Other goodies on the R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with a high-performance steering gear, brake linings, monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires, and three-mode electronic stability control that can be fully turned off.

Those looking for more performance for their R/T Shaker can check out the three different levels of Dodge's new 'Scat Packages'.

Exterior changes for the R/T Shaker include a satin black hood, stripe graphics on the roof and decklid, a body-color grille surround, 20 x 8-inch polished five-spoke aluminum wheels, and Shaker badges on the hood scoop.

Pricing for the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker will start at $36,995 and arrives at dealers next year.

The other debut at SEMA is the Mopar '14 Challenger. This is the fifth model Mopar has done and the second time the Challenger has been picked for this transformation.

The Mopar '14 Challenger starts with the choice of either Bright White or Gloss Black paint, and 'Shaker style' stripe in 'Mopar Blue.' Those who want to stand out some more can choose either a triple stripe with "MOPAR" running across the doors, or a stripe that runs along the A-line and includes the Mopar "Omega M" logo on the rear quarter. The 'Shaker" hood scoop comes standard, as does a set of 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps.

Inside, the Mopar '14 Challenger is fitted with a set of sports seats with the Mopar logo embroidered on the seat backs and wrapped in black Nappa Leather. The dashboard features a serialized plaque, letting the owner know what number their vehicle was out of the 100 models that will be built.

Those who want to maker their Mopar '14 Challenger stand out even more can add on accessories from Mopar either at the factory or the dealer.

Dodge and Mopar aren't saying how much the Mopar '14 Challenger will cost. What they are saying is that the order books open up in March and deliveries start in the second quarter of 2014.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 3

HEMI® “Shaker” Returns – 2014 Challenger R/T and Mopar ’14 Challenger Models Deliver Power, Performance and Even More Heritage-inspired Style For Hardcore Dodge and Mopar Enthusiasts

• With its functional "Shaker" hood and unmistakable Dodge muscle-car cues, the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker marks the return of one of the brand‘s most coveted performance options
  
• Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with unique hood and intake design combined with a functional exposed-element cold-air intake system
  
• New Mopar ‘14 Challenger model revealed: only 100 serialized coupes will be built, offering "Mopar-or-no-car" fans the rarest factory-produced Dodge Challenger model to date with unique "Moparized" equipment
  
• All-new Dodge Scat Packages unleash more horsepower and torque thanks to three Mopar- engineered stage kits arriving in Spring 2014
  

Dodge and Mopar brands are "shaking" it up at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association‘s (SEMA) annual show in Las Vegas. The two Detroit-born brands are teaming up to reveal the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker and Mopar ‘14 Challenger models, all engineered for hard-core enthusiasts who demand more throwback style with easily upgradable performance.

"The legendary Shaker performance hood is back, with its engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element that produces cold-air induction – making the new 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker the real deal," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge Brand. "With Challenger having its best sales-year ever, the time is right to provide our most loyal fans with the return of the Shaker, and even more power with new 'Scat Package,' performance stage kits."

"With Mopar engineers working alongside Dodge designers and engineers, we created these factory- proven products to amplify performance and style in a way that no one else can," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC‘s service, parts and customer-care brand. "The 'Shaker', 'Scat Packages' and our new Mopar ‘14 celebrate customized performance."

2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker

Injecting a fresh shot of heritage into the Challenger lineup, the new 2014 R/T Shaker model features unique throwback muscle-car cues that link directly to Dodge brand‘s performance legacy.

As the model name suggests, the legendary "cold-air grabbing" Shaker not only looks good with its Satin Black center-mounted hood scoop, snorkeling up from the engine compartment, it also directs cooler air back into the HEMI® V-8 engine. And like the original 1970 Challenger R/T with the Shaker hood, the new 2014 model continues the Dodge tradition of an engine-mounted hood scoop that "shakes" with the powertrain‘s movement.

Designed for muscle-car buffs who can‘t help but tinker with their toys, the Challenger R/T Shaker features the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine producing over 400 lb.-ft. of torque, with a functional Shaker hood with Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter and optimized air box for improved airflow and performance. Lift the hood and enthusiasts will also be treated to an under-hood "Shaker" badge – reminiscent of the 1970s original.

In addition to its driver-selectable sport-mode powertrain calibration, performance-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and steering calibration, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with high-performance steering gear, brake linings and monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with "full off" mode. All-season performance tires are available at no extra charge.

The new engine setup provides a new factory-designed foundation to maximize three all-new Dodge "Scat Packages," enabling customers to unleash even more power from their Challenger R/T Shaker.

For a dynamically striking look, a new "Shaker style" Satin Black hood, roof and deck-lid stripe graphics visually translate this Dodge Challenger model‘s name, while a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler provides the added downforce needed for 155 mph max-speed runs. For contrast, a body-color grille surround and Gloss Black fuel-filler door are added, while all-new 20 x 8-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black pockets and a satin "matte" clear coat feature a sculptured five-spoke design. For added detail, "Shaker" badges flank both sides of the hood scoop, while "HEMI" fender badges and a new "Challenger" grille badge in classic script completes the iconic exterior.

On the inside, the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features a unique three-spoke flat-bottom leather-wrapped performance steering wheel with black accent finish and integrated vehicle controls. Corresponding with the steering wheel is a unique "K-Black" painted instrument panel and center- console bezel for a discrete look. Matching the "Shaker" numbered dash plaque are door bolsters with graduated accent stitching that mirrors the logo‘s artistic reverberation. High-performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium Nappa Leather in Dark Slate Gray with Sepia accent stitching or Radar Red with Radar Red stitching, feature the "Shaker" logo embroidered on the seat back, along with unique graduated horizontal plow-throughs. For additional detail, the center console armrest is also leather wrapped and finished with accent thread. The aluminum pistol-grip shifter mated to a track- proven Tremec six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a black leather-wrapped shift-knob and die-cast paddle shifters on the back of the steering wheel are available for those who opt for the performance-tuned five-speed automatic.

Adding to the customized interior environment, with one press of the start button, the Shaker logo appears on the available 6.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

The new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker will arrive at Dodge dealerships in the first-quarter of 2014 with pricing for this very well-equipped model starting at just $36,995 U.S. MSRP ($37,495 with the custom one-of-a-kind hood-to-tail stripes), representing a walk of only $2,500 from the Challenger R/T Classic for all of the unique features of this limited production model.

The new Challenger R/T Shaker is available in Billet Silver Metallic, Bright White, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy, TorRed and vibrant Header Orange.

Introducing the New Mopar ’14: Only 100 of the new limited-edition vehicles will be built

Taking the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker one step further, the Mopar brand revealed its new Mopar ‘14 Challenger – the rarest limited-production Challenger model announced to date (only 100 to be made), with a distinct "Moparized" look. Additionally, the new Mopar ‘14 is engineered to take on any combination of the three all-new "Scat Packages."

"The Mopar ‘14 is yet another factory-engineered example of how Mopar can make even limited-edition muscle cars like the Challenger even more special," said Gorlier. "With three new 'Scat Packages' and more than 100 proven, quality-tested Mopar performance parts and accessories available for the Dodge Challenger, Mopar makes it simple through its one-stop customization shop."

The Mopar ‘14 Challenger features Bright White or Gloss Black exterior paint, and in keeping with tradition to its limited-edition predecessors — the Mopar ‘10 Challenger, Mopar ‘11 Charger, Mopar ‘12 300 and Mopar ‘13 Dart — is highlighted by the "Shaker style" stripe in "Mopar Blue." For an even more customized look, two additional Mopar Blue stripe options are available, including an all-new "rocker panel" bodyside triple stripe runs with "MOPAR" across the doors; or for an even bolder look, an all-new A-line bodyside stripe that wraps over the deck lid and includes the Mopar "Omega M" logo on the rear-quarter. Enthusiasts hungering for a taste of the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker‘s legendary heritage will find satisfaction in the Mopar ‘14 Challenger. Its all-new Satin Black Shaker hood scoop stands out with its raised profile and "Shaker" logo reverberating while the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is running. Other unique design elements to contrast the Bright White paint include all-new 20 x 8-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with Mopar center caps, a unique Black Vapor grille surround, Black fuel-filler door and Gloss Black deck-lid spoiler with Gloss Black "Mopar Design" badge and "Mopar" quarter-glass decals.

Providing a factory-customized look is the Mopar ‘14 model‘s Dark Slate interior embellished with unique Mopar appointments. Performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium black Nappa Leather feature Mopar Blue accent thread and Mopar Omega M logos embroidered on the seat backs. Additionally, Mopar Blue thread binds the seams of the armrest, pistol-grip shifter boot and three-spoke leather-wrapped performance steering wheel.

As the Mopar ‘14 ownership should be as unique as the ride itself, Mopar created a serialized instrument panel plaque, customized monroney label and "Mopar" branded key fobs. The Mopar- designed vehicle tradition continues, as owners of the Mopar '14 Challenger will receive a custom- crafted personalized owner‘s kit with a Mopar ‘14 brochure, unique Mopar ‘14 memorabilia, and customized items crafted with the serial number of each vehicle.

The new Mopar ‘14 takes vehicle customization to new heights. Already equipped with unique Mopar Design accessories from the factory, customers of the Mopar ‘14 will be able to add even more catalog accessories installed at the Mopar Custom Shop before arriving to their local dealer. And to take it even further, customers can choose to take it up another notch with Mopar accessories from their dealership.

Available Mopar Custom Shop upfitted items include:

• Mopar short-throw shifter
  
• Mopar cat-back exhaust
  
• Mopar performance suspension
  
• Mopar lowering springs
  
• Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS)
  
• Mopar performance badges
  
• Mopar hood pin kit
  
• Mopar car cover
  
• Mopar door-sill guards
  
• Mopar sequential taillight kit
  
• Mopar premium floor mats or slush mats
  
• Mopar chrome exhaust tip
  
• Mopar fuel-filler door
  
• Mopar wheel locks
  
• Mopar interior trim bezel kit
  

The limited-edition Mopar ‘14 Challenger is the fifth special-edition vehicle created by the Mopar brand, and will arrive straight from the factory in Brampton, Ontario, to dealerships in the second quarter of 2014. Pricing will be announced at a later date. Ordering will begin in March 2014.

All-new Dodge “Scat Packages”

"Mopar-or-no-car." A phrase Dodge and Mopar enthusiasts live by, and the reason these two brands have collaborated to revive the historic Dodge "Scat Packages" for hard-core "do-it-yourself" Challenger owners. From cold-air intakes, performance cam shafts and "optimized" engine calibrations, Scat Packages 1, 2 and 3 enable Challenger R/T Shaker — as well as other 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 Dodge Challenger and Charger models — maximum performance solutions designed and tested from the factory.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

November 5, 2013

2013 marks an important milestone for Dodge. This year is the 45th anniversary of the legendary “Scat Pack Club” which Dodge created to unite the brand's performance vehicle enthusiasts. Little did they know the club would transform and become so much more than that. The club morphed and became a over-arching performance philosophy which in turn created the need for more power. Dodge and Mopar responded with factory-engineered performance kits that would become known as “Scat Packages.”

Tonight at the 2013 SEMA show, Dodge and Mopar are bringing back the “Scat Packages” for the Dodge Charger, Challenger, Dart. There will be three different levels of performance available that range from a cold air intake and exhaust to ported and polished heads and hi-flow performance headers. All packages will come with a badge denoting what package you have on your vehicle.

“The Scat Pack performance philosophy has always been the core of Dodge DNA. Bringing back factory stage kits allows Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles without the fear and guesswork typically associated with modifying late-model vehicles,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO of Dodge.

The 'Scat Packages' go on sale next spring.

Source: Dodge

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Staged for Launch: Dodge Reveals New Scat Package Stage Kits with Mopar Performance Parts at 2013 SEMA Show

• Dodge and Mopar join forces to introduce new Scat Package performance upgrade kits for 2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger and Dodge Dart
  
• Scat Package 1, Scat Package 2, and Scat Package 3 kits available for 2014 Dodge Challenger, Charger and Dart include optimized calibration and much more
  
• Multiple options make affordable performance upgrades available to owners ranging from the everyday enthusiast to the weekend warrior
  
• Vehicles on display at SEMA include various Mopar stand-alone parts, in addition to the Scat Package kits
  
• Scat Package kits to be available in the Spring of 2014
  

Good things are coming in many packages for Dodge owners who love performance and delving into Dodge‟s rich history.

In honor of the 45th anniversary of the legendary “Scat Pack Club” that played a prominent role in Dodge heritage, Dodge and Mopar today announced the introduction of new Scat Package performance stage kits for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, 2014 Dodge Charger and 2014 Dodge Dart at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

In 1968, Dodge united the brand's performance vehicle enthusiasts through the creation of the Scat Pack Club. The Scat Pack Club quickly transformed and expanded from an enthusiast club into an over-arching Dodge performance philosophy. This shared philosophy ultimately evolved into the desire for even more performance. Dodge and Mopar brands partnered to respond to this need by delivering factory-engineered performance stage kits that would ultimately become known as “Scat Packages.”

“The Scat Pack performance philosophy has always been the core of Dodge DNA,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “Bringing back factory stage kits allows Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles without the fear and guesswork typically associated with modifying late-model vehicles.”

Scat Package 1, 2 and 3 kits will be made available for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, Charger and Dart, all at a cost-effective price, allowing enthusiasts to step up performance at their own pace. Each Scat Package kit includes a numbered hard badge associated with its performance stage, so enthusiasts can proudly display the emblem on their vehicle as a badge of honor.

“The new Scat Package kits reinforce our commitment to the performance arena,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC‟s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With multiple kits available, we can suit the performance upgrade needs of our owners.”

The Scat Package performance upgrade kits will be available in the Spring of 2014.

2014 Dodge Challenger

Scat Package 1 achieves a significant horsepower boost through three modifications, including a Mopar cold-air intake to provide increased air-flow into the engine, Mopar cat-back exhaust to free up downstream airflow, and an all-new performance calibrated engine controller, optimized to the 5.7-liter HEMI® engine.

Scat Package 2 adds approximately double the horsepower bump and is geared towards the performance enthusiast looking for that competitive edge. In addition to a customized, optimized performance calibration feature tailored for Scat Package 2, a new Mopar performance camshaft works in conjunction with the components of the Scat Package 1 kit to take advantage of improved engine breathing and deliver that additional acceleration advantage.

Scat Package 3 takes aim squarely at the competitive enthusiast who is looking for extreme performance and ultimate bragging rights. Gains of more than three-times that of Scat Package 1 are realized with the customized, optimized performance calibration tailored for Scat Package 3, new Mopar performance CNC-ported cylinder heads, Mopar performance camshaft and Mopar hi-flow headers.

Complementing the 2014 Dodge Challenger's ultimate performance is Mopar's plethora of stand-alone performance products, which assure a commanding presence. The chassis sits on 20-inch Classic II forged aluminum wheels finished in Hyperblack II with a polished lip. The Scat Package kits offer additional performance upgrades, including an electronic variable quick-dump side exhaust, front and rear strut bars and an adjustable suspension kit with a coil-over kit and stabilizer bar, which guarantees an experience to please all the driving senses. Additional features include a black concept hood and side valence, along with a black fuel filler door, black hood pins and sequential tail lamps.

The interior is truly unique, upgraded with Katzkin black performance leather seats and black performance leather door-panel inserts that carry the Dodge brand‟s stripes. The Dodge Challenger logo is embroidered in bright red on the front leather seats, and red stitching accents the seats, shifter boot and steering wheel. Dodge flat-bottom performance steering wheel and pistol grip shifter provide precision control of this ultimate performance Challenger. Subtle details continue with red seat-belt webbing and red carpet bindings, satin black and black chrome bezels, and gloss-black trim on the steering wheel, center stack, center console and door handles, giving this Challenger the customized looks to match its extreme performance attitude.

SCAT PACKAGE 1 5.7-liter

• “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 1
  
• Mopar cold air intake
  
• Mopar cat-back exhaust
  
• Scat Package 1 badge
  

SCAT PACKAGE 2 5.7-liter (Adds on top of Stage 1)

• “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 2
  
• Mopar performance camshaft
  
• Scat Package 2 badge
  

SCAT PACKAGE 3 5.7-liter (Adds on top of Stage 2)

• “Optimized” engine calibration – tailored to Scat Package 3
  
• Mopar performance ported and polished heads
  
• Mopar hi-flow performance headers
  
• Scat Package 3 badge
  

2014 Dodge Charger

The Scat Package 1, Scat Package 2 and Scat Package 3 offerings for the Dodge Charger also mimic the Scat Package options for the 2014 Dodge Challenger, duplicating exactly the horsepower gains and lists of available modifications.

Similar to the Dodge Challenger, the 2014 Dodge Charger shown at SEMA is customized with Mopar products separate from the Scat Package kits. The Charger rests on 20 x 9-inch unique lightweight wheels, embellished with black Mopar center caps and a Hyperblack II finish. The body is amplified with a side valence, a unique new front splitter and Redline rear spoiler. A Scat Pack hard badge in the rear quarter window provides a visual key of ultimate bragging rights.

The interior feel of the 2014 Dodge Charger follows that of the Dodge Challenger displayed near it. It includes Katzkin black performance leather seats, black leather door panel inserts featuring red leather Dodge stripes and red accent stitching. Other unique touches include red seat-belt webbing, red carpet bindings, and red embroidered Dodge Charger logo in the front seats.

Adding to the customized look on the interior are gloss-black steering-wheel spokes and black chrome on the door handles, cluster rings, instrument panel bezels, center console trim, and steering-wheel center ring. Mopar provides further appeal to the Dodge Charger with added bright pedal kit, pistol-grip shifter, door-sill guards, and advanced technology with a wireless charging pad.

The Dodge Charger‟s Scat Package kits are supplemented with front and rear strut bars, an adjustable suspension kit featuring a coil-over kit and stabilizer bar and an electronic variable quick-dump side exhaust, combining performance enhancements that will be sure to stimulate all the senses.

2014 Dodge Dart

Completing the Scat Package offerings for Dodge at SEMA is the 2014 Dodge Dart GT, powered by a 184 horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with six-speed manual transmission.

The Dodge Dart offering consists of three kits, with Scat Package 1 providing a shot in the arm of performance and handling improvements from Mopar through a cold-air intake, performance brake pads and a new short-throw shifter.

The next-level, Scat Package 2 amps up horsepower by providing Dodge Dart owners with a no- nonsense customized engine calibration to work in harmony with a Mopar cat-back exhaust.

At the top level, Scat Package 3 provides the ultimate package for those seeking optimal track times. Included is a Mopar big brake kit, including 13-inch vented rotors, four-piston front calipers and stainless steel lines to maintain optimum temperatures during extreme braking maneuvers. Also included is a performance suspension comprising of adjustable springs for ride height, adjustable dampening struts and front and rear sway bars.

Mopar modifications extend beyond the Scat Package kits with the dual vented functional aluminum hood, which captures cool air for the Mopar cold-air intake and exhausts hot air to achieve optimal operating temperature.

The aero package from the limited-edition Mopar ‟13 Dart is imported into the 2014 Dodge Dart, with Mopar side sills, chin splitter and rear diffuser, and a unique new three-piece decklid spoiler to boost downforce. A new exhaust dump with side exhaust helps the engine breathe, and the Dart rides on concept 19 x 8-inch lightweight gloss black wheels, accented with Mopar logo center caps.

As with the Dodge Challenger and Charger, Katzkin performance leather seats add a premium touch to Dodge Dart‟s interior. Door bolster inserts with a red border and red accent stitching on the seats, dash, armrest, wheel and shift boot are also found inside, along with red seat-belt webbing on the driver‟s side, red trim accents and premium floor mats with red piping. Black chrome graces the door pulls, HVAC bezels, and shifter cluster, while an array of Mopar accessories, including the bright-pedal kit, leather-wrapped shift knob, bright door-sill guards, molded cargo tray and wireless charging complete the interior.

SCAT PACKAGE 1 2.4-liter

• Mopar cold-air intake
  
• Mopar short-throw shifter
  
• Mopar performance brakes, including slotted rotors and performance brake pads
  

SCAT PACKAGE 2 2.4-liter

• “Optimized” engine calibration (premium octane)
  
• Mopar cat-back exhaust
  

SCAT PACKAGE 3 2.4-liter

• Mopar big brake kit with stainless lines
  
• Performance suspension with adjustable springs and struts
  
• Upgraded performance front and rear sway bars
  

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

March 26, 2012

The Spring Festival, held annually in Southern California, has become a big deal for owners of Chrysler's LX platform cars – Challenger, Charger, Magnum and 300. Originally started by a small group of passionate forum members, the event has grown to a point where Chrysler has thrown their support in. This year, the pentastar brought out something special, the new Challenger Rallye Redline.

Based on the Challenger SXT Plus, the Rallye Redline features the same 3.6-liter V6 with 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft torque as the standard model, but gets a amount of upgrades. Starting with the exterior, the Rallye Redline gets a triple red stripe and new 20-inch wheels with subtle red stripes around the rims. Inside, the red continues with available Radar Red leather seats.

Performance wise, the Rallye Redline gets a Super Sport Group handling package that includes firmer front and rear shocks, larger front and rear sway bars, slightly wider tires and 25-percent quicker steering. Also, a larger set brakes are included.

Pricing for the Challenger Rallye Redline starts at $28,745 (excluding $925 destination) and arrives at Dodge dealers in April.

Press Release is on Page 2

• New 2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline turns up the heat with unique red-hot exterior accents, 305 horsepower and performance suspension
  
• New Redline Red exterior striping paired with Pitch Black 20-inch wheels with Redline Red accented lip deliver a modern muscle car look
  
• Standard Dark Slate Gray or new Radar Red leather performance seating
  
• Efficient performance: Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline features the 3.6-liter aluminum Pentastar V-6 engine delivering 305 horsepower and 27 highway mpg paired with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters
  
• Available this April with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,745 (excluding $925 destination)
  
• With more than 1,000 registered vehicles, the seventh annual Spring Festival of LXs is the largest owner gathering of Dodge Chargers, Dodge Challengers, Dodge Magnums and Chrysler 300s in North America
  

Irvine, Calif. , Mar 23, 2012 - Evolving into the largest homecoming of modern Dodge rear-wheel-drive performance cars, the seventh annual Spring Festival of LXs marked the perfect opportunity to reveal the new 2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline. With its powerful and efficient 305 horsepower engine, paddle-shifting transmission, performance suspension designed to maximize the muscle car’s near 50/50 weight distribution for improved handling, and all-new red hot styling enhancements — this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want.

“Infused with Dodge DNA, the new Challenger Rallye Redline adds even more excitement to our iconic muscle car, and to show our appreciation to our most hard-core enthusiasts, we revealed this new model at Spring Fest,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand — Chrysler Group LLC. “With its unique Redline Red accented exterior details, available Radar Red leather, performance suspension and brakes, and 305 horsepower V-6 with paddle shifters getting 27 mpg – this new Challenger fuses the nameplate’s iconic heritage with modern Dodge styling and performance.”

New red hot styling details

Based on the 2012 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus, the new Challenger Rallye Redline model adds even more ‘bad boy’ attitude and head-turning style to the brand’s iconic coupe.

Flanking the center of the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline’s performance hood scoops, roof and deck lid is its signature Redline Red stripe with two thin side stripes for added detail. A body-color painted deck-lid spoiler adds to the performance look, while continuing the Redline Red triple stripe pattern at the center.

Filling the wheel wells, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline features new 20-inch Pitch Black wheels with a Redline Red lip and inner drum for a one-of-a-kind look. In addition, wider P245/45R20 Firestone Firehawk all-season performance tires provide greater contact with the road and a lower sidewall profile for improved steering precision and at-the-limit handling.

All-new to the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline model is the availability of heated front performance seats in Radar Red leather. In addition, Dodge Challenger’s class-exclusive seating for five may be wrapped in Dark Slate Gray leather.

The Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline is available in four colors, including Bright Silver Metallic, Tungsten Metallic, Bright White and Pitch Black.

Track-tuned performance

The new 2012 Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline combines world-class ride and refinement with its 305 horsepower aluminum Pentastar V-6 engine and track-tuned performance suspension to deliver a thrilling driving experience.

The Dodge Challenger’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine features a cold-air induction system and dual exhausts from the headers back to the exhaust tips for maximum output. The result is 305 track-ready horsepower (227 kW) at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb.-ft. (363 N•m) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine’s torque exceeds 90 percent of its peak value from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm, which provides outstanding drivability and responsiveness. Thanks to its all-aluminum design, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine provides the new Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline with a 52.4 / 47.6 front-to-rear weight distribution for improved balance and handling.

Enabling even more spirited driving with its five-speed Auto Stick transmission are die-cast zinc steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. Race-inspired with precision feel, Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline’s paddle shifters are ergonomically located behind the sporty thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for maximum control.

And to deliver improved all around acceleration, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline replaces its 2.65:1 rear-axle ratio for a more responsive 3.06:1 unit.

Upping the ante, the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline features the Super Sport Group as standard equipment and includes: performance-tuned suspension with 42 percent firmer front and 22 percent firmer rear monotube shocks. A larger 1.18-inch (30 mm) front and a 0.78-inch (20 mm) rear-sway bar replace 1.06-inch (27 mm) and 0.62-inch (16 mm) bars, respectively and add to the Dodge Challenger’s cornering capabilities. A performance-tuned steering calibration delivers 25 percent quicker steering and 20 percent heavier on-center feel. Topping off the handling upgrade are larger and wider 20 x 8.0-inch (replacing 18 x 7.5-inch) wheels with wider P245/45R20 all-season performance tires (replacing P235/55R18 tires).

Making sure the Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline delivers world-class levels of stopping power, larger performance disc brakes replace the standard set. At the front, dual-piston front calipers replace single-piston units and larger 13.6 x 1.26-inch (345 x 28 mm) vented rotors replace 12.6 x 1.1-inch (320 x 28 mm) vented rotors. At the rear, 12.6 x 0.87-inch (320 x 22 mm) vented rotors replace 12.6 x 0.4-inch (320 x 10 mm) solid rotors.

Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline also includes a tremendous level of standard equipment found on every 2012 Challenger SXT Plus, including: Uconnect™ hands-free phone, six Boston Acoustic Speakers with 276-watt amplifier, premium Nappa leather faced seats, heated front seats, SIRIUS/XM satellite radio with 12-month subscription, fog lamps, dual exhausts, automatic temperature control, power 10-way driver’s seat, cruise control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Keyless Enter ‘n Go, and six standard airbags.

Just in time for spring

The new Dodge Challenger Rallye Redline is available for ordering now and arrives at Dodge dealerships this April with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,745 (excluding $925 destination).

About Spring Festival of LXs

Evolving into one of the largest gatherings of Chrysler and Dodge car owners in North America, the seventh annual Spring Festival of LXs in Irvine, Calif., is a celebration of approximately 1,000 of the most “tricked out” Chrysler 300s, Dodge Chargers, Dodge Challengers and Dodge Magnums.

Chrysler and Dodge LX (original vehicle platform code for Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Magnum) vehicles are some of the most customized and accessorized vehicles in the country. Chrysler and Dodge LX owners are also some of the most active in online forums, and the Spring Festival of LXs turns their virtual community into reality as a large meet-and-greet owner opportunity along with exclusive roundtable forums with the people who design, engineer and manufacture these Chrysler and Dodge vehicles.

Seven years ago, this event started as a small group and active community of online “LX” owners and forum users. Today, the Spring Festival of LXs has expanded into a collaboration that includes Chrysler Group’s California Business Center, aftermarket vendors, vehicle displays and family-friendly fun with music, food and prizes. For more information, visit www.socallx.com

About the Dodge Challenger

The 2012 Dodge Challenger delivers exactly what muscle car enthusiasts want — a powerful and efficient engine lineup, a performance suspension designed for maximum grip, and athletic head-turning styling — all executed with quality and precision.

The Dodge Challenger SXT models package feature the lightweight, aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar™ V-6 engine with 305 horsepower (227 kW), responsive 268 lb.-ft. (363 N•m) of torque and up to 27 mpg highway. With legendary 5.7-liter HEMI^® V-8 engines under their hoods, the 2012 Challenger R/T models delivers up to 375 horsepower (280 kW), 410 lb.-ft. (556 N•m) of torque and 25 mpg highway.

With customization options, including hood-to-fender stripes, dual stripes, bodyside stripes, nostalgic paint colors and a choice of seven different wheel designs, Dodge Challenger sits apart from the pack and perfectly combines fun, nostalgia and power in one car.

All-new die-cast zinc steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters enable even more spirited driving and are now available on Dodge Challenger SXT Plus package and R/T models with five-speed Auto Stick transmission.

Innovative Uconnect^® Media Center radios (430, 430N and 730N) integrate a 6.5-inch touchscreen display with a 20 to 28-gigabyte hard drive for additional storage, USB port with iPod control, segment-leading Garmin^® navigation guidance and mapping, SIRIUS Traffic and SIRIUS Travel Link, providing real-time weather, fuel prices and more while on the go (depending on model). The 2012 Dodge Challenger also offers a world-class 900-watt, 18-speaker premium surround-sound system from Harman Kardon^®.

To make long cruises more comfortable, the 2012 Dodge Challenger features highly cushioned and comfortably contoured seating, while maintaining large bolsters to hold passengers in place during performance driving. To make it easy for up to three passengers to get in and out of the backseat, the driver’s seat features seatback tilt- with memory and an easy-to-reach release handle, while the front-passenger seat includes tilt-and-slide with memory.

Dodge Challenger offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head room (37.4 inches) and legroom (32.6 inches) compared with its competition. With class-exclusive seating for five, coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), the Dodge Challenger is the segment’s best day-to-day pony-car choice, offering maximum comfort and functionality to go with its legendary iconic styling and performance.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger features more than 45 safety and security features, including standard ESC, now integrating Chrysler Group’s new proprietary Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on and off the track.

In addition, Dodge Challenger was awarded Cars.com’s “2012 Shopper’s Choice Award,” representing their favorite car of the year, and Polk’s “Automotive Loyalty Award” in the sports car segment for the second year in a row.

Dodge has announced pricing on the new Dart compact sedan. Base price starts at $15,995 (before a $795 delivery charge), which undercuts the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, and Toyota Corolla.

For $15,995, that gets you a Dart SE which comes equipped with a 2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder producing 160 HP and a six-speed manual. Standard features include 10 airbags, "denim" cloth seats, power windows, LED taillights, a CD player with MP3 hookup, and projector headlights.

Next up is the Dart SXT, which is priced at $17,995. The SXT comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, power door locks, keyless entry, split rear seat, security system, and upgraded sound system. Options include navigation, backup camera, sunroof, and a 506-watt sound system.

For $18,995, you can get a Dart Rallye which brings the option of the 1.4L MultiAir Turbo four engine. The 1.4L delivers 160 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. Standard equipment includes black front fascia accents, black headlamp bezels, projector fog lamps, a class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust, leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel audio controls, and a trip computer.

The $19,995 Limited level adds a seven-inch "reconfigurable instrument cluster display," fog lamps, active grille shutters, and premium accent stitching. Leather seats are optional.

Finally, we get to the R/T which begins at $22,495. When the R/T appears sometime in the third quarter of 2012, it will have the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder with 184 HP and 171 lb-ft mated to either a six-speed manual or Autostick automatic. The R/T comes with all the equipment on the Limited but adds 18-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, more aggressive front fascia, dual exhaust, unique seat leather, and a heated steering wheel.

The Dart arrives at your local Dodge dealer in June.

Press Release is on Page 2

Groundbreaking Car delivers on Style, Innovative Features, Great Driving Experience and Value

• 2013 Dodge Dart delivers exceptional value with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $15,995 MSRP
  
• All-new Dart hits the mark with features and benefits never before seen in a compact car
  
• Five well-equipped trim levels offer class-leading safety features, unparalleled customization, breakthrough technology and amenities typically found in more expensive vehicle segments
  
• Built on a world-class architecture, Dodge Dart offers three technologically advanced, fuel-efficient and powerful engines including the 1.4L MultiAir® Turbo
  
• The 2013 Dodge Dart competes in the largest retail automotive segment in the United States, the compact car segment, which represents approximately 15 percent of the new car market
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Apr 16, 2012 - The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart leverages the world-class architecture and DNA of Alfa Romeo and then infuses it with Dodge passion and design, creating an agile, fun-to-drive compact car with mid-size levels of interior roominess and unmatched style, technology, safety and customization. The Dodge Dart brings this style and technology to market starting at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $15,995 (excluding destination), delivering a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s beautifully designed and crafted with high-quality materials, attention to detail and precision craftsmanship.

“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car, offering features and benefits never before found in a compact car,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “With class-leading style, customization, safety, technology, and interior levels of roominess, the all-new Dart perfectly blends Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge passion and style into one all-new car that customers will be proud to own and look forward to driving.”

Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is available in five different trim levels in the United States. Customers can choose from the SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T.

The starting U.S. MSRP for the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart (all prices exclude$795 destination):

• Dodge Dart SE $15,995
  
• Dodge Dart SXT $17,995
  
• Dodge Dart Rallye $18,995
  
• Dodge Dart Limited $19,995
  
• Dodge Dart R/T $22,495 (available Q3 2012)
  

2013 Dodge Dart SE – $15,995 starting U.S. MSRP

The Dodge Dart SE offers customers a stylish new car that breaks the mold of the typical compact car, while delivering great value. It’s powered by the new 2.0-liter 16-valve Tigershark I-4 engine, which produces a best-in-class standard 160 horsepower (hp) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or available six-speed automatic.

Select standard equipment includes class-leading safety features, such as 10 standard air bags, four wheel disc anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. Dart separates itself from the competition with world-class aerodynamics and distinctive style with standard projector headlamps, LED taillamps, body-color crosshair grille and laminated windshield. The interior features a premium soft-touch instrument panel with bright accents, six-way manual driver seat with height adjuster, unique ‘Denim’ cloth seats, power windows, AM/FM CD with MP3 and much more. All 2013 Dodge Dart models feature the security of a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2013 Dodge Dart SXT – $17,995 starting U.S. MSRP

The 2013 Dodge Dart SXT model includes the standard equipment of the SE model, as well as 17-inch aluminum wheels; power body-color mirrors and door locks; remote keyless entry; six-speakers; security alarm, 60/40 split folding rear seat, sliding armrest; air conditioning with micron filter and more.

Owners can customize their SXT with a wide array of options, including the class-exclusive 8.4-inch touch screen, Garmin navigation, in-seat storage, rear backup camera, power sunroof and a 506-watt sound system.

2013 Dodge Dart Rallye – $18,995 starting U.S. MSRP

The Dodge Dart Rallye adds a customized look to the Dodge Dart with distinctive performance front and rear fascias and a choice of four interior colors – Black with Light Diesel Grey, Diesel with Light Diesel Grey, Black with Ruby Red or Diesel Grey with Citrus Peel.

Rallye includes the standard equipment of the SXT model and also adds the following to create a one-of-a-kind look: unique black front fascia accents; black headlamp bezels; projector fog lamps; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; leather-wrapped steering wheel; speed control; steering wheel audio controls; trip computer and more.

Rallye customers can further express themselves with class-exclusive Hyper Black wheels or the powerful efficiency of the 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo delivering 160 horsepower and an impressive 184 lb.-ft. of torque.

2013 Dodge Dart Limited – $19,995 starting U.S. MSRP

The all-new Dodge Dart Limited represents the ultimate in luxury with mid-size levels of interior roominess, class-leading safety and technology, all for less than $20,000 MSRP.

The Dodge Dart Limited includes the standard equipment of the Dart SXT and adds the following impressive list of equipment, including unique bright grille and door handles; 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen with rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; floating island bezel; projector fog lamps; 10-way power driver seat; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; premium accent stitching on the instrument panel; and much more.

Limited customers can indulge in a variety of class-exclusive features, including premium Nappa leather with heated steering wheel, Garmin navigation, rear cross path detection and polished aluminum wheels.

2013 Dodge Dart R/T: $22,495 starting U.S. MSRP (3rd quarter 2012 availability):

The Dodge Dart R/T pays homage to the heritage of the R/T badge with distinctive styling and performance attributes that cater to the performance enthusiast with discriminating taste.

The Dodge Dart R/T is powered by the new 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 4-cylinder that produces an impressive 184 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or available six-speed automatic with AutoStick.

The R/T features the standard content of the Limited and adds the following distinctive equipment: 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black headlamp bezels; integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; R/T-unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats; dual- zone automatic temperature control; heated seats; class-exclusive heated steering wheel;and more.

Customers can also enhance their R/T with class-exclusive Hyper Black aluminum wheels, Keyless Enter ‘n Go, HID Headlamps and a 506-watt sound system, to name just a few features.

Production of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart begins at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant in the second quarter 2012 and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in June 2012.

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

March 19, 2012

Chevrolet offers the Tahoe PPV. Ford offers the Explorer Police Interceptor Utility. Now, Chrysler is joining in the mix with Dodge Durango Special Service.

Lets get the bad news out of the way first. The Durango’s Special Service name means it's not "pursuit ready". In other words, the Durango Special Service can't handle jumping curbs and surviving a 75-mph rear-end collision unlike the Ford and Chevrolet.

But that doesn't mean the Durango isn't cut out for most police (or fire) work. Chrysler fitted high-performance brakes, a heavy-duty water pump, engine oil cooler, and battery, and a 220-amp alternator. Inside, the Special Service drops the third row seat to make room for more stuff.

Powertrains include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L HEMI V8 going through rear wheels or four wheels.

Orders for the Durango Special Service began today and will be delivered sometime in the second quarter.

Press Release is on Page 2

• Special Service Dodge Durango designed for police, fire and general fleet customers
  
• Model has unique components to handle extreme use, extra-long life and added utility
  
• Durango can tow class-leading 7,400 pounds and travel over a class-leading 550 miles between fill-ups
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Mar 19, 2012 - Following the successful debut of the Dodge Charger Pursuit, Dodge will begin offering a Durango Special Service model for fleet use. The Dodge Durango Special Service SUV is specially designed to handle the rigors of everyday use by police and fire departments and fleet customers. Chrysler Group fleet operations will start taking orders now, with deliveries expected to begin in the second quarter of 2012.

“We’re incredibly excited to add the Dodge Durango Special Service to our line-up of law enforcement vehicles,” said Peter Grady, Vice President of Network Development and Fleet Operations. “Adding Durango to our current Dodge Charger Pursuit and Ram 1500 Special Service vehicles allows us to offer a full range of fleet sedan, SUV, and truck options to law enforcement and government agencies.”

“The standard Durango has several class-leading attributes, such as power, towing and a driving range of more than 550 miles, so it is a natural to become a great utility tool for law enforcement and general fleet customers,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “This Special Service version will no doubt be a major asset to any agency in need of a durable, yet comfortable, SUV.”

The Dodge Durango Special Service carries all of the SUV’s class-leading utility, such as available 7,400-pound towing capacity, more than 550-mile driving range with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine, and available 360 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Available in rear- or all-wheel drive, the Dodge Durango Special Service model comes with the following additional components designed for the rigors of daily fleet use: A heavy-duty brake package, heavy-duty battery, larger-output 220-amp alternator and heavy-duty water pump and engine oil cooler.

A 5-year/100,000-mile fully transferrable powertrain warranty helps eliminate worry of any repair costs to the covered components.

Dodge Durango Special Service also has a customizable rear cargo area with under-floor storage compartments and additional storage in the side compartments. Further modifications include a special service interior dome lamp and headliner, spot lamp wiring prep and the deletion of the third row of seats for more cargo capacity. Even with the deletion of the third row, the second row still has separate air conditioning and heat controls.

These modifications make the already stout Durango more than capable of handling daily fleet use.

Dodge Durango is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick,” and Special Service models offer customers the same 45 safety and security features, including standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM), Hill-start Assist and standard Trailer-sway Control (TSC) to enhance off-road and towing capabilities. Other standard safety and security features include seat-mounted and side-curtain air bags in the front row. The curtain air bag extends protection to second and third-row passengers (third-row seating deleted in Special Service models). Durango also includes standard front-row active head restraints.

The Dodge Durango Special Service will be built at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit. It joins the Dodge Charger Pursuit sedan and Ram 1500 Special Service truck currently available to government fleet customers.

Dodge Durango: Best-in-class power, towing and driving range

With its four-wheel independent suspension, near 50:50 weight distribution and responsive steering and handling, Durango has driving dynamics unlike what you typically find in a sport-utility vehicle (SUV). No other SUV on the road compares with the all-new Dodge Durango’s distinctive bold Dodge design that craftily houses a flexible and premium interior, covered in soft-touch materials. Durango features more than 30 storage areas and a rear cargo area of nearly 85 cubic feet that fits a 10-foot ladder with the front passenger seat folded flat. The 2012 Dodge Durango is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.

Durango also delivers the perfect blend of power and fuel efficiency. Its award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 290 horsepower along with a best-in-class driving range of more than 550 miles on one tank of fuel – that means Durango owners could drive all the way from San Diego to San Francisco or New York City to Boston and back again without needing to stop for fuel. The available HEMI® V-8 engine with Fuel Saver multi-displacement technology delivers a best-in-class 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines deliver best-in-class V-6 and V-8 towing with standard Trailer-sway Control on all models (V-8 – up to 7,400 lbs. and V-6 – 6,200 lbs.). Durango also features more than 45 safety and security features.

For the longest time, we've been hearing about a new car that would be replacing the dreadful Dodge Caliber. Today, Dodge revealed the replacement.

Meet the 2013 Dodge Dart, which will make it's debut next month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Previously, the car was known as the Hornet till Dodge announced last month the name wouldn't be used.

The Dart will be the first Chrysler vehicle using a Fiat vehicle architecture; the Alfa Romeo Giulietta in this case. The Giulietta's platform has been widened and lengthened for the Dart. Dodge says high-strength steel and independent suspension will make the car more fun to drive than its predecessors.

Styling of the Dart borrows a lot from the full-size Charger, with the front end having Dodge's trademark crosshair grill and headlights that are angled up over the car’s front fenders. Around back, a full bank of LED taillights and dual exhausts help make the car a Dodge.

Three engines will be available; a 2.0L inline-four “Tigershark”, a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir inline-four, and a 2.4L“Tigershark” inline-four. Three transmissions will be available; most likely an six-speed automatic plus a choice of five- and six-speed manuals.

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

January 5, 2012

Fiat has increased their ownership in Chrysler to 58.5% after the Dodge Dart in achieved 40 mpg in preliminary testing.

The mpg goal was the last of three “performance benchmarks” set by the U.S. Treasury when Fiat bought 20% of Chrysler in July 2009. In January 2011, Fiat increased their stake into Chrysler to 25% when they announced they would be building the 1.4L MultiAir engine in Dundee, Michigan. In July, the stake was increased to 30% when Chrysler recorded $1.5 billion in revenues from countries outside North America, and agreed to sell Chrysler products in Brazil and Europe.

The final benchmark for Fiat to meet was to have a compact car that achieved 40 mpg and was built in the U.S. The Dart in preliminary testing got 40 mpg and will be built at Chrysler's Belvidere, Illinois plant.

It's unknown which engine was used during the testing. The Dart will come with three engines; two "Tigershark” inline-fours displacing 2.0 and 2.4L, as well as a turbocharged 1.4L MultiAir inline-four.

Press Release is on Page 2

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 5, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today announced that Fiat S.p.A.'s ownership interest in the Company has increased to 58.5 percent, from 53.5 percent (fully diluted), upon the Company’s achievement of the final of three performance-related milestones.

As provided in its June 10, 2009 Operating Agreement, Chrysler Group issued a letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury stating that the Company has irrevocably committed to begin assembly of a vehicle with an unadjusted combined fuel economy of at least 40 mpg in commercial quantities in a production facility located in the United States. As a result, Fiat’s ownership interest increased automatically by 5 percent under the terms of the Operating Agreement.

The ownership interests of Chrysler Group’s members are now:

Fiat: 58.5 percent

UAW VEBA: 41.5 percent

In late December, Chrysler Group achieved the Fuel Economy Test, for an unadjusted combined rating of 40 mpg, with a pre-production version of the Dodge Dart, its new, state-of-the-art, four-door sedan.

With the 2013 Dodge Dart, Chrysler Group is redefining performance in the compact car segment and delivering world-class aerodynamics. With Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s passion for performance at its core, the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern and fuel-efficient vehicle that’s beautifully designed and crafted, agile and brings driving fun back to the segment. The all-new Dodge Dart will be made in the United States at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill.

The Dodge Dart is scheduled to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Jan. 9.

This is the fifth time in the past year that Fiat has increased its ownership in Chrysler Group.

In June 2009, Fiat initially received a 20 percent stake in Chrysler Group in exchange for sharing intellectual property and other resources with the Company.

On Jan. 10, 2011, Fiat announced that its stake in the Company increased to 25 percent when Chrysler Group received the appropriate government approvals and committed to begin commercial production of the Fully Integrated Robotized Engine (FIRE) in its Dundee, Mich., facility.

On April 12, Fiat’s ownership in Chrysler Group increased to 30 percent as Chrysler Group achieved cumulative revenue of more than $1.5 billion attributable to Company sales made outside of Canada, Mexico and the United States and entered into distribution agreements in Brazil and Europe, as well as a technology-use agreement.

In connection with Chrysler Group refinancing and paying back its U.S. and Canadian government loans in full on May 24, six years early, Fiat exercised its call option to increase its ownership interest in Chrysler Group by an incremental 16 percent to 46 percent, on a fully diluted basis.

And on July 21, Fiat reported that it paid $500 million to purchase the U.S. Treasury’s remaining 6 percent (fully diluted) ownership interest in Chrysler Group and $125 million to purchase the Canadian governments' remaining 1.5 percent (fully diluted) ownership interest, bringing its fully diluted ownership interest to 53.5 percent. In addition, Fiat paid $75 million to obtain assignment of the U.S. Treasury’s rights under the Equity Recapture Agreement.

With the submission of the letter to the U.S. Treasury, Fiat’s stake in Chrysler Group is now 58.5 percent.