2007 Dodge Magnum is a Bold Blend of Packaging, Performance and Unique Proportions

Auto news

DUI MOTORI - - The 2007 Dodge Magnum is a stylish alternative for consumers who want the comfort and performance of a car, and the capability and image of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV), without sacrificing everyday functionality. Magnum offers a bold, unique profile; exceptional versatility; and rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive performance. Nothing else is like it on the road.

“Armed with cutting-edge technologies, the Dodge Magnum muscled its way onto the streets and changed the way customers think of family transportation,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “The unique combination of packaging, performance and proportions helps the 2007 Dodge Magnum stand out from the crowd.”

An optional Road/Track Performance Group is offered for the first time on the rear-wheel-drive, HEMI® V-8-powered, 2007 Dodge Magnum R/T. This option provides a spirited ride and firm handling for the passionate, enthusiast driver and includes performance-tuned suspension, braking and steering and new large 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and 245/45ZR20 all-season performance tires.

Fortified with integrated safety and security features, the 2007 Dodge Magnum provides outstanding occupant protection on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Dodge Magnum a five-star rating for driver andfront-passenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest rating in the U.S. government’s safety crash-test program.

“WHAT’S NEW FOR 2007”
Exterior

• Updated palette offers eight exterior colors:
  • Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
  • Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
  • Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat
  • Marine Blue Pearl Coat
  • Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat
  • Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat
  • Stone White Clear Coat
  • TorRed

In terior

• AM/FM/six-CD full-map DVD-based navigation radio with GPS—optional on SXT
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio with first-year subscription provided by SIRIUS—standard on R/T
• Sunscreen Privacy Glass—standard on all Magnum models

Powertrain / Chassis

• New 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels—optional on RWD R/T and SXT package
• New 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels and 245/45ZR20 all-season performance tires

Safety & Security

• Automatic oil change alert
• Low-risk deployment air bags
• Power adjustable pedals—standard on R/T models

Packages

• New Convenience Group III bundles automatic headlamps, one-touch express up/down front windows and dual-zone automatic temperature control (ATC) - optional on SXT
• New Road/Track Performance Group includes 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels; 245/45ZR20 all-season performance tires; performance exhaust/induction resulting in additional 10 horsepower; upgraded performance suspension and steering gear; performance seats with preferred suede inserts; automatic temperature control; express up/down front windows; 8-way driver and front passenger heated seats; automatic headlamps; load leveling and height control shocks; five exterior color offerings; and heritage R/T exterior badging and upholstery — available on RWD R/T model

DESIGN

Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design: “The Dodge Magnum’s bold exterior styling offers a new and exciting alternative for consumers who want a stylish and unique vehicle but who are unwilling to sacrifice everyday functionality. It’s a package with proportions unlike any other in the marketplace.

The head-turning exterior design of the Dodge Magnum features a bold front grille, long hood, “shooting brake” profile and strong, muscular cues.

The Dodge Magnum features a high beltline on the body, and a roofline that has been pulled down tautly around the windows, creating a unique proportion of body to glass – not unlike that found on hot rods and concept vehicles. The dramatic look is pure Dodge, with every element having a purpose.

The interior of the Magnum features a performance-oriented driver cockpit; a classic, no-nonsense, two-tone color treatment; and subtle Satin Silver accents. A 60-40 split-folding rear Seat adds to everyday functionality. The unique rear liftgate swings up instead of out to allow for opening in tight spaces, and provides an unusually large cargo opening for flexible, useful space.


ENGINEERING

Craig Love, Vice President – Rear-wheel drive Platform Team: “We are excited to bring the Road/Track Performance Group option to the Dodge Magnum lineup for 2007. Driving enthusiasts who desire the very best in sports-car-like ride and handling – wrapped in a boldly styled, versatile vehicle – get that with this package.”

The 2007 Dodge Magnum lineup features three engines, two transmissions, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive systems, and a variety of suspension tuning characteristics to provide a range of model choices.
The Dodge Magnum offers unmatched performance in its segment when equipped with the legendary 340-hp HEMI V-8 engine, which features a Multi-displacement System (MDS) that seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders when V-8 power is not needed, improving fuel economy as much as 20 percent.

Proven technologies, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP); all-speed traction control system (TCS); and four-wheel, anti-lock brake system (ABS), help control the rear-wheel-drive 2007 Dodge Magnum models and provide exceptional ride and handling.

The all-wheel-drive Dodge Magnum models offer excellent cornering balance under all driving conditions and improved traction in snow and wet-weather conditions.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

The New Shape of American Muscle

• With its unique profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI power and rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive performance, Dodge Magnum offers a package unlike any other in the marketplace
• The noble, powerful design of the Magnum appears as if chiseled from a metal ingot
• Dodge Magnum design is consistent with the bold, in-your-face philosophy of the Dodge brand

Unmatched HEMI Performance

• The Dodge Magnum offers best-in-class horsepower – 340 hp with 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine
• Chrysler Group’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) provides world-class combination of performance and fuel economy
• The Dodge Magnum offers the most powerful line of engines in its class: the fuel-efficient 2.7-liter V-6, the 3.5-liter High Output V-6, and the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with MDS

Proven DaimlerChrysler Technology

• Technology including Electronic Stability Control (ESP), all-speed Traction Control System (TCS) and four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) have reached new levels of advancement to control rear-wheel-drive cars in a way that is transparent to the driver
• Vehicle communications features (UConnect® Hands-free Communication System using Bluetooth® technology, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, full-map DVD-based navigation system using Global Positioning System (GPS), and rear-seat DVD Video Entertainment System (VES™) emphasize a safe driving environment while enabling consumers to choose the services they want

Outstanding Driving Experience

• Available Road/Track Performance Group on the Magnum R/T offers additional performance features for the driving enthusiast
• Rear-wheel-drive platform allows direct transfer of HEMI power to the pavement
• Available all-wheel drive provides best-in-passenger-car, four-season traction
• An electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick offers better performance and fuel economy
• Short- and long-arm (SLA) front suspension system and a five-link independent rear suspension system provide excellent handling and a comfortable ride

Smart Space and Capabilities

• Dodge Magnum’s rear liftgate swings up instead of out, and provides extreme access to rear cargo area, including 60-40 split-folding rear seats and optional cargo organizer
• Dodge Magnum offers best-in-class towing capacity – 3,800 pounds (when properly equipped) – to handle most needs

MODEL LINEUP

2007 Dodge Magnum SE (Rear-wheel drive)

Standard Features

• Rear-wheel-drive configuration
• 2.7-liter V-6 engine – 190 hp (142 kW) and 190 lb.-ft. (258 N•m) of torque
• Four-speed automatic transmission
• 17-inch steel wheels with bolt-on wheel cover and 215/65R17 all-season tires
• 18-gallon fuel tank
• 60-40 split-folding rear Seat with armrest and cup holder
• Air conditioning with manual temperature controls
• AM/FM/CD stereo with an auxiliary audio input jack and four speakers
• Body-color grille and door handles
• Cloth front bucket seats
• Driver and passenger adjustable lumbar support
• Driver and passenger power mirrors
• Driver-side, one-touch-down power windows
• Low-risk deployment air bags
• Oil change alert
• Outside-temperature display
• Power four-wheel disc brakes
• Power locks
• Rack-and-pinion steering
• Rear-window defroster
• Remote keyless, illuminated entry
• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer system
• Smokers Group
• Speed control with instrument panel indicator light
• Sunscreen privacy glass on liftgate and rear quarter windows
• Tilt and telescoping steering column

Optional Features

• Cargo organizer with cover
• Convenience Group I including power eight-way driver Seat and adjustable pedals
• ESP with Brake Assist, all-speed TCS and four-wheel ABS
• Protection Group including supplemental side-curtain air bags, air filtration system and self-sealing tires
• Roof rack
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio with first-year subscription provided by SIRIUS
• UConnect Hands-free Communication System using Bluetooth technology
• SXT Package including 17-inch machined-face, cast-aluminum wheels; 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine providing 250 hp (186 kW) and 250 lb.-ft. (340 N•m) of torque; all-speed TCS; body-color heated, foldaway mirrors and bodyside molding with bright inserts; chromed grille surround with bright grille crosshairs and headlamp bezels; dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors; ESP with Brake Assist; five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick; fog lamps; four-wheel ABS; power eight-way driver seat; and Satin Silver center-stack bezels.

The rear-wheel-drive Dodge Magnum with the SXT package offers the following additional options:

• 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
• 18-inch ultra-bright aluminum wheels
• 276-watt six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system
• AM/FM/Six-CD, full-map DVD-based navigation system with GPS
• AM/FM/Six-CD/MP3/cassette stereo
• Comfort Seating Group including leather-trimmed, heated front seats, eight-way power passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and power adjustable pedals
• Convenience Group III including automatic temperature control, automatic headlamps and express up/down front windows
• Leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift knob
• Rear-seat Video Entertainment System
• Sun roof

2007 Dodge Magnum SXT (All-wheel drive)

Standard Features

In addition to all standard and optional equipment on the Dodge Charger SE and rear-wheel-drive SXT package, the Charger SXT (all-wheel drive) adds the following:

• Front differential and transfer case
• Performance disc brakes
• 19-gallon fuel tank
• Unique 18-inch polished aluminum wheels

2007 Dodge Magnum R/T (Rear-wheel drive)

Standard Features

In addition to all standard features on the Dodge Magnum SE and SXT package, the Dodge Magnum R/T (rear-wheel drive) adds:

• 18-inch ultra-bright aluminum wheels
• 276-watt, six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system
• 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine – 340 hp (254 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. (525 N•m) of torque
• Multi-displacement System – improving fuel economy as much as 20 percent
• Dual exhaust with bright tips
• Leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift knob
• Performance four-wheel ABS
• Power adjustable pedals
• SIRIUS Satellite Radio with first year subscription provided by SIRIUS
• Tire pressure monitor
• Touring suspension with 225/60R18 all-season touring tires, tuned dampers and performance exhaust

Optional Features

In addition to all optional features on the rear-wheel-drive Dodge Magnum SE and SXT package, the Dodge Magnum R/T (rear-wheel drive) adds the following:

• 18-inch chrome-clad wheels
• Convenience Group II including automatic temperature control, heated front seats, eight-way power passenger seats and automatic headlamps
• Electronic Convenience Group including instrument cluster with display screen, compass, vehicle information center, traveler/mini trip-computer, security alarm, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and HomeLink universal transceiver garage door opener
• Road/Track Performance Group including 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and 245/45ZR20 all-season performance tires, performance suspension, steering gear and exhaust/induction system (adding 10 horsepower), and leather-wrapped steering wheel and heritage R/T badging on decklid
• Trailer Tow Package including severe-duty engine cooling and load leveling/height control shocks

2007 Dodge Magnum R/T (All-wheel drive)

Standard Features

In addition to all standard and optional equipment on the Dodge Magnum R/T (rear-wheel drive), the Magnum R/T (all-wheel drive) adds:

• Front differential and transfer case
• Unique 19-inch polished aluminum wheels

SAFETY AND SECURITY

The Dodge Magnum received a five-star rating for driver and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest rating from NHTSA.

Please refer to the Safety Glossary for descriptions of the following available features:

• Advanced multi-stage air bag system
• All-speed traction control system
• Anti-lock brake system
• Auto-reverse sun roof
• Auto-reverse windows
• Auto-dimming interior rearview miror
• BeltAlert
• Brake/park interlock
• Child-protection rear door locks
• Constant Force Retractors
• Electronic Stability Program with Brake Assist
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Enhanced Accident Response System
• Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH)
• Low-risk deployment air bags
• Power adjustable pedals
• Remote keyless/illuminated entry
• Self-sealing tires
• Supplemental side-curtain air bags
• Seat belt pretensioners
• Sentry Key Engine Immobilizer
• Tire Pressure Monitor
• UConnect Hands-free Communication System using Bluetooth technology

COLOR AVAILABILITY

• Marine Blue Pearl Coat (New)
• Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat (New)
• TorRed (New)
• Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat
• Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat
• Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat
• Silver Steel Metallic Clear Coat
• Stone White Clear Coat

This Day in Auto History: 15 SEPTEMBER

9.15.1908 - The Republic Rubber Company of Youngstown, OH is issued a United States patent for its tire tread pattern marketed as “Staggard”

9.15.1918 - Automobile historian Alfred DuPont Chandler Jr. is born in Guyencourt, DE

9.15.1930 - The new administration building of the Auburn Automobile Company opens in Auburn, IN - the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Museum now occupies the restored building

9.15.1939 - The 1940 Nashes are introduced

9.15.1951 - The Aston Martin DB3/1 makes its racing with debut at the RAC Tourist Trophy race at Dunrod, Ireland, but the car driven by Lance Macklin had to retire due to bearing failure

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick

Smartuki Finished Again and For Sale

September 11th, 2006

THE KNEESLIDER - - Just got a note from Andreas Viktorsson, owner and builder of the new and vastly improved GSXR powered Smartuki, that it’s finished and on the road. He took a little 130 mile trip over the weekend and it performed great. He is going to put it on display at the entrance of Semcon for a few weeks where he’s the Powertrain Manager and then off on a trip to the Nurburgring. He also mentioned that it’s time to put the For Sale sign in the window.

Since the Smartuki first appeared here on The Kneeslider 15 months ago, there have been other motorcycle powered Smart cars popping up. From the looks of things, many of these are, to put it politely, not as well thought out as the one you see here. Stuffing a motorcycle engine into a car not designed for it takes more than a cutting torch and a welder if the finished car is going to be driveable, reliable and relatively safe, it takes a lot of knowledge and skill to pull it off.

Smartuki, in its first iteration, was the product of Z Cars, a company that has been engineering this sort of engine transplant for years with Hayabusa powered Minis and other such interesting cross breed combinations. When Peter, the original owner, sold the car, it was purchased by Andreas who was project manager for new Volvo engines and who is now Powertrain Manager for Semcon. Andreas put his engineering skills to work and totally remade the Smartuki into the beautiful beast you see here fixing and upgrading every area where he found shortcomings in the original.

Andreas says he also has an MC-Xpress turbo kit available. He won’t install it because, as he says, “the car has already scared me a couple of times” but if someone wants to take Smartuki to the next level, the parts are ready.

If you are interested in owning this very high quality project, contact Andreas or drop us a note here and we’ll make sure he gets it. Since he will be at the Nurburgring, if you are located in Germany or anywhere in the center of Europe, delivery could be arranged from there.

Chrysler Group Launches Production of All-new 2007 Chrysler Sebring Sedan at Sterling Heights Assembly Plant

* Chrysler's Sebring Sedan part of major expansion in Chrysler Group's Sterling Heights facility* $500 million investment expands Chrysler Group's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy allowing multiple products to be produced at one plant* Chrysler Group's ninth all-new vehicle this year, will ignite the segment with stunning design, high levels of safety and reliability, exhilarating performance and excellent fuel economy

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Chrysler Group today officially launched production of the all-new 2007 Chrysler Sebring Sedan at its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) that formerly produced the Sebring, Sebring Convertible and Dodge Stratus Sedan. The Chrysler Sebring Sedan represents Chrysler Group's expanding Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS) allowing the Company to bring its new vehicles to market more quickly and the assembly plants the ability to manufacture multiple products on one assembly linThe Sterling Heights Assembly Plant was extensively retooled to manage the complexity of building multiple models on one production line. The Chrysler Sebring program investment of $500 million included multiple plant upgrades, improving quality, productivity and worker ergonomics. SHAP is now able to vary production mix between three products anywhere from 0 to 100 percent of each model and pilot a fourth.

"Since its rollout in 2000, Chrysler Group's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy has been the benchmark within our company," said Fred Goedtel, Vice President - Small/Premium/Family Vehicle Assembly. "Sterling Heights Assembly Plant and Sterling Stamping along with our Belvidere Assembly Plant, are the pioneers of this strategy ultimately allowing the company to bring the right products to the market at the right time."

$278 million was invested at Sterling Heights Assembly Plant to overhaul the body shop and improve the paint shop and assembly areas, including new tooling and about 620 new welding and material handling robots. Further, the plant has the capability to build multiple upper bodies and multiple car platforms, which will allow for the flexibility to add new models or "cross- load" models from other plants in order to better meet the dynamics of the market. The plant has the ability to also produce the Dodge Caliber should market demand lead to that in the future. These new capabilities will support the company's pursuit of product leadership by providing the flexibility to efficiently manage increased distinction between the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge brands.

Another $228 million investment improved stamping operations at Sterling Stamping Plant. Sterling Stamping replaced 50 material handling and weld robots and introduced new state-of-the-art processes and capabilities, such as new lean die standards and Common System Architecture (CSA) lines. New lean die standards will reap a 45 percent cost savings over current standards and processes. The new CSA lines allow for greater flexibility by allowing more than one product to be welded and assembled on the same line, while also reducing waste and improving quality. CSA lines can support the manufacture of multiple products and one pilot product at the same time -- a significant improvement from the one line, one product standards of the past.

Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS)

Chrysler Group's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy allows the company to produce a higher quality product, faster, for lower cost. FMS is also a key enabler in the company's plan to launch 10 all-new vehicles in 2006, the most in Chrysler Group's history. In order to balance production with demand, the FMS approach allows the company to efficiently build lower-volume vehicles that take advantage of market niche, and to quickly shift production volumes between different models within a single plant or among multiple plants.

FMS is being implemented product by product and plant by plant across the Chrysler Group. New investment is introducing state-of-the-art technology to Chrysler Group plants allowing the company to produce more than one vehicle on a production line and conduct rolling launches of new models. Additionally, Chrysler Group's workforce is becoming more flexible with the implementation of team concepts and an increased emphasis on supporting assembly line operators.

Robotics

At the core of the new manufacturing process is a body shop comprised of 620 new robots instead of the vehicle-specific heavy tooling that was previously used, for a total of 784 robots in the Body Shop. The Trim, Chass and Final (TFC) areas received a new glass cell, windshield decking, chassis insertion loop system, the fluid fill equipment and rolls-test machines. Each of these improved processes have contributed favorably to the plant's overall productivity and efficiency efforts. Only the robots' end effectors, or "hands," need to change in order to build the different models. That tool change is done automatically, within the time it takes to cycle from one vehicle to the next. A fourth model can also be piloted -- or test-built -- at the same time, helping reduce the time needed to make new-model changeovers.

Smart Manufacturing

A new Workplace Organizational Model, coined Smart Manufacturing, is increasing the flexibility of the SHAP workforce, while fostering greater creativity and innovation from plant employees. This model is being implemented throughout the Chrysler Group's Manufacturing organization in conjunction with the UAW. In addition to extensive training, the new workplace model promotes employee involvement in all facets in the design and processing of the work stations. These changes provide a better work environment for employees and give increased support to assembly line team members while improving the Safety, Quality, Delivery and Costs performance of our operations.

"SHAP is proud to be the home of the all-new 2007 Chrysler Sebring Sedan," said Bob Bowers, Plant Manager - Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, Chrysler Group. "The United Auto Workers and employees are pleased to be contributing toward the Company's goal of world-class operational excellence in 2007 and look forward to attaining a benchmark level status."

Chrysler Sebring

Chrysler is creating inspiration in the common car with the 2007 Chrysler Sebring Sedan. An all-new mid-size sedan, Chrysler Sebring builds on the winning formula begun with the award-winning Chrysler 300 in the large car segment, and more recently, the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber in the compact car segment. This formula combines stunning design with interior craftsmanship, high-levels of safety and reliability, exhilarating performance and excellent fuel efficiency, all at a surprisingly affordable price. Sebring also features many class-leading technologies not available in the mid-size sedan segment.

The 2007 Chrysler Sebring appeals to buyers who appreciate style, practicality, safety and value. Sebring's elegant and sophisticated design, packaged with interior craftsmanship, exciting new technologies and class- leading safety features, meet the needs of their busy lives.

The 2007 Chrysler Sebring will be available in U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2006 and in global volume markets in the first half of 2007.

Chrysler Group is the city of Sterling Heights's second-largest employer and has more than 4,500 employees working in two plants. The three million square-foot Sterling Heights Assembly Plant occupies 286 acres. In total, the Chrysler Group provides $150 million in annual wages and more than $5 million in taxable income to the state.

Sterling Heights Assembly Plant opened in 1953 as a jet engine factory. The plant was purchased by Chrysler Group in 1983. SHAP is home to United Auto Workers Locals 1700, 889 and 412.

Sterling Stamping is 2.7 million square feet and employs 2,500. The plant is home to UAW Locals 1264, 889 and 412. The plant investment is just the latest in a long, cooperative partnership with the City of Sterling Heights. Through the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund, the Company also has contributed to the sponsorship of the city library's childhood reading program and established a $50,000 grant for scholarships to eligible high school graduate residents pursuing technical training programs. Chrysler Group also is a major sponsor of the annual Sterlingfest Homecoming celebration.

---

Source: Chrysler Group

SPY PHOTOS: New Mercedes C-Class Latest Photos by

WORLDCARFANS | Hans G. Lehmann - - Daimler-Chrysler is going to release the next generation Mercedes C-Class sedan at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. The matching station wagon will follow about half a year later in fall 2007. Altogether it will be a completely new model range offering standard RWD and AWD as an option. Code-named W204, the C-Class will be available in four different styles, as sedan, station wagon, sports coupe and convertible. Power will come again from a variety of four- and newly developed six- cylinder engines. A sporty AMG version is in the pipeline, too. These latest photos are showing a prototype of the sedan with a very clear view of the final front end- and body styling. The few strips of tape on the prototype are hardly hiding anything.

More photos: http://www.worldcarfans.com/spyphotos.cfm/spyphotoID/

Chrysler settles truck issue - It's to be repaired but not replaced

BY KATIE MERX

FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITER

Bill Bailey of Blountsville, Ala., sits on his 2005 Dodge Ram 3500. He drove from Alabama to Auburn Hills to complain about repairs. (ERIC SEALS/Detroit Free Press)

Bill Bailey has owned 10 Dodge vehicles in his 43 years, but his latest might be his last.

His 2005 Dodge Ram 3500 is a lemon, he said, and, while Chrysler Group provided $6,000 in repairs, it won't replace it.

The Blountsville, Ala., resident drove to Chrysler headquarters late last month in an attempt to get it to replace his truck or refund his money.

When he couldn't get a response at first, he circled the Auburn Hills campus with a sign in his window that said "Dodge Lemon Made."

Because of its size, Bailey's vehicle isn't covered by Alabama's lemon laws.

Then he heard from someone in the corporate offices: One of its best dealers would examine his pickup to determine and fix the problem.

On Tuesday, Chrysler said it would cover the repairs and give Bailey some pocket money to get home. The company also paid for his hotel.

Bailey said he'd take it, but he's still not happy.

"They made me a deal last week that they would buy my truck back and replace it," Bailey said. "Friday I went down to sign my papers, and they told me the financing didn't go through and the deal was off."

Bailey said he had postponed truck payments to make repairs.

Chrysler Group spokesman Kevin McCormick said he didn't know about an offer to replace Bailey's truck.

"Our top priority is to fix the root problem and keep him as a satisfied customer."

2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Review

2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

Jeep 2007 Grand Cherokee SRT8 Announcement

By Thom Cannell
Detroit Bureau
The Auto Channel

Executive Summary: One Week With 2007 Grand Cherokee SRT8

No attempt at completeness, simply comments on one week’s driving experience—balanced by decades of experience and hundreds of comparisons.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is not a year old and already gaining some nifty enhancements to its premium street cred.

Launched last December as a stern competitor to super premium SUVs like Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5, Range Rover Sport, it offers more performance for less than half the price. What could be better?

Built by Chrysler Group’s Street and Race Technology group, this was the first Jeep tuned by SRT and the first SRT with full time all wheel drive. The SRT8 uses a one-of-a-kind transfer case combining a lightweight Jeep front half and a heavy-duty rear half that encloses its electronic AWD control system.

The Grand Cherokee SRT8 needs that AWD system, as under the hood is a 6.1-liter 420 horsepower Hemi V-8 that spins tires with 420 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 in under 5 seconds, wet or dry.

You might wrongly suspect that a $39,300 (plus $695 destination) full-sized SUV might be short on luxury or amenities. While goodies like the DVD navigation system, new for 2007 rearview camera or remote start are options, the basic package delivers what a driver really wants. You get some of the best and most heavily bolstered performance seats this side of NASCAR, unique instrument panel with aluminum accents, and access to most engine functions (oil temperature and pressure, distance to empty, dual trip meters, that kind of stuff) on an LED display that normally displays compass heading and exterior temperature.

Outside there’s no missing changes to the chiseled Jeep Grand Cherokee body; twin center-mounted chrome rear exhausts, black mesh inserts in the grille, and a massive front air dam. Behind the spokes of 20” forged aluminum five spoke wheels are massive (360x32 mm front/350x28 rear) vented Brembo anti-lock brakes with glossy black caliper bodies. Given a choice I’d prefer more colorful red or yellow. Wrapped around those 9” wide wheels are W-rated runflat tires—255/45/20”-front, 285/40/20”-rear.

The SRT8 Grad Cherokee has other enhancements designed for a power and precision; upgraded 5-speed automatic transmission, Danna 44 rear differential, unique exhaust manifolds, modified steering, ducted brakes, and better cooling designed to make this a formidable machine. It also has several life-saving features like air bags and ESP or Electronic Stability system. Driving on frequently rain-slick two-lane roads covered in a summer’s oil, dirt, and trash with an admittedly heavy accelerator foot, I got used to ESP saving me from waving at my behind as it spun by. All that power and torque made it easy to accelerate at eyeball flattening rates and corner as aggressively as a vehicle weighing a ton (literally) less.

Naturally power, weight, and aggressive acceleration made for a thirsty 14 in-town miles-per-gallon, though that’s far better than the 12 MPG predicted.

Here’s the Executive Summary:
• Multiple rear tie-down points for various kinds of gear, plus hooks for grocery bags, webbed storage bin and a 12V power point.
• Carpeted 3”-deep rear flip-over wet storage bin big enough for four pairs of muddy boots or wet suits. Two additional hidden bins for items like a small handbag, digital cameras, or other medium sized gear.
• Second row seats fold flat easily with a single latch pull; seat headrests fold under automatically (no detaching and fumbling for storage.)
• Solid chiseled rugged exterior design with Jeep’s familiar 7-slot grille and massive round headlamps which I wish offered a brighter Xenon option. • Large and easily read instruments with brightly outlined speedometer and tachometer, additional gasoline and water temperature gauges, plus the multi-function display. But nowhere is there a voltage gauge.
• Center console contains two cup-holders and multiple bins for your phone, garage door opener, pencils, mini-tape recorder, candy bar—a bunch of them.
• Auto Stick driver-selectable shifter defaults to first gear on deceleration and will remain in a gear until shifted, even at the rev limit. It’s a good substitute for manual gears; I’d like a heavily overdriven 6th gear for better fuel mileage.
• Grand Cherokee SRT8 is easy to enter, it’s an inch lower than standard to lower aerodynamic drag and center of gravity.
• Steering is racecar tight and accurate and the springs and dampers are finely tuned to produce road-hugging performance without harshness. It is a firm and sophisticated ride created with SRT-tuned dampers, tailored spring rates and suspension bushings, and unique anti-roll bars.

• The performance of a 2007 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is awe inspiring with astonishing torque and horsepower on demand. Despite its weight of 4,819 pounds, instant power will nail you to the seat. Coupled with super car road manners, it is a multi-passenger vehicle to be reckoned with, one that can tow 3,500 pounds, carry five passengers and all of their luggage in comfort and modest luxury. Yes it will cost you more in gasoline than a regular Grand Cherokee, but that vehicle won’t leave a Porsche Cayenne Turbo in the dust.

This Day in Auto History: 14 SEPTEMBER

9.14.1903 - The Packard Motor Company begins removing the machinery at its Warren, OH facility for transfer to the new factory in Detroit, MI

9.14.1923 - General Motors holds the first meeting of its General Technical Committee, formed to prevent problems within the corporation similar to those encountered during the development of the copper-cooled engine

9.14.1939 - The Graham-Paige Motors Corporation contracts with Hupmobile to build its Cord-based Skylark, also acquiring the right to manufacture its own Cord-based car, the Hollywood

9.14.1953 - Bayard D. Kunkle of General Motors dies at age 70

9.14.1960 - The Organization of the Petroleum exporting Countries (OPEC) is founded in Baghdad, Iraq

(Ml 3.6) CISN (CALTECH/USGS) EARTHQUAKE

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

California Integrated Seismic Network
http://www.cisn.org
USGS/Caltech/CGS/UCB/UCSD/UNR
PRINCIPAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
_______________________________

Magnitude : 3.6 Ml (A micro quake)
Event Date & Time : 9/13/2006 06:25:14 PM PDT
9/14/2006 01:25:14 UTC
Coordinates : 32.6895 N, 116.0693 W
: (32 deg. 41.37 min. N, 116 deg. 4.16 min. W)
Depth : 2.9 miles ( 4.7 km)
Location Quality : Excellent
6 mi. ( 10 km) WSW of Ocotillo, CA
31 mi. ( 50 km) WSW of El Centro, CA
9 mi. ( 14 km) NNW of INKOPAH (quarry)
7 mi. ( 11 km) SSW of the Elsinore Fault

More Information about this event and other earthquakes is available at http://quake.wr.usgs.gov/recenteqs/latestfault.htm

ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
________________________________
rms misfit : 0.45 seconds
horizontal location error : 0.6 km
vertical location error : 1.4 km
maximum azimuthal gap : 114 degrees
distance to nearest station : 4.0 km
event ID : 10207737

(Ml 4.0) CISN (CALTECH/USGS) EARTHQUAKE

== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==

PRINCIPAL EARTHQUAKE PARAMETERS
_______________________________

Magnitude : 4.0 Ml (A light quake)
Event Date & Time : 9/13/2006 05:11:06 PM PDT
9/14/2006 00:11:06 UTC
Coordinates : 32.7085 N, 116.0607 W
: (32 deg. 42.51 min. N, 116 deg. 3.64 min. W)
Depth : 3.3 miles ( 5.3 km)
Location Quality : Excellent
5 mi. ( 8 km) WSW of Ocotillo, CA
30 mi. ( 49 km) W of El Centro, CA
10 mi. ( 16 km) NNW of INKOPAH (quarry)
5 mi. ( 9 km) SSW of the Elsinore Fault

More Information about this event and other earthquakes is available at http://quake.wr.usgs.gov/recenteqs/latestfault.htm

California Switches to New Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel

SACRAMENTO, CA – The state of California has made the switch to new Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel in preparation for new, cleaner-operating, heavy-duty trucks equipped with advanced emission control systems that debut next January. Effective Sept. 1, 2006, the fuel change will reduce the pollution emitted by California’s 1.2 million diesel engines. The federal government mandated switch to ULSD for all refineries will take place on Oct. 15, 2006.

Those new vehicles will meet the tightest emission standards ever set for heavy-duty trucks and buses and require very low sulfur fuel to operate properly. The new engines will use emission control equipment such as particulate traps to control toxic particulate soot and catalysts that limit ozone-forming nitrogen oxide emissions, the most common pollutants emitted by diesels.

The new fuel also will allow the California Air Resources Board to continue its diesel risk reduction plan (RRP), a set of regulations designed to cut the public health risks of diesel particulate by 85 percent in 2020. The risk reduction plan calls for slashes in diesel particulate from a number of pollution sources such as trucks and buses, farm and construction equipment, and pumps and boilers.

Chrysler moves past Dodge Caliber production glitch

Frank Ewasyshyn | Reuters | DETROIT -- The Chrysler group has ramped up to full production at the plant that makes the Dodge Caliber, overcoming a glitch that had limited sales of its hottest-selling new car, the company's manufacturing chief said today.

Chrysler's Belvidere, Ill., assembly plant, which makes the Caliber and the Jeep Compass, had been hit by a software problem that caused the facility's robots to crash into each other, slowing production of the Caliber in its first months on the market.

At the Reuters Autos Summit, Chrysler group Executive Vice President Frank Ewasyshyn said the plant had reached its full potential output on the previous shift today for the first time.

"We hit full rate, full volume on the third shift wide open," Ewasyshyn said. "(It's) the first time we've hit the whole thing wide open, so we're happy with that."

Chrysler has sold almost 60,000 Calibers since the launch of the hatchback in February, making it one of the best-selling American-made small cars this year.

The car, which starts at just under $14,000, has been marketed as a more stylish and feature-laden alternative to the fuel-efficient "econo-box" small cars that U.S. consumers turned away from in the 1980s.

Dealers have reported difficulty getting enough inventory of Caliber.

Ewasyshyn said the problem at Belvidere had been in programming the software to run the industrial robots supplied by Swiss engineering firm ABB.

Chrysler invested $419 million last year to retool the Belvidere plant, which had produced the now-scrapped Dodge Neon, to make it into a flexible manufacturing facility.

Flexible assembly plants, which can build more than one model at a time, automate key jobs with robots in a bid to better match output to market demand and reduce vehicle inventories.

"What really happened was that we took on a very aggressive launch curve," Ewasyshyn said. "We took on a brand-new technology, and we did run into an issue with the way some software was applied."

The plant's robots, he said, had not been programmed to account for their relative positions on the line.

"The end result was some fairly interesting collisions," he said. "They got to know each other in a way that we didn't want them to know each other, let me put it that way."

Ewasyshyn said Chrysler would monitor future programming decisions far more carefully to avoid a repeat of the problem.

"I don't think it's so much a new kind of execution risk, but it's definitely going to require a new kind of programmer," he said. "It's going to require a whole new level of discipline in the way things are executed."

The Belvidere plant is capable of producing more than 1,500 vehicles per day when running on three, eight-hour shifts as it is currently, he said.

The same assembly plant will also produce the upcoming Jeep Patriot. The Caliber accounts for about 60 percent of current output, but that ratio could shift with demand, Chrysler said.

Jeep World of Adventure on Tap

Press Release

PORTLAND, Maine—- NBC Jeepâ World of Adventure Sports (JWOAS), an action and adventure sports series, will air its next episode on Sunday, September 17 at 5:00 pm Eastern Time. Host Pat Parnell of NBC Sports will visit Camp Jeep, an off-road festival including the Jeep King of the Mountain biking competition, to present the next show. The new episode will feature an array of outstanding action and adventure sports events. For more information, please visit www.WorldofAdventureSports.com .

The next episode features:

· 2006 Kiehl’s Badwater Ultramarathon, a true “challenge of the champions”. This legendary foot race pits up to 90 of the world’s toughest athletes – runners, triathletes, adventure racers, and mountaineers – against one another and the elements. Racers cover 135 miles non-stop from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, CA in temperatures up to 130F.

· Red Bull Crashed Ice – a thrilling and wild combination of hockey, downhill skating and boardercross in the historic city of Québec. One hundred adrenaline junkies race down an intricate 1,100-foot urban ice course featuring whoops, stairs, bermed turns and narrow chutes.

Teton Gravity Research’s journey in British Columbia with athletes Seth Morrison, Eric Themel, Jonas Emery, and Jeremy Nobis. The crew travels by helicopter in search of fresh, untracked terrain in the mountains.

Team PUMA Velo-City Series 2006, a sequence of cycling events and races testing the speed, accuracy and skill of Team PUMA, an elite group of New York City Bike Messengers, who race with and against other talented messengers and cyclists around the country.

JWOAS 2006 broadcast schedule on NBC:
September 17, 5:00 to 6:00 pm (ET)
November 11, 2:30 to 3:30 pm (ET)
December 2, 3:00 to 4:00 pm (ET)
December 9, 2:30 to 4:00 pm (ET)

JWOAS 2006 broadcast schedule on Universal HD:
October 6, 10:00 pm (ET)
December 8, 10:00 pm (ET)
December 15, 10:00 pm (ET)
December 22, 10:00 pm (ET)

All times are Eastern and show times are subject to change. Please check local listings.

Driving Principles - CEO Tom La Sorda

FORBES MAGAZINE - - Tom LaSorda, 52, isn't the black sheep of his family, but he certainly stands out. Despite being brought up in a family of blue-collar, unionized Chrysler workers and having a grandfather who was jailed for inciting a strike against the company, LaSorda grew up to become the automaker's CEO.

In total, four generations of LaSordas have worked for Chrysler, now a unit of DaimlerChrysler (nyse: DCX - news - people ). The closest anyone got to management was LaSorda's dad, Frank, who was president of his union, Local 444 of the Canadian Auto Workers.

Surprisingly, crossing over into management wasn't too difficult for LaSorda. While attending the University of Windsor in Windsor, Canada, where he grew up, LaSorda supported himself by bagging groceries at the A&P and working summers on the assembly line at Kelsey Hayes, a company that made wheels. He realized pretty quickly that manual labor wasn't for him. "I always wanted to run something," says LaSorda. "I wanted to make money."

When he graduated from college in 1977, he not only took a job in management, he went to work for General Motors (nyse: GM - news - people ), Chrysler's rival. During his 23 years at GM, LaSorda earned a reputation for turning divisions around. That's exactly what he did with GM's Opel Eisenach plant in East Germany. When LaSorda arrived in 1991, the factory's 12,000 workers were producing 70,000 vehicles. After his two-year stint, 1,800 workers were making 165,000 cars.

Despite his success at GM, LaSorda returned to Chrysler, "the family firm," in 2000 and became CEO in 2005. For now, Chrysler isn't suffering as much as GM or Ford (nyse: F - news - people ).

But a major test of LaSorda's turnaround skills isn't too far down the road. In late July, Chrysler reported that profits at its parent company, DaimlerChrysler, had more than doubled, while earnings from the Chrysler Group unit plummeted to $65 million, from $695 million in the same period a year ago. In the third quarter, the company expects to lose $600 million. LaSorda's task is tougher than any he faced at GM or the A&P: cut costs, win health care concessions from union members and get consumers to buy Chrysler vehicles without hefty incentives. -- Hannah Clark

In Pictures: My Big Break

Tom LaSorda: I grew up in a family of nine children, in a home that was about 900 square feet. My dad was an auto worker--so were both my grandfathers, and so was my mother's grandfather, so four generations of LaSordas worked in the auto industry. My identical twin brother and I were the first in our family who went through university. My parents didn't have a lot of money, but education was important to them. Once, my father told me that he would re-mortgage the house to put me through college. I'll never forget that as long as I live. But we paid our own way, bagging groceries at the A&P during the school year. In the summers, we did factory work.

In 1974, the summer after my freshman year of college, we both took jobs at Kelsey Hayes, an independent company making wheels for the big auto firms. We would weld the rims to the middle part, which they used to call the spider. It was very, very hot. My girlfriend at the time, who is now my wife, loved it, because I was moving these heavy wheels around and I really bulked up. But while we were slugging it out in there, in the heat and the sweat and the noise, I said to myself, "The money's great, but I'm staying in school, because I'm not doing this for a living." Now, all that bulk has moved around my body.

My father's ethical lessons have stayed with me to this day. My twin brother Tony failed seventh grade because he was busy messing around with girls. I walked home crying, telling him I would fail eighth grade so he could catch up. My dad, who was a strict Italian, gave me more trouble for talking about purposefully failing than he gave Tony for actually flunking.

In 1975, when I started my first business venture, my father derailed it for the sake of ethics. At that time, the Detroit Tigers had a great pitcher, Mark "The Bird" Fidrych. We lived in Windsor, Canada, and a buddy and I decided we were going to go across the river to Detroit, buy a bunch of T-shirts with Fidrych's picture on them, sell them in Canada and get wealthy.

I brought home a huge box of T-shirts and took it down to the basement. My dad said, "What's in there?" I said, "Mark 'The Bird' Fidrych T-shirts. We're going to sell them and make a lot of money." Dad said, "Do you have permission from the Tigers to sell those? What legal right do you have to sell those?" I said, "What do you mean, what legal right?" He said, "If you're going to be in business, you have to have integrity. Everything has to be 100% legal. You're not keeping those shirts in my house." I had to take them back. I got less than what I had paid for them. It was an expensive lesson.

I try to use the lessons I learned from my parents in my job today. They always stressed respect and dignity to others. Integrity was always very important to them. Chrysler's decision to adopt a "make more, pay more," approach to health care is one result of this sense of responsibility. Among our non-unionized employees, those who make more pay a higher percentage of their health care premiums. I pay 100% of mine. When you're dealing with something as critical to families as health care, it's important that sacrifices be shared.

Maximizing MPG with MDS

Tips from the Chrysler Group on Getting the Most Fuel Savings with Its Multi-Displacement System

Truck Trend - -

Chrysler Group has offered the following simple tips to help owners of engines with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) get the most fuel mileage possible from their 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine. The customer does not need to drive in a certain way to realize a fuel economy improvement with MDS, but these driving habits can maximize their fuel savings with this technology.

• Keep speeds to 65 mph or below -- MDS uses four cylinder mode most at these speeds
• Use cruise control o this helps maintain a steady speed, generally allowing the HEMI to run on four cylinders for longer periods
• Accelerate more gradually -- the HEMI will provide V-8 power whenever it is requested by the driver
• Use a steady throttle whenever possible -- this maximizes four cylinder mode

The Chrysler Group MDS is standard equipment with the 5.7L HEMI on seven vehicles: the Chrysler 300C, Dodge Charger R/T, Durango, Magnum R/T, Ram 1500, and Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander.

With the addition of MDS to HEMI-equipped Dodge Durango and Ram, MDS-equipped vehicles through the end of the 2007 model year will save more than 60 million gallons of fuel each year.

The Chrysler Group MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the 5.7L HEMI engine is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

Chrysler Group was the first to offer modern, large-volume vehicles in North America with cylinder deactivation o the HEMI-powered 2005 Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum R/T went on sale in the of spring 2004 with the Chrysler Group Multi-Displacement System, or MDS. Chrysler Group was also the first to offer cylinder deactivation in an SUV with the introduction of MDS in the 2005 HEMI-powered JeepAE Grand Cherokee. Chrysler Group is the first to offer MDS in a pickup truck o the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500.

According to Chrysler, MDS is a fuel-saving technology that is here today -- claiming customers can get the power and capability of the HEMI V-8 that they desire with the fuel economy of a less powerful engine.

Caliber [SRT4] Chat Session: 6:00PM Eastern Time

The Dodge SRT Engineering team will be holding their monthly chat session tonight (9/13/06) @ CaliberForums.com and will try to answer questions about the upcoming Dodge Caliber SRT4.

Please be sure to attend and get your questions answered.

The session will start @ 6pm Eastern.

http://www.caliberforums.com

Preview Review: 2007 Dodge Caliber SRT4

CAR & DRIVER | TONY SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON KILEY - - Sequels are tricky. You could ask anyone in the movie business. Hey, the original was a hit — let’s repackage and play it again. The business plan looks like a no-brainer, but all too often it turns out to be just that, and the redux version tanks.

The original SRT4 was one of the first creations of the Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology go-faster shop, a high-performance edition of the mild-mannered Dodge Neon. We referred to it as the Frankeneon in our December 2002 test, and that still sums it up. During its three-year run, the output of its 2.4-liter turbocharged and intercooled four climbed from 215 in the first edition to 230 horsepower, with even more available via the various aftermarket upgrade kits available through Mopar. It was capable of 0-to-60-mph times in the mid-five-second range and could cover a quarter-mile in just over 14 seconds, and in three years of production, Dodge sold more than 25,000 of them.

“The original program plan projected 10,000,” says Herb Helbig, SRT’s senior manager of vehicle synthesis and chassis design. “We sold two-and-a-half times that many.”

So when the Caliber replaced the Neon, an SRT4 sequel was not only an attractive business proposition, it was almost mandatory. But the Caliber is obviously not a Neon, and the differences go well beneath its daring new duds. So the sequel question is germane here. Will this SRT4 II be another hit with the tuner tribe? Or will it be another Caddyshack II.

More on that later. First, let’s take a look at the hardware.

The core of the ’07 Caliber SRT4, like its predecessor, is a 2.4-liter turbocharged and intercooled four, transversely mounted and driving the front wheels. But that’s where the likeness ends. The hurry-up Caliber is driven by a boosted version of an all-new, all-aluminum DOHC 16-valve four (the previous engine had an iron block), developed as a joint venture among DaimlerChrysler, Hyundai, and Mitsubishi, called GEMA, for Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance. It has a production facility in Dundee, Michigan, and the initial DaimlerChrysler yield is a three-engine family — 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4 liters.

The biggest of the trio was the obvious starting point for this exercise, and according to Pete Gladysz, senior manager for SRT powertrains, adapting the GEMA engine for high output didn’t require any really dramatic departures from the stock engine’s basic components. There are new Mahle pistons, designed for a lower stock compression ratio (8.6:1 versus 10.5:1), forged steel connecting rods, valves designed for higher operating temps, heftier bottom-end bearings, oil squirters to keep the con rods and pistons cool, and an external oil cooler.

That sounds like a lot, but none of it affects the engine’s basic architecture, and the block, head, crank, cams, and variable-valve-timing hardware (intake and exhaust) are all standard GEMA bits.

“The basic engine was designed with this kind of application in mind,” says Gladysz. “There wasn’t any point in doing anything with the cams, because with a turbo you don’t want really long cam events.

“Of course, the electronic scheme of the variable valve timing is much different from the production version, but that’s easy to handle with programming.”

And, of course, with boost.

With a slightly larger bore (88mm versus 87.5) and shorter stroke (97mm versus 101) compared with the old SRT4 engine, the new mill revs higher (a 6000-rpm power peak compared with 5300), but it’s the Garrett TD04 turbo that really makes the dyno spin. Air finds its way into the system via a Valeo air-to-air intercooler (about 50 percent bigger than the previous intercooler, according to Gladysz) and stock intake manifold. The fuel pump delivers higher flow, and there are bigger injectors delivering the combustibles.

The SRT4’s ECU, developed by Siemens, is a sophisticated piece of computer technology, and it governs boost and engine output over a broad range of operating parameters. But under ideal conditions, the turbo produces max boost of 16 psi, and with everything in optimum the new engine will churn 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque across an unusually broad range, from 2000 on to the horsepower peak. As with the previous SRT4, this adds up to a pretty seductive bang-for-buck story, only more so.

The turbo motor sends thrust to the front wheels via a new six-speed manual gearbox, a Getrag-Ford unit, and a Torsen II limited-slip diff. Aside from six speeds — the previous SRT4 tranny had only five — the most appealing traits of this new gearbox (which uses a shift mechanism from the manual trans used in the European diesel version of the Caliber) are a crisp feel and a positive sense of engagement, traits conspicuously absent in the garden-variety Caliber tested in this issue.

All of this, according to the SRT guys, adds up to a 0-to-60 capability of less than six seconds, and we have no reason to doubt that. The question is how much less. The Caliber SRT4 is going to weigh in substantially heavier than the old SRT4 — at least 200 pounds — but even so, with all that torque and horsepower on tap, we expect numbers in the middle of the five-second scale. And the top end, according to Helbig, will be pretty high.

“It’ll be a 150-mph car,” he says.

Historically, putting big horsepower through a front-drive system carries an inevitable consequence known as torque steer. It was part of the deal with the previous SRT4, and despite various countermeasures — equal-length half-shafts, for example — it’s going to be part of the deal with the new one.

“Torque steer is definitely something you need to manage in your design,” says Erich Heuschele, SRT’s vehicle dynamics supervisor. “Our goal is to keep torque steer about where it was with the previous car.”

All-wheel drive, an option in the regular Caliber lineup, would damp out torque steer, but the system isn’t capable of handling the turbo engine’s higher output. As you’d expect, the new hot rod’s underpinnings are upgraded to keep pace with the turbo motor’s big punch: heavier front knuckles, heavier hubs, beefier wheel bearings, higher spring rates, stiffer dampers, heavy-duty knuckles up front, heavier front and rear anti-roll bars, and a quicker ratio for the rack-and-pinion steering system.

The brakes are similarly upgraded, with bigger, 13.4-inch vented rotors in front and 11.9-inch rears. There are twin-piston calipers up front, and all the calipers are painted a jaunty go-fast red. Grip is supplied by 225/45 tires on 7.5-by-19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The standard tire will be an all-season Goodyear RS-A, with Goodyear F1s optional.

Cosmetic licks include a revised front fascia with a deeper air dam, vented to enhance brake cooling; a functional hood scoop; extended rocker panels; rear air diffusers; and a bigger, more aggressive wing extending beyond the top of the rear hatch. This last is not mere eye candy, according to Heuschele.

“It’s very balanced aerodynamically,” he says. “We have no major lift issues.”

Inside, the SRT4 is distinguished by a leather-wrapped steering wheel with simulated-carbon-fiber accents, a silver finish on the instrument panel, the inevitable aluminum pedal pads, and Johnson Controls bucket seats with generous thigh and torso bolsters. The seats lack the big head bolsters of the previous version, a welcome update.

With the on-sale date still about a year away, the SRT boys are reticent about possible “stage” kits, other than to admit there will be one or more, and that a bigger turbo will be part of the plan. Over 5200 owners of first-gen SRT4s opted for stage kits, so like the SRT4 renewal itself, it’s a business opportunity the company can’t ignore. As for the possibility of renewing the ACR (American Club Racing) package, Helbig will admit only that it’s “a very good question.”

Which brings us back to the sequel issue. The SRT gang won’t say so, but the Caliber doesn’t look like a candidate for racing preparation. Although the static ride height is a half-inch lower than the standard Caliber’s, it still rides higher than the Neon. That, plus its high profile, adds up to a high center of gravity, and the higher curb weight doesn’t help, either. Looking at it from the street-machine perspective, there’s also a question, in our minds at least, whether the blocky styling is going to seduce the tuner crowd.

On the other hand, the SRT team sees the body style as an opportunity to expand the car’s market appeal to mid-’20s guys with families. And this much is certain: If Dodge makes good on its plan to keep prices low, and the new SRT4 rolls into showrooms with a base of about $22,000, it will still be an absolutely unbeatable performance buy.

2007 DODGE CALIBER SRT4

Vehicle type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door wagon
Estimated base price: $22,000
Engine type: turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port fuel injection

Displacement: 144 cu in, 2360cc
Power (SAE net): 300 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 260 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

Transmission: 6-speed manual
Wheelbase: 103.7 in
Length/width/height: 173.8/68.8/59.9 in
Curb weight: 3200 lb
Performance ratings (C/D est):
Zero to 60 mph: 5.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 14.1 sec
Projected fuel economy (mfr’s est):
EPA city driving: 22 mpg
EPA highway driving: 28 mpg

Bizarre PT-Crusier Show in Moscow

This wacky Chrysler PT Cruiser brought gasps from visitors to this month's Moscow Motor Show



Bizarre PT Cruiser | AUTO EXPRESS | MOSCOW - - It's alien to us, but this wacky Chrysler PT Cruiser, complete with weird bodywork, brought gasps from visitors to this month's Moscow Motor Show.
The hatch was given a total makeover, topped with the five-foot-high extra terrestrial appearing to climb from its bonnet. Huge chrome wheels finished the job.

Also unveiled at the expo was the world's first nine-seater convertible. The open-top GAZelle will seat all the family - although it doesn't appear to have roll-over bars or even a canvas hood.

Meanwhile, it may look like a toy, but it's actually a full-size car. VW has revealed pictures of a limited-edition Beetle that will appeal to Barbie fans everywhere. Coming only in bright pink and with Barbie logos, it's one of just 13 examples that will be made.

California Speedway to host Pacific SPORTSnationals

Racing series	NHRA-SM
Date	2006-09-13

NHRA PACIFIC SPORTSNATIONALS PRESENTED BY K&N AT AUTO CLUB DRAGWAY AT CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY SEPT. 28 -- OCT. 1

The best Sportsman racers on the West Coast will converge on Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway for the NHRA Pacific SPORTSnationals presented by K&N on September 28 -- October 1.

Everything from Competition Eliminator, Super Stock, Stock, Super Comp, Super Gas and Super Street as well as the division's Top Comp and Super Eliminator categories will be showcased during the Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway event. A $5,000-to-win Mopar Hemi Shootout will also take place during the weekend.

Racers from throughout the region will vie for national recognition and a chance to accumulate national contingency points for end of season payouts. The event is similar to a national competition because competitors need a certain amount of grade points to qualify. One grade point is required to compete. All competitors should pre-register online. For more information on how to register, go to www.nhradiv7.com. Entries will be accepted at the gate for a penalty late registration fee.

Competitor parking will begin as early as Monday, September 25th. There will be a track test n tune session on Thursday, September 28th. Only competitors who are eligible and participating in the race weekend may take advantage of the test n tune opportunity on Thursday.

Gates open each day (Friday -- Sunday) at 8 a.m. Time Trials and Qualifying begins on Friday at 8 a.m. with Top Comp and Competition Eliminator Qualifying at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Stock Class Eliminations will take place throughout the day on both Friday and Saturday. Time trials and qualifying begins on Saturday at 8 a.m. with Top Comp and Competition Eliminator Qualifying at 11 a.m. Mopar Hemi Challenge Round 1 will take place at noon with eliminations starting at 2 p.m. and Top Comp and Competition Eliminator round 1 begin at 5 p.m. Eliminations will continue on Sunday.

When race fans purchase tickets to an Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway event, it always includes a pit pass and free parking. Thursday and Friday tickets are $10 per person, per day with Saturday and Sunday tickets at $20 per person, per day. Children 12 and under are free with a paid adult admission.

It was announced in November 2005 that the Automobile Club of Southern California signed a five-year entitlement agreement for the new quarter-mile strip, home to a very competitive Division 7 Junior Drag Racing program sponsored by the Auto Club and the AAA-sponsored NHRA Street Legal Drag Racing program. In addition to these events, NHRA's Summit Series, Pacific Street Car Association and Super Categories use the strip. Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway is a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) sanctioned track.

Drag racing has taken place at California Speedway since 2001 where the dragstrip was previously located in Lot 1 behind the Speedway's main grandstand. An announcement was made in November that the strip would be permanently relocated to the North side of the facility in Lots 6 and 8 along. Construction began in February and Auto Club Dragway opened in June for Jr. Drag and Summit racing events. The dragstrip hosted an NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Division 7 event on June 22-25, 2006, the first major NHRA event on the new strip. This weekend's NHRA Pacific SPORTSnationals will mark the first national competition on the strip.

For more information on Auto Club Dragway at California Speedway and the NHRA Pacific SPORTnationals, please visit www.californiaspeedway.com or call 909-429-5060.

-credit: cs

Oil seesaws following inventory report - $64 Dollar Mark

Crude prices straddle $64 mark on surprising increase in distillate stocks, but stay in positive territory.

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) -- Oil prices zigzagged Wednesday after a government report revealed a bigger-than-forecast drawdown in crude stocks but a larger-than-expected jump in distillate inventories.

U.S. light sweet crude for October delivery was 30 cents higher at $64.06 a barrel.

Just before the Energy Information Administration released its report, the contract was up 40 cents at $64.16. It tumbled below $64 right after the figures were released, then rebounded as high as $64.42 before falling back down.

In the previous session, crude prices fell $1.85 to $63.76 a barrel, the lowest level since March 22, with the seven-day drop the longest losing streak in nearly three years.

Distillate fuel inventories rose by 4.7 million barrels last week, and well above the upper end of the average range for this time of year. Reuters reported that distillates - used for heating - were expected to climb 1.7 million barrels.

Crude oil inventories climbed by 2.9 million barrels, versus forecasts for a decline of 1.9 million barrels according to Reuters. At 327.7 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories remain well above the upper end of the average range for this time of year.

Total motor gasoline inventories rose by 100,00 barrels last week, putting them just above the upper end of the average range. Gasoline inventories were expected to remain unchanged last week, according to Reuters.

DaimlerChrysle 'BUY' status given

LONDON, September 13 (newratings.com) - Analyst Henning Wagener of AC Research reiterates his "buy" rating on DaimlerChrysler (DCX.ETR).

According to AC Research’s research note dated September 12 and published this morning, the company has reported its sales results for August 2006. Mercedes Car Group’s global sales were up 1.2% to 88,600 vehicles last month. While Mercedes-Benz sales recorded a 3.2% growth rate to 81,700 vehicles, Smart suffered a decline of 18.2% to 6,900 vehicles. In the first eight months of the current fiscal year, deliveries by Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, and Smart were up 6.9% to 818,000 units. While Mercedes-Benz recorded 10.8% growth to 739,000 vehicles, Smart was forced to suffer a 19.8% decline to 78,400 units.

In all, the analyst considers the published results as satisfactory. AC Research adds, however, that the ongoing weak performance of Smart continues to cause some concern. After dumping the four-seat "forfour" model, Smart has only one model remaining in its product pipeline with the "fortwo."For the full year of 2006, DaimlerChrysler continues to expect passenger car sales to reach at least last year’s level. While one may expect Mercedes-Benz to continue recording sales growth, Smart is expected to lose some additional ground, the analyst says. At the current share price of €40.64 and a 2007 P/E ratio of about 10, the company’s stock still seems to enjoy a rather moderate rating. Current developments at Chrysler give some reason for concern in view of the rather weak US car sales in July and August. Experts see more chances than risks, however, for an investment in the company’s stock due to the relatively low rating level. AC Research reiterates its "buy" rating on DaimlerChrysler.

Trademark: SRT8 filed for Opposition

(words only): SRT8

Standard Character claim: Yes

Current Status: Final review prior to publication has been completed, application will be published for opposition.

Date of Status: 2006-09-11

Filing Date: 2006-02-17

The Information will be/was published in the Official Gazette on 2006-10-17

Transformed into a National Application: No

Registration Date: (DATE NOT AVAILABLE)

Register: Principal

Law Office Assigned: LAW OFFICE 108

Attorney Assigned:
FATHY DOMINIC Employee Location

Current Location: 650 -Publication And Issue Section

Date In Location: 2006-09-11

Maybach 57 S With Mother Of Pearl Finish To Be Presented In Paris

eMERCEDESBENZ | PARIS - - DaimlerChrysler has announced today that in addition to the already-available black and silver single-tone paint finishes currently obtainable on the Maybach 57 S model, a new shining "Antiqua White" finish will be added to available single-tone paint finish options in an effort to further meet customer's desires for more individuality. The white paint finish, applied by specialists in multiple layers, will use two base colors to form the foundation of the coloring, as opposed to the typical single base color found on traditional automobiles. As a result, the Maybach's exterior will contain nearly twice as many layers of paint when compared to other luxury vehicles, and in addition will feature an incomparable mother-of-pearl-like sheen... Keep Reading "Maybach 57 S With Mother Of Pearl Finish To Be Presented In Paris"

Priceless Shot within the MB Design Studio

HEMISPERICAL BLOG - - Here is a 'priceless' moment inside the Mercedes Design Studio [Stuttgart Germany]. Interior designers working on new fabrics for the upcoming 2008 CLK Coupe.

Seeing what is in the pipeline from Germany, I expect Lexus will drop to number two positiion sometime next year, leaving Mercedes in the number one spot again.

Less-than-perfect credit? Chrysler expands 0%

Automaker expands no-interest deals for up to 72 months to reach more consumers, strengthen sales.

Josee Valcourt / The Detroit New - - Chrysler Group has relaxed its zero-percent financing program to nab consumers with less-than-stellar credit.

The Auburn Hills-based company is following Ford Motor Co., which bucked industry practice by offering no-interest deals to customers with imperfect credit scores.

Chrysler started offering zero-percent financing for up to 72 months on Sept 1. It began relaxing its credit standards this past weekend. The promotion runs through Oct. 2.

"There was some concern that not enough people would qualify for zero-percent for 72 months, and that only top-shelf people would qualify," said Kevin McCormick, a Chrysler spokesman.

"We are definitely trying to broaden the pool to give the program the best chance to be successful."

Chrysler is trying to increase showroom traffic after months of weak sales. For the year, combined sales of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep are down 9.7 percent.

New-car buyers who do not have top-notch credit scores are now eligible for zero-percent financing for up to six years on the 2006 Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee, the Dodge Durango SUVs and Chrysler's family of minivans.

In addition, Chrysler is offering 1.9-percent financing for 60 months and 3.9-percent financing for 72 months on light-and heavy-duty Dodge Ram pickups.

"We wanted to make sure that the program was appealing," McCormick said. "Dealers are obviously receptive to that because it allows a larger number of customers to qualify."

At Hollywood Chrysler Jeep, the program change has already reaped buyers who would not have qualified last week.

"How could it not work?" asked John Berry, a sales manager at the Hollywood, Fla., dealership. "Just today we had a customer that we would have missed if the new rules weren't in place."

A single mother of five with subpar credit drove off Tuesday in a new Town & Country minivan because she qualified for the financing deal, Berry said.

This Day in Auto History: 13 SEPTEMBER

9.13.1892 - Achille Philion is issued a United States Patent for his “Steam Carriage”

9.13.1936 - E. R. Thomas of Thomas and Thomas-Detroit dies in Buffalo, NY at age 85

9.13.1953 - OSCA makes its final Formula 1 appearance in the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, with Louis Chiron finishing tenth

9.13.1961 - The first Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster, a 1962 model, is produced

9.13.1969 - The Alabama Speedway in Talladega, AL stages its first event, a 401.66 mile NASCAR race won by Ken Rush in a Chevrolet Camaro

Source: Automobile History Day By Day, by Douglas A. Wick

Steve Jobs Speaks: The IPod Is The Thing In 70% Of Cars

JALOPNICK AUTO NEWS | CALIFRONIA - - Our gadget-obsessed brother blog is all over Apple's announcement, live-blogging Steve Jobs every facial expression today, so head on over if you're looking for some of that action. We're just happy Jobs started off talking about the most important place you use your iPod -- your car. Jobs made an interesting comment:

"70 percent of the new cars sold in the US offer iPod connectivity as an option."

That's true -- 70% of car models do offer it, but how many of them come equipped with it -- and does showing a Chrysler 300 make sense, especially considering the well documented issue of the loss of aux-in when you go for the upgraded radio? Also, aren't they kind of pushing MyGig almost as a competitor to the iPod -- at least in the car space? Just asking -- maybe the Giz'll have the answers for us later on.

Jeep Compass Rallye for the UK

AUTOBLOG.COM | Alex Nunez | UK - - Remember the kitted-up Compass Rallye concept that made its debut at the 2005 Frankfurt show? The show car looks were dropped for the production version, which is currently available here in the US and will start appearing in European showrooms soon. The UK, however, is a different matter entirely.

In the UK, the only Jeep Compass that will be available is a right-hand-drive limited-production version of the concept car. The 2007 Jeep Compass Rallye will be available only with the Freedom Drive 1 all-wheel drive system and the aforementioned appearance package. Black wheels, aero-style bumpers and side skirts, and extra foglamps give the Compass Rallye its unique look.

The decision to make only the Rallye edition available was the result of UK market research that showed that the bespoilered Compass would be a better seller than the standard vehicle. To illustrate the limited availability of the Compass Rallye, Jeep stated that the UK division's other new arrival, Patriot, will outsell the Compass Rally 10:1. Pricing won't be announced until later.

Both the Patriot and Compass, as you know by now, are built on the same platform as the Dodge Caliber, and as such, they share powerplants with the little Dodge. Like the Euro Caliber, the Compass Rallye and Patriot will be available with either the 2.4L gasoline 4-cylinder or the VW-sourced 2.0 diesel. Looking at the aeroed-out Compass Rallye, we can't help but wonder what it'd be like to have it in the US ... with AWD and the Caliber SRT4 mill. Now that'd be something.

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[Source: DaimlerChrysler UK]

PRESS RELEASE:

JEEP TO LAUNCH PATRIOT AND COMPASS RALLYE IN UK

Jeep will launch two new compact four-wheel drive vehicles in the UK in 2007 that will offer drivers fuel economy figures in excess of 43mpg for the first time.

The Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass Rallye are compact 4x4s that deliver a competitive package of performance and fuel economy, with a design and price that will appeal to a new class of Jeep buyers.

Both vehicles are designed to reach younger customers who may not have previously considered the brand but value the distinctive Jeep look and see four-wheel drive as a must-have on their daily drive.

Peter Lambert, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK, said: "Customers are increasingly interested in family hatchbacks with four-wheel drive systems as they offer better handling and enhanced safety on the road.

"The new Jeep Patriot offers classic Jeep looks, a roomy interior, a choice of fuel efficient diesel and petrol engines and an all-new 4WD system in a package the size of a Ford Focus."

Freedom Drive I is a full-time, active four-wheel drive system that offers the driver tangible benefits in every day driving conditions such as wet and icy tarmac as well as great off-road ability. The Patriot will be the new entry-level price point for the Jeep brand.*

"These two family hatchback sized cars represent a new chapter in the history of the Jeep brand ? the compact 4x4 segment in Western Europe is expected to increase to nearly 400,000 units by 2010, and these new car-based four-wheel drive vehicles mean the Jeep brand is ideally placed to meet this growing demand."

The Jeep Compass Rallye offers a very different look and feel to the Patriot, with a design that reflects the 'Jeep Modern' theme, but offers the same 4WD system.

Lambert added: "We considered the role of the Compass and Patriot in the UK and customer research indicated that the classic Jeep looks of the Patriot had a very strong impact with UK buyers. Our research also suggested that a 'hot' looking version of the Compass would be desirable in the UK, although we will only offer Compass Rallye in limited numbers at launch.

"The whole compact 4x4 segment is shifting ? our competitors are pricing themselves out of the sub-?20,000 segment and we will fill this space with our new vehicles next year."

The Compass Rallye and Patriot are both based on the Dodge Caliber hatchback platform, and both Jeeps will offer a 2.4-litre petrol and a VW-sourced 2.0-litre diesel engine.

"The vast majority of our vehicles sold in the last few years have been diesel powered and it is vital for the success of these new Jeeps that we have a small diesel engine that is competitive in the family hatchback segment. The 2.0-litre diesel will enable Jeep drivers to achieve a combined fuel cycle figure of 43.5mpg for the first time."

In the UK the Jeep Compass Rallye will launch in April 2007 and the Jeep Patriot launches in July 2007.

Farfromskiddin: Mercedes-Benz S-Class 4MATIC unveiled

AUTOBLOG.COM | Noah Joseph - - Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off its upcoming line-up of 4MATIC S-Class sedans. 4MATIC is, of course, the name for Mercedes' all-wheel-drive system, and the range-topping über-sedan will offer it mated to a number of engines to give the well-heeled a host of choices for uncompromised traction in whatever conditions they may come across.

4MATIC will be offered globally on the S320 CDI, S450 and S500 sedans, although they've yet to announce which of these models will be sold in the North American market. Based on the current American line-up, it'd be safe to assume we'll only get the S550 4MATIC.

Mercedes claims the AWD V8 sedan, despite the extra weight, will accelerate in the same 5.4 seconds it takes its rear-wheel drive counterpart to hit sixty from a standstill, and will only suffer a minor increase in fuel consumption.

The V8-powered 4MATIC models are on sale in Europe now in both short and long wheelbase versions, while customers will have to wait until December for the S320 CDI 4MATIC. Another gas-powered V6 model, the S350 4MATIC, will arrive by mid-2007.

(Official press release can be found after the jump)

[Source: Mercedes-Benz, eMercedesBenz]