Showing posts with label Dodge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dodge. Show all posts

2013 Dodge Dart

2013 Dodge Dart
Dodge pulled the bow of his new Alfa Romeo cars announced 2013-based and small as they are called darts. Together in January in Detroit offers the first Duel of three engines and three transmissions and an aggressive style reminiscent of the largest shipper.

We have one question: How can you say "darts" in Italian? Automotive News reports that the key to the
2013 Dodge Dart is 40 mpg highway appreciation of its Fiat-derived six-speed dual-clutch automatic is set at a choice of three frugal inline-four.

ZF officials believe that the nine speed automatic is the fuel Dart from 10 to 16 percent compared to the dual-clutch transmission, is increasing. Front-wheel drive, not a muscle car of 2013 rpm Duel on a modified version of the front-wheel drive platform for Alfa Romeo.

Juliette that the sting is wider and longer, the new architecture called Pact range in the United States. The Dodge Dart meets minimum performance standards for fair play.

The other three engines are two engines 2.0 liters and 2.4 liters of abduction, used by those of 2011 Caliber updated and renamed "Tiger Shark".

Compact or compact car? Competitors may Toyota Corolla Dart, the Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze compact car segment - the largest of darts - or the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta small car category.

"Alfa DNA" However - and unusually for a car with Dodge - Chrysler plans to market the car as one with "Alfa Romeo DNA." Chrysler also said, however, that "similar to the Dodge Dart at the end of 1960, the year 2013 Duel offers a special blend of style, performance and innovation." The 2013 Dodge Dart Chrysler in Belvidere, factory assembly of Illinois to be built.

Dodge hat pulled the bow of its new small Alfa Romeo-based and process in 2013, dass is called DART. Located in January at Auto Show in Detroit debut The Duel offers three engines and three transmissions and aggressive style that reminds one of the largest shipper. We have one question: How can you say "darts" in Italian?

Automotive News reports, they know that the key to the cave Dodge Dart 40 mpg highway rating is its Fiat-derived six-speed dual-clutch automatic is bolted to a choice of three frugal inline-four. ZF officials believe, dass die nine-speed automatic is the sting is to increase fuel consumption by 10 to 16 percent against the DM dual-clutch gearbox.

Front-wheel drive, No Muscle Car
Duel of 2013 rpm suitable platform for front-wheel drive Alfa Romeo. Compared to contact Juliet Duel large and Langer, The new architecture is called Pact range in the United States. The Dodge Dart meets minimum performance standards for fair play.

Three engines
The other two engines are 2.0 liters and 2.4 liters of postponing those used in 2011 Caliber updated and renamed "Tiger Shark".

Compact or compact car?
Competitors are likely to die Duel Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze compact car segment - all Dart to die - or the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta small car category.

"Alfa DNA"
However - and unusually for a car with the Dodge brand -. "Alfa DNA" Chrysler plant, the car market with a
Chrysler says it is available, however, that "such a Dem Dodge Dart at the end of 1960, regardless of age, Duel of 2013 has a special blend of style, performance and innovative."
SARA of
2013 Dodge Dart Chrysler in Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant to be built.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee
Chrysler will use the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show to officially unveil the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee, a muscle car for drivers who only care about one thing: going fast. The automaker revived the nameplate from 2007 to 2009 as an exclusive version of the Dodge Charger SRT8.

Based on the 1968 Dodge Scat Pack, the Super Bee Edition will be available in two colors: Stinger Yellow or Pitch Black, both of which get contrasting graphics. There is no mistaking the unreserved performance attitude of the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee.

The instrument panel also features the Charger Super Bee logo on a unique dash plaque.
On the exterior, the Dodge Charger Super Bee features a unique SRT badge with a 3-D helmeted bee mascot on the new split crosshair grille finished in Gloss Black.

New 20 x 9-inch, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels with black painted pockets developed specifically for the Super Bee models provide a unique performance look.

Also available are Goodyear Eagle RS-A 2 all-season tires that make the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee an all-season performance machine.

A limited number of 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee units will be built for the U.S. market.

Super Bee history
For the 2007 model year, Dodge and SRT revived the Super Bee nameplate with the limited-edition Dodge Charger SRT8. Powered by the 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 producing 425 hp and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2007 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee was the first special edition Charger from SRT. Only 1,000 units of the Charger SRT8 Super Bee were built in 2008.

In 2009, the Super Bee package featured Hemi Orange Pearl Coat paint with decals on the hood and rear quarter fenders; new Super Bee wheels with black anodized pockets with silver Brembo brake calipers. Only 425 units of the Super Bee were built in 2009.

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket
Launching at next week’s Los Angeles Auto Show, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket and the Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee both tip their hat to classic Mopars of the past.

Both models do get Stinger Yellow paint with Pitch Black accents, black body side striping and “Yellow Jacket” or “Super Bee” logos. Manual transmission Challengers get the same highway fuel economy rating, thanks to a tall sixth gear.

As for the interior, while Dodge has yet to release pictures, the company says that the special edition Challengers SRT8 gets standard leather featuring an exclusive Stinger Yellow accent band with embroidered Yellow Jacket logo and silver accent stitching.

"The Challenger SRT8 392 Yellow Jacket adds another piece of performance car nostalgia to our rear-drive muscle coupe lineup in 2012," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – SRT Brand and Motorsports.

Included in the Charger Super Bee package for 2012, in either yellow or black motifs, is a full sticker and stripe package highlighting the 3D helmeted bee logo along with five-spoke aluminum wheels with black painted pockets.

Similarly, the Challenger Yellow Jacket is covered in various coatings of yellow and black, both inside and out, with the addition of a new Yellow Jacket logo.

2013 Dodge Viper


The production of this next generation car has already been confirmed by Dodge CEO. The official news room has assured people that Dodge Viper 2013 model will be more forging for next generation motor sport drivers.

With cutting-edge technology on board, Dodge Viper 2013 will pave the way for future generation sports car with a traditional touch.

The next generation Dodge Viper 2013 will make its official appearance in 2012 only. The car model will be available as 2013 model.

As a technologically advanced and next generation sports car, Dodge Viper 2013 is expected to come with more features, sportier look and aggression in comparison to present generation super cars.

Developing the best among other leading sports car, this car engine is going to be the most powerful car engine in this planet.

The new car engine with V10 engine 8.7 liter will be capable to deliver 700HP. Sports car lovers are waiting for the real official announcement only to have right information for this next generation car.

While the last Viper’s V-10 displaced 8.4-liters and made as much as 640 horsepower in Viper ACR-X trim, the 2013 Viper is rumored to be starting with an 8.7-liter V-10. Dodge isn’t sharing many details on the 2013 Viper, but it’s safe to assume the car will weigh less than the previous Viper’s 3,460 pounds

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392


For 2012, the Dodge Challenger SRT8® 392 adds even more high-tech performance features to solidify its place as the brand's ultimate modern American rear-wheel-drive muscle coupe. Performance-tuned engine mounts improve idle stability and ride control at all speeds.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 features a standard Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission and a dual-disc high performance clutch - a proven performer that was first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10®.

The ADS system on the Challenger SRT8 392 features the fastest turn-in and most nimble handling characteristics of any SRT product. The performance SRT-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system features a heavy-duty pump combined with a damped steering gear to give drivers more direct response and on-center feel.

The standard SRT performance brake package produces world-class stopping power of 60 to 0 mph in just 117 feet from 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo fixed calipers painted red.

Inside the cluster, the SRT-exclusive Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with performance pages provides the driver with trip information, multimedia information from the Media Center radio, along with instant feedback on 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking, G-forces, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times.

Power lumbar-equipped front seats are standard. The 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 features more than 35 advanced safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance.

New for 2012, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 features an available 900-watt, 18-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon.

The system's 18 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers include:
This 470 horsepower machine promises a reasonable approach with exceptional straight-line acceleration, top-notch ride and behavior, elevated braking performance
Power comes in the guise of a 392 ci (6.4-liter) SRT HEMI V8 engine. Ratings indicate 14-mpg city, 23-mpg highway
Matched to the standard Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission first offered on the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10, shifts are smooth and easily controlled.

The
Challenger 392 SRT8 Inaugural Edition rides on 245/45/20 front and 255/45/20 rear tires mounted on SRT exclusive 5-spoke polished wheels with black painted pockets.

Exterior styling cues include a unique front chin spoiler, body-colored grille surround, exclusive “392 Hemi” badges and a rear deck spoiler. Two colors are offered for the limited volume Inaugural Edition; Deep Water Blue with Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes.


Smooth Pearl White leather seats with dual blue stripes and blue stitching highlight the impressive interior. In tune with the times, a 3-spoke steering wheel offers intuitive audio adjustment plus tilt functionality.

2010 Dodge Viper

The ACR package gains a short-throw shifter and revised rear wing. The 2010 model year marks the end of the line for the second-generation Dodge Viper, and quite possibly the end of the Viper altogether. Since the original concept car debuted in 1989, the Viper has embodied the brash American spirit of excess. We'll mourn the loss, mostly because of the Viper's unapologetic nature.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Viper SRT-10 is offered as either a two-seat coupe or a soft-top roadster. Inside, the Viper comes with race-inspired seats, power-adjustable pedals, a tilting steering wheel, air-conditioning, full power accessories, six-point harness pre-fabrication, leather and Alcantara upholstery, keyless entry and a seven-speaker sound system with a CD player.

Satellite radio and a navigation system are packaged together as options. No, this package doesn't impart a "Jersey Shore" spray-on tan to your skin, it adds tan napa seats, a tan roadster convertible top and matching interior trim. The big performance-enhancing option for the Viper is the American Club Racer (ACR) package, which is only available for the coupe variant.

Powering the
2010 Dodge Viper is a completely bonkers 8.4-liter V10 engine that thunders out 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. The best safety equipment for the 2010 Dodge Viper isn't included with the car. Conspicuously absent are side airbags, traction control and stability control -- making the skills of the aforementioned driver even more critical.

Driving Impressions
The
2010 Dodge Viper is rough, raw, loud and unrefined when compared to other sports cars, and therein lies much of its appeal. Novices can appreciate the Viper's straight-line power and fury, but only advanced drivers should explore its cornering limits.



2010 Dodge Dakota

The 2010 Dodge Dakota gains revised suspension tuning for an improved ride and better handling. Dodge hopes to remedy some of that with the 2010 Dakota. Also receiving high marks are the pickup's innovative rear under-seat storage bins and comfortable seating. As a workhorse, though, the 2010 Dodge Dakota still stands tall.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The TRX4 and Laramie models are only available as crew cabs.
Standard features for the ST include 16-inch steel wheels, a dual-position tailgate, foglights, air-conditioning, front bucket seats, a front center console, two rear folding seats (extended cab only), a rear under-seat storage system (crew cab only), cloth upholstery, a tilt steering wheel and a CD player stereo.

The Big Horn adds 17-inch alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers and front fascia, full power accessories and cruise control. The Big Horn and Laramie extended cabs can be equipped with a front bench seat in place of the standard buckets. A 3.7-liter V6 is standard on every
2010 Dodge Dakota, producing 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all Dakotas, with four-wheel drive being optional (standard on the TRX4).

Fuel economy registers an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined for rear-drive models, while four-wheel-drive mileage drops slightly to 14/15/18 mpg. A five-speed automatic is standard. In performance testing, a 4WD Dakota Laramie crew cab with the V8 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. When properly equipped, a V8 Dakota can tow 7,200 pounds.

Safety
In side-impact tests, the
2010 Dodge Dakota crew cab without side curtain airbags earned five stars for the protection of both front and rear passengers. On the upside, the Dakota's interior design is mostly straightforward.

2010 Dodge Nitro

The 2010 Dodge Nitro gains a deceleration fuel cut-off feature when equipped with the 3.7-liter V6. Nitro was one heck of an American Gladiator. Sadly, the 2010 Dodge Nitro doesn't live up to its namesake as an American-made SUV gladiator.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Nitro is a five-passenger SUV available in Heat, Detonator and Shock trim levels. Standard equipment includes 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, foglamps, roof rails, tinted windows, keyless entry, full power accessories, heated mirrors, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a 60/40-split-folding and reclining rear seat and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The Nitro Shock trim adds different 20-inch wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery and heated seats.

The Dodge Nitro Heat comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available, with the latter being a part-time system with high- and low-range gearing. This engine returns an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive and 16/20/17 with four-wheel drive. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16/21/18 with rear-drive and 15/21/17 with four-wheel. In performance testing, a rear-drive Nitro with the 4.0-liter engine went from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds.

Safety
The stability control includes a trailer sway control feature. Rear parking sensors are standard on the Detonator and Shock. In government crash tests, the
2010 Dodge Nitro achieved a top five-star rating in all frontal and side crash categories. There are 32 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat.

Driving Impressions
With its aggressive styling and macho name, you'd think that the
2010 Dodge Nitro offered vigorous power and acceleration.



2010 Dodge Journey

The 2010 Dodge Journey receives driver and front-passenger active head restraints, a larger 9-inch screen for the rear-seat entertainment system and standard keyless entry.

Other neat options include MyGIG, Chrysler's hard-drive-based navigation and entertainment system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with a 9-inch screen. Speaking of pricing, that's another of the Journey's strengths, as the base SE model costs about the same as a bare-bones five-seat family sedan.

The Journey's cabin materials are no nicer than those of the dismal Dodge Caliber economy car, on which the Journey is based. Overall, th
e 2010 Dodge Journey has a split personality. Among competing crossovers, Toyota's RAV4 offers a third-row seat along with better performance, and the surprisingly enjoyable Kia Rondo is another model to consider. We do not recommend the Journey.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
A midsize crossover SUV, the
2010 Dodge Journey comes in SE, SXT and R/T trim levels. All models come standard with two-row seating for five; with the optional 50/50-split-folding third-row bench (SXT and R/T only), capacity increases to seven.
The top-drawer R/T features 19-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls.

The base-model Journey SE comes with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. The EPA gives the four-cylinder Journey ratings of 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. Every
2010 Journey includes antilock disc brakes, traction control, rollover-sensing stability control, active front head restraints, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows.

Interior Design and Special Features
Inside, the
2010 Dodge Journey is a spacious, versatile family hauler.

2010 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan gains active front-seat headrests across the lineup and standard tri-zone manual climate control on SE models.

The
2010 Dodge Grand Caravan has history on its side, if nothing else. A dual-screen rear entertainment system, Sirius Satellite TV and hard-drive audio storage are also available.

Unfortunately, these attributes are overshadowed by the Grand Caravan's quality issues and other faults like low-quality interior materials and a feeble base engine. The
2010 Dodge Grand Caravan minivan is available in three trim levels: C/V, SE and SXT. The SXT adds a larger engine, 16-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, an eight-way power driver seat with manual lumbar adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, power and remote-operated sliding side doors (optional on SE), second-row power windows and third-row power vent-style windows (also optional on SE), an overhead console with storage bins and ambient lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and satellite radio. With the SXT, the rear DVD entertainment system includes a swiveling second-row flip-down screen.

The front-wheel-drive
2010 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with one of three V6 engines. The SXT comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 197 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque and gets 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined. The Grand Caravan comes standard with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, active front headrests and full-length side curtain airbags.

Optional on both the SE and SXT trims are second-row integrated child booster seats (requires Swivel 'n Go). In government crash tests, the
2010 Grand Caravan scored a perfect five stars in all frontal- and side-impact categories. The Grand Caravan's interior design theme is plain but functional, with high-mounted audio controls for easy visibility and operation. Aft of the comfortable front seats, there are various seating choices.

The
2010 Grand Caravan's handling will be adequate for most owners, particularly in sport-tuned SXT trim. As for Grand Caravans with the ancient 3.3-liter engine, we'd say don't bother -- they're sluggish and marginally less efficient than the muscular 4.0-liter SXT.

2010 Dodge Charger

The 2010 Dodge Charger receives standard side curtain airbags and minor exterior styling tweaks, but is no longer available with front-seat side airbags.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Charger is a large sedan available in base, 3.5, Rallye, R/T and SRT8 trim levels. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional on all but the base and SRT8.

Stepping up to the Charger 3.5 (formerly SXT) nets you a larger V6 engine, 18-inch wheels (AWD only) and satellite radio. The Rallye adds 18-inch alloy wheels (RWD), foglamps, power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and a rear armrest. The Chrome & Leather package adds 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat, heated front seats, leather upholstery and an upgraded six-speaker sound system. Chrome-clad 20-inch wheels are optional on the Rallye.

The Charger R/T adds to the Rallye with Chrome & Leather package (minus the chrome wheels) the V8 engine, an iPod interface, an auto-dimming mirror, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth and a touchscreen stereo faceplate. The SRT Option Group III is essentially the R/T's Media Center package.

The
2010 Dodge Charger is available with four engines, one for each trim level. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on the 3.5, Rallye and R/T. The base Charger gets a 2.7-liter V6 that produces 178 hp and 190 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. Considering the engine's meager power output, fuel economy is a lackluster 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. This engine gets a four-speed automatic with rear-wheel drive and a five-speed auto with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy ratings are 17/25/20 mpg with RWD and 17/23/19 mpg with AWD.

The Charger R/T is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 making 368 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. The Charger SRT8 is the king of the hill, with a 6.1-liter V8 that produces 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. In government crash tests, the
2010 Dodge Charger achieved a perfect five stars for frontal crash protection and rear side crash protection. The Charger's large size and long wheelbase translate into a generously sized cabin with plenty of rear legroom. Unfortunately, the 2010 Dodge Charger's sloping roof line makes rear-seat access more challenging than in other sedans, and rear headroom is a bit less than normal as well.

2010 Dodge Challenger

For 2010, the Dodge Challenger SE now comes with a five-speed automatic as well as stability control. Relative to the Mustang and Camaro, the Challenger offers far better rear passenger space, a smoother ride and a more serene cabin. Cornering performance is compromised by the Challenger's bulk, light steering and (in non-SRT8 models) soft suspension and tires, but like the original Challenger, this one excels on boulevards and highways. Ultimately, the Challenger's appeal depends on what kind of pony car you're looking for.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Challenger is a large sport coupe capable of seating five passengers. A late-availability Super Track Pack is said to include the regular Track Pack's equipment plus high performance tires, a larger rear stabilizer bar, performance brake pads and a revised stability control calibration with an "ESP off" function.

Powertrains and Performance
The base Challenger SE is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 250 hp and 250 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed automatic as standard equipment, with a six-speed manual available as an option. In recent testing, the Challenger R/T reached 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, and the Challenger SRT8 took only 5.3 seconds. Fuel economy registers an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 20 mpg in combined driving for the V6 Challenger SE. All 2010 Dodge Challenger models feature stability control and side curtain airbags as standard safety equipment.

Interior Design and Special Features
Unlike the
Dodge Challenger's distinctive-looking exterior, the interior is quite bland. At 16.2 cubic feet, the Challenger's trunk boasts impressive cargo capacity for this segment.

Driving Impressions
While performance numbers for the
2010 Dodge Challenger are impressive, the feeling behind the wheel leaves us a bit flat. In the hands of our experienced test-drivers, the Challenger SRT8 can weave through the slalom cones with impressive speed, but on curvy roads in the real world, even this high-performance Challenger variant lacks the nimbleness and steering feel to keep up with the Mustang GT.

As a boulevard cruiser or road-tripper, though, the Challenger shines. Power down the windows, though, and you'll get to enjoy the
Challenger's big-displacement soundtrack.



2010 Dodge Caliber

For 2010, the Dodge Caliber is offered in five new "lifestyle" trim levels ranging from the value-oriented Express base model to the sporty top-of-the-line Rush. All models get an upgraded interior that includes a padded center armrest, padded door trim panels and active front head restraints. The Caliber's two available four-cylinder engines are a good case in point.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Caliber is a compact four-door hatchback that's offered in five new "lifestyle" trim levels. Interior upgrades include a tachometer, fold-flat front passenger seat and 60/40-split-folding and reclining rear seatbacks.

Springing for the Uptown model gets you rear disc brakes (versus drums), automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver seat, heated front seats and a premium nine-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls and flip-down speakers in the liftgate.

The sporty
2010 Dodge Caliber Heat takes the Mainstreet model's equipment list and adds 18-inch polished alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension and steering, rear disc brakes (versus drums) and specialized interior trim. Building on the Caliber Heat is the Rush, which adds a larger 2.4-liter engine, 18-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels and a rear spoiler.

Powertrains and Performance
A 2.0-liter engine rated at 158 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque is standard on all trim levels except the Rush. The 2.0-liter engine returns EPA estimates of 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined with the manual transmission and 23/27/25 mpg with the CVT.

Safety
Front-seat side airbags and stability control aren't available on the Express but are optional on the remaining trim levels.

The
2010 Dodge Caliber earned perfect scores in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, including five stars in both frontal and side impacts.

2010 Dodge Avenger

The 2010 Dodge Avenger leaves us wondering what it's supposed to be avenging. The 2010 Dodge Avenger's interior is also a letdown.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2010 Dodge Avenger midsize sedan comes in three trim levels: SXT, Express and R/T. The Express adds 17-inch alloy wheels, foldaway heated mirrors, eight-way power driver seat, heated front seats, leather-wrapped wheel and shifter and a six-speaker sound system with touchscreen stereo interface, digital music storage and steering-wheel controls. R/T options include the Express' upgraded stereo or a further upgraded multimedia bundle featuring Bluetooth, a hard-drive-based navigation system, real-time traffic, digital music storage and the additional option of six Boston Acoustics speakers. The front-wheel-drive 2010 Dodge Avenger Express and SXT are powered by a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission is a four-speed automatic. EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2010 Dodge Avenger SXT are 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

Safety
Standard safety equipment on the
2010 Dodge Avenger includes antilock brakes, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In government crash tests, the Avenger earned a top five-star rating for its performance in head-on collisions. The poor quality of the Avenger's interior materials is a major letdown, especially if you compare the Avenger to cars like the Fusion or Accord.

Driving Impressions
The four-cylinder
2010 Dodge Avenger offers sluggish acceleration and unrefined gearchanges from the outdated four-speed automatic. Handling capabilities are likewise underwhelming, though the Avenger does have decent ride quality

2011 Dodge Ram 3500

For 2011, the Dodge Ram 3500 gains a new "Outdoorsman" package and a number of standard features. When one considers the Ram 3500's impressive work abilities, there's good reason they call these trucks "heavy duty."

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 Dodge Ram 3500 heavy-duty pickup is available in three cab styles: regular, Crew Cab and Mega Cab (a jumbo crew cab).

The regular cab comes in ST or SLT trims; the Crew Cab in ST, SLT or Laramie trims; and the Mega Cab is SLT or Laramie only. With the exception of Crew Cab short beds, all Ram 3500s have a dual-rear-wheel axle.

Power windows and door locks are standard on Crew Cab models, while regular cabs have manual controls.

The SLT adds chrome exterior trim, chrome-clad wheels, electronic trailer brake control, power folding/heated side mirrors, a sliding rear window, cloth upholstery, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and satellite radio. SLT Crew Cab and Mega Cab Rams are eligible to upgrade to the Big Horn package (sold as the Lone Star package in Texas). On the other end of the spectrum is the luxurious Laramie, which features polished alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seating, a power driver seat with memory, power-adjustable pedals, auto-dimming mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth and an upgraded nine-speaker surround-sound audio system with digital music storage and iPod integration.

Additional luxuries available for the upper trims include a sunroof, remote start, power-adjustable pedals, front bucket seats, a navigation system, heated and ventilated front seats, satellite radio, an upgraded stereo and a rear-seat entertainment system.
The
2011 Dodge Ram 3500 is available in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. Dual rear wheels are standard, but buyers may choose a single rear wheel as an option. Properly equipped, the Ram 3500 can tow up to 22,750 pounds.

Standard safety equipment for the
2011 Dodge Ram 3500 includes antilock disc brakes and side curtain airbags.


2011 Dodge Ram 2500

For 2011, the Dodge Ram 2500 gains a new trim package, "Outdoorsman." Midway through the model year, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine gains a power boost for a total of 800 pound-feet of torque.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 Dodge Ram 2500 heavy-duty pickup is available in three cab styles: regular, Crew Cab and Mega Cab (a jumbo crew cab). The regular cab comes in ST or SLT trims; the Crew Cab in ST, SLT or Laramie trims; and the Mega Cab in SLT or Laramie only.

Power windows and door locks are standard on Crew Cab models, while regular cabs have manual controls.

The SLT adds chrome exterior trim, chrome-clad wheels, electronic trailer brake control, power-folding/heated side mirrors, a sliding rear window, cloth upholstery, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and satellite radio. SLT Crew Cab and Mega Cab Rams are eligible to upgrade to the Big Horn package (sold as the Lone Star package in Texas). On the other end of the spectrum is the luxurious Laramie, which features polished alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seating, a power driver seat with memory, power-adjustable pedals, auto-dimming mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth and an upgraded nine-speaker surround-sound audio system with digital music storage and iPod integration.

The
2011 Dodge Ram 2500 is available with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (4WD is electronically engaged at the high trim levels and mechanically engaged at the lowest one). Standard safety equipment for the 2011 Dodge Ram 2500 includes antilock disc brakes and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds braking tests, a Dodge Ram Power Wagon came to a stop from 60 mph in 141 feet, which is about average for a heavy-duty pickup.

Both of the Ram's engines are strong and provide plenty of power for towing and hauling heavy loads, though compared to its diesel-powered heavy-duty rivals, the
2011 Dodge Ram 2500 isn't quite as strong when accelerating on flat land or trying to maintain speed on long uphill grades with a heavy trailer in tow.

2011 Dodge Ram 1500

For 2011, the Dodge Ram 1500 sees a shuffling of trim packages but otherwise remains unchanged.

When it was fully redesigned for 2009, the Ram 1500 sported a few features never before seen on a big pickup.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup available in multiple body styles and bed lengths. The crew cab model expands rear-seat legroom even farther, but is only available with a 5-foot-7 bed.

There are four trim levels. The base ST model (available in regular and extended cabs) comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, vinyl floor covering, air-conditioning, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, vinyl upholstery, a folding rear bench seat (extended-cab only), a tilting steering column and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player with an auxiliary audio jack. The SLT (available in all cab styles) adds 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, heated outside mirrors, carpet floor covering, cloth upholstery, cruise control, full power accessories, a power-sliding rear window, keyless entry, a trip computer and satellite radio.

The Sport (available in all cab styles) adds a larger V8, dual exhaust, a body-colored grille, 20-inch chrome wheels, foglamps, auto-dimming rear- and sideview mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, unique bucket seats and console, a touchscreen display, Bluetooth, an upgraded audio system (with CD/DVD/MP3 player, USB port, HD radio, 30GB hard drive), a 10-way power driver seat and a split-folding rear seat with under-seat storage (for crew cabs).

The standard engine on the two-wheel-drive Ram ST 1500 regular and quad cabs is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 215 hp and 235 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. Fuel economy is a meager 14 mpg city/20 highway and 16 mpg combined.

Fuel economy with 2WD is 14/20/16 mpg (4WD is 1 mpg less). Standard safety equipment on the
2011 Dodge Ram 1500 includes four-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, hill-start assist, trailer-sway control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

Interior Design and Special Features
The crew cab's rear seat is very comfortable, offering loads of legroom and an agreeable seatback angle.

The Ram provides plenty of standard and optional storage spaces.

2011 Dodge Nitro

For 2011, the Dodge Nitro gets a few new standard and optional features. Underneath the buff bod, the Nitro shares its platform with the Jeep Liberty.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 Dodge Nitro is a five-passenger SUV available in Heat, Detonator and Shock trim levels.

There is also the available Heat 4.0 package that includes a bigger V6 engine, an upgraded nine-speaker audio system and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Nitro Shock trim adds different 20-inch wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery and heated seats.

The Dodge Nitro Heat comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque.

Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available, with the latter being a part-time system with high- and low-range gearing. EPA estimates are an underwhelming 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive and 16/20/17 with four-wheel drive. In performance testing, a rear-drive Nitro with the 4.0-liter engine went from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds while a 4x4 model hit the target speed in 8.2 seconds.

Safety
The stability control includes a trailer sway control feature. Rear parking sensors are standard on the Detonator and Shock.

The
2011 Dodge Nitro has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash-testing procedures. In Edmunds brake testing, a Nitro with the optional 20-inch wheels came to a stop from 60 mph in 122 feet -- good performance for this type of vehicle.

With the rear seats folded, there are 65 cubic feet of cargo space available, about average for this class.

Driving Impressions
With its aggressive styling and macho name, you'd think that the
2011 Dodge Nitro offered vigorous power and acceleration.

2011 Dodge Journey

The 2011 Dodge Journey receives a number of significant changes, including a new, more powerful 3.6-liter V6, retuned suspension and steering, and a revamped interior featuring higher-quality materials and a new touchscreen interface.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 Dodge Journey is a midsize crossover offered in five trim levels: Express, Mainstreet, Crew, R/T and Lux.

The Crew model adds 19-inch alloy wheels, foglights, tri-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat, a fold-flat front passenger seat with built-in storage compartment, reclining 60/40-split second-row seat with fore-aft adjustment, an overhead console with conversation mirror, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote engine start, a 115-volt AC power outlet and a premium Infinity audio system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and SD card slot.

Other notable options include a sunroof, a 50/50-split third-row seat, built-in child booster seats, a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The
2011 Dodge Journey is available with a choice of two engines. The entry-level Express model gets a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 173 hp and 166 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is offered as an option. Dodge estimates fuel economy at 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for front-drive and 16/24 mpg with all-wheel drive.

Safety
For 2011, the
Dodge Journey is equipped with antilock disc brakes, stability control with a rollover sensor, traction control, active front head restraints, front-seat side airbags, a driver-side knee airbag and side curtain airbags for all three rows.

Interior Design and Special Features
Perhaps the most significant change for the
2011 Dodge Journey is the incorporation of the huge 8.4-inch touchscreen that dominates the dash of upper trim level models.

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is one such minivan. If you regularly change your minivan's interior configuration from passenger transport to cargo hauler, the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan beats the competition with Stow 'n Go seats.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The Express model is the entry-level passenger model and features a touring suspension, carpeting, tri-zone air-conditioning, a removable floor-mounted center console, second-row Stow 'n' Go bucket seats, a conversation mirror and a six-speaker audio system. The sporty R/T lies at the top of the DGC lineup with performance-tuned suspension, first- and second-row leather seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat and a premium Infiniti sound system.

Available options on select models include a power liftgate, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, running boards, a trailer tow package, rear parking and cross-traffic sensors, blind-spot monitoring, second- and third-row sunshades, a rearview camera, a navigation system with real-time traffic, Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, a nine-speaker sound system, iPod integration, a rear-seat entertainment system, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Standard safety features for the
2011 Dodge Grand Caravan include active front head restraints, driver knee airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags, antilock disc brakes, stability control and traction control. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan's interior represents a significant improvement over its predecessors. Unlike other minivans that require the removal of the middle row of seats to achieve maximum cargo capacity, the Grand Caravan benefits from its Stow 'n Go second-row seats that fold flat into the floor. Luggage space behind the rear seats is a generous 33 cubic feet. Stowing all seats opens up 143.8 cubes, comparable to other minivans.

The multiple mechanical changes make the
2011 Dodge Grand Caravan a contender.

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