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This morning, Dodge will showcase its new 2009 Dodge Ram powertrain lineup at the company’s proving grounds. Powertrain choices in all-new 2009 Dodge Ram models will offer improved fuel economy plus more power, torque and refinement than ever before.

Engines available in all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 models include the all-new, best-in-class, 390-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI, flex-fuel 4.7-liter and 3.7-liter gasoline engines. The 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty models (with current 2008 design) are available with either the 5.7-liter HEMI or the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine, which already achieves 2010 NOx emission standards, making it the cleanest and best-performing heavy-duty pickup truck in the market.

“While the all-new HEMI engine maintains the key characteristics that makes HEMI a household name in powertrains, we added new technologies, including Variable Valve Timing, that substantially improve fuel economy and refinement and maximize performance,” said Bob Lee, Vice President – Powertrain Product Engineering Team, Chrysler LLC.

“Our all-new Dodge Ram also offers best-in-class aerodynamics to go hand-in-hand with Chrysler’s fuel-saving technologies,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing and Communications, Chrysler LLC. “And, with Dodge Ram’s first-ever crew cab, first-in-segment coil-spring rear suspension, industry-first RamBox cargo management system and more than 35 new or improved features, we’re changing the game in the truck market.”

All-new 5.7-liter HEMI to Offer Best-in-class Horsepower and Torque

For 2009, Dodge offers a new generation of the famous 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 in its Ram trucks, with best-in-class horsepower and torque. The new HEMI powers the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram to best-in-class performance: the R/T regular-cab 4×2 model equipped with a short bed and 4:10 gears can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

While the all-new engine maintains many of the basic features that make “HEMI” synonymous with “power,” several technologies were added or improved:

-Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
-Expanded operating range of the fuel-saving Multiple Displacement System (MDS)
-Increased compression ratio
-Active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power
-Improved cylinder head port flow efficiency
-Reduced-restriction exhaust and induction systems

The result is improved idle quality and overall refinement, more horsepower (13 percent), more torque (8 percent) and better fuel economy (4 percent).

“The all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine will offer our customers better fuel economy, improved idle quality and overall refinement, along with more horsepower and torque,” said Lee. “HEMI has always been synonymous with power, and now – thanks to VVT, expanded four-cylinder mode in our MDS system, and a host of other technologies – Chrysler’s new HEMI delivers more fuel efficiency and refinement, along with even more power.”

The new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 delivers best-in-class 390 hp (291 kW), a 13-percent improvement, and 407 lb.-ft. (552 N•m) of torque, an 8-percent improvement, while providing an estimated improvement of 4 percent in fuel economy.

The HEMI’s new VVT improves fuel economy under some conditions in two ways. First, it reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, VVT optimizes engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

Dodge’s fuel-saving MDS system seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the new 5.7-liter HEMI engine is in demand. An expanded MDS operating range in the new-for-2009 HEMI — aided in part by the Ram’s best-in-class aerodynamics — will allow customers to realize an even-greater fuel economy benefit. When MDS is operating, it is indicated by the fuel-economy-mode readout in the 2009 Dodge Ram’s Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

Chrysler estimates that since its inception of MDS in 2005, nearly 100 million gallons of gasoline have been saved, along with reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of close to a million metric tons.

4.7-liter V-8

An available 4.7-liter V-8 delivers 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque.

The 4.7-liter V-8 shares some of the HEMI engine’s combustion technology with its twin spark plugs per cylinder. It also makes use of increased compression ratio, improved cylinder head port flow and a new slant/squish combustion system designed to optimize fuel economy, power and torque.

This engine is also compatible with E85 fuel, earning the Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) designation that provides customers the option of operating their vehicle on mixtures of gasoline and ethanol.

3.7-liter V-6

Unlike some others in the marketplace, Dodge will continue to offer customers a V-6 engine.

Standard on all-new 2009 Dodge Ram two-wheel-drive regular cab and Quad Cab models is a 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine, generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque.

Similar to the 4.7-liter and 5.7-liter V-8 engines, the 3.7-liter V-6 is equipped with Electronic Throttle Control, which provides engine torque control while compensating for changes in engine load caused by the air conditioning compressor, alternator and power steering pump.

The 3.7-liter V-6 also offers fuel economy and performance benefits from technologies including exhaust gas recirculation, compacted graphite-iron bedplate and internal balance shaft.

6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel: Cleanest on the Market

The Dodge Ram Heavy Duty’s 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine already meets 2010 truck emissions standards in all 50 states, making the 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty the cleanest diesel truck available on the market today.

The inline six-cylinder turbodiesel engine uses a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to virtually eliminate particulate matter emissions and an adsorber catalyst to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by as much as 90 percent.

In addition to the NOx adsorber and the DPF, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine includes other technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce unburned hydrocarbons:

A cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system combines with a uniquely designed piston combustion bowl and a high-flow, electronically controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT™), matching boost pressure with the engine’s performance needs to reduce emissions and improve drivability
Within the exhaust system, a self-cleaning DPF and an oxidation catalyst reduces particulate matter by a factor of 10. The emissions system is designed for a government-certified 120,000 miles
A closed crankcase ventilation system eliminates crankcase fumes and oil carry-over, a common process with past diesels

As durable as it is powerful, the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel has life-to-major overhaul intervals of 350,000 miles, providing more than a 100,000-mile advantage over the competition.

All-new Light-duty Cummins Turbodiesel

Dodge will introduce an all-new Cummins turbodiesel engine in its light-duty pickup trucks after 2009.

The new engine will provide a dramatic increase in low-end torque, up to a 25-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 20-percent reduction in carbon dioxide (C02) emissions when compared to an equivalent gasoline engine.

With new, clean, quiet diesel technology, the new diesel engine will meet 50-state emissions standards for 2010.

All-new Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid, available after 2009, will be the latest addition to Chrysler LLC’s fuel-efficient lineup, joining clean diesel, HEMI and flex-fuel vehicles.

Combining Chrysler’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) and two-mode hybrid technology to greatly improve fuel economy, the 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid V-8 offers performance and efficiency with up to 40 percent fuel economy improvement in the city and 25 percent overall. The two-mode hybrid system is currently being introduced in the company’s 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid and 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid.

The two-mode hybrid system uses electric motors to allow the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often, improving fuel economy.

In the first mode – at low speeds and with light loads – the vehicle may operate on electric power only, on engine power only, or any combination of the two. The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid may operate in electric-only mode during slow starts (city driving) up to 25 mph, further conserving fuel and reducing emissions. In addition, the HEMI V-8 can shut down when the vehicle comes to a stop or during deceleration, to conserve fuel and then seamlessly restart when power is necessary.

The second mode, used primarily at highway speeds, augments electric assist with full power from the 5.7-liter HEMI when conditions demand it.

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid also features regenerative braking, which recycles electric energy that would normally be lost during braking or deceleration. This energy is reused to power the vehicle.

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid will also benefit from Dodge Ram’s best-in-class aerodynamics, which allows a greater operating range of MDS.

2008 Chrysler Town Country and Dodge Grand Caravan get IIHS Top Safety Rating
DUB Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger Special Edition

If you have ever dreamed of owning an all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger, this is your chance.

Dodge, in collaboration with MSN Autos, is launching the Dream Design Drive Car Challenge on Wednesday, June 25, 2008. By registering on www.dreamcarchallenge.com, consumers can customize their dream Dodge Challenger using the options available on the site, including paint colors, wheels and striping packages. One lucky person will win a Dodge Challenger customized to his/her specifications. In addition, another winner will receive a Dodge Challenger R/T.

“Challenger is one of the best known nameplates at Dodge with an image and reputation that has carried it for more than 35 years,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand Marketing. “We are so excited to be part of this contest with MSN Autos because it offers generations of driving enthusiasts a chance to be involved in the return of this iconic muscle car and possibly to win the Challenger of their dreams.”

Each customized Dodge Challenger entry submitted through Aug. 25, 2008, that meets the official rules and contest criteria, will be posted on in the virtual showroom on www.dreamcarchallenge.com for public voting. There will be three levels of prizes awarded – the “People’s Choice Award,” the Grand Prize and a weekly sweepstakes.

In the “People’s Choice” category, the entry that receives the most ratings as determined by the public will receive an all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T.

At the end of the promotion, the top 1000 entries determined by public voting will be judged by a panel of experts, including representatives of Dodge, to determine one grand prize winner. The entries will be judged based on the following criteria: 1) Dream Impact — the overall creative and emotional impact of the ‘Dream Car’ entry; 2) Theme — the coherence of all the customization and personalization elements of created ‘Dream Car’ entry title or theme; and 3) Uniqueness — the extent to which all customization and personalization options available to an entrant were employed to create a distinct and unique ‘Dream Car’ entry. The grand prize winner will receive a 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T, customized as close to the winner’s entry as possible.

From all entries and votes received, random sweepstakes drawings will be held weekly for prizes such as Microsoft Zunes, 12-month Xbox Live Gold memberships and additional giveaways.

The promotion is open in the U.S. only. All participants must be 18 years or older and hold a valid driver’s license at the time of entry. Complete rules can be viewed at www.dreamcarchallenge.com.

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Production Started
Dodge Challenger SRT8 Pricing Announced
2009 Dodge Challenger Pricing Announced

Dodge announced pricing today for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger. The U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) will start at $21,995, which includes $675 for destination. Dodge dealers across the country are now taking orders for the 2009 Dodge Challenger, which will arrive this fall.

“The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger gives customers a modern-day muscle machine at an incredible value,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. “For less than $22,000, we’ve brought Dodge Challenger back and loaded it with head-snapping styling and cutting-edge technology.”

The Dodge Challenger is the first five-passenger two-door coupe produced from the Company’s proven rear-wheel-drive platform that delivers the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. Developed with Dodge’s credo of “bold, powerful and capable,” the 2009 Dodge Challenger is available in three models featuring head-turning styling, three available engine options and an automatic or manual transmission.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger has several modern amenities available including uconnect gps with navigation system and real-time traffic, uconnect phone featuring Bluetooth® technology, uconnect studios with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, Remote Start and Keyless Go push-button start. In addition, the Dodge Challenger has more than 25 safety and security features including supplemental side-curtain air bags, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, Traction Control, automatic headlamps, tire pressure monitoring and Hill-Start Assist in Dodge Challengers with the six-speed manual transmission.

Three models are available in the United States: Dodge Challenger SE, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SRT8®.

2009 Dodge Challenger SE

With a U.S. MSRP of $21,995 (including $675 destination), the Dodge Challenger SE comes standard with a 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine which produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 250 lb.-ft. (339 N•m) of torque. Mated with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Dodge Challenger SE achieves an estimated 18 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Other standard features on Dodge Challenger SE include comfortable seating for up to five adults, best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.), 60/40 split-folding rear bench with arm rests and two cup holders, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/65R17 all-season tires, four-wheel disc brakes, side-curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver’s seat, fold-away power mirrors, power locks and windows with express-down, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 capability and four speakers, cloth low-back bucket seats, manual-tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-covered visor vanity mirrors and tire pressure warning lamp.

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

The U.S. MSRP for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is $29,995. Featuring the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, the Dodge Challenger R/T produces an estimated 370 horsepower (276 kW) and 398 lb.-ft. (540 N•m) of torque when paired with the standard five-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine with five-speed automatic transmission is equipped with fuel-saving multi-displacement (MDS) technology which increases fuel economy by as much as 20 percent without sacrificing performance.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T include dual chromed rectangular exhaust tips, ABS, ESP, Brake Assist with vented brakes, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels with P225/60HR18 all-season touring tires, fog lamps, body-color exterior mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, rear body-color spoiler and cast-metal fuel door.

The available Track Pak features the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with “pistol-grip” shifter for $995. When the six-speed manual transmission is paired with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, it produces an estimated 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 404 lb.-ft. (548 N•m) of torque. The Track Pak also includes Hill-start Assist, limited-slip differential, bright pedal covers and performance steering.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

The U.S. MSRP for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is $39,995 (including $675 destination). The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers an available six-speed manual transmission or standard five-speed automatic transmission mated to the SRT-exclusive 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 N•m) of torque. New for 2009 is a standard limited-slip differential, High Performance Red and B5 Blue (late availability) exterior paint and black hood stripes. A classic “pistol-grip” shifter is included with the available Track Pak which includes the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with Hill-start Assist.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a race-inspired interior featuring performance seats with a red accent stripe and added bolstering which keeps customers in place under spirited driving conditions, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, “Performance Pages” reconfigurable display that features 0 – 60 mph, 1/4 mile, and 1/8 mile times, uconnect gps, unique SRT-tuned ESP and ABS calibrations, 20-inch fully-forged aluminum wheels, red, painted Brembo brakes, hood with functional dual hood scoops, functional black painted rear spoiler and a unique exhaust note.

Street and Racing Technology (SRT) is Chrysler’s in-house performance engineering organization that focuses on five pillars for every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Production Started
Dodge Challenger SRT8 Pricing Announced

Chrysler Celebrates Production of All-New 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

-Highly anticipated 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® production begins at Brampton Assembly Plant
-Employees, guests join Chrysler executive Vice President Frank Ewasyshyn for festivities
-Manufacturing expertise contributes to product quality
-Modern muscle car offers best of past, present

Chrysler LLC today celebrated the production launch of one of the industry’s most highly anticipated vehicles—the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®. Dodge Challenger is back in Chrysler’s line-up as a modern muscle car with a new SRT8 model. A full line-up will follow in the 2009 model-year. Consumer interest in the Dodge Challenger has been some of the highest seen at Chrysler.

The all-new Dodge Challenger is built at Chrysler’s Brampton Assembly Plant on the same assembly line as the Dodge Charger and the award-winning Chrysler 300.

“Even though the development time for this Dodge Challenger SRT8 is one of the shortest in Chrysler’s history, the wait for this exciting car has been too long, and as of today, the wait is finally over!” said Frank Ewasyshyn, Executive Vice President – Manufacturing. “Dodge Challenger represents the best of Chrysler’s past and future. The teams that worked to bring this vehicle to market with quality and speed have done an excellent job.”

Nearly 1,000 employees and invited guests joined Mr. Ewasyshyn for the celebration.

Quality Manufacturing
To ensure quality targets were met and to foster a smooth manufacturing launch, a team of Brampton employees spent months helping to build pilot vehicles at Chrysler’s Auburn Hills Technology Center. Then, early pre-production models were built on the Brampton assembly line—rather than a pilot facility—which allowed engineers to more realistically test the production process.

“The vision of rolling launches on lines that build multiple and variant models is becoming a reality as demonstrated with the Dodge Challenger at the Brampton Assembly Plant,” said Fred Godetel, Vice President – Car and Minivan Manufacturing. “Chrysler’s Flexible Manufacturing Strategy, little more than a theory a few years ago, is being proved out at plants across North America.”

The Brampton Assembly Plant features Chrysler’s Flexible Manufacturing Strategy which provides for the production of higher quality products at lower cost. This unique system combines off-the-shelf robotics with customized and interchangeable tooling to build a variety of products on a single assembly line. This manufacturing expertise also allows the Company to more quickly and easily balance vehicle production with customer demand.

Dodge Challenger
The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger combines unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger with world-class performance. Approximately 7,000 2008 model-year vehicles for North American markets will be produced before 2009 model-year vehicles begin production in August. For 2009, the Company will offer three models: Dodge Challenger SE, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SRT8.

Dodge dealers have seen a tremendous interest in the Dodge Challenger and 2008 models are already sold out.

Although the original Dodge Challenger muscle car lasted only five model years, the Dodge Challenger became one of the most storied muscle car nameplates in automotive history, with meticulously restored and rare examples today selling for six-figure prices.

The U.S. MSRP for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 starts at $37,995, including the $675 destination charge.

 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Revealed

First Production Dodge Challenger up for Bid

Dodge Challenger SRT8 Pricing Announced

The Dodge brand is making strides in one of the fastest growing markets in the world with the introduction of the Dodge Journey at Auto China 2008. The Journey, locally named JCUV, continues the aggressive Dodge product offensive in China, by joining ranks with Dodge Avenger, Caliber and Caravan.

The Dodge Journey offers to the Chinese market a unique combination of bold and powerful Dodge design, sporty performance, versatility and flexibility, appealing to customers that need practicality in a “cool” and unique crossover package.

“We are very pleased with our recent growth in China and, with the introduction of vehicles with global appeal like the all-new Dodge Journey, we expect our momentum in the market to continue,” said Michael Manley, Executive Vice President – International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler LLC. “Dodge JCUV, as we will call it in China, will allow us to appeal to a new set of customers here that want the flexibility and versatility of a minivan combined with the performance and fuel efficiency of a passenger car.”

The Dodge Journey will offer best-in-class power, torque and safety systems, in addition to smart features with a MyGIG™ infotainment system, optional rear-seat entertainment system and 19-inch wheels with tire pressure monitoring.

Clever, flexible seating and storage combinations abound with 5+2 seating. Spacious storage bins are hidden in the floor and under the front passenger seat cushion, and the front passenger seat, second-row and third-row seats can all fold flat.

Chrysler LLC intends to introduce the Dodge Journey in China in 2009.

Other highlights at Auto China 2008 include the Asian premieres of the Dodge ZEO and Jeep® Renegade concept vehicles. These two advanced technology concepts first debuted in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Additionally, the legendary Jeep Wrangler will now join the line-up in China, as the Company announces that sales will begin in April in this fast-growing market.

“With Jeep Wrangler, the Chrysler LLC product portfolio in China now encompasses twelve models—up from just two models offered in 2004. Also, we now produce four vehicles in China, for China,” said Phil Murtaugh, Chief Executive Officer – Asia Operations. “This product offensive, together with an expanded and strengthened dealer network, is allowing us to continue our sustainable profitable growth in this critical market for our Company.”

Chrysler LLC sales in China more than doubled during the first quarter of 2008 (4,839 units), the greatest percent increase of any volume market in the world for the Company. Much of this growth can be attributed to incremental sales of the locally produced Chrysler Sebring, which accounted for 22 percent of the market’s first-quarter sales. Sales in the Asia Pacific region are up 45 percent for the quarter versus last year.

The Chrysler LLC product portfolio in China now includes:

-Chrysler: 300C sedan, Grand Voyager, PT Cruiser sedan, Sebring sedan
-Dodge: Avenger, Caliber, Caravan
-Jeep: Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited
Four of these vehicles are built locally in China. The Chrysler 300C and Sebring are produced at BeijingBenz-DaimlerChrysler Automotive Ltd. (BBDC) in Beijing. The Chrysler Grand Voyager and Dodge Caravan are produced at Southeast Motor (SEM) in Fuzhou.

The kick-off for the FIA GT1 Championship 2008, comprising nine races in Europe and one in Argentina, is in Silverstone (GB) on April 19 and 20. This race series promises to be a major hit, with a full grid of stunning sports cars. One of the contenders is Phoenix Carsport Racing, a German-Dutch-Swiss team that will enter two Corvette C6.R cars for the Championship. Both Corvettes are ex-GM Racing cars, very successful earlier in the American Le Mans Series and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Their factory provenance is recognizable in the livery of the cars: besides a purposeful race body, the ‘European’ Corvettes also feature the new colour scheme of main sponsor GMAC.

A few weeks ago Phoenix Carsport Racing tested both cars for the first time, during official FIA GT tests conducted on the Monza circuit. The Dutch-Italian team with Mike Hezemans/Fabrizio Gollin and the all-Swiss team with Jean Denis Déletraz/Marcel Fässler did well, although they had to make do with ‘old’ engines. Mike Hezemans: “The new engines are being prepared by Pratt & Miller in the United States. The engines will arrive within a couple of days and will be installed by Phoenix in Germany. We will then do some functional testing on the Nürburgring and after that the countdown for the Silverstone race begins…”

Hezemans, with eleven pole positions, eleven victories and 33 podium finishes one of the most successful drivers in the FIA GT Championship, is optimistic about the chances of the Corvette team, yet stresses that “the competition from Aston Martin and Maserati is fierce. Our target is to win the Championship, for Teams as well as Constructors, and of course I would love to take the drivers’ title myself.”

Last year, the Dutchman won the 24-Hours race of Spa-Francorchamps with a Corvette, but in the end remained a few championship points short of clenching the FIA GT1 title. “The championship is our goal now. Nothing but the title.”

Thanks to its highly distinctive design the Dodge Nitro has established a strong presence in the hard-fought SUV market. Cobra Technology & Lifestyle now offers high-quality German-made accessories for this model that meet the latest EU safety standards.

The Cobra Technology & Lifestyle engineers have developed a high-gloss stainless-steel tubular front guard for the American SUV that harmonizes visually with the chrome grille. The 60-millimeter guard is mounted elastically and absorbs energy in a crash. The required crash test for homologation showed the innovative accessory to remain well below the limits set by the new EU guidelines for pedestrian protection. The accessory was awarded a general EG operating certificate, eliminating the need for individual technical inspections. For further optimized active safety the guard comes with mounts for auxiliary high-beam headlights.

The Nitro can be additionally or alternatively upgraded with the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle bumper grate made from high-gloss stainless steel.

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle stainless-steel rocker panel guards are another good-looking and functional option. They protect the sides against accident damage and facilitate entering and exiting of the vehicle thanks to their integrated steps.

The exceptionally high quality of all Cobra Technology & Lifestyle components is evidenced by a comprehensive 24-month warranty with unlimited miles.

The Nitro is the newest star from the States. A rough character with ragged edges – perfect for putting on a show in town. For those seeking power to match its macho appearance, O.CT Tuning of Austria is pleased to offer a power upgrade for the SUV.

Via IPRO, O.CT Tuning reprograms the engine control module over the internet and connects to the OBD port. The entire process contains six steps and takes only 30 minutes. The Nitro’s output rises from 130 kW (177 hp) to 148 kW (202 hp). Maximum torque is increased as well, rising from 460 to 505 Newtonmeters providing massive thrust bewteen 1750 and 2500 rpm.

The results are impressive. The Nitro rockets to 100 km/h (62 miles per hour) in just 9,9 seconds versus 11,4 for the stock vehicle. The gap continues to grow up to 160 km/h (100 miles per hour), a speed the O.CT Nitro reaches in 26,5 seconds – a whopping nine seconds quicker than the standard Nitro 2.8 CRD. That translates into a 72 carlenghts lead in a head to head race.

The O.CT Nitro continues on to a top speed of 193 km/h (120 miles per hour), eclipsing the standard car by 11 km/h without sacrificing fragality in terms of fuel consumption, which remains comparable to the stock Nitro 2.8 CRD.

Of course, O.CT also offers proven and thoroughly tested IPRO power upgrades for many other Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

-Iconic Dodge muscle car returns after a 35-year absence
-Design stays true to Challenger heritage while delivering a host of modern amenities and “race inspired, street legal” SRT DNA
-Powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque
-Each 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features limited-edition, numbered dash plaque

The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger brings what pony car fanatics crave: ground shaking performance, unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger, world-class ride and handling characteristics and benchmark braking. On top of that it features a wide variety of modern amenities and technology designed to delight a new generation of driving enthusiasts.

“The all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8 is engineered to give customers everything they want in a modern muscle machine,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. “The new version of Dodge’s American classic boasts tire-smoking performance and head-turning design while offering a wide array of state-of-the-art technology, such as GPS navigation, ‘Keyless Go’ entry, a MyGIG™ infotainment system and UConnect hands-free communication.”

Developed by Chrysler’s in-house performance engineering organization, the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was engineered with a focus on the five pillars of every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.

Dodge will offer the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in three colors: HEMI® Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat. Each two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe will be produced with a numbered dash plaque, carbon fiberlike hood stripes and will be powered by SRT’s 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.

With a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,995 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms this spring.

The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 vehicles will be manufactured at Chrysler’s Brampton, Ontario, Canada assembly plant.

Performance targets for the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a 0–60 mph time in the low 5-second range, 0–100–0 mph in less than 17 seconds, a ¼-mile elapsed time of less than 14 seconds, 60–0 mph braking distance of approximately 100 feet, and a skid pad performance of 0.88 g.