2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible officially released

Chrysler has introduced the new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible following an inglorious photo leak last week.

The new model is a big change from its predecessor, the Sebring. It comes with a new styling by means of revised bumpers, headlights, grille and LED taillights. The car still features a choice of a folding metal roof or a cloth soft top.

Changes have also been made to the inside with a new steering wheel, instrument cluster, soft-touch armrests and touches of silver-color plastic trim. Cabin technology includes SIRIUS satellite radio, a HDD/CD/DVD/MP3 radio with 30 gigabytes as well as the real-time information function SIRIUS Travel Link.

But the changes aren't all cosmetic. Chrysler has completely retuned the 200's suspension and promises much improved ride and handling.



The 200 Convertible will be powered by either a 2.4 liter with 173 hp (129 kW / 175 PS) and 166 lb-ft (225 Nm) of torque or the range-topping 3.6 liter V6 good for 283 hp (211 kW / 287 PS) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. Both power plants are coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The model will be sold in three equipment levels in the U.S. market - Touring, Limited and later the S variant.
Source: Chrysler

Hybrids have been a mixed bag at Chrylser (remember the short-lived Durango and Aspen hybrids or the on-again-off-again Ram hybrid?), but a new report from Automotive News indicates that a gasoline-electric drivetrain is back on the table for the Pentastar automaker.

During this year's Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne reportedly confirmed that hybrid power will be making its way under the hood of the updated 2011 Chrysler 300. This hybrid powertrain is expected to be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and is earmarked for roll-out in 2013.



Hybrids are slowly becoming more and more popular amongst luxury automakers. Lexus already has an electrified version of its GS sedan – the GS 450h – and both Audi and BMW are working to bring hybrids to market in the mid-range luxury segment, too, via the 5 Series ActiveHybrid and A6 Hybrid.

Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger by DUB

Chrysler has called in the help of tuning experts DUB Magazine to create two limited edition models, one for the Chrysler 300 Touring and one for the Dodge Charger SXT. Both cars will go on sale later this spring with an MSRP of USD 33,140 for the 300 Touring and USD 30,235 for the Charger.

Both DUB Editions receive more than their fair share of chrome exterior details like mirror caps, MOPAR honeycomb grille and door handles. Under the hood both cars use a 250-horsepower 3.5 liter V6 engine hooked up to a five speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick feature. Chrysler has also fitted a performance tuned suspension. Of course DUB logos are found throughout the car, both inside and outside.

The limited edition models both feature leather-trimmed seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 13-speaker KICKER audio system and a MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System. The cars sit on 20-inch aluminum wheels with 245/45R20 all-season performance tires.

"The Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 are hot vehicles to begin with. Once people see the 20-inch wheels and listen to the 13-speaker KICKER surround-sound system, they'll feel like they're in a show car, but with a factory-backed warranty," said DUB's President and Co-Founder, Myles Kovacs.

Press release:

The 2008 “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT models have made their debut at the Atlanta Auto Show. These special “DUB Edition” vehicles may be ordered today at Chrysler and Dodge dealers and will arrive later this spring.

“We know our customers are passionate about their vehicles, so partnering with automotive industry lifestyle gurus at DUB Magazine enables us to offer special-edition vehicles like these through our dealerships,” said Deborah Meyer – Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Chrysler LLC. “Loaded with unique interior and exterior features or ‘bling,’ the ‘DUB Edition’ Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT models make a bold statement.”

Chrome accents complement the intrepid exterior styling of the 2008 “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT vehicles, including chrome mirror caps—a first on a Dodge vehicle—and a MOPAR® chrome honeycomb grille. The “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring models also feature chrome exterior door handles and side mirror caps. Special “DUB Edition” badges appear in three locations on the exterior of the vehicle: the deck lid and the passenger- and driver-side front doors. In addition, each 2008 “DUB Edition” Dodge Charger SXT also features a body-color spoiler and fog lamps.

Both models are powered by a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick. All 2008 “DUB Edition” models feature a performance-tuned suspension as well as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Brake Assist. Both models are equipped with 20-inch aluminum wheels with 245/45R20 all-season performance tires.

“DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT models are available in Inferno Red, Brilliant Black, Bright Silver and Cool Vanilla. The “DUB Edition” Dodge Charger SXT is also available in Dark Titanium.

"Working on a special edition production vehicle with Chrysler and Dodge is a great opportunity for the DUB brand,” said DUB's President and Co-Founder, Myles Kovacs. "The Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 are hot vehicles to begin with. Once people see the 20-inch wheels and listen to the 13-speaker KICKER surround-sound system, they'll feel like they're in a show car, but with a factory-backed warranty."

Inside, the Dark Slate Gray interior of the 2008 “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT models features leather-trimmed seats, embossed with the notable DUB logo. Premium-weight floor mats are also embossed with the DUB logo. The “DUB Edition” Dodge Charger SXT also features a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob.

A MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System with AM/FM/CD/DVD/HDD/MP3 radio in both models provides cutting-edge entertainment technology. In addition, the 13-speaker KICKER surround-sound system with a 322-watt KICKER amplifier provides excellent sound quality. The “DUB Edition” Dodge Charger SXT also features a 200-watt KICKER subwoofer and the “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring features a 100-watt KICKER subwoofer.
The limited production run of the 2008 “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT includes 1,385 Chrysler models and 2,180 Dodge models for the U.S. Both models will be built at Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario. Production begins next month and Chrysler and Dodge dealers are now taking orders. MSRP for the 2008 “DUB Edition” Chrysler 300 Touring is $33,140, which includes destination. MSRP for the 2008 “DUB Edition” Dodge Charger SXT is $30,235, which includes destination.

Chrysler LLC's New (Old) Logo

Chrysler is deep in the process of rebuilding itself from the recent break-up with DCX. Under a new management by Cerberus Capital Management, the new Chrysler brings in former CEO of Home Depot, a new name (Daimler-Chrysler to Chrysler LLC), and a new logo. Hopefully, we'll see some competitive offerings in the bunch as well.

Regarding the logo, all we can say is: the pentastar is back. Defunct since the 1980's, Chrysler brought back the famous pentastar design for its new logo. It has its share of cons as well as the pros. For example, how would the pentastar look on the Chrysler 300? Fortunately, the new logo will be utilized in advertising and promotional uses only.

[Source: Chrysler]

Off and On: Chrysler and Chery resumes discussion, Hornet confirmed

Chrysler and Chery have resumed discussions for a possible co-operation for building subcompact cars in China for the US. Chery stated that their hiatus in this deal was to get a better look on the Americans' future. Cerberus has taken over Chrysler and they're back in the talks.

According to Automotive News, an official at Chery leaked the word that Chery will build two cars for Chrysler. One model would be destined for low-end markets such as South America and sources say it could be the Chery A1. The other car is stated to be the Hornet, which will be based on the Hornet Concept. The Hornet will be both engineered and built in China as soon as 2010.

[Source: Autoblog]

Almost Official: Cerberus most likely to be new Chrysler buyer

Many conflicting reports are emerging on the web regarding Chrysler's new and unexpected owner. Cerberus Capital Management, a private equity firm headed by Kerkorian, is likely to be the winning bidder. The Detroit News is reporting that the firm has been already chosen as the new owner, whilst Reuters and The Wall Street Journal doesn't confirm. The final decision will be announced on Monday.

Daimler-Chrysler put the Chrysler brand up for bids quoting that "the brand is out for all options." In February, Chrysler reported a $1.5 billion loss and a restructuring plan that would cost 13,000 jobs.

Reports suggest Tom LaSorda, current chief of Chrysler, is likely staying and Wolfgang Bernhard will also find himself a board position. David Cole, chairman for the Center of Automotive Research stated that a private-equity buyer is the "worst nightmare" for the UAW.

[Source: Motor Authority via The Wall Street Journal]

Chrysler introduces Aspen Two-Mode Hybrid

Daimler-Chrysler quietly introduced the two-mode hybrid variant of its Aspen SUV today. It will join the Durango Two-Mode Hybrid, the sister car of the Aspen, early next year when it goes on sale. Both the Durango and the Aspen Hybrid will be powered by a two-mode hybrid system coupled with the 5.7L HEMI V8.

To add more fuel efficiency, the HEMI for both models will be equipped with variable cylinder deactivation, which turns off four of the eight cylinders when used for light load conditions. It is claimed that it improves gas mileage by twenty-five percent overall and up to fourty percent in city driving. The hybrid system is a co-operation between DCX, GM, and BMW.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

Continued- Official press release

PRESS RELEASE:

Aspen Joins Chrysler Group Hybrid Lineup And Yeah, It's Gotta HEMI®!

• Chrysler Aspen Hybrid joins Dodge Durango Hybrid in 2008
• Vehicles feature 5.7-liter HEMI® Hybrid with Multi-displacement System (MDS)
• HEMI Hybrid delivers more than 25-percent fuel economy improvement
• Full-size SUVs to boast nearly 40-percent mpg improvement in the city
• Chrysler Group's advanced hybrid system leapfrogs traditional hybrid design

Auburn Hills, Mich. - That new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid gotta HEMI®?
Yes, it does – as does the new Dodge Durango Hybrid. Both vehicles, powered by Chrysler Group's all-new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid powertrain, debut next year as the first volume-production hybrid offerings from the Chrysler Group and the first vehicles to feature DaimlerChrysler's advanced two-mode hybrid technology.

"The all-new Chrysler Group HEMI Hybrid will offer our customers the best of both worlds: renowned performance and significantly improved fuel economy," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler Group. "With the new HEMI-powered Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, we are delivering the ultimate combination of fuel efficiency, overall performance and capability in a premium full-size SUV."

The new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid is expected to deliver an overall fuel economy improvement of more than
25 percent, including an improvement of nearly 40 percent in the city.

The HEMI powerplant, in hybrid form, will continue to feature Chrysler Group's Multi-displacement System (MDS), which allows the engine to seamlessly alternate between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. For the fifth year in a row - and every year since its 2003 re-introduction - Chrysler Group's famous 5.7-liter HEMI engine has earned a place on Ward's 10 Best Engines list.

The new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles represent a bold change in what is generally a "me too" category. Chrysler Group's full-size hybrid vehicles will deliver seamless dependable power on demand in an efficient package. With an electrically variable transmission (featuring two electric motors), two full hybrid modes of operation, and four fixed mechanical gear ratios, the drive system improves fuel economy around town and at highway speeds.

Chrysler Aspen

Boasting elegant Chrysler styling, unsurpassed capability and performance and abundant premium amenities, the Chrysler Aspen is a premium SUV that is a value alternative to luxury-priced competitors. Offering more for less, Aspen features numerous premium features, elegant Chrysler design, 30 safety features and best-in-class horsepower, torque and interior room.

Two-mode Hybrid

Chrysler Group's two-mode hybrid powertrain - jointly developed by DaimlerChrysler, General Motors and the BMW Group - represents a major automotive industry milestone due to the unprecedented fully integrated combination of electric motors with a fixed-gear transmission.

As a result of the low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes, the system is commonly referred to as the two-mode hybrid. However, the sophisticated fuel-saving system also incorporates four fixed gear ratios for high efficiency and power-handling capabilities in a broad variety of vehicle applications. The new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles can be powered either by the electric motors or by the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine – or a combination of the two. During the two ECVT modes and four fixed-gear operations, the hybrid system can use the electric motors for boosting and/or regenerative braking. When full power is needed, the system automatically adjusts for passing, driving steep grades or hauling a trailer. The result is trend-setting hybrid technology that provides superior fuel economy, performance and load-carrying capability.

Joint Development Center

Located in Troy, Mich., the DaimlerChrysler, GM and BMW Hybrid Development Center jointly developed the overall modular two-mode hybrid system and the individual components: electric motors, transmission, high-voltage battery, high-performance electronics, wiring, safety systems, energy management and hybrid system control units. In addition, the Hybrid Development Center is responsible for system integration and project management.

Chrysler Group Advanced Propulsion Technology

Hybrid technology is one part of Chrysler Group's advanced propulsion technology umbrella, which also includes efficient gasoline engines, advanced clean-diesel technology, and ethanol flex-fuel and zero-emission fuel cell vehicles. DaimlerChrysler is the only automaker building plug-in hybrids and testing them with customers in the United States.

Chrysler considers reviving the Cuda

Despite the rising cost of fuel, genuine muscle cars are as popular as ever it seems with new versions of the Ford Mustang, Chrysler 300C SRT-8, Pontiac GTO and Chevy Camaro all scheduled to hit showrooms in the not too distant future. Now, The Detroit News is reporting that Chrysler could be considering creating a new Barracuda based on its upcoming Dodge Challenger, with none other than hot-rod legend Chip Foose dropping the suggestion at the recent New York Auto Show.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article

As most of you would know, the original Cuda was sold as a Plymouth but since that brand has gone the way of the dodo, any new model would be sold wearing Chrysler badges. Some of the features of the original model would carry over such as the signature ’72 six-aperture grille, shaker hood and low driving lights.

Bringing the car to market would not be a difficult task for Chrysler when you consider that most of the car’s internals would be shared with the Challenger. But marketing it right and keeping with the essence of the original will be a much tougher task to complete. General Motors made that mistake when it sold the rebadged Holden Monaro as a Pontiac GTO. The General had a tough time selling the few imported vehicles it brought over, and a similar occurrence could easily happen to Chrysler.

Chrysler Sebring Convertible priced from $25,740

Chrysler has released pricing information on the soft-top version of the new Sebring convertible, and prices have actually dropped from last year's model. You can get a four-cylinder model for $25,470, which is about $700 less than the outgoing model. Add a V6 engine and the price comes to $28,070 and when you tick the boxes for 18-inch wheels and a premium sound system, the price gets a bit high at $31,670. While we like the price of entry for the new convertible, we got a bit worried when there was no mention of the 3.5L V6 model, equipped with the hard-top option. A $35k+ Sebring of any kind would be a very hard pill to swallow.

[Source: Autoblog via Kicking Tires]

Continued- Article

The last-generation Chrysler Sebring may have been described by many as "lame," but when you took off the roof, you had a convertible that was mildly attractive and relatively affordable. The new Sebring, although questionably styled, is likely better than the outgoing model, but again, the all-new convertible version is much, much cooler than its fixed-roof sibling. Plus, you can choose between a soft-top and hard-top.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/20/chrysler-sebring-convertible-pricing-announced/

Not all the Germans want to dump Chrysler

Some German DaimlerChrysler shareholders may be moving to rename the company back to Daimler-Benz, but not everyone from the Stuttgart side is ready to abandon Chrysler yet. Helmut Lense is one of the union representatives on the company Supervisory Board, the equivalent of a US board of directors. Lense spoke to the Detroit News and indicated that the employee representatives on the board would oppose any selloff that resulted in the dismantling of the Chrysler Group. If a sale must be made, then he would prefer to see another manufacturing company buy the group as opposed to a private equity fund like the Blackstone Group.

[Source: Autoblog via Detroit News]

Continued- Article

Currently, DaimlerChrysler management is in talks with manufacturers like General Motors and supplier Magna International in addition to equity funds Blackstone and Cerberus Capital. Lense feels that a big part of Chrysler's difficulty is an over-reliance on truck sales, which have been particularly hard-hit the past two years. He feels that a revamp of Chrysler's passenger car lineup is what's really needed. As GM has learned in the last few years, cuts can only take you so far, without revenue you can't be consistently profitable. The key to revenue in the auto industry is creating a string of products people actually want to pay for, and that has been Chrysler's real downfall.

While selling to a manufacturer with experience running a large industrial company might be preferable, finding one that is a good fit without significant overlap in product won't be easy. That's why Lense doesn't see GM as a good buyer. For Chrysler to be successful in the long run, the best option could be for Daimler to keep them and make a commitment to the company. They should then follow GM's pattern and design some desirable small and mid-sized models that will appeal to drivers. For that to work, Daimler must be willing to commit to sharing resources with the Auburn Hills group, and perhaps let Chrysler market vehicles like the A and B-Class. Mercedes could then re-focus on more premium vehicles. This would help reduce the brand dilution that Mercedes has experienced, while giving Chrysler a more well rounded lineup. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem likely to happen.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/18/not-all-the-germans-want-to-dump-chrysler/

Hyundai: "We are not interested in Chrysler"

This past weekend we saw several reports announcing Hyundai’s interest in joining possible bidders for the Chrysler Group. Hyundai’s response was immediate. The Korean Group’s spokesperson Jake Jang told Associated Press today, "We are not considering to buy Chrysler because our hands are full", putting all rumours to an end. To be honest I found Hyundai’s interest too far fetched.

But Hyundai isn’t the only Group who’s been reported to be interested in Chrysler. GM is another hypothetical candidate. Yes GM, the firm that has a million or so problems to solve on its own wants to buy Chrysler, a competitive company that’s in the same or probably even worse situation.

Apart from the fact that there’s no logic whatsoever for a move of this scale, GM couldn’t even come to an understanding with the Renault-Nissan Group let alone with Chrysler.

[Source: CARSCOOP]

Follow the jump to continue reading the story.

Talking about the Renault-Nissan Group, and if and I repeat "if", DaimlerChrysler is seriously searching for someone to “dump” Chrysler and it’s not some sort of tactic to push forward a "hands-down" restructuring plan, I’d say that a scenario concerning an alliance between the American and French-Japanese Groups sounds quiet sane to me. What do you think?

Humour of the Day: Fake Chrysler Voyager ad

The Voyager minivan's, Town & Country in North America, crash test results from EuroNCAP were released recently. The rich man's van received a meagre rating of 2 stars.

For soccer moms who have safety in mind, this one has to be checked off the list. A fake advertisement spoof was posted on GMInsideNews and it just HAD to be posted here for our Humour of the Day feature.

[Source: GMInsideNews]