Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Care for anti-lock brakes

An anti-lock brake system is sensitive to moisture, which can ruin the expensive ABS pump and rot the brake lines from the inside. Since brake fluid attracts moisture, it should be “bled” or purged at least every three years, or as specified in your owner’s manual.

Maintenance Tip courtesy of Reader's Digest.

Video: Dart Interior Design

Video courtesy of Dodge's Youtube channel.

Reminder: As low as 0% APR financing for up to 36 months on a 2012 Wrangler Sport!

As low as 0% APR financing for up to 36 months on a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport!

For well-qualified buyers. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest rates. Must receive financing through Ally. Example down payment is 10%. Monthly charge is per $1,000 financed - see table below. This rate is for estimation purposes only. You may not be able to finance your vehicle at this rate. See dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by 04/30/2012.

APR RATE 36 Months 48 Months 60 Months 72 Months

0.0% $27.78 $20.83 $16.67 $13.89

1.9% $28.60 $21.65 $17.48 $14.71

2.9% $29.04 $22.09 $17.92 $15.15

3.9% $29.48 $22.53 $18.37 $15.60

4.9% $29.93 $22.98 $18.83 $16.06

5.9% $30.38 $23.44 $19.29 $16.53

6.9% $30.83 $23.90 $19.75 $17.00

Call us at (888) 557-8726 to speak to a sales consultant today! Or, click here for more information!

Jeep® Introduces New Limited-edition Wrangler Unlimited Altitude

On the heels of the popular Jeep® Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 and Arctic models – and in response to Wrangler enthusiasts’ continued desire for limited-edition vehicles – Jeep is introducing its new, 2012 Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude is the latest Altitude model in the Jeep lineup, following the introduction of the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models last month.

Based on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara model, the Altitude edition offers Jeep enthusiasts a Wrangler with a unique appearance that includes a body-color hardtop combined with a variety of black-gloss exterior appointments, and a distinctive black-and-red interior theme.

“With sales up more than 30 percent year over year, Jeep Wrangler continues to show the special place it has in the hearts and minds of the American public,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “One of the many things Jeep enthusiasts love is the series of limited-volume, special-edition Wrangler models we produce. The new Wrangler Unlimited Altitude builds on the previous models and delivers consumers yet another fun and distinctive Jeep vehicle straight from the factory.

“With a production run of only 4,500 units, we expect the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude to sell out very quickly,” Manley added.

Jeep Wrangler sales were up 43 percent in March 2012 versus March 2011, and are up 30 percent for the year (through March). The new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition arrives in Jeep showrooms next month.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude

The new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition includes a body-color hardtop with matching painted center sections on the front and rear bumpers. Unique eighteen-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels with black-painted spokes and polished wheel rings combine to give the Altitude model a one-of-a-kind appearance.

Wrangler Unlimited Altitude’s exterior appointments are completed with the inclusion of a Mopar® black fuel fill door, a matte black “Jeep” grille badge and a black tone-on-tone hood graphic.

A black-and-red theme is found inside the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude. Specifically, red accent stitching adorns black leather seats, door panels, center arm rest, floor mats and steering wheel. Vent rings, steering-wheel spokes, door pulls and passenger-side dashboard grab handle and berber floor mats all appear in black, to provide the contrasting and one-of-a-kind interior.

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude models are available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Bright White and Bright Silver Metallic, and will be available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $33,740.

2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited

Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – is even more capable both on- and off-road for 2012, courtesy of an all-new, more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine, and a new automatic transmission – both of which it shares with the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Chrysler Group’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine – winner of the prestigious Ward’s 10 Best Engines award – delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, while delivering up to 21 miles per gallon highway in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The improvement, when compared to the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine, is 40 percent in horsepower and 10 percent in torque.

2012 Jeep Wrangler interior highlights include a recently redesigned instrument panel and storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials. A lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas boast comfortable touch points, while a redesigned center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated, power mirrors are available, and drivers and passengers enjoy enhanced visibility courtesy of large rear windows.

Article and video courtesy of Chrysler/Jeep News.

Jeep® Introduces New Limited-edition Wrangler Unlimited Altitude

On the heels of the popular Jeep® Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 and Arctic models – and in response to Wrangler enthusiasts’ continued desire for limited-edition vehicles – Jeep is introducing its new, 2012 Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude is the latest Altitude model in the Jeep lineup, following the introduction of the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models last month.

Based on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara model, the Altitude edition offers Jeep enthusiasts a Wrangler with a unique appearance that includes a body-color hardtop combined with a variety of black-gloss exterior appointments, and a distinctive black-and-red interior theme.

“With sales up more than 30 percent year over year, Jeep Wrangler continues to show the special place it has in the hearts and minds of the American public,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “One of the many things Jeep enthusiasts love is the series of limited-volume, special-edition Wrangler models we produce. The new Wrangler Unlimited Altitude builds on the previous models and delivers consumers yet another fun and distinctive Jeep vehicle straight from the factory.

“With a production run of only 4,500 units, we expect the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude to sell out very quickly,” Manley added.

Jeep Wrangler sales were up 43 percent in March 2012 versus March 2011, and are up 30 percent for the year (through March). The new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition arrives in Jeep showrooms next month.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude

The new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude edition includes a body-color hardtop with matching painted center sections on the front and rear bumpers. Unique eighteen-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels with black-painted spokes and polished wheel rings combine to give the Altitude model a one-of-a-kind appearance.

Wrangler Unlimited Altitude’s exterior appointments are completed with the inclusion of a Mopar® black fuel fill door, a matte black “Jeep” grille badge and a black tone-on-tone hood graphic.

A black-and-red theme is found inside the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude. Specifically, red accent stitching adorns black leather seats, door panels, center arm rest, floor mats and steering wheel. Vent rings, steering-wheel spokes, door pulls and passenger-side dashboard grab handle and berber floor mats all appear in black, to provide the contrasting and one-of-a-kind interior.

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Altitude models are available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Bright White and Bright Silver Metallic, and will be available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $33,740.

2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited

Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – is even more capable both on- and off-road for 2012, courtesy of an all-new, more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine, and a new automatic transmission – both of which it shares with the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Chrysler Group’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine – winner of the prestigious Ward’s 10 Best Engines award – delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, while delivering up to 21 miles per gallon highway in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The improvement, when compared to the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine, is 40 percent in horsepower and 10 percent in torque.

2012 Jeep Wrangler interior highlights include a recently redesigned instrument panel and storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials. A lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas boast comfortable touch points, while a redesigned center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated, power mirrors are available, and drivers and passengers enjoy enhanced visibility courtesy of large rear windows.

Article and video courtesy of Chrysler/Jeep News.

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Maintain your transmission

Change automatic transmission fluid and filter after the first 5,000 miles (8,000 km) and after every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) or two years thereafter, or as recommended in your owner’s manual. If you use your vehicle for towing, change the fluid and filter every year. For manual transmissions, change the lubricant (motor oil or gear oil, depending on the car) after the first 5,000 miles and after every 50,000 (80,000 km) thereafter. Use synthetic motor oil or gear lube for longer transmission life unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise.

Maintenance Tip courtesy of Reader's Digest.

Thank you to Kristina C. for this amazing 5-star review on Yelp!

"This place was amazing. No fancy talk. Straight down to business with no hidden numbers. It was wonderful (especially since the weekend before we bought from Browning, we went to Moss Brothers [enough said!]). So easy to work with and our salesman was completely down to earth. We got a great deal on our 2012 Dodge Challenger. It's everything we wanted and more. Thanks so much for allowing up to experience great service when buying our first car!" - Kristina C.

Click here to read more reviews on Yelp.

Chrysler "300 My Son Steven" - Halftime in America

Not all of us grew up with everything we wanted. That's why it's important to take risks, as scary as they might be sometimes. Dream big, set your own course and shoot for the stars and the world will hear the roar of our engines.

We didn't grow up fancy. I worked long hours and I didn't see Steven much, but Wednesday nights his mom let him stay up and watch me play cards with the boys. He'd sit on my lap and I'd teach him the game.

And for the last thirty years he's shown me that those evenings, that time, he was watching. When he started his own firm, people thought he took a gamble, but it isn't that way when you know what you are doing.

I don't always agree with him, but he's making the game follow him. And that makes him his father's son.

Video courtesy of Chrysler's Youtube channel.

Presenting, our Brake Pad Special Coupon!

Replace front or rear brake pads and resurface rotors starting at $99.95 per axle using value line brake pads. Contact service advisor for details.

Click here to print the coupon!

Coupon not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Limit one coupon per person. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases. Other Restrictions may apply. Void where prohibited. Offer expires: 05/15/2012

All-new Dodge Dart and Chrysler 300 Luxury Series Named to 'Wards 10 Best Interiors' List for 2012

• New 2013 Dodge Dart built with materials and precision craftsmanship typically found in more expensive vehicle segments
• High-tech, unseen-in-the-segment features available on the Dart include class-exclusive customizable 7-inch gauge cluster, 8.4-inch Uconnect® touchscreen, heated steering wheel and illuminated floating island bezel in the instrument panel
• All-new Chrysler 300 Luxury Series sedan is the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler vehicle ever
• 2012 Chrysler 300C Luxury Series exclusive appointments include ultra-premium leather, hand-sanded matte wood, world-class craftsmanship and refinement

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact car and the award-winning 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series sedan were chosen for “Wards 10 Best Interiors” list for 2012. WardsAuto World editors picked the winners after evaluating 40 vehicles. All of the contenders for the annual award were completely new or significantly upgraded for the 2012 or 2013 model years. The winners will be honored May 17, 2012 at the WardsAuto Interiors Conference in Dearborn, Michigan.

2013 Dodge Dart

“The new 2013 Dodge Dart is the first of our next-generation interiors and we are honored that WardsAuto World has chosen the Dart for their 10 Best Interiors list,” said Klaus Busse — Head of Interior Design, Chrysler Group LLC. “We are able to give Dart customers a well-crafted, high-quality interior similar in its execution to that of the award-winning interior of the Charger and infused with exciting colors, eye-catching ambient lighting and state-of-the-art technology.”

“Starting with the available heated steering wheel, the Dodge Dart’s interior leads the small-car pack in features and comfort,” said Drew Winter, Editor-in-chief, WardsAuto World magazine.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart zeroes in on customer comfort and personal style, setting a new standard for compact-car interior refinement. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, well-crafted soft-touch materials, high-tech features and unexpected bursts of color, the 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected delights for both drivers and passengers.

With a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $15,995 (excluding $795 destination) the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart delivers levels of style, technology, safety, space and power not seen before in the compact car segment.

2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series Sedans

"The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series is more than just our flagship car; it's the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Sales of the Chrysler 300 have been on fire not only because of its best-in-class 31 highway mpg, but, most importantly, the reaction of customers and critics to this great car. There are no more compromises in the cars that we make; consumers can expect only delightful surprises from driving cars ‘Imported from Detroit.’”

“If Bentley made an affordable family car, its interior would look like the Chrysler 300 Luxury. It’s smart and modern with a generous helping of over-the-top lavishness,” said Drew Winter, editor-in-chief, WardsAutoWorld magazine.

The all-new Chrysler 300C Luxury Series are the most richly appointed sedans the brand has ever offered.

Exclusive interior features found on the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series sedans include either Black or Mochachino Poltrona Frau® “Foligno” leather-wrapped instrument panel, cluster brow, center console side panels and upper front- and rear-door panels. Premium Nappa leather covers the door armrest, bolster and center console armrest. Black or two-tone Mochachino seats are wrapped exclusively in supple Nappa leather and include 12-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats (including four-way power lumbar) with two-mode ventilation and two-mode heated seats for both front and rear passengers. Black or two-tone Mochachino leather-wrapped steering wheel — with all-new die-cast paddle-shifters — features a unique chrome accent ring to highlight the segment-exclusive 360-degree heated rim. Completing the interior environment is specially selected Natural Pore Mocha wood trim featuring a matte finish to enhance the beauty of the real wood.

Available in RWD or with the segment’s most advanced AWD system, the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series models have a starting U.S. MSRP of $40,940 (including $925 destination).

Article and image courtesy of Chrysler News.

Remember to like us on Facebook to take advantage of our monthly eCoupons!

Click here to access our Facebook page!

Share Download Print City of Auburn Hills Receives Four Plug-in Hybrid Chrysler Town & Country Minivans from Chrysler Group LLC as Part of Two-Year Demonstration Project

The City of Auburn Hills, a dynamic community committed to innovation and growth, took delivery today of four Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Chrysler Town & Country minivans from Chrysler Group LLC as part of a two-year demonstration project that is a partnership between Chrysler Group and the U.S. Department of Energy. Chrysler is investing $15.8 million into the project and the U.S. Department of Energy is contributing $10 million. Only 25 test vehicles will be created, according to Abdullah A. Bazzi, Senior Manager of Electrified Power Train Programs for Chrysler Group.

“This Town & Country minivan is the only minivan to boast a plug-in hybrid powertrain in combination with flex fuel capability,” says Bazzi. “We’re pleased to have four of these 25 vehicles being tested right here in Chrysler’s backyard where they can get real-world use and be evaluated promptly.”

Auburn Hills will use the Chrysler-owned vehicles for testing purposes to evaluate everyday city and highway driving. Staff selected to evaluate the vehicles will regularly report all driving and charging experiences back to Chrysler. City Manager Pete Auger says it is an honor for the City to participate in this demonstration project.

“Chrysler has been an outstanding corporate citizen of Auburn Hills and we are privileged to be participating in the evaluation of these vehicles,” says Auger.

As part of the program, each vehicle will receive one Level II EVSE charging station, which will be installed at the Civic Center Campus on North Squirrel and the Auburn Hills Department of Public Services Building on Brown Road. Installation costs for the charging stations will be borne by the City and will remain at the City following project completion.

The agreement between Chrysler Group and the City anticipates approximately 16,800 miles will be driven on each demonstration vehicle. Routine maintenance such as oil changes will be the responsibility of the City. Chrysler will be responsible for any repairs that may be required as part of the testing process. Auger notes that employees assigned the vehicles have been recognized for their outstanding work efforts.

“When you see these specially marked Chrysler minivans on the road, you can be assured that they are being driven by City of Auburn Hills employees who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their jobs, the residents and the entire Auburn Hills community,” affirms Auger.

In July 2011, Auburn Hills became the first municipality in Michigan to adopt an electric vehicle infrastructure ordinance to facilitate the installation of electric vehicle charging stations. The ordinance sets the stage for the City to become a leader in incorporating electric vehicles into its community and economic development plans. In October 2011, Chrysler Group LLC delivered four PHEV Ram 1500 pickup trucks to the City of Auburn Hills as part of a national, three year demonstration program for evaluation and testing of the trucks by the City’s Community Development, Police and Public Services Departments.

Article courtesy of Chrysler News.

Check out our latest commercial spot!

Browning Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram is home of the Big B: the Best Buys, Best Selection, and the Best Deals. So, what are you waiting for? Stop on by and choose from over 1,000 vehicles at low monthly payments. Whether it's a new Dodge Charger or Chrysler 200, both are only $269/month! And that's a purchase payment - not a lease!

Two Chrysler Group LLC Facilities Achieve First World Class Manufacturing Milestone

• Dundee Engine Plant receives first-ever bronze status
• Windsor is first assembly plant to be awarded bronze
• Ranking rewards improvements in safety, quality and productivity

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]

Chrysler Group LLC’s Dundee (Mich.) Engine Plant and Windsor (Ont.) Assembly Plant have been awarded bronze status for their efforts in implementing World Class Manufacturing (WCM), the highest ranking of any of the Company’s North American manufacturing facilities.

Both plants received the bronze designation less than three years after adopting the WCM operating system following audits during the week of April 2, 2012. Bronze is awarded after earning a minimum of 50 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars by demonstrating clear WCM know-how and competence through pillar presentations and shop-floor project reviews.

“We are very proud of our Dundee and Windsor employees who have dedicated themselves to accelerating the rate of improvement in their plants in order to achieve Bronze,” said Scott Garberding, Senior Vice President and Head of Manufacturing/WCM, Chrysler Group LLC. “Together with our UAW and CAW partners, Chrysler Group is demonstrating its commitment to making our manufacturing facilities among the best in the world.”

World Class Manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on reducing waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. WCM engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants.

WCM was first implemented by Fiat in 2004 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in June 2009.

WCM certified auditors from Fiat including the Head of WCM for Europe, Middle East and Africa, and the Plant Manager for Fiat’s TOFAS plant (Bursa, Turkey) performed the audits. The Chrysler Group plants will be officially recognized for their achievements at a WCM award ceremony in Brazil this summer.

The Dundee Engine Plant produces the 1.4-liter FIRE engine for the Fiat 500, and the 2.0- and 2.4-liter engines for the Jeep® Compass, Jeep Patriot, Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Journey, Chrysler 200 and Chrysler 200 Convertible. The plant’s 388 employees work on a 3-2-120 operating pattern, which allows the plant to run 20 hours per day, six days per week, providing 49 more production days each year.

The Windsor Assembly Plant builds the award-winning Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans. The plant runs three shifts with nearly 4,800 employees.

Article courtesy of Chrysler News.

As low as 0% APR financing for up to 36 months on a 2012 Wrangler Sport!

As low as 0% APR financing for up to 36 months on a 2012 Jeep Wrangler Sport!

For well-qualified buyers. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest rates. Must receive financing through Ally. Example down payment is 10%. Monthly charge is per $1,000 financed - see table below. This rate is for estimation purposes only. You may not be able to finance your vehicle at this rate. See dealer for details. Must take retail delivery by 04/30/2012.

APR RATE 36 Months 48 Months 60 Months 72 Months
0.0% $27.78 $20.83 $16.67 $13.89
1.9% $28.60 $21.65 $17.48 $14.71
2.9% $29.04 $22.09 $17.92 $15.15
3.9% $29.48 $22.53 $18.37 $15.60
4.9% $29.93 $22.98 $18.83 $16.06
5.9% $30.38 $23.44 $19.29 $16.53
6.9% $30.83 $23.90 $19.75 $17.00

Call us at (888) 557-8726 to speak to a sales consultant today! Or, click here for more information!

Best-in-class Fuel Efficiency, New Technology and New Features Without Sacrificing Capability

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]
 

• Best-in-class fuel economy:
  • New 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine (Ward’s Automotive 10 Best Engines) features 42 percent more horsepower, 13 percent more torque and at least 20 percent better fuel economy when compared to the previous 3.7-liter V-6 powertrain
  • 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology and variable-valve timing provides 395 horsepower, 407 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-8 trucks (at least 10 percent better fuel economy when compared to 2012 V-8 powertrain)
• Class-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8), standard equipment with 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar, doubles the amount of gears compared to previously available four-speed automatic transmission to greatly improve fuel economy
• New eight-speed also available with the 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI – the Company’s first application with a V-8 (TorqueFlite 8 late availability)
• New TorqueFlite 8 operated by an innovative dash-mounted, rotary e-shift design
• First-in-segment Fuel Saving Technology: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension
• Class-exclusive air suspension enhances fuel economy, improves ride control and off-road capability along with improved ingress/egress and loading, and features automatic load leveling
• New exterior design cues including all-new grille/fascia, improved quad projection headlamps and LED front turn signals and taillamps
• Best-in-class aerodynamics, coefficient of drag (Cd) at 0.363
• New, upgraded interior features include: standard and premium vehicle information center, passive entry, Keyless Enter ’n Go, steering wheel and controls, wood accents, updated door panels, instrument panel, interior colors and premium materials
• All-new, next-generation Uconnect® Access debuts on the 2013 Ram 1500
• Uconnect Access combines a new lineup of smart Media Centers with a powerful new wireless platform
• With Uconnect Access, Ram 1500 owners will have alternative ways to access new connected services and applications via the vehicle’s 8.4-inch touchscreen display or the web
• Next generation Uconnect system is designed to be forward-thinking, providing the freedom to upgrade to the latest features and services
• Voice-recognition technology, steering wheel controls, touchscreen displays and traditional controls provide Ram 1500 customers with a variety of ways to interact with their mobile phones, music, navigation system and applications
• Ram 1500 now available with a premium, customizable, full-color 7-inch vehicle information center
• Addition of Powernet vehicle architecture system allows new content with improved data speeds
• Chrysler Group offers Ram 1500 customers expanded Sirius XM Radio channel lineup, with exclusive programming including new SiriusXM Latino channels, an automotive industry first
• Sprint selected as the strategic partner to bring wireless connectivity and service delivery to the vehicle
• New remote central locking RamBox® cargo management system and tailgate combined with door locks
• New rain sensing wipers, SmartBeam® headlamps, power folding mirrors and power sliding rear window with defrost
• Best-in-class powertrain warranty – 5 years/100,000 miles

April 5, 2012 , New York - Ram 1500 – the most recognizable pickup on the road – delivers best-in-class fuel economy with a truckload of pioneering, fuel-saving systems including a more fuel efficient and more powerful 3.6-liter V-6 engine and first-in-segment technologies: eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension.

“The new 2013 Ram 1500 is the most capable, best-looking half-ton pickup in the world and delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency, new technology and new features while upgrading the interior and exterior,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico — Chrysler Group LLC. “We changed every area of the truck – from a newly designed frame with air suspension, to a new eight-speed transmission to a new interior with the next-generation Uconnect® system.

“With best-in-class towing and payload, best-in-class ride and handling and best-in-class aerodynamics, the 2013 Ram 1500 delivers unmatched content, performance and capability to our customers,” Diaz added.

POWERTRAIN
The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine (Ward’s 10 Best Engines Award two years in a row) with variable-valve timing (VVT) offers best-in-class standard 305 horsepower, with 269 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-6 trucks. New V-6 features 42 percent more horsepower, 13 percent more torque and at least 20 percent better fuel economy when compared to the previous 3.7-liter V-6 powertrain.

The legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 with fuel-saving cylinder shut-off and VVT provides 395 horsepower, 407 lb.-ft. of torque and best-in-class fuel economy for V-8 trucks (at least 10 percent better fuel economy when compared to 2012 V-8 powertrain). Also, the HEMI delivers best-in-class towing and payload – 11,500 pounds and 3,125 pounds respectively, with Ram 1500 Tradesman Heavy Duty.

The class-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8), standard equipment with 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar, doubles the amount of gears compared to previously available four-speed automatic transmission, which improves drivability and enhances fuel efficiency. The new eight-speed also is available with the 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI – the Company’s first application with a V-8 (TorqueFlite 8 with V-8 is late availability). The exclusive new transmission is operated by an innovative, dash-mounted rotary e-shift dial, which enables quick blind-shift transitions from “Reverse” to “Drive” when towing or navigating out of mud, snow or busy parking lots.

Owners will appreciate an innovative rotary e-shift dial for trucks equipped with the new TorqueFlite 8-speed transmission that replaces both column and floor shifters. The exclusive rotary e-shift enables intuitive operation with a direct and confident feel, even with gloves on. The convenient, dash-mounted, easy-to-understand and operate system provides total control of the sophisticated eight-speed transmission and is Ram Truck's innovative approach to electronic shifters, already used in Class 6-8 trucks. This new design allows quick blind-shift transitions from “Reverse” to “Drive” when towing or navigating out of mud, snow or busy parking lots and crowded worksites. The new rotary e-shift dial also yields space for more functional and usable storage in the console.

Another segment exclusive with the eight-speed transmission is a new thermal management system that is designed to quickly raise engine and transmission fluid temperatures. By raising fluid temperatures, parasitic losses resulting from high-viscosity engine oil and transmission fluid can be reduced, improving fuel efficiency by 1.7 percent. As the engine temperature increases to pre-determined levels, warm engine coolant is circulated through a thermal exchange unit, which also contains dedicated pathways for transmission fluid. As the thermal exchange unit heats up, it also heats up the transmission fluid. This action dramatically reduces warm up time for the transmission, improving fuel economy, drivability and shift quality. In most powertrain configurations, the transmission heats up independently of the engine, delaying warm-up time and reducing efficiency.

Adding to industry firsts in a pickup truck is the application of stop-start, another fuel saving feature available on select 2013 Ram 1500 models. This new system improves fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent, an increase of about one mile-per-gallon to the truck’s city drive cycle.

Stop-start increases fuel efficiency by shutting the engine off when the truck comes to a complete stop. Amenities (radio, gauges, heating or air conditioning, etc.) continue to operate, making the operation transparent to the driver. The engine restarts automatically when the driver releases the brake, allowing seamless acceleration.

Enabling components have been upgraded for heavy-duty operation on models equipped with the stop-start feature.

ENGINEERING
Although the new 2013 Ram 1500 boasts numerous segment-exclusive features, many aren’t readily visible, but deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency, ride and handling.

Aerodynamics
The new 2013 Ram 1500 continues to maintain its ruggedly handsome appearance with new exterior design elements. Extensive wind-tunnel testing honed the 2013 Ram 1500 exterior shape, resulting in continued best-in-class aerodynamics. Also, the cooperative application of active aerodynamics and modern styling led to a six percent aerodynamic improvement on the new truck. The 2013 Ram 1500 Regular Cab 4x2 coefficient of drag (Cd) is .363 – compared with a Cd of .386 for a 2012 Ram 1500 Regular Cab 4x2.

Air Suspension
Best-in-class ride and handling gets even better. The 2013 Ram 1500 is now available with an all-new air suspension system featuring five height settings for optimum ride and aerodynamic performance. The feature operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console or key fob controls:

Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.7 inches of clearance (measured from the base of the door sill) is the default, load-leveled ride height
Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.1 inches from NRH. Aero Mode improves fuel efficiency by up to one percent and is activated by vehicle speed, adjusting for optimal performance and fuel economy

Off-road 1: Lifts the truck 1.2 inches from NRH for added height in clearing obstacles
Off-road 2: Delivers more off-road capability, increasing ground clearance by 2 inches over NRH

Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 2 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress and cargo loading

The new air suspension system adds up to 4 inches of lift span, offering best-in-class step-in height of 21 inches, best-in-class ground clearance of 10.7 inches, best-in-class departure angle of 27.8 degrees, and best-in-class breakover angle of 24.2 degrees supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride.

Another benefit to the new air suspension is load-leveling capability, which automatically detects load on the suspension from a trailer or payload. The air pressure increases until the vehicle reaches normal ride height, leveling the truck and improving the loaded ride.

Additionally, a separate button on the key fob gives the operator the ability to manually lower the truck, allowing for ease of passenger entry and reduced tailgate lift-over height.

Electric Power Steering
The 2013 Ram 1500 features electric power steering (EPS). By using an electric motor to power the truck’s rack and pinion steering system, the engine is relieved from the task of constantly turning a hydraulic pump, improving fuel efficiency up to 1.8 percent and adding five horsepower. Also, the introduction of EPS reduces complexity by removing the previous hydraulic pump, high-pressure hydraulic hoses and cooling apparatus.

Weight Reduction
Weight reduction is an important variable in the fuel economy equation. Reducing the weight of components improves fuel economy and allows for more content without affecting payload or towing capability.

A newly redesigned frame benefits from a weight reduction of up to 30 pounds by using advanced high-strength steels. Also benefitting from advanced metal, new box floor cross-members in the bed eliminates seven pounds and a new front bumper design removes four pounds. Additionally, aluminum lower control arms in the front suspension contribute to additional weight reduction and handling. The Ram 1500 also features an aluminum hood saving 26 pounds.

Underneath the hood, the combination of the new Pentastar V-6 and new TorqueFlite 8 transmission reduces the weight by approximately 76 pounds. The V-8 and TorqueFlite 8 together reduce weight by more than 30 pounds.

The weight reductions not only allow for more convenience, comfort and entertainment features but also best-in-class fuel saving technology such as thermal management, stop-start and active aerodynamics.

Pulse-width Modulation
Pulse-width modulation (PWM) is a new fuel-saving technology for the Ram 1500, which reduces parasitic electrical load. The technology not only eliminates unnecessary load on the alternator but also improves the durability of benefitting systems. Fuel delivery and the forward cooling fan are two systems that take advantage of PWM, adding a 0.4 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

Low rolling-resistance Tires
The 2013 Ram 1500 features standard low rolling-resistance tires to minimize wasted energy and decrease required rolling effort. Tread patterns, advanced materials and millions of miles of testing result in greater fuel efficiency.

Chassis
The 2013 Ram 1500 uses a newly designed frame with improved, low torsion (stiffness) attributes that increase stability and handling precision while decreasing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) up to 30 percent, depending on drive cycle. Front rails feature 20 percent increased yield strength from the use of high-strength steel. Among other features, the new frame design incorporates a new powertrain, new air suspension and new body-mounting technology.

Portions of the frame are hydroformed for dimensional accuracy (hydroforming reduces the amount of welding that leads to distortion), and side rails are fully boxed. The front frame section incorporates advanced, high-strength steel that maintains overall strength and durability while saving approximately 30 pounds. To further improve NVH, new larger body mounts are located on the front frame rails and at the C-pillar.

New standard front independent suspension combines redesigned upper control arms, aluminum lower control arms and retuned geometry with coil springs for improved responsiveness and handling. New, more robust ball joints on the front suspension yield greater durability and are engineered with improved sealing methods.

DESIGN
The new 2013 Ram 1500 retains its ruggedly handsome appearance with all-new interior and exterior design aesthetics, improved aerodynamics and all-new, segment-leading technology – and every Ram 1500 truck benefits from new content specifically designed to match each model’s unique style.

Exterior
Ram Truck brand designers started with the Ram grille making it not only larger – with the same overall width, but approximately one inch taller – “saddled” within the new upper fascia panel for a more integrated appearance. The classic Ram crosshair horizontal and vertical grille bars are now flush at the top and bottom of the grille surround.

The new front bumper design supports the “saddled” Ram grille theme with new vertically oriented fog lamps for improved light spread, distance and more lumens. Larger openings around the front tow hooks (four-wheel drive models) allow for easy access to the hooks.

The 2013 Ram 1500 quad headlamp design has improved light spread, pattern consistency, distance and 30 percent more lumens. An all-new premium headlamp lighting system is a bi-functional halogen projector design with 15 amber LEDs for park/turn/position lamp and three amber LEDs for the side marker.

For 2013, the Ram 1500 offers 12 different colors, including five new shades. Black Gold, Copperhead, Maximum Steel Metallic, Prairie and Western Brown are all new and available in a monotone and/or two-tone depending on the model.

The new, polished stainless steel running boards have a sturdy box cross-section design. Also, the new wheel-to-wheel exclusive running board design offers aerodynamic improvements over the current version and provides customer’s improved access to the forward portion of the truck bed.

A new 6-ft.-4-in. bed option is now available on Crew Cab models giving customers the ability to combine Ram 1500’s largest available cab with the largest four-door/bed combination. All-new premium tail lamps are standard and consist of 15 red LEDs with three red LEDs for the side marker.

Interior
For 2013, new features and technologies create opportunity for a redesigned interior with material upgrades; improved fit and finish; all-new interior themes with different colors and materials; all-new HVAC controls and new multimedia systems. The 2013 Ram 1500 also features an exclusive eight-speed transmission with a new rotary e-shift dial design.

Rear occupants can enjoy the same quality, fit and finish as the driver. With points of contact a priority, new premium materials, colors and designs are now on all four doors. Soft-touch materials enhance armrests and upper bolsters with expanded use of premium surfaces.

The 2013 Ram 1500 features the next generation 8.4-inch Uconnect system with background screens tailor-made to specific Ram models and themes. To make room for the new big screen, the center stack is upgraded with matching materials found throughout the interior. To complement the range of Ram 1500 models, the interior design team created new, individualized themes with different colors and materials. For the Laramie Longhorn, the Ram design team sought out a very rare Walnut grain with a unique burl that was unintentionally created by ranchers using trees as fence posts for barbed wire. Eventually, the trees grow over the rusting metal wire, creating a swirl coloring pattern and tone that is not found anywhere else.

The all-new HVAC controls take lessons learned from other Chrysler Group Uconnect applications and feature simple, improved function, meeting the highest Human Machine Interface (HMI) standards. The HVAC system includes a redundant architecture allowing the operator to use either the 8.4-inch touchscreen or manual controls to alter the truck’s environment. Below the upgraded HVAC arrangement is a new switch bank with relocated, easy-to-use controls for a number of features depending on vehicle models and options. All buttons in the comfort bank also are redundant on the Uconnect system. Contiguous to the switch bank is a prominently placed, adjustable integrated trailer brake control allowing the driver to add or reduce trailer brake function on the fly.

The Ram 1500’s new, exclusive eight-speed transmission created the need for an innovative rotary e-shift dial in the cockpit to replace the center console gate shifter – a first for pickups. The new shifter works in a multitude of seating configurations and will replace floor and column shifters for use in the eight-speed transmission. Realizing this is a dramatic change in the way trucks have historically shifted gears, the interior design team accepted the challenge with a new shift knob, naturally and prominently placed to the driver’s right, at the lower left-hand side of the center stack, in place of the previous transfer case shift knob. The rotary dial enables intuitive blind-shift transitions between “Drive” and “Reverse” with a direct and confident feel. The transfer case retains full capability with push buttons located directly under the e-shift dial.

New technology also moves to the gauge cluster. Previously only available on premium models, the 3.5-inch vehicle information screen is now standard on ST and SLT and displays vehicle operating functions. The new thin film transistor (TFT), 7-inch screen is now available on SLT, standard on Sport, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn models. The 7-inch screen features fully customizable function and configurability. Similar to the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, select 7-inch cluster background screens are tailor-made to specific Ram models, with designs that match the truck’s theme.

UCONNECT
Introducing Uconnect Access: A Powerful New Platform That Provides Multiple Ways to Connect

The Uconnect Media Centers R3 and R4 provide the Ram 1500 with a built-in cellular connection so vehicle occupants are automatically connected to a variety of new services and the internet with WiFi hotspot capability. The new Uconnect Media Centers provide a direct connection to emergency services when the new 911 button found on the rearview mirror is pushed. Ram 1500 customers also will automatically receive regular vehicle health reports and be able to remotely lock or unlock truck doors, start the vehicle, and flash lights from any distance via the web or a smartphone application.

Ram truck owners will be able to access select, certified in-vehicle applications. Driving-relevant applications will be introduced over time and are designed specifically for in-vehicle use. The certified applications are easily controlled with natural voice recognition or steering wheel controls to keep drivers focused on the road. The responsive 8.4-inch touchscreen includes the award-winning user interface designed by Chrysler Group Human Machine Interface engineers, featuring large icons and visual cues allowing consumers intuitive control of system features.

Uconnect Media Centers Are Always Current
Ram truck owners will be confident to know their truck is designed to be forward-thinking, providing the freedom to upgrade to the latest features and services, without having to replace their factory installed Uconnect systems. Applications are updatable over the air and are downloaded directly to the Uconnect Media Center, so features remain current. Ram truck owners will be able to continually evolve their in-vehicle connectivity experience by downloading app updates or new applications as they become available directly to the Uconnect Media Center from inside the car, via the 8.4-inch touchscreen.

The Ram 1500’s new Uconnect Access system features best-in-class functionality, integrating new entertainment content and is the first time Ram will offer HD Radio to its customers. Ram customers also will have access to SiriusXM satellite radio, handsfree mobile phone operation, handsfree navigation, handsfree texting with compatible phones and handsfree control of music. Additionally, new connected services and applications provide real-time access to information and content that Ram 1500 customers want and need while on the road. Uconnect is designed to provide drivers and passengers with relevant, focused and contextual information that is not distracting and easy to use, allowing drivers to remain focused on the road.

Also enhancing driver convenience, Uconnect features one-step voice command of navigation, the ability to check real-time fuel prices and listen and respond to text messages, combined with familiar knobs for climate and comfort controls.

A Variety of Ways to Control Your Content
Uconnect Access controls are placed on the steering wheel. Customer research has shown a preference towards audio controls located at the rear of the steering wheel and Ram was the first truck manufacturer to integrate these rocker switches for ease of use. Audio system controls, including next station, radio preset and previous station or track, are located on the left. Volume up or down and change audio source are located on the right. This means Ram truck drivers can keep their hands on the wheel while they enjoy a variety of entertainment content sources.

Media Console Offers a Variety of Options
Neatly integrated within the upper storage tier of the center console, a new multimedia input includes USB, SD card and auxiliary connections. The USB allows control of iPod or other media device through the large touchscreen displays and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. A more powerful 2.5 amp, USB port and 12-volt outlet also provide mobile recharging for electronic devices. In addition, MP3 and WMA audio files on a USB memory device may also be played and controlled via the Uconnect system.

New 7-inch Vehicle Information Center
Filling the gauge cluster in front of the driver is an available 7-inch, color, premium vehicle information screen, featuring a new customizable function that enables Ram 1500 customers to personalize information inside the instrument cluster. Similar to the premium Uconnect Systems, select 7-inch instrument cluster background screens are branded with a Ram theme. Ram’s new information display is designed to visually communicate information, using graphics and text, quickly and easily.

The vehicle information display offers drivers a wide range of customization options, from a basic digital speed read out to specific vehicle status information. Operation of the display is clearly communicated to users with easy-to-understand icons and instructions. Using buttons on the steering wheel, drivers can customize the screen with as much or as little information as they desire. The system is intuitive and can be arranged for a variety of views. Up to three analog vehicle status gauges can be added to the display. The main screens found inside the instrument cluster menu are: digital speed, vehicle information and fuel economy, trip A information, trip B information, trailer-tow information, audio, stored messages and screen customization. Additionally, the four corners of the display can be customized to show information at a glance, including current fuel economy, outside temperature, time and compass direction.

All-new Powernet Electrical Architecture
As the Ram 1500 continues to offer more feature content, it created the need for a technology that allows more information to be electronically communicated within the truck. The new Powernet system, used for the first time on a Ram 1500, allows both high- and low-speed data networks to be equipped with as many as 40 individual modules, all designed to improve vehicle performance and enhance the comfort and safety of driver and passengers. Within the Powernet high-speed network, each module (e.g., electronic stability control) processes its individual data and transmits the appropriate commands within the vehicle to activate any additional systems (e.g. anti-lock brake system and cruise control). Uconnect leverages Powernet to deliver fast response time, and share critical information between the 8.4-inch touchscreen and the vehicle information center. The Powernet architecture also is the backbone that supports the Uconnect Access services and applications, including the Ram 1500 vehicle health report and remote services.

Sprint Provides Wireless Platform for Next Generation Uconnect Access
Sprint is the strategic wireless partner for the next generation Uconnect Access system. The integrated wireless technology inside the Ram 1500 enhances the driving experience by offering new connected services and applications. The services delivered through the partnership will be easy to learn, easy to use and will offer a seamless experience with the Ram owner’s digital life. An increasing number of features in the new Ram 1500 will rely on enhanced user interfaces including voice capabilities and commands to help limit driving distractions and keep the focus on the primary driving task.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
On the safety and security front, the Ram 1500 offers more than 45 active and passive safety and security features, including standard front airbags, front and rear side-curtain air bags and seat-mounted side pelvic-thorax air bags with Enhanced Accident Response System, knee bolsters, seat-belt pretensioners, BeltAlert® System; and available adjustable pedals, ParkSense® rear park assist and ParkView® rear back-up camera. The 2013 Ram 1500 also includes standard electronic stability control (ESC), hosting a number of technologies including all-speed traction control, trailer-sway control, Hill-start Assist and anti-lock brake system (ABS).

The new 2013 Ram 1500 now features available Keyless Enter ’n Go technology, which allows the doors to be unlocked and the vehicle ignition to be started without having to touch the key fob. Also new for 2013, remote central locking includes the RamBox® cargo management system and tailgate power locks, creating a convenient solution for locking down the truck with the push of a button. An available remote start feature allows a driver to start their vehicle from up to 300 feet away. Door controls, illuminated entry, engine immobilizer and panic alert are standard features with the Keyless Enter ’n Go system. Auto rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam® also find their way into the feature availability list, adding to a truckload of content offered in the new 2013 Ram 1500.

Additional New Features
For 2013, Ram 1500 customers can enjoy the convenience of power folding mirrors and a combination power and rear-sliding window with defrost. Also available is a new six-foot-four-inch bed option on the Crew Cab model, allowing for maximum passenger and bed hauling capability.

Unsurpassed Powertrain Warranty – 5 years/100,000 Miles
The 2013 Ram 1500 is backed with a best-in-class 5-year / 100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. The Powertrain Limited Warranty covers the cost of all parts and labor needed to repair a covered powertrain component – engine, transmission and drive system. Coverage also includes free towing to the nearest Ram dealer, if necessary. The warranty also is transferable allowing customers who sell their truck during the warranty period, to pass the coverage onto the new owner.

The standard 3-year / 36,000-Mile Basic Limited Warranty provides bumper-to-bumper coverage for the Ram 1500, from the body to the electrical system.

QUALITY
To ensure durability, the Ram development team is putting the 2013 Ram 1500 to the test – actually thousands of checks and almost six million customer equivalent testing miles – to validate its performance and reliability for the long haul.

The 2013 Ram 1500’s quality is scrutinized at the company’s Chrysler Technology Center’s state-of-the-art scientific labs in Auburn Hills, Mich., including the Noise/Vibration/Harshness Lab, the Electromagnetic Compatibility Facility, Wind Tunnel and the Road Test Simulator (RTS).

For example, the RTS recreates the abuse a truck endures at the hands of a 95th percentile driver – meaning someone who drives the vehicle in more severe conditions than 95 percent of all customers. The RTS can put a lifetime of wear and tear on a truck in about one month’s time. The Ram development team is committed to finding and fixing any issues before the customer does.

MANUFACTURING
The 2013 Ram 1500 is built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Warren, Mich.), which has built more than 12.5 million trucks since it started operations in 1938. Regular Cab models of the 2013 Ram 1500 are built at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant in Saltillo, Mexico.

Article and image courtesy of Chrysler/Dodge News.

Remember to take advantage of our $24.95 Express Oil and Filter Change eCoupon this month!

Perform a Express Oil and Filter Change starting at $24.95 and if it is not completed within 30 minutes or less your next oil and filter change is FREE! Must present coupon at time of purchase. Limit one coupon per person. Coupon does not apply to prior purchases. Valid only at Browning Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram. Cannot be combined with any other specials, discounts, or offers. See Browning Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram for complete details. Offer expires 04-30-2012

Dodge Spends Quality Time Developing First Vehicle of Italian-American Partnership

• 2013 Dodge Dart gets earlier start on new quality processes previously introduced with award-winning Dodge Durango
• Dart expands on performance quality attributes of its Italian cousin, Alfa Romeo Giulietta
• Dodge tested the Dart for more than 8.5 million miles
• Belvidere (Ill.)Assembly Plant adds $20 million in new facilities and equipment to enhance quality

As the first vehicle to evolve from Chrysler Group’s alliance with Fiat, the Dodge Dart builds off Alfa Romeo’s performance virtues and Dodge’s increasingly zealous attention to quality.

“This is a crucial vehicle launch for the company as we re-enter the compact sedan market, and everyone is committed to launching a high-quality product,” said Doug Betts, Senior Vice President – Quality, Chrysler Group LLC. “We’ve invested $20 million in new quality tools and processes at the Belvidere Assembly Plant to achieve the strict quality targets we set for Dodge Dart.”

“We learned a lot as we launched 16 updated vehicles and introduced many new quality processes for the 2011 model year,” Betts said. “We’re applying the lessons from all the 2011 launches to the Dodge Dart’s development right at the beginning of the program.”

For example, the Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which builds the Dodge Durango and Jeep® Grand Cherokee, was the first Chrysler Group assembly plant to install a dedicated Metrology Center to house state-of-the-art quality tools. JNAP’s Metrology Center started operations just prior to Job 1 and helped establish a new standard for fit-and-finish for Dodge vehicles, and propel the all-new Dodge Durango to the top of influential quality surveys in its launch year.

However, the Metrology Center at the Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant got an earlier start and provided valuable feedback to suppliers on pre-production components before the first Dart prototype was built. The Metrology Center allows engineers to find the sources of build variation – even when components appear perfect to the naked eye – and resolve any fit and finish issues before customer vehicles are built.

Dodge expands, literally, on the virtues of its Italian cousin
While the Dodge Dart is an all-new vehicle, its underpinnings evolved from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, an upscale Italian hatchback known in its home market for dynamic, road-gripping performance.

For the Dart’s early development work before prototypes were built, Dodge engineers literally cut a Giulietta in half, widened it and welded the body to match Dart’s dimensions to create several engineering mule vehicles for testing. The Giulietta mules disguised the Dart’s hardware and helped the engineering teams test the durability of suspension components and evaluate vehicle dynamics and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

“We’re starting with a great architecture that helps us achieve our strict performance quality standards that will make the Dart very competitive in the North America compact sedan segment,” Betts said.

As Chrysler Group defines it, performance quality measures how well a vehicle matches customer priorities and stacks up against its competition. Criteria such as acceleration, braking, handling, seat comfort, quietness, storage space and fuel economy are among the hundreds of attributes Dodge engineers compare versus competitive cars.

Refinement you can see, touch and hear
Knowing that many car buyers make judgments about a vehicle’s quality the first time they see it, the company’s Perceived Quality (PQ) team set the bar high so that the Dart would fare well under the scrutiny of the most discerning car shoppers.

The PQ team works with designers, engineers and suppliers to enhance the fit-and-finish, surface quality, material options and even the sound quality of moveable parts like doors and storage bins. The Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle program that used PQ best practices from the start of development.

Although the Dart will compete in the heart of the compact sedan segment, the PQ team benchmarked more expensive European sedans with the goal that the Dart will look and feel comparable to an entry luxury sedan under close inspection.

Taking the high road, the low road . . . and lots of really rough roads
Dodge is testing the Dart day and night, on all kinds of road surfaces, at high and low altitudes and through blizzard conditions, as well as dry, desert heat. All that testing adds up to more than 8.5 million reliability validation miles.

Some of the most punishing tests take place inside the Chrysler Technology Center on the Road Test Simulator (RTS). It recreates the abuse vehicles endure at the hands of a 95th percentile customer - meaning a customer who drives the vehicle in more severe conditions than 95 percent of all owners. The RTS replicates a wide range of on-road and off-road driving surfaces and puts a lifetime of wear-and-tear on a vehicle in one month’s time.

Dodge also evaluates vehicles under more typical customer scenarios. More than 100 Dart vehicles are tested daily for about 3 months until each vehicle reaches 36,000 miles. To reflect typical daily driving scenarios, these test drivers do not originate from the engineering ranks and are intentionally chosen from diverse backgrounds to represent customers of different ages, sizes and ethnicities. The test drivers also scrutinize all the customer functional aspects of each vehicle, every day of testing. This includes functions as simple as seat belt buckling, heating and ventilation operation and opening and closing storage compartments and windows. Seven different test protocols are used to better simulate random customer use and prevent test drivers from becoming desensitized to expected outcomes. The Dodge Dart quality team reviews the test drive data daily to find and fix any issues that arise.

The Uconnect® Touch Media Center also gets a thorough test drive as testers work through a 12-page checklist to test the functionality and reliability of the system as well as how compatible it is with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other media devices.

Building quality into each Dodge Dart
Chrysler Group’s manufacturing plants have integrated Fiat’s World Class Manufacturing (WCM) principles that involve all employees in the manufacturing process for continuous process and quality improvements.

The Belvidere Assembly Plant, where Dart is assembled, has invested in new technology and processes to improve the quality of its vehicles. In addition to the new Metrology Center, the plant also built a new Center for Technical Vehicle Validation (CTVV) and Materials Laboratory – the first such quality center in a U.S. Chrysler Group plant.

The CTVV will randomly audit newly built vehicles and measure 437 functional characteristics, including emissions, fit-and-finish, heating and air conditioning performance and ride height. The Materials Laboratory, staffed with an on-site chemist, and the CTVV allow the plant to identify and troubleshoot emerging issues onsite, with fewer delays from sending parts to Auburn Hills or supplier locations for analysis.

“We obsessed over the quality and refinement of the Dodge Dart as it was developed, tested and built,” Betts said. “As a company, we’ve really overhauled our processes and expectations for building quality vehicles and doing whatever it takes to satisfy customers.”

Article and image courtesy of Dodge-Chrysler News.

Vehicle Spotlight: A used 2012 Jeep Liberty Sport SUV

Get a great deal on this used 2012 Jeep Liberty Sport SUV with only 7,980 miles on it for just $23,289!

Call our sales team at (888) 912-5952 today to schedule a test drive! Or, click here for more information.

A big thanks to Patrick for this 5-star review on Google Maps!

"by far the best out of all 10 dealerships i went to and was turned down for finaincing . paul , goerge , tim , lance , and all tha made this deal happen on my NEW 2012 ram crew cab at what fit my budget and worked for me to make it happen , i ohnestly incourage you to shop but dont purchase till you talk to the folks here . they got me a deal NO other dealer could come close to , let alone get me finainced . they made it happen on a new truck with a good % rate and at the payment i wanted . I will never go anywhere else after the dedication and work that everyone at browning put into getting me this brand new truck., especially with my lack of credit , no other dealer i went to compares . thanks again to all that worked on my purchase . you are absolutely the best . PATRICK TAYLOR." - silversolder429

Click here to read more reviews on Google Maps.