Dodge: Charger News
03-08-2004, 11:14 PM
#1
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes
on
8 Posts
Dodge: Charger News
Dodge set to revive Charger name for new rear-wheel drive sedan - - By RICK KRANZ | Automotive News - - Source: Autoweek
Dodge will add a full-sized rear-wheel-drive sedan to its lineup next year, company sources said.
The car draws inspiration from the Dodge Charger muscle car of the late 1960s, said a person familiar with the program who spoke on condition that he not be identified. He said the car likely will be called the Charger.
Spokesman Jason Vines declined comment, citing the company's policy not to talk about future products.
Sources said the sedan will be developed off the automaker's rwd LX platform, which is shared by the 2005 Chrysler 300 sedan and the Dodge Magnum wagon.
At the Geneva auto show last week, Trevor Creed, Chrysler group's chief designer, hinted that such a vehicle was planned.
"We will be looking at a very sporty version of this platform for Dodge," he said.
"However, we will not do badge engineering anymore. You will not see a Dodge version" that shares sheet metal with the Chrysler 300.
He added: "You've got to have a four-door, (but) there's no market for a coupe."
The 300 and Magnum go on sale this spring. They share about 20 percent of their parts, in terms of value, with the Mercedes-Benz C and E classes.
The 340-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is the centerpiece of the LX models. While the Magnum has drawn favorable comments from the automotive press, some Dodge dealers are worried about marketing a wagon without a full-sized family sedan.
Intrepid production ended last summer, and dealers have been pressing the automaker for a sedan.
The Dodge sedan will be the third derivative based on the LX platform. At least one other LX derivative is planned, said a Chrysler group insider. In Chrysler parlance, LX derivatives are defined as models with extensive sheet metal differences.
Meanwhile, the company is studying whether to develop a police package for one of the LX cars. Representatives of the California Highway Patrol and Michigan State Police have driven a car with the package, said Burke Brown, chief engineer for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.
"It is a natural, isn't it? We'll talk about that in a while," said Brown, who was interviewed last month at a Chrysler press event in Palm Springs, Calif. The law enforcement agencies "have shown intense interest in what we are doing with the chassis."
While awd will be optional on the LX cars, he said neither agency has shown interest in that option.
The car draws inspiration from the Dodge Charger muscle car of the late 1960s, said a person familiar with the program who spoke on condition that he not be identified. He said the car likely will be called the Charger.
Spokesman Jason Vines declined comment, citing the company's policy not to talk about future products.
Sources said the sedan will be developed off the automaker's rwd LX platform, which is shared by the 2005 Chrysler 300 sedan and the Dodge Magnum wagon.
At the Geneva auto show last week, Trevor Creed, Chrysler group's chief designer, hinted that such a vehicle was planned.
"We will be looking at a very sporty version of this platform for Dodge," he said.
"However, we will not do badge engineering anymore. You will not see a Dodge version" that shares sheet metal with the Chrysler 300.
He added: "You've got to have a four-door, (but) there's no market for a coupe."
The 300 and Magnum go on sale this spring. They share about 20 percent of their parts, in terms of value, with the Mercedes-Benz C and E classes.
The 340-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is the centerpiece of the LX models. While the Magnum has drawn favorable comments from the automotive press, some Dodge dealers are worried about marketing a wagon without a full-sized family sedan.
Intrepid production ended last summer, and dealers have been pressing the automaker for a sedan.
The Dodge sedan will be the third derivative based on the LX platform. At least one other LX derivative is planned, said a Chrysler group insider. In Chrysler parlance, LX derivatives are defined as models with extensive sheet metal differences.
Meanwhile, the company is studying whether to develop a police package for one of the LX cars. Representatives of the California Highway Patrol and Michigan State Police have driven a car with the package, said Burke Brown, chief engineer for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.
"It is a natural, isn't it? We'll talk about that in a while," said Brown, who was interviewed last month at a Chrysler press event in Palm Springs, Calif. The law enforcement agencies "have shown intense interest in what we are doing with the chassis."
While awd will be optional on the LX cars, he said neither agency has shown interest in that option.
03-09-2004, 11:29 AM
#3
Doin' da crack shuffle
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Philly and Bowie
Age: 46
Posts: 10,847
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Re: Chrysler LX platform will spawn the Dodge Charger
Originally posted by gavriil
"You've got to have a four-door, (but) there's no market for a coupe."
"You've got to have a four-door, (but) there's no market for a coupe."
I wonder what happened to make people not love coupes anymore.
03-09-2004, 08:45 PM
#4
Fahrvergnügen'd
Yeah there's no market for a coupe.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
03-09-2004, 08:55 PM
#5
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes
on
8 Posts
Originally posted by charliemike
Yeah there's no market for a coupe.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
Yeah there's no market for a coupe.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
03-09-2004, 09:34 PM
#7
Doin' da crack shuffle
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Philly and Bowie
Age: 46
Posts: 10,847
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Minch00
That bitch was badass. I saw it in person and went
That bitch was badass. I saw it in person and went
The CLS was another car I was drooling over though.
Trending Topics
03-10-2004, 05:05 PM
#10
Three Wheelin'
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 1,754
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by charliemike
Yeah there's no market for a coupe.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
Yeah there's no market for a coupe.
Oh, except that Honda just released a new one and so did Toyota. And then there's that darn Mustang thing that just NEVER sells well ... There's no market for a complete POS turd like the Sebring coupe that is $29k.
And I thought the Mustang sold rather well, I see them everywhere. But regardless...wether it's true or not, Honda says they're isn't a market for coupes. They might change their mind eventually. Hopefully.
03-10-2004, 05:45 PM
#11
Fahrvergnügen'd
Originally posted by AcuraFan
Honda and Toyota just released new coupes? I don't remember that happening...when was this?
And I thought the Mustang sold rather well, I see them everywhere. But regardless...wether it's true or not, Honda says they're isn't a market for coupes. They might change their mind eventually. Hopefully.
Honda and Toyota just released new coupes? I don't remember that happening...when was this?
And I thought the Mustang sold rather well, I see them everywhere. But regardless...wether it's true or not, Honda says they're isn't a market for coupes. They might change their mind eventually. Hopefully.
If there were truly no market, there's no way they'd have built them ...
03-11-2004, 08:49 AM
#12
Three Wheelin'
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 1,754
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by charliemike
I say "just" as in Accord and Solara coupes in 2003.
If there were truly no market, there's no way they'd have built them ...
I say "just" as in Accord and Solara coupes in 2003.
If there were truly no market, there's no way they'd have built them ...
03-12-2004, 08:16 PM
#14
Senior Moderator
I don't know, but a 300 with cop suspension, cop shocks, cop brakes, and a 340Hp Hemi, etc. sounds interesting.
Hmmm.. I wonder if they'll offer a COPO (coporate office production option) that's available to the general public.
I think anyone can order the P71 (police package) on the Crown Vic (or buy the more expensive Maurader).
Hmmm.. I wonder if they'll offer a COPO (coporate office production option) that's available to the general public.
I think anyone can order the P71 (police package) on the Crown Vic (or buy the more expensive Maurader).
03-18-2004, 09:47 PM
#18
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes
on
8 Posts
The Charger's Back - - By Marty Padgett - - - Source: AutoExpress
There's another US legend set to charge on to the scene. The Dodge Charger is making a comeback, and it looks like it will flex its muscles in the UK.
Dodge first hinted that the name could return when it unveiled the Charger R/T concept in 1999, and while it hasn't been officially confirmed, a production version is tipped to debut at next year's Detroit Motor Show. It could be on sale in the US by spring 2005.
A spokesman for the firm said: "Dodge is launching across Europe in 2006, and there are very few reasons why the Charger won't be part of the range once the brand is up and running. Having a performance car lots of people recognise would be very exciting."
The Charger is the model that put Dodge on the muscle car map. It first appeared in rear-wheel-drive mode in 1966. In the Seventies, it was phased out, only to re-emerge briefly a decade later as a front-wheel-drive coupé.
This time around, Dodge is said to want the new version to fight it out in America with mainstream cars from Toyota, Honda and Ford - and to that end, the revived Charger is said to look very different from earlier models.
Based on the 300C's running gear, it would be rear-wheel-drive in standard mode, although a 4WD option is under consideration. It would also be available in two and four-door form. Prices have yet to be discussed seriously, but insiders expect the new Charger to be in the mid-$20,000 (£14,000) range.
Dodge first hinted that the name could return when it unveiled the Charger R/T concept in 1999, and while it hasn't been officially confirmed, a production version is tipped to debut at next year's Detroit Motor Show. It could be on sale in the US by spring 2005.
A spokesman for the firm said: "Dodge is launching across Europe in 2006, and there are very few reasons why the Charger won't be part of the range once the brand is up and running. Having a performance car lots of people recognise would be very exciting."
The Charger is the model that put Dodge on the muscle car map. It first appeared in rear-wheel-drive mode in 1966. In the Seventies, it was phased out, only to re-emerge briefly a decade later as a front-wheel-drive coupé.
This time around, Dodge is said to want the new version to fight it out in America with mainstream cars from Toyota, Honda and Ford - and to that end, the revived Charger is said to look very different from earlier models.
Based on the 300C's running gear, it would be rear-wheel-drive in standard mode, although a 4WD option is under consideration. It would also be available in two and four-door form. Prices have yet to be discussed seriously, but insiders expect the new Charger to be in the mid-$20,000 (£14,000) range.
05-24-2004, 07:41 AM
#21
Doin' da crack shuffle
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Philly and Bowie
Age: 46
Posts: 10,847
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
the other one.
06-07-2004, 04:24 PM
#28
I Feel Too Old Here
Join Date: Jan 2002
Age: 44
Posts: 5,100
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by gavriil
06-07-2004, 08:57 PM
#29
Moderator Alumnus
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Washington DC (NOVA)
Age: 52
Posts: 16,399
Likes: 0
Received 8 Likes
on
8 Posts
Dodge confirms Charger will be name for upcoming '05 sedan - - By MARY CONNELLY | Automotive News - - Source: Autoweek
Dodge will bring back the Charger name on a full-sized rear-wheel-drive sedan in 2005, a company insider has confirmed.
Its exterior will draw on the heritage of the late 1960s Charger muscle car but will not be "retro," says the source, who asked not to be named.
...
Analyst Michael Bruynesteyn at Prudential Equity Group LLC, described the Chrysler group's new products as "appealing" in a report to investors. Financial analysts were briefed on Chrysler's upcoming products in a meeting last week.
The Charger will be a 2006 model and will be based on the Dodge Magnum. The Magnum will be the subject of a national promotion at Dodge dealerships June 17. About 2,000 Dodge dealers will host "Premiere Night" events to showcase the wagon.
Dodge's NASCAR drivers will be available via satellite to talk with shoppers.
Dodge will bring back the Charger name on a full-sized rear-wheel-drive sedan in 2005, a company insider has confirmed.
Its exterior will draw on the heritage of the late 1960s Charger muscle car but will not be "retro," says the source, who asked not to be named.
...
Analyst Michael Bruynesteyn at Prudential Equity Group LLC, described the Chrysler group's new products as "appealing" in a report to investors. Financial analysts were briefed on Chrysler's upcoming products in a meeting last week.
The Charger will be a 2006 model and will be based on the Dodge Magnum. The Magnum will be the subject of a national promotion at Dodge dealerships June 17. About 2,000 Dodge dealers will host "Premiere Night" events to showcase the wagon.
Dodge's NASCAR drivers will be available via satellite to talk with shoppers.
06-08-2004, 09:09 PM
#36
Suzuka Master
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 45
Posts: 7,083
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Crazy Sellout
ahh another name to ruin 
07-19-2004, 09:52 AM
#38
has Gloryhole Girls in
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Ballston Lake, NY
Age: 48
Posts: 11,473
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like
on
1 Post
On the Way - 400HP+ Chrysler 300 SRT-8, Dodge Charger SRT-8
SRT to Expand
By Kevin Kelly
WardsAuto.com, Jul 14 2004
Plans for the expansion of Chrysler’s LX rear-wheel-drive family of vehicles includes an SRT-8 performance package for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, as well as an all-new 6.1L Hemi V-8.
Performance-car fans should get ready for a series of sport-bred vehicles based on the newly introduced Chrysler Group LX rear-wheel-drive platform. The performance derivatives are set to debut in first-quarter 2005.
Sources within the auto maker tell Ward’s Chrysler will introduce a 300C SRT-8 early in 2005, with a Dodge Charger SRT-8 following in September.
Both vehicles will be powered by the all-new 6.1L version of Chrysler’s highly acclaimed Hemi V-8 engine.
Sources claim the new powerplant will produce 420 hp and 390 lb.-ft. (528 Nm) of torque, a significant 24% horsepower boost from the 340 hp rating of the current 5.7L Hemi.
Sources also indicate the 6.1L Hemi will not feature Chrysler’s much-touted multi-displacement cylinder-deactivation system. The higher-output 6.1L Hemi will be reserved only for performance applications, where fuel economy routinely is not a top priority.
“We’ll keep the 5.7L for mass production applications, but the 6.1L will be reserved for limited high-performance vehicle production,” a Chrysler insider says.
The Charger SRT-8 will feature a 6-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, boosting the vehicle’s performance potential.
Pilot production of standard Chargers already has begun in preparation for the return of the Charger moniker to Dodge showrooms shortly before the SRT package launches.
The source also indicates the auto maker is toying with the idea of launching a 2-door version of the Charger, as well as a 4-seat convertible, based loosely off the Chrysler Hemi C concept vehicle that debuted at the 2000 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
“I’ve seen some mock-ups, but I’m not sure if it’s been given the green light,” the source says.
Separately, the auto maker confirms it has begun production of all-wheel-drive variants of the 300 Series and Dodge Magnum passenger cars in Brampton, Ont., Canada. The AWD models will go on sale this fall.
Dodge will debut AWD versions of its Magnum SXT and RT wagon a few months before the system is available on the Chrysler 300 Limited, Touring and 300C in the fourth quarter.
The ’05 Magnum SXT AWD will base at $27,900, and the Hemi-powered RT AWD at $31,370.
Base price of the ’05 Chrysler 300 Touring AWD will be $29,370 with the 300 Touring AWD starting at $31,215. The Hemi-powered 300C AWD will base at $34,195.
-----
Yeah, it's got a Hemi... and AWD. All-wheel Drive Joins Rear-wheel Drive on 2005 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum
• New All-wheel-drive Choices Added to Line-up for Outstanding Performance in All Weather Conditions
• All-wheel-drive Vehicles to Go On Sale This Fall Starting at $27,900 (MSRP excluding $625 destination)
One wheel? Two wheels? Three wheels, four? All wheels your preference? Who needs more? Chrysler Group is rounding out its Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 family with all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the highly popular vehicles.
For those Dodge customers who prefer all-wheel drive, the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT and AWD Dodge Magnum RT will be introduced this fall. Later in the fourth quarter, Chrysler all-wheel-drive fans will be able to choose from AWD Chrysler 300 Touring and AWD Chrysler 300C models, as well as an AWD package that will be available as an option for the Chrysler 300 Limited.
"The rear-wheel drive Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 have proven themselves in the marketplace as popular performers all across the United States, and we look to these new all-wheel-drive choices to continue that momentum," said George Murphy, Senior Vice-President, Global Brand Marketing.
By continuously driving all wheels, the new all-wheel-drive system provides excellent cornering balance and traction under all driving conditions. Combined with standard features such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), All-speed Traction Control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and Emergency Brake Assist, performance and stability are outstanding in the new AWD members of the Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 lineup.
"While chassis electronics and tire technology improvements help control our Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum rear-wheel-drive models, some customers may still opt for the all-wheel-drive choice," said Murphy. "With this latest option, we are able to offer what the customer wants in each case."
The new all-wheel drive system adds a front differential and a transfer case to the standard rear-wheel-drive configuration. All-wheel drive continuously divides the power between the front and rear axles at a 38-percent to 62-percent ratio.
In addition to the front differential and transfer case, the all-wheel drive system adds a unique short- and long-arm front suspension to accommodate the front drive axle and related components. This unique suspension uses a forged upper control arm and single-piece case-iron lower control arm, efficiently packaged around the front-axle drive system. The steering gear effort and response and the suspension characteristics also are tuned to the handling characteristics of all-wheel-drive vehicles.
2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT Model
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT model is $27,900 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the added front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick®, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine.
2005 AWD Dodge Magnum RT Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum RT model is $31,370 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the addition of the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension. (The five-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and 19-gallon fuel tank already are included as standard equipment on the Dodge Magnum RT.)
2005 AWD Chrysler 300 Touring Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Chrysler 300 Touring model is $29,370 (excluding $625 destination). The added front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank are included with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine on the AWD Chrysler 300 Touring model.
2005 Chrysler 300 Limited AWD Option
The 2005 Chrysler 300 Limited will be offered as an all-wheel-drive vehicle through an option package. In addition to the Limited model's standard equipment, this package will add the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine. The MSRP for 2005 Chrysler 300 Limited vehicles with the AWD option is $31,215 (excluding $625 destination).
2005 AWD Chrysler 300C Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Chrysler 300C model is $34,195 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the addition of the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension and 18-inch wheels. (The five-speed automatic transmission, touring tires, performance disk brakes and 19-gallon fuel tank already are included as standard equipment on the Chrysler 300C.)
The 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum and AWD Chrysler 300 will be built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario.
By Kevin Kelly
WardsAuto.com, Jul 14 2004
Plans for the expansion of Chrysler’s LX rear-wheel-drive family of vehicles includes an SRT-8 performance package for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, as well as an all-new 6.1L Hemi V-8.
Performance-car fans should get ready for a series of sport-bred vehicles based on the newly introduced Chrysler Group LX rear-wheel-drive platform. The performance derivatives are set to debut in first-quarter 2005.
Sources within the auto maker tell Ward’s Chrysler will introduce a 300C SRT-8 early in 2005, with a Dodge Charger SRT-8 following in September.
Both vehicles will be powered by the all-new 6.1L version of Chrysler’s highly acclaimed Hemi V-8 engine.
Sources claim the new powerplant will produce 420 hp and 390 lb.-ft. (528 Nm) of torque, a significant 24% horsepower boost from the 340 hp rating of the current 5.7L Hemi.
Sources also indicate the 6.1L Hemi will not feature Chrysler’s much-touted multi-displacement cylinder-deactivation system. The higher-output 6.1L Hemi will be reserved only for performance applications, where fuel economy routinely is not a top priority.
“We’ll keep the 5.7L for mass production applications, but the 6.1L will be reserved for limited high-performance vehicle production,” a Chrysler insider says.
The Charger SRT-8 will feature a 6-speed manual transmission as standard equipment, boosting the vehicle’s performance potential.
Pilot production of standard Chargers already has begun in preparation for the return of the Charger moniker to Dodge showrooms shortly before the SRT package launches.
The source also indicates the auto maker is toying with the idea of launching a 2-door version of the Charger, as well as a 4-seat convertible, based loosely off the Chrysler Hemi C concept vehicle that debuted at the 2000 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
“I’ve seen some mock-ups, but I’m not sure if it’s been given the green light,” the source says.
Separately, the auto maker confirms it has begun production of all-wheel-drive variants of the 300 Series and Dodge Magnum passenger cars in Brampton, Ont., Canada. The AWD models will go on sale this fall.
Dodge will debut AWD versions of its Magnum SXT and RT wagon a few months before the system is available on the Chrysler 300 Limited, Touring and 300C in the fourth quarter.
The ’05 Magnum SXT AWD will base at $27,900, and the Hemi-powered RT AWD at $31,370.
Base price of the ’05 Chrysler 300 Touring AWD will be $29,370 with the 300 Touring AWD starting at $31,215. The Hemi-powered 300C AWD will base at $34,195.
-----
Yeah, it's got a Hemi... and AWD. All-wheel Drive Joins Rear-wheel Drive on 2005 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum
• New All-wheel-drive Choices Added to Line-up for Outstanding Performance in All Weather Conditions
• All-wheel-drive Vehicles to Go On Sale This Fall Starting at $27,900 (MSRP excluding $625 destination)
One wheel? Two wheels? Three wheels, four? All wheels your preference? Who needs more? Chrysler Group is rounding out its Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 family with all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the highly popular vehicles.
For those Dodge customers who prefer all-wheel drive, the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT and AWD Dodge Magnum RT will be introduced this fall. Later in the fourth quarter, Chrysler all-wheel-drive fans will be able to choose from AWD Chrysler 300 Touring and AWD Chrysler 300C models, as well as an AWD package that will be available as an option for the Chrysler 300 Limited.
"The rear-wheel drive Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 have proven themselves in the marketplace as popular performers all across the United States, and we look to these new all-wheel-drive choices to continue that momentum," said George Murphy, Senior Vice-President, Global Brand Marketing.
By continuously driving all wheels, the new all-wheel-drive system provides excellent cornering balance and traction under all driving conditions. Combined with standard features such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), All-speed Traction Control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and Emergency Brake Assist, performance and stability are outstanding in the new AWD members of the Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300 lineup.
"While chassis electronics and tire technology improvements help control our Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum rear-wheel-drive models, some customers may still opt for the all-wheel-drive choice," said Murphy. "With this latest option, we are able to offer what the customer wants in each case."
The new all-wheel drive system adds a front differential and a transfer case to the standard rear-wheel-drive configuration. All-wheel drive continuously divides the power between the front and rear axles at a 38-percent to 62-percent ratio.
In addition to the front differential and transfer case, the all-wheel drive system adds a unique short- and long-arm front suspension to accommodate the front drive axle and related components. This unique suspension uses a forged upper control arm and single-piece case-iron lower control arm, efficiently packaged around the front-axle drive system. The steering gear effort and response and the suspension characteristics also are tuned to the handling characteristics of all-wheel-drive vehicles.
2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT Model
The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum SXT model is $27,900 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the added front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick®, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine.
2005 AWD Dodge Magnum RT Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum RT model is $31,370 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the addition of the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension. (The five-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and 19-gallon fuel tank already are included as standard equipment on the Dodge Magnum RT.)
2005 AWD Chrysler 300 Touring Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Chrysler 300 Touring model is $29,370 (excluding $625 destination). The added front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank are included with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine on the AWD Chrysler 300 Touring model.
2005 Chrysler 300 Limited AWD Option
The 2005 Chrysler 300 Limited will be offered as an all-wheel-drive vehicle through an option package. In addition to the Limited model's standard equipment, this package will add the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension, a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, 18-inch wheels and touring tires, performance disk brakes and a 19-gallon fuel tank with the 3.5-liter V-6 High Output engine. The MSRP for 2005 Chrysler 300 Limited vehicles with the AWD option is $31,215 (excluding $625 destination).
2005 AWD Chrysler 300C Model
The MSRP for the 2005 AWD Chrysler 300C model is $34,195 (excluding $625 destination). This includes the addition of the front differential, transfer case and all-wheel-drive front suspension and 18-inch wheels. (The five-speed automatic transmission, touring tires, performance disk brakes and 19-gallon fuel tank already are included as standard equipment on the Chrysler 300C.)
The 2005 AWD Dodge Magnum and AWD Chrysler 300 will be built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario.
