2011 Chrysler 200

2011 Chrysler 200 mid-sized sedan offer its consumers exceptional craftsmanship inside and out, a refined and spirited driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content.

Exterior and sheet metal upgrades include: front and rear fascias and fenders, grille featuring the new Chrysler brand winged badge, hood, rear decklid and exterior mirrors, new projector headlamps and fog lamps, new LED taillamps and a LED center high-mounted stop light.

2011 Chrysler 200’s interior has upgraded, giving the Chrysler 200 its own identity and space in the highly competitive mid-size sedan segment. Updates include a new instrument panel, bezels and gauge face, upgraded seats with a new design. Also equipped the new “soft touch” armrests and dash, and new heating and cooling outlets in the instrument panel with improved design and functionality.

It has a new powertrain lineup featuring the 2.4-liter I-4 World Gas Engine mated to either a four-speed or six-speed automatic transaxle, or the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transaxle; improved ride and handling tuning which includes stiffened body mounts and softer ride rate, improved suspension geometry with a raised roll center, a new rear sway bar, and new tires and an extensively upgraded treatment for the reduction of noise, vibration and harshness including acoustic laminated glass for the windshield and front door windows.

Just waiting, the Chrysler 200 will be built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich. and will arrive in dealerships in the fourth quarter 2010.

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2011 Chrysler 200 – LA Auto Show

2011 Chrysler 200 is an exciting alternative for customers that want style and substance, all at a surprising value. It will be officially introduced at this week’s LA Auto Show. Carshowp also once wrote this in previous post. 2011 Chrysler 200 is offered with the proven 2.4-liter World Gas Engine. It for an exceptionally fun and fuel efficient driving experience.

The new 200 sedan powered by the 2.4-liter I-4 engine produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb.-ft. of torque. The available new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine provides an even more exhilarating driving experience that offers customers the best of both worlds – best-in-class V-6 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to the 62TE six-speed transmission.

Exterior use a new hood, new front fascia, new projector headlamps and projector beam fog lamps round out the new face of the Chrysler 200. A new for 2011 rear deck lid, rear fascia, exterior mirrors, new LED taillamps and an LED center high-mounted stoplight completes the transformation.

Interior of Chrysler 200 use all-new instrument panel, bezels, gauge face and new Chrysler steering wheel transform the driver’s seat into an elegant atmosphere. Upgraded seats with a new design that incorporates more cushion material and revised spring geometry, as well as new leather and cloth seating materials.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan is available in the following exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, White Gold Clear Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Bright White Pearl Coat, Sapphire Crystal Metallic Clear Coat (late availability) or Black.

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2010 Chrysler 300C

2010 Chrysler 300C

2010 Chrysler 300C

2010 Chrysler 300C

2010 Chrysler 300C

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Fresh Photos of New Chrysler 200 Sporting Brand's New Grille

Now that Chrysler Group has announced its new European Jeep lineup and revealed the next-gen Dodge Durango and Charger, the most important cars to expect soon are the 200 and 300 sedans. Chrysler has put out some new photos of its redesigned and renamed Sebring replacement, and we finally get a better look at the car's nose plus a peek at the leather interior with contrasting stitching.

You already know the car will get a the 2.4-liter I4 World Gas Engine and the new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 with 283 horsepower. For the rest of all the released info, head over to our previous post. Right now we're here to check out the latest teasers from Chrysler.

With a full, if dim, view of the front end, it looks like the new Chrysler grille will get some styling cues from -wait for the shocker- Hyundai's latest proposals. Hopefully we'll be getting some proper pictures soon that will put any fears to rest.

Remember, this is just meant to be a stop-gap solution using the 200C concept's style on an old Sebring chassis; the next all-new 200 should be significantly less Sebring and more its own model in-line dimensionally with the concept it's based on.

By Phil Alex

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READ MORE - Fresh Photos of New Chrysler 200 Sporting Brand's New Grille

Jeep Launches Mopar Accessories for New Grand Cherokee

The Chrysler Group's Mopar division has released a host of accessories for the recently launched 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Buyers can upgrade and customize Jeep's flagship SUV model with heaps of parts and accessories ranging from a mobile TV and WiFi tech that turns the vehicle into a wireless hot spot, to tubular side steps and a camper trailer. For the complete list of available parts and pricing, follow the jump for Mopar's detailed press release.

Mopar Press Release

Exterior

Wheels: Mopar offers five accessory wheels in a variety of sizes ranging from 17 inches to 20 inches. "Rugged" style aluminum wheels are available in polished silver and painted black and are treated in a durable clear-coat finish. Wheels meet strict strength, corrosion and balance standards and requirements. A stamped-steel wheel for the snow-tire market will also be available. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): Starting at $90

Chromed Parts: A variety of chromed parts give the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee a unique, customized appearance. Parts include side-mirror covers, exhaust tips, and fog-lamp bezels for the front bumper. MSRP for side-mirror covers: $89, part number 82212218. MSRP for exhaust tips: $77.30, part number 82212400. MSRP for fog bezels: $81.40, part number 82212341.

Molded Splash Guards: Deluxe and flexible front and rear splash guards are molded to the Jeep Grand Cherokee's contours for a custom fit and provide excellent lower body protection. MSRP for front splash guards: $35.10, part number 82210219AB. MSRP for rear splash guards: $35.10, part number 82212020AB

Skid Plates: Available for fuel tank, transfer case and engine, Mopar skid plates are made of heavy-gauge steel and painted with a high-quality black finish in order to provide protection to vital components when traveling off-road. MSRP for fuel tank skid plate: $264, part number 82211999. MSRP for front-axle skid plate: $92.75, part number 82211995. MSRP for transfer-case skid plate: $92.75, part number 82211994

Sport-utility Bars: Mount to original-equipment side rails in order to allow other rooftop carriers to be installed with ease. Lockable bars are made of aluminum and help protect against corrosion, while T-slots allow for quick carrier installation. MSRP: $244, part number 82212072AB

Roof Cargo Basket, Soft-side Roof Cargo Carrier and Bike and Ski Carriers: Mount to sport-utility bars on vehicle roof and allow for two-tier loading. MSRP: starting at $121

Trailer Hitch and Trailer Wiring: A variety of towing products are available. MSRP for trailer hitch: $233, part number 82212180. MSRP for seven-way round wiring connector: $67, part number 82212196AB

Tubular Side Steps: Constructed of light-weight, anodized aluminum and available in black or chrome, tubular side steps provide wide skid-resistant stepping surfaces for easy entry and exit. MSRP for chrome: $516, part number 82212129. MSRP for black: $309, part number 82212130

Vehicle Covers: A front-end cover protects the vehicle from bugs, dirt and road debris and is made of black vinyl with 22-oz. polyester backing. MSRP: $195, part number 82212083. A full-vehicle cover is made of premium, heavy-weight material that is washable and water resistant. Cover helps protect finish from ultraviolet rays, dirt and other airborn pollutants. MSRP: $212, part number 82212084

Wheel-lock Kit: Kit protects against wheel and tire theft and includes four chrome-plated locking nuts, and one exclusive Mopar key. MSRP: $45.35, part number 82210879

Interior and Electronics

Bright Pedal Kit: Made from aircraft-quality polished stainless steel with chemical-resistant rubber, bright pedal covers are designed specifically for production pedals and are easy to install. MSRP: $55.65, part number 82212055

Dog Bed: Bed is 31 inches by 36 inches and made of a 2-inch thick tan and grey textured material. The zippered cover removes for easy washing. MSRP: $72, part number 82210316

Door-sill Guards: Brushed stainless-steel guards protect interior sills from scratches and feature the Jeep Grand Cherokee logo on front sills. Front sills are also available in stainless steel with an illuminated Jeep logo. MSRP for stainless: $89, part number 82212118. MSRP for illuminated: $169, part number 82212120

Engine Block and Battery Heater Kits: Heaters plug into standard 110-volt outlet and ensure fast starts and quick warm-ups. MSRP: starts at $37

Katzkin Leather Seat Covers: Premium leather seating packages in a variety of colors and trims. Fully customizable as to color, leather, logos and stitching. MSRP starts at $1,199

FLO TV: Chrysler Group LLC, through Mopar, is the first automaker in the U.S. to offer live, mobile TV. Content includes programming from ABC, ABC Entertainment, ABC Family, ABC News, Adult Swim Mobile, CBS, CBS College Sports, CBS News, CNBC, CNN Mobile, COMEDY CENTRAL, Disney Channel, Disney Channel Original Movies, ESPN, ESPNEWS, ESPN 2, FOX, FOX News Channel, FOX Sports, Fuel TV, MSNBC, MTV, NBC, NBC2Go, NBC News, NBC Sports, Nickelodeon, Playhouse Disney, SOAPNET and Speed. MSRP: $509 plus installation, part number 82212162AB

iPod Interface Kit: Play iPod music files directly through the vehicle's audio system by plugging the iPod into the custom cable and controlling the music selection with the iPod's control wheel. iPod interface cable to be used only with Mopar Uconnect phone kits with iPod integration. MSRP: $87.15 plus installation, part number 82211853

ParkSense® Rear-park Assist System: Assists at low speeds in Reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster. MSRP: $359 plus install, part number 82212158

Portable Navigation System: Mopar offers a variety of competitively priced, easy-to-use navigation systems that provide precise guidance to destinations through the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite technology. MSRP: starting at $179

Rear-seat Video, DVD: Mopar 10-inch DVD player is integrated into the headliner and is controlled by infrared remote (not available with dual-pane roof). Audio may be accessed through the vehicle's sound system and/or through two wireless headphones. An auxiliary input is provided for a video camera, CD, MP3 and video games. MSRP: $1,105 plus installation, part number 82212362.

Uconnect Phone: Uses Bluetooth technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between occupants' compatible mobile phone and the vehicle's onboard receiver. MSRP: $407 plus installation, part number 82211755AB

Uconnect Web: Turns your vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing every passenger to harness the power and entertainment value of online accessibility. MSRP: $499 plus installation, part number 8221856AB, service sold separately.

Mopar-first Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:
-Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
- Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
- Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
- FLO TV: first to offer live, mobile television in the United States
-WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
-WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

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Fiat Explains Under-The-Radar Paris Appearance, will Debut New Models in Late 2011

Fiat has addressed a question at least a few people were asking this year in Paris, explaining its lack of significant presence at this year's Paris Motor Show. According to CEO Sergio Marchionne, Fiat has been building up steam, waiting to release new product until late next year in order to better balance the brand's many companies' funds.

"We have saved ammunition awaiting for the recovery," Sergio Marchionne told journalists on the sidelines of the Paris Auto Show. "New models will arrive at the end of 2011, early 2012. Launching new products in a market that is so structurally weak has no sense," Marchionne added.

Hopefully between now and then we'll at least get a few hints at what Fiat will offer in the form of some sexy new concepts.

Other than waiting for that to happen, expect the super-sized Italian automaker to be concentrating on the Chrysler/Lancia revamp as well as trying to acquaint people in the States with the 500 mini and, hopefully, a new type of Fiat.

Expect more news on Fiat's product plans as it becomes available.

By Phil Alex

Source: Reuters

READ MORE - Fiat Explains Under-The-Radar Paris Appearance, will Debut New Models in Late 2011

Chrysler / Fiat US Plans Laid Out, New Dodge Viper on the way in 2012

It turns out Sergio Marchionne brought a gift when he spoke with Chrysler dealers down in Florida earlier this week. Can we guess what it was? No, the rumored Jeep truck was a bonus (and a no-brainer). High fives all around if you said 2012 Dodge Viper. The company showed dealers an early prototype of the next Viper finished in a candy-apple red color. According to one dealer present at the meeting, the Viper concept "resembled the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione with a Viper face." We shall see.

According to sources, the next Viper will play the role of a proper halo car, not just a high-end racer. That means a more luxurious performance car to be the icing on Dodge's cake instead of the visceral attack on the senses that was the previous Viper.

Dodge's lineup is also going to get a "sportier" Caravan in yet another attempt to convince dads that mom didn't just talk them into a minivan. Ralph Gilles also confirmed a "Man Van" with an all black interior. Love the guy's work, but "Man Van"? Grow up. Also, the Wall Street Journal reports that the Dakota will be replaced with a "lifestyle" truck, whatever that means.

Chrysler, as we've recently shown you, will get the refreshed Sebring / 200 in order to fill the gap before a proper 200 is developed. Internet rumors indicate that the next mid-size Chrysler could be underpinned by a shortened RWD platform, so huzzah! Other than that, there's the revamped Town & Country that we told you about, as well as the redesigned 300.

As for Ram, there's not much going on right now. We could see a smaller pickup to fill the entry level gap once the Dakota disappears, but that's about it.

Jeep is about as lively as Ram. Other than the new Grand Cherokee, the rest of the lineup gets some updates before the new vehicles are revealed. Once all is said and done, we're probably going to see a Fiat-based small model (and say goodbye to the Patriot/Compass), the Wrangler, the Liberty, and the Grand Cherokee. Also, if dealers push for it, there could be a Gladiator-like Jeep truck coming; apparently Marchionne teased one at the dealer meeting.

Lastly, Fiat will drop the 500 Stateside in January after its US debut in L.A. We'll get Sport and Lounge versions of the little accessory car, as well as a ton of interior/exterior color combos. Bottom line on this one is that it's just too damn cute to pass up hopefully, Chrysler won't fumble it.

Chrysler and Fiat, both under the cost-cutting grandfatherly wing of Sergio Marchionne, working together to try to build world-class cars...who would have thought this would ever happen?

By Phil Alex

Source: WSJ and Autonews (sub. Req)

READ MORE - Chrysler / Fiat US Plans Laid Out, New Dodge Viper on the way in 2012

2011 Dodge Nitro offers New Heat 4.0 Lifestyle Package and Equipment Upgrades

We'll be hearing of more updated / refreshed Chrysler Group models within the next couple of months (if not weeks), but rounding up the changes on the first crop of 2011MYs, the Dodge Nitro gains a new trim level and some modest equipment upgrades on certain grades.

Joining the Detonator, Shock and Heat models that landed in the range in 2010, is the Heat 4.0 Lifestyle Package which comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. (359 Nm) of torque, hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission. Additional standard equipment over the Heat includes Uconnect Phone and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.

In other news for the Nitro, all 2011MYs get standard 20-inch alloy wheels and monochromatic interiors, while select models feature upgraded cabins with new cloth and leather with premium colored stitching. Furthermore, the Detonator and Shock models now feature Dodge's new signature racing stripes on the hood and front fenders.

Finally, Dodge added several new colors to the 2011MY range including Bright White Clear Coat, Blackberry Pearl Coat, Toxic Orange Pearl Coat and Redline Two Coat.

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2011MY Dodge Caliber: Retuned Steering System and Equipment Upgrades

Continuing to chart the changes on the Chrysler Group's 2011MY cars, the Dodge Caliber has received some modest enhancements for the new model year, the most noteworthy being the re-tuned steering system which, according to the automaker, provides in a "more direct and precise feel". Other than that, you'll find new available exterior colors and some trim and equipment upgrades on certain models, which you can check in detail in the list after the break.

Here's what's new for the 2011 Dodge Caliber:

- Six new color options: Redline 2 Pearl Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat, Blackberry Pearl Coat, Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Pearl Coat (late availability)

- 18-in. chrome-clad aluminum wheel now available with the Uptown model

- Red and blue accent stitching added to leather seats with Rush model

- Six-way power driver's seat standard with Mainstreet model

- Electronic stability control (ESC) now standard with Mainstreet, Heat, Uptown and Rush models

- New navigation radio with SIRIUS Travel Link

- Steering retuned for a more direct and precise feel

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2011MY Jeep Liberty: New Steering Wheel, Media Systems and Colors

After yesterday's news on the US-spec Fiat 500 and the redesigned Chrysler Sebring (renamed to '200') and Town & Country, and Jeep Patriot models, the subtle changes and upgrades on other 2011MY Chrysler Group products, including the Jeep Liberty (named Cherokee in Europe, Australia and other markets), went by somewhat unnoticed.

For the 2011 model year, the most noticeable change on the Liberty is the newly styled steering wheel with standard controls for radio, EVIC, cruise control and Uconnect phone. In addition, Jeep added three new infotainment systems:

-AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 and auxiliary jack with 6.5-in. touch screen and 30 GB hard drive

-AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 and auxiliary jack with 6.5-in. touch screen, 30 GB hard drive and Garmin navigation

-AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 and auxiliary jack with 6.5-in. touch screen, 30 GB hard drive, Uconnect navigation, SIRIUS Traffic and SIRIUS Travel Link

Finally, there are several new color offerings, including Bronze Star, Blackberry Pearl, Bright White Clear and Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl.

The Jeep Liberty will continue to be available in three trim levels, Sport, Renegade and Limited, all powered by a 3.7-liter V6 producing 210 HP at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 Nm) of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.

READ MORE - 2011MY Jeep Liberty: New Steering Wheel, Media Systems and Colors