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Tuesday, January 31, 2012

New Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger Unveiled


The Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger is a Fiat 500 customized with Mopar accessories. The Fiat 500 Stinger Stage 1 is a visual package that features blacked out lights, door handles and trim; body side moulding with stripes and roof graphics on the outside, plus 17 inch wheels in hyper black finish.

Fiat 500 Stinger interior

Inside, the seats are modified with Katzkin seat covers and a carbon fiber dash. The Fiat 500 Stinger Stage 2 is a performance package consisting of a Mopar cold air intake, cat back exhaust and drilled rotors.

Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger show car

Here are more details about the Mopar Fiat 500 Stinger, courtesy of Chrysler:

2012 Fiat 500 ‘Stinger’
Building on the Fiat 500’s “Hottest Sports Compact Car” award by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) this past November, the new Fiat 500 “Stinger” integrates two Mopar stage kits that deliver bold styling appointments and select high-performance parts from the Mopar catalog.

Adding even more style to the new 2012 Fiat 500 Sport, the Fiat 500 Stinger features Giallo (yellow) exterior paint combined with unique blackened exterior and interior appointments – all designed to amplify the hatchback’s athletic Italian styling.


Fiat 500 Stinger

Stage 1: athletic and purposeful styling enhancements
For a more aggressive appearance, the Fiat 500 Stinger’s signature “whiskers and logo” face and circular projector headlamps are finished in Black Chrome. Accenting the Giallo bodyside are exterior door handles and mirror caps finished in Black Chrome, while larger 17-inch by 7-inch Abarth Hyper Black aluminum wheels with wider 205/40 R 17 performance tires provide the hatchback with a menacing stance below. Tinted head and taillamps and license-plate brow, and Mopar’s vinyl bodyside and roof graphics in black checker add to the Fiat 500 Stinger’s serious look.

The interior of the Fiat 500 Stinger continues the duality of Giallo and black with Mopar’s Katzkin leather seats. Based on the Fiat 500 Sport’s athletic-styled seats, the 500 Stinger’s seats feature Alcantara seat centers sandwiched by smooth and Giallo black leather bolsters and Giallo accent stitching. Below, a Mopar carbon-fiber instrument panel decal provides this Cinquecento’s interior with a technical appearance. A Mopar shifter ball is finished in Gloss Black completes the appearance.

Fiat 500 Stinger rear quarter view

Stage 2: track-tested performance upgrades
Delivering factory-designed performance, Mopar’s new Stage 2 kit ensures that the Fiat 500 Stinger delivers improved power and braking capabilities to match its aggressive styling upgrades.

Mopar’s cold-air intake and free-flowing cat-back exhaust enable the Fiat 500 Stinger’s fuel-efficient 1.4-liter 16-valve MultiAir™ engine to deliver even more power and torque.

And to make sure this Cinquecento delivers track-ready brake performance, the Fiat 500 Stinger features performance brakes with cross-drilled rotors for additional surface-heat dissipation.

Fiat 500 Stinger emblem

Be sure to check out your Fiat Studio for more information on Mopar accessories.

Images: Chrysler Media

Fiat 500 Takes Part in Mopar's 75th Anniversary Celebration


Watch the live event today, Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST

Mopar is celebrating its 75th anniversary today and unveiling its Mopar 12 car, plus a few more cars it’ll have at the Chicago Auto Show. My sources say there will also be a Fiat 500 show car debuting!

During the live show, look for a special promotional code that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

Watch the live event today, Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST

Fiat 500 Titanium show car and

Official invite:

MOPAR 75TH CELEBRATION EVENT
You've been a part of our rich history and contributed to our strength today. We invite you to take a powerful ride with us into a new and exciting future. Please join us for a 75th Anniversary Celebration and glimpse in our future.

Be a part of the entire event and watch the Web Broadcast live!

Event Highlights include:
  • Unveiling of the Mopar ‘12
  • View a collection of Past, Present and Future Vehicles
  • Special Events Announcements
  • Much more…

Saturday, January 28, 2012

New Fiat 500 Show Car to be Unveiled at Mopar's 75th Anniversary!

Fiat 500 2011 Mopar show car
Fiat 500 Titanium show car from last year's SEMA Show

Heard from outside sources is Mopar will be unveiling four new show cars including a new Fiat 500 during its 75th Anniversary celebration Tuesday, January 31!

When you think about American performance cars, the name Mopar shines bright. From the legendary HEMI 'Cudas of the past to the modern racing Viper SRT10s and Challenger V10 Drag Paks, Mopar knows extreme performance. This year marks Mopar's 75th anniversary and they are celebrating in a big way. On Tuesday, January 31, there will be a live broadcast unveiling its latest creations including a new Fiat 500 show car!

Fiat 500 2011 Mopar show car front

You'd be forgiven if you asked what does Mopar have to do with the Fiat 500, because at first glance they don't seem to have anything in common, but the simple fact is Mopar supplies the parts and manages service to all the Fiat Studios in the nation. Probably more important, from an enthusiast's point of view, is that Mopar has also developed a full range of custom parts and accessories for the Fiat 500.

I'll be hosting the live unveiling here on the site Tuesday morning at 8:30 AM. Watch for a special promotion that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

Below is the official invite:

Fiat 500 2011 Mopar show car rear


MOPAR 75TH CELEBRATION EVENT
You’ve been a part of our rich history and contributed to our strength today. We invite you to take a powerful ride with us into a new and exciting future. Please join us for a 75th Anniversary Celebration and glimpse in our future.

Be a part of the entire event and watch the Web Broadcast live Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 8:30 am EST !

Event Highlights include:
  • Unveiling of the Mopar ‘12
  • View a collection of Past, Present and Future Vehicles
  • Special Events Announcements
  • Much more…
  
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Watch the Web Broadcast, for a chance to win a special 75th anniversary prize pack. During the broadcast, watch for a special promo code that you can enter on Mopar.com for a chance to win. Winners will be randomly selected and will receive a Mopar 75th anniversary prize pack.

Friday, January 27, 2012

New US Fiat Model Named

Fiat 500L artist interpretation and

The new larger Fiat that is coming to America next year will be called the Fiat 500L. Previously known by its codename the Fiat L0 or ElleZero, it is a larger car than the current Fiat 500.

The Fiat 500L will use a widened and US-compliant chassis based on the one used by the Fiat Punto and Alfa Romeo MiTo models. The revised platform will have 4 wheel drive capability.

In Europe, the car will be available in 5 or 7 seat versions, but the US will just see the 5 seat version. The length of the new Fiat 500L is reported to be approximately 161 inches long or about 22 inches longer than the Fiat 500.


Video montage of spy shots and illustrations

No images of the car have been released, but there are numerous design interpretations on the Internet. Styling has been described as being a cross between the Fiat 500 and the new Fiat Panda.

The car will make its public debut during the Geneva International Motor Show, March 8-18, 2012.


Image: blogautomobile.fr

Thursday, January 26, 2012

FIATRide Debuts Friday

Fiat 500 New York Event

Fiat USA is continuing to bring the Fiat Experience to the public. The latest experiential event, called the FIATRide, will be held at the 2012 Washington Auto Show, (Jan. 26-Feb. 5). The unique indoor interactive event begins this Friday and will demonstrate the qualities that have made the Fiat 500 a worldwide phenomenon with nearly 800,000 cars sold worldwide.

Consumers will have a chance to experience the Fiat 500 while product specialists drive the participants over a variety of surfaces that demonstrate the 500's outstanding handling, agility, ride comfort and maneuverability.

Fiat 500 experiential event

The FIATRide is an indoor event and features the Fiat 500 in the Hatchback and Cabrio versions.

FIATRide Track location and hours include:

2012 Washington Auto Show
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Mount Vernon Place Northwest
Washington, D.C. 20001

Friday, Jan. 27
Noon – 10 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 29
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 30 – Thursday, Feb. 2
Noon – 9 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 3
Noon – 10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 4
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 5
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.


Source:Chrysler Media

Monday, January 23, 2012

Fiat 500 Abarth Price Details

US Fiat 500 Abarth

Here are preliminary pricing* details for the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, including the prices of various options. This should hold you over until the official Abarth website gets their configurator online!

Base Price     $22,000

US Fiat 500 Abarth Dashboard

Safety & Convenience Package    $600
SiriusXM satellite radio with 1-year of included service; Single-zone automatic climate control with micron filter; Remote anti-theft alarm system

Leather Trim    $1,000

Engine Block Heater    $50

TomTom Navigation w/Blue&Me    $400
TomTom 4.3" touchscreen portable navigation system unit that docks on top of the instrument panel and is integrated into the vehicle with controllability of the system through the vehicle's steering wheel mounted controls. Capable of displaying real-time traffic and weather reports; Blue&Me Handsfree Communication that allows Bluetooth enabled phones and USB-connected media players with iPod to be controlled through voice commands.

Smoker's Group    $30
Cigar lighter; Removable ash tray

Power Sunroof     $850


US Fiat 500 Abarth with 17 inch Hyper Black wheels

17" x 7.0" Forged Aluminum Gloss White Wheels     $1,000
17" x 7.0" forged aluminum gloss white wheels with 205/40R17 Pirelli P-Zero Nero black side wall 3 season tires

17" x 7.0" Forged Aluminum Hyper Black Wheels    $1,000
17" x 7.0" forged aluminum hyper black wheels with 205/40R17 Pirelli P-Zero Nero black side wall 3 season tires

Black Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripe     $350
Red Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripe     $350
White Mirror Cap/Bodyside Stripes     $350

US Fiat 500 Abarth 16 inch wheels
Stock Fiat 500 Abarth 16 inch wheels


Hawaii Additional Destination Charge     $50

Destination Fee     $700



* Preliminary pricing subject to change
Images: Fiat USA

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Fiat FreezeOut 2012 Event


The 2012 Fiat FreezeOut will be held next Saturday, January 28. Beat the winter blues by hanging out with fellow Fiat enthusiasts and enjoy refreshments, music and cars. The event promises to be a great time. Here are the details:

The Delaware Valley Chapter of the Fiat Lancia Unlimited Club (FLU) will co-host the 'sometimes annual' FIAT FreezeOut. For 2012, we are being welcomed by FIAT of Maple Shade, NJ. They are located about 15 minutes from Philadelphia.

There will be food, beverages, and music. This is a good chance to see a lot of your old friends as well as an opportunity to make some new ones. Members and non-members are welcome to attend. The folks at FIAT of Maple Shade are making this a free event for everyone! Come out in the dead of winter with or without your FIAT. We'll gather about 5pm and continue until they kick us out! There might even be a few prizes!

Saturday, January 28, 2012
5PM until ???
FIAT of Maple Shade
587 West Route 38 Maple Shade, NJ 08052
www.fiatusaofsouthjersey.com
Please RSVP so that proper estimates can be given to the caterer. Contact Sherman Barton at shore208@comcast.net or by phone at 609-923-7426.

http://fludelaware.italiancarclub.com/

Friday, January 20, 2012

Fiat 500 Celebrates its Fans on Facebook



The Fiat 500 is arguably the most popular car of the Fiat Group not only in Italy, but all over the world and recently hit a social media milestone. Its official Facebook page hit 200,000 likes. To celebrate, a movie was commissioned to thank all its fans.

The movie collects the adjectives and words that people have used to describe the Fiat 500 on its Facebook page.

Fiat says:
There are as many ways to go with the 500 as the ways you have defined on Facebook. 200.000 fans: 200.000 ways to be 500. Thank you all!


Thursday, January 19, 2012

Fiat 500 Liberation Commercial



A new Fiat 500 TV commercial called 'Liberation' debuted earlier this month at the 2012 Golden Globes Award Show. A sneak peak of this Fiat commercial was given to those who attended the unveiling of the Fiat 500 Abarth last November. Enjoy!


Video: BCA Media YouTube Channel

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

US Fiat ElleZero Confirmed


Olivier Francois, Global Head of Fiat Brand, recently confirmed the 4 door Fiat MPV will indeed make its way to the US next year. The car, code name L0 or ElleZero, uses the updated chassis of the new Fiat Panda but stretched to accommodate up to 7 passengers. The above image is an artist's interpretation of the design, but appears to be the most accurate yet published.

The roomy 4 door MPV's length is approximately 161 or 169 inches, depending on whether it is a 5 or 7 seat version. This compares with 139 inches for the Fiat 500. The Fiat ElleZero will make its debut during the Geneva International Motor Show, March 8-18, 2012.


Image:Autoexpress.com

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Fiat 500 by Gucci at FIAT of Austin

Fiat 500 by Gucci

The Fiat 500 appeals to a wide variety of demographics; young and old, affluent or just starting out, the 500 offers something for everyone. Original thinking was the 500 would do better in urban areas, but surprisingly, one of the biggest markets for the Fiat 500 is in the wide open spaces of Texas. The #1 Fiat dealer in Texas is FIAT of Austin, which also happens to be the #2 Fiat dealer in the Nation.




Their passion for the Fiat brand is quite evident when you visit their Studio or even their Facebook page. It has no doubt helped propel them to the top. FIAT of Austin sent us a video introduction to the Fiat 500 by Gucci, a car that has become popular with chic, fashion conscious consumers in their market.

The Fiat 500 is an exciting, fun car and it's great to see a dealer embrace that essence. Visit these links to see what I mean:




(512)228-3428

Monday, January 16, 2012

Fiat 500 Abarth Racing Versions

Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse in action

True to its Abarth roots, the Fiat 500 Abarth has a genuine racing pedigree. In Europe, the street cars are track worthy with minimal add-ons; however, there are two purpose built race versions for the hardcore enthusiast. The first is a road racing car called the 500 Abarth Assetto Corse (or Race Ready).

Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse
Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse

The ‘500 Abarth Assetto Corse’ comes with white 17 inch special ultralight racing wheels, low ride, sports racing mirrors and a place for a number on the sides. Available in pastel grey with red Abarth side stripes, the ‘500 Abarth Assetto Corse’ has screen-printed mesh replacing the plastic grilles on the standard production version. In addition to the classic hood hold-downs, the hood houses two carbon fiber air intakes bearing the Abarth scorpion logo. The rear part of the car features a white winged spoiler, a badge bearing the Abarth logo and twin exhausts.



Inside, the ‘500 Abarth Assetto Corse’ is completely gutted of its interior to make the car lighter and faster. The car weighs approximately 396 lbs. less than the road version, bringing the cars weight down to 2072 lbs. The seating position has been optimized for racing, shifting the anatomical racing seat towards the center of the car, a racing steering wheel, roll bar and carbon fiber door panels round out the package.

Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse pitstop

Mechanically, the car sports an engine with a larger turbocharger, the Garrett GT 1446 (the US Fiat 500 Abarth uses the same turbo!). Engine tuning brings the horsepower to 200 bhp (147 KW) at 6500 rpm with a torque rating of 300 Nm (221 lbs/ft) at 3000 rpm. A 6 speed M32 transmission, coilover suspension along with upgraded, 4 piston Brembo calipers with larger 305 mm drilled front rotors brings the car to serious race specifications.


500 Abarth R3T Rally

500 Abarth R3T
500 Abarth R3T Rally

The other racing 500 Abarth is a rally version built to FIA's new Group R3T regulations called the Abarth 500 R3T. The rally car weighs 2381 lbs. (the minimum regulation weight) and has an engine that delivers 180 bhp at 5500 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lbs/ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. A modified Garrett GT 1446a turbo with a 29 mm diameter intake restrictor plate differentiates the R3T turbo from the Assetto Corse's.



The gearbox is a sequential 6 speed unit and includes a multiplate self-locking differential, 184mm diameter metal-ceramic twin plate clutch and special CV half-shafts.

Fiat 500 Abarth Brembo 4 piston caliper

Rally spec, fully adjustable coilover suspension, designed specifically to withstand brutal rally conditions combined with a hydraulic handbrake and 7” x 17” OZ asphalt rims mounting 19/62-17 tires complete the rugged car's specifications.


500 Abarth body shells

It will be interesting to see what race versions the US will see once the Fiat 500 Abarth starts making its way onto the streets this spring.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

US Fiat 500 Abarth Price Released

US 500 Abarth

Fiat USA has just announced the price of the new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth will be $22,700 including a Richard Petty Driving School Experience! This is happy news and confirms the rumors I heard and published last month (US Fiat 500 Abarth Price and Other Rumors).

The US Fiat 500 Abarth was unveiled last November to incredible fanfare, however one bit of information missing from all the juicy specifications was the price. Speculation had the price reaching north of $27,000 to $30,000. I was able to get preliminary pricing info that put the car under $25,000, but exactly how far under was not disclosed (US Fiat 500 Abarth Price).

US 500 Abarth in action

The weeks that have past since the unveiling have been put to good use evaluating the price and the competition. The Fiat 500 Abarth $22,700 price puts the semi-exotic Italian performance car within reach of an average person.

Here are the full details:

FIAT Brand Announces U.S. Pricing for New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
  • Starting at $22,000, the Fiat 500 Abarth unleashes legendary Italian performance onto American streets
  • Designed for track-day enthusiasts and driving purists who want the ultimate high-performance small car at an attainable price
  • Fiat 500 Abarth customers entitled to segment-exclusive, full-day Abarth Driving Experience
Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 11, 2012 - The FIAT brand today announced U.S. pricing for its new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth. The starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $22,000 (not including destination).


Faithful to the “small but wicked” saying coined for Karl Abarth’s cars in the 1960s, the Fiat 500 Abarth arrives to America with the racing traditions that have made it a success on European roadways and racetracks: world-class performance and precision, purposeful and aggressive styling, high power-to-weight ratio and limited production volume.




“The Fiat 500 Abarth feels like a double shot of espresso straight to your veins,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC. “With its wicked attitude, it will reward adrenaline fans who no longer need to pay six figures to feel the rush of true Italian performance.”


The race-inspired Fiat 500 Abarth comes standard with many performance features, including the all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine delivering 160 horsepower (119 kW) and 170 lb.-ft. (230 N•m) of torque, Abarth-tuned suspension, brake systems and dual exhaust, turbo-boost gauge with integrated LED shift light and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

US 500 Abarth dashboard

Driver and passenger performance seats feature a one-piece design with large side bolsters, racing-harness pass-through and accent stitching. The Fiat 500 Abarth also comes standard with BLUE&ME™ Handsfree Communication, Bose premium audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

US 500 Abarth drift

Abarth Driving Experience for New Owners
Included in the price of each 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth is the opportunity for new owners to attend a segment-exclusive driving experience at no additional charge. The Abarth Driving Experience is an entire day of full-throttle training, guided by professional instructors from the Richard Petty Driving Experience to ensure fun and top-level instruction in a safe and structured setting.



“Seduction” Digital Spot Reaches Nearly 3 Million YouTube Views
The 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth and its digital spot titled “Seduction” made their debuts at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. The 60-second social media spot promoting the 500 Abarth seduced more than 1 million YouTube viewers in its first week and now has reached nearly 3 million views. Without having ever been aired on television or cable networks, it has rapidly spread through the web and gained global attention.

It represents the unique characteristics of the Fiat 500 Abarth as a sensual and strikingly stunning model and takes a peek at what happens the first time a customer encounters the race-ready vehicle. The spot ends with a sexy and edgy message, “The Fiat 500 Abarth. You’ll never forget the first time you see one.”

The “Seduction” digital spot was created in partnership with The Richards Group and can be viewed at the FIAT brand’s YouTube site or via the following link: http://www.youtube.com/fiatusa


Chrysler Media

Monday, January 9, 2012

Introduction to the New 2013 Dodge Dart


Chrysler LLC in cooperation with Fiat Spa has just introduced a new compact sedan called the Dodge Dart. This significant car is the first all new car born from the Fiat / Chrysler collaboration. It features the cutting edge chassis and and running gear from the Fiat Group (Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Ferrari, Maserati, etc.) combined in an body designed and built in America.

Chrysler engineers channeled the best of Alfa Romeo DNA into the new Dodge Dart. A car that promises to add flair and excitement into the compact car segment, a market traditionally dominated by stodgy, bland offerings.

Rumors have it that a Fiat branded version of the Dodge Dart could make its way to Europe. We'll be watching for news on that, but in the meantime, read more about the new 2013 Dodge Dart, courtesy of Chrysler Media:


Dodge Hits the Bull’s Eye with an All-new Compact Car – The Dodge Dart

  • The All-new 2013 Dodge Dart Blends Alfa Romeo DNA with Dodge’s Passion for Performance and Style, Resulting in a Groundbreaking Compact Sedan
  • All-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle built on Fiat Group architecture
  • 2013 Dodge Dart breaks new ground with a savvy, modern, unmistakable Dodge design that evokes emotion, efficiency and fluidity of movement and delivers world-class aerodynamics
  • Dodge Dart offers five well-equipped trim levels with class-leading safety features and breakthrough technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments
  • Three state-of-the art, fuel-efficient powertrains with available MultiAir® technology power the fun-to-drive 2013 Dodge Dart

January 9, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The 2013 Dodge Dart redefines performance with Alfa Romeo DNA, fuel-efficient powertrains and Dodge’s passion for performance. The all-new Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and fun-to-drive.

Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.


“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car that will surprise and delight customers who want a no-compromise, fun-to-drive car that’s a great value,” said Reid Bigland, President and Chief Executive Officer — Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “With 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim options, three powerful, fuel-efficient engines, three transmission choices, unsurpassed safety features and world-class aerodynamics, the new Dodge Dart sets a new standard for the compact car class.”

The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. It will be built in the United States at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart will begin in the second quarter of 2012.


Performance-inspired design



Exterior
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart boasts a timeless, stylish and distinctive exterior design. The car sports an athletic, sculpted, fluid and aesthetically agile appearance. The exterior design of the Dart conveys a level of visual drama and timeless surfaces that add excitement to the competitive compact sedan segment in the United States.

“The Dodge Dart was a dream to design,” said Joe Dehner, Head of Dodge Design — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Alfa Romeo-based architecture allowed us to design an exterior with great proportions that say ‘fun-to-drive’ when you look at it. Add in the Charger-inspired ‘racetrack’ taillamps, a new, sleek crosshair grille and piano black accents, and it all adds up to a performance-inspired design with just the right amount of attitude.”

The Fiat Group-based Compact U.S. Wide (CUS-wide) architecture’s low, wide and long dimensions ensured a stable “body-in, wheels-out” stance and coupe-like silhouette. The CUS-wide platform allowed for accentuating the fender formations and pushing the wheels as far out to the corners as possible, creating a very stable look, which gave Dodge designers incredible opportunities for some very dramatic sculpturing. Designers visually stretched the skin of the car over the vehicle framework as if stretching nylon over a surface.

“When designing the all-new Dodge Dart, we were inspired by classic, beautifully designed vehicles throughout time,” Dehner added. “Each car was beautiful, based on its surface work and presence alone; they didn’t need unnecessary cladding, jewelry or lines that confuse the eye.”


Once the basic design was in place, with dynamic lines and curves from every angle, designers inserted a little Dodge attitude into the mix. The face of the Dart was styled with the unmistakable Dodge split crosshair grille, but with a modern, sleek look that “floats” in the front fascia, giving the Dart a full-width mask that marks it as a Dodge.

The rear view of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart features an available Charger-inspired “racetrack” full-width taillamp with 152 indirect glow LEDs, and class-exclusive dual exhausts mounted in the rear fascia.

The front of the 2013 Dodge Dart has been designed for smooth airflow around, above and below the car without compromising styling or engine cooling requirements. In addition, a lower radiator close-out panel is positioned below the front fascia. This not only contributes to the Dart’s lower front-end appearance, but also reduces drag while still allowing for an 8-inch curb clearance.


Dodge designers made attention to detail and precision craftsmanship a priority, and it is noticeable from every angle. Standard laser-braised roof welds, high-quality metal Daylight Opening (DLO) moldings painted piano black and standard projector headlamps are just a few examples of well-crafted features typically found on much more expensive classes of vehicles.

Tasteful, detailed accents add to the design of the Dodge Dart. Style lines on the hood lead the eye to the floating crosshair grille, while chrome accent spears below the projector headlamps and inboard of available projector fog lamps highlight the attention to detail.

The result is a compact sedan that blends exceptional proportions, “aero-dramatic” surfacing, world-class craftsmanship, modern technology, an exceptionally quiet cabin and an upscale feel in a package that is undeniably a Dodge.


Interior
Dodge designers focused on creating a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology, exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes when designing the Dart’s interior, which is crafted with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected delights for both drivers and passengers.

The Dart’s “driver-centric” layout is designed to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats are packaged in an exceptionally spacious, pleasing interior. Packaged in the footprint of a compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart features the interior spaciousness of a mid-size sedan, and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room.


“The all-new Dodge Dart is the showpiece for Dodge’s next generation philosophy of interior design,” said Klaus Busse, Head of Interior Design — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dart interior takes the beautiful, precision-crafted interiors we rolled out last year and adds a little bit of fun with surprises of color, eye-catching ambient lighting and some really cool technology.”

Customization was key in the all-new Dodge Dart’s development, and with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, seven wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every buyer to fit their individual style. And the combinations are multiplied exponentially, as Mopar® also will offer more than 150 customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.


The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive Uconnect® Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen Media Center – the largest touchscreen in its class.


Thoughtful storage options throughout fit today’s technology. The glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad; the center console features auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as center console side pockets, are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pens and paper.


Lighting in all the right places provides drivers and passengers a warm, comfortable cockpit. Available “racetrack” lighting surrounds the floating island bezel. Ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders is both useful and provides a warm atmosphere inside the vehicle.

Three sophisticated, fuel-efficient and powerful engines
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by three fuel-efficient, powerful, state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines that add to Dart’s fun-to-drive quotient.


Drivers can select from a new 160 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 160 horsepower 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir® Intercooled Turbo engine and a new 184 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine. These three engines, combined with three transmission choices — six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual dry clutch (DDCT) transmission — redefine performance by providing the most diverse powertrain lineup in its class.

MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The result is up to a 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque and a 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

Engineered with passion
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was developed and engineered to exceed expectations for satisfaction, quality and reliability. From the world-class aerodynamic performance, to the agile, responsive driving experience, to items seemingly mundane like segment-leading heating and cooling performance that gives drivers and passengers the right temperatures in the right locations and a whisper-quiet interior, Dodge engineers kept the customer top of mind while developing every detail of the Dart.

“The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart has been engineered with a passion that demonstrates Dodge is back in the compact car segment in a big way,” said Matt Liddane, Vehicle Line Executive — Chrysler Group LLC. “The Dart is well-crafted, agile, powered by world-class, fuel-efficient powertrains, loaded with high-tech features that are both clever and useful, and it’s fun to drive.”

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Alfa Romeo DNA
The Dodge brand’s re-entry into the U.S. compact sedan segment is based off of the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta is renowned for satisfying the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding agility and safety, with exceptional driving dynamics. The Giulietta platform was lengthened and widened, creating a spacious compact sedan that meets the wants and needs of North American consumers.

The proven modular architecture allows multiple models to be built using the same basic underpinnings, resulting in improvements in quality and reliability, as well as reducing cost, development timing and tooling. The body structure of the Dart is comprised of 68 percent high-strength steel – hot stamped, high-strength and ultra-high-strength – resulting in an architecture that is lightweight, modern and solid.


The 2013 Dodge Dart features the proven, lightweight MacPherson strut front suspension, specifically tuned to minimize camber loss, resulting in more responsive steering and handling characteristics, improved ride quality and a reduction in road noise – all qualities drivers will appreciate.

A bi-link independent rear suspension enables European handling capability for those drivers who love to lean into corners and the smooth ride North American drivers covet.


World-class aerodynamics
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact sedan was designed and engineered for world-class aerodynamic performance. With more than 600 hours in the wind tunnel during the Dart’s development and using technology typically found on more expensive vehicles, Dodge engineers and designers looked at every aspect from the ground up to optimize the aerodynamic performance of the Dart.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the first Dodge vehicle to use an active grille shutter system. The system automatically stops airflow through the lower intake at highway speeds when less engine cooling is required and aerodynamic drag is most significant. When closed, the shutter system enhances aerodynamic performance by redirecting airflow around the front of the vehicle and down the sides, rather than through it. The active grille shutter system will open or close automatically based upon engine coolant temperature and vehicle speed.


Underbody panels run stem to stern on the Dodge Dart, covering the majority of the lower vehicle from the front fascia to the rear fascia. Constructed of mold-in-color (MIC) black composite, the panels both enhance the aerodynamic performance and also block road noise.

Tire spats located forward of the front and rear tires were engineered to function as mini air dams and were optimized for shape and ground clearance, adding to the underbody efficiency in conjunction with the underbody panels.

In the design and engineering of the 2013 Dodge Dart, no aerodynamic detail was too small. Mirror design, the notch angle at the top of the header of the backlight to the trailing edge of the decklid and even the tail lamp applique shape and rear corners were all designed and engineered for optimal aero performance. An integrated decklid spoiler incorporates a trailing edge shape for cleaner airflow separation in the rear portion of the vehicle, which optimizes the air wake.


Class-leading Safety Features
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart was engineered with 60 safety and security features to ensure driver’s and passengers’ peace of mind when traveling. The Dodge Dart starts with a strong foundation, a body that has a high-strength steel content of 68 percent, one of the highest in the industry, and then adds both active and passive safety features. Driver and passenger safety features include 10 standard airbags, which is unsurpassed in the segment and include: dual-stage adaptive venting front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted driver and passenger pelvic and thorax air bags, two rear-seat-mounted pelvic air bags, front driver and passenger knee air bags and all-row side-curtain air bags.


The Dart also features a reactive head-restraint system; available Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection, three-point safety belts in all five seating positions; front driver and passenger dual seat belt pretensioners at the anchor and retractor positions and active load limiters. These features and more all work to protect passengers in the event of a crash. All three rear seat positions feature Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH).

Additional standard safety features on the 2013 Dodge Dart include:
  • Four-wheel, four-channel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution and traction control system on all models
  • Brake Assist
  • Brake-lock differential
  • Ready Alert Braking
  • Rainy Brake Support
  • Hydraulic boost compensation
  • Electronic stability control (four-channel active handling system ESC)
  • Electronic Roll Mitigation
  • Hill-start Assist
  • Trailer-sway Control
  • ParkView® rear backup camera
  • ParkSense® rear park assist
  • State-of-the-art, Segment-exclusive Technology
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart sports segment-leading technology and not-seen-in-the-segment features, enchanting and delighting drivers and passengers alike. Examples include the segment-exclusive floating island bezel, 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Media Center, 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable instrument cluster display and upscale ambient lighting.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with technology that improves driver and passenger comfort, as well as the performance of the car.


Customizable for the driver’s own style
The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. Each trim level has a style and value that will appeal to the diverse customer base interested in a compact sedan.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will feature 12 exterior colors: Redline Red Pearl Coat, Header Orange Pearl Coat, Blue Streak Pearl Coat, True Blue Pearl Coat, Winter Chill Pearl Coat, Laguna Blue Clear Coat, Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Tungsten Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Citrus Peel Pearl Coat, Pitch Black Clear Coat and Bright White Clear Coat.


The Dart offers customers the choice of 14 interior color and trim combinations with seven interior color environments in cloth or leather fabric: Black denim, Black/Light Diesel Grey, Black/Light Frost Beige, Black/Ruby Red, Diesel Grey/Citrus Peel, Diesel Grey/Light Diesel Grey and Ceramic White/Light Diesel Grey.

In addition to the exterior color and interior trim options, the 2013 Dodge Dart offers seven wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, as well as a slew of available exceptional or segment-leading features, including:
  • World-class aerodynamics
  • Class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust
  • Class-exclusive “racetrack” LED taillamps
  • Class-exclusive choice of either Hyper Black or polished wheels
  • Class-exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen Uconnect Touch Media Center with built-in radio, navigation, iPod control, climate controls, voice-activated blue tooth, SiriusXM Travel Link, weather updates and points of interest
  • Class-exclusive 7-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster display that is easily customizable to the driver’s taste. Choices include: digital and analog gauges, navigation turn-by-turn display, eco-meter, fuel economy, audio, phone, compass and temperature read outs
  • Class-exclusive floating island bezel
  • Class-exclusive heated steering wheel
  • Class-exclusive in-seat storage
  • Available 506-watt sound system
  • Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start
  • High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps
  • Dual-zone automatic temperature control with humidity sensor
  • Unsurpassed 10 standard airbags
  • ParkView® rear backup camera
  • Blind-spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross Path Detection
  • Best-in-class hip room and shoulder room
  • The most diverse lineup of gasoline powertrains in the segment – three new engines and three transmissions:
  • New Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates an estimated 160 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
  • The technologically advanced Fiat 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo producing an estimated 160 horsepower and an impressive 184 lb.-ft. of torque mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DDCT transmission
New powerful 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine that produces an estimated 184 horsepower with the choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission
Dodge also is giving drivers the opportunity to customize their vehicles, as Mopar will offer more than 150 customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart.


2013 Dodge Dart
The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart will compete in the compact sedan segment, one of the largest segments in the automotive industry. The Dart is well-crafted and built with the features, technology and style today’s compact car customers desire, positioning the Dart as a groundbreaking new car.

Dodge expects the Dart to appeal to a wide ranging group of new car buyers, from millenials to empty nesters. The millennial customer is a young professional most likely purchasing their first new car. They desire a car that is truly an expression of themselves, a car they can personalize and call their own. The millennial customer is connected with their friends, enjoys having a great time and is never without their phone. They grew up with technology and they indulge in the latest high-tech features.

The empty-nester customer is in the process of redefining their lifestyle, and they have more time for themselves than in their recent past. This customer typically knows what they like and purchases things and participates in activities that make them happy. The empty-nester appreciates what they have, leads an active lifestyle and is always up for a challenge. This customer knows a little bit about a lot of things and is interested in not only the way things work, but why. The empty-nester appreciates a good value, but doesn’t want to sacrifice the level of quality and amenities they have worked hard to attain.

The all-new Dodge Dart has been engineered with great levels of refinement, craftsmanship and engaging driving dynamics. Consumers can get more information at www.Dodge.com/Dart.

Chrysler Media