Right before the second half of Super Bowl XLVI kicked off, Chrysler Group LLC aired its much anticipated commercial.

Titles ‘It’s Halftime in America,’ the ad featured none other than Clint Eastwood talking about the hard time the United States is going through.

“It’s halftime in America, too,” Eastwood said in the commercial. “People are out of work and they’re hurting. And they’re all wondering what they’re going to do to make a comeback. And we’re all scared, because this isn’t a game.”

The commercial ends with a boost of confidence for Americans and Chrysler Group with Eastwood saying: “This country can’t be knocked out with one punch. We get right back up again and when we do the world is going to hear the roar of our engines. Yeah, it’s halftime America. And, our second half is about to begin.”

Check out the commercial after the jump

- By: Omar Rana

The well-received, recent release of the Dodge Dart already has a variant underway to follow it up for the SRT4 performance version.

No details or specs have been released for the SRT4 yet, but some solid theories can be made on what the SRT team has in store. Given the Dart’s platform is rooted in that of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the SRT is likely to borrow again from the Giulietta Cloverleaf variant for the SRT4. The six-speed, dual-clutch transmission found in the Cloverleaf should be the same on the SRT4.

Power for the Cloverleaf won’t be enough to match the competition, and considering the last generation Caliber SRT4 made over 285hp, this SRT4’s power should exceed that. This could be done using a motor based on the model’s current 2.0-liter with a larger displacement, or the pricier option of the Alfa Romeo 4C’s 300-hp motor.

Click here for more news on the Dodge Dart.

Styling and aerodynamics could be borrowed from what has been used on other Dodge and Chrysler models, such as rear deck spoilers and vents, and suspension upgrades could easily follow suit with stiffer springs and dampers, and upgraded wheels and tires.

Since the Ford Focus ST will be the Dodge Dart SRT4’s biggest competitor, pricing should fall in the same $30,000 range.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: Motor Trend

Stage 1 of the whole setup includes an appearance package that offers matte-black trim pieces, a lower chin spoiler, side sills, rear spoiler and rear-diffuser panel. A lightweight carbon-fiber hood with large air scoop and 18-inch, 10-spoke forged alloy titanium-colored wheels wrap up the changes on the outside.

Check out more news on the Dodge Dart.

Inside, the red and black theme is carries over. Changes include Ruby Red leather seat fronts, door panels, center armrest and map-pocket inserts. Black accent stitching is used in the seats and armrest, Piano Black trim is used on the shifter bezel, cup holder bezel and the dash-vent bezels. Other changes include red accent stitching, Piano Black accented floating island bezel and a Ruby Red and black leather-wrapped steering wheel with red accent stitching.

Stage 2 is the most interesting and gives the Dodge Dart GTS 210 Tribute performance enhancement with maximizing fuel/air mix and spark advance, with an improved air-flow intake and low back-pressure exhaust. All that allows a bump to 210-hp from 184-hp.

- By: Omar Rana

“The Pentastar engine is a cornerstone of Chrysler Group’s effort to reinvent its business model with world class quality products. This award-winning engine is proof that the Company is transforming it products to meet the needs of our customers,” said Brian Harlow, Vice President, Head of Powertrain Manufacturing, Chrysler Group LLC. “To build one million of anything, and in an impressively short amount of time, is a significant achievement. But to do it with such a high degree of quality is a testament to our skilled and dedicated workforce at both Trenton South and Saltillo engine plants.”

Depending on the type of vehicle the engine is tuned to produce 283-hp on front-wheel-drive models all the way up to 305-hp on the Dodge Challenger. In the Jeep Wrangler the engine makes 285-hp.

The engine was recently awarded the ’10 Best Engines’ by Ward’s Automotive magazine.

- By: Omar Rana

Car and Driver loves doing special features. So they’re back with their latest one for the 2012-year: the annual Lightning Lap. The competition is to compare some of the most critically acclaimed cars as of recent.

Taking place at Virginia’s International Raceway, the C/D team will compare a series of cars organized in various price classes and see who’s the fastest. The diversity includes and are not limited to the latest Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the Corvette ZR1, and for the first time, SUVs like the BMW X5 M and the hot new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8.

It really needs no explanation. And to make things more interesting, they even provided a video!

Check it out after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: CARandDRIVER

Pending 10,000 likes on Facebook, Chrysler’s SRT group has promised to release a teaser of its upcoming 2013 Viper.

Since the Viper page is already passed the 10,000 likes, well before its February 1 deadline, rest assured the pics are coming at Midnight on Monday.

No details have been released on the new Viper yet, however it has been confirmed that the model is making its debut in April at the New York Auto Show, so expect to see more information out as that date approaches.

Stay tuned to egmcartech.com for the SRT’s teasers.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: Autoweek

“The Ram Truck brand’s greatest strengths are our commitment to listen to customers and to understand what motivates them,” said Fred Diaz, President and CEO, Ram Truck Brand. “We’ve successfully added Ram truck models designed for outdoorsmen, tradesmen, first-time buyers and ranchers. Laramie Limited is designed to meet the high expectations of affluent pickup truck buyers looking to combine capability with elegance.”

The Ram Laramie Limited comes with many premium features such as an interior filled with plenty of leather, piano-gloss black interior trim and much more. On the outside, the new Ram Laramie Limited adopts a “street truck” look, versus the traditional workhorse looks of the standard Ram—think Ford F150 Platinum and King Ranch editions.

The Ram Laramie Limited will be available in 1500 (1/2 ton), 2500 HD (3/4 ton), and 3500 HD single- and dual-rear-wheel (1-ton) form. They can also be found with Crew Cab and Mega Cab configurations, on both short- and long-wheel base models.

Prices have yet to be announced, but Chrysler said that the Ram Laramie Limited will launch in the second quarter of 2012.

- By: Chris Chin

For the 2013 model year, a new Dodge Avenger, Jeep Comapss and Liberty, and a Chrysler 200 all have new versions being released. It has recently been released that they will all be sharing the underpinning of the 2013 Dodge Dart Compact U.S. Wide platform.

The CUSW platform is actually a bigger version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta hatchback, and although shared amongst all the models, none will be manufactured with the Dart in Belvedere, Illinois, but in Toledo, Ohio where the Liberty is currently built.

On the positive side, one platform amongst six models is cost effective; however automakers may be met with some degree of challenge to satisfy its SUV clientele. This change also leaves the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country models with undetermined futures.

The Chrysler brand is supposed to expand as well, although no details are out just yet as to how. There is a possibility for a 100 model compact hatchback, or bringing U.K. models over to the U.S. Alfa Romeo’s U.S. return is also in the works for next year, as well.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: USAToday

It has recently been confirmed by Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik that the automaker will be supplying Chrysler with the six-speed automatic transmissions for the upcoming Dodge Dart.

Check out the Dodge Dart minisite.

Given that the 2.0 and 2.4 liter engines the Dart uses are the same displacement as those used in the Hyundai Sonata, it may have been an easy move for the brand to use the Hyundai transmission. While it is unclear what may have sparked the decision, fuel economy could certainly be a large contributing factor since the four-speed transmissions previously coupled to the original motors would not have been very efficient.

Check out our original post on the 2013 Dodge Dart.

Even though Hyundai has confirmed the move, Chrysler has yet to comment on anything, and there are no details on the selection as of yet.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CARandDRIVER

Recently we mentioned a diesel powered Jeep Grand Cherokee for the US, it looks like the same diesel powertrain might be making its way into another mule: the new Dodge Dakota. Chrysler’s chief, Sergio Marchionne said that the company is planning on a new Dakota pickup and that there is a “better than 50 percent chance that it will be a unibody.”

If this news does not arouse you in all of the right ways, consider this: the diesel might be working its way into the Jeep Wrangler too.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

Source: Inside Line

Over 150 performance parts and accessories will be available, which is more then any other car in the Dart’s segment. The biggest highlights are the three industry-first options. Wireless charging is one of the three and includes a system that allows drivers to set a certain zone to get power from, where the car then transfers the energy. Wi-Fi is another option available that provides service up to 150 away from the car, and allows access to all passengers as well via a 3G router. The last of the industry-first additions is the Electronic Vehicle Tracking System, which allows for vehicle recovery with no subscription required.

Along with the premier options, styling upgrades for the exterior are included, with enough to end up with several variants of a full body kit. Interior upgrades are bountiful as well, of course, with plenty of technology available.

- By: Alexandra Koken

The Avenger has had a rough life. Starting off as a less than stellar automobile, then changing into a not so terrible family sedan, the Avenger—despite drastic updates—has struggled to put its tumultuous past in the…past. And because of that, word is that the Chrysler Group may just drop the model entirely within the next three years.

Apparently, this is due to the fact that Chrysler is prepping to completely redesign the 200 in hopes that we would completely forget they even made the Sebring…or at least we hope.

“Chrysler Group will likely consolidate around one midsize car in the future,” Reid Bigland, head of the Dodge brand in an interview. “If we have two cars that are very similar, it does split dealer focus.”

Sounds like the Big Three have finally learned that badge engineering just doesn’t work. Earlier this week at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Dodge unveiled the Dart compact, which is the first vehicle off of Fiat’s new modular platform. It’s safe to assume that the next 200 will be based on this platform.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoNews

Dodge is making some new additions to the already well-received interior on its Durango model. Available on all models, the Durango will now have the option of captain’s chairs for second row seating.

“The 2012 Dodge Durango has been incredibly well received by customers and critics alike,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “One message we hear repeatedly is how spacious and refined the Durango’s interior is. With the addition of second-row captain’s chairs, we’re now taking Durango to an even higher level of luxury and value, when combined with its best-in-class power, towing and driving range.”

Available on the SXT, R/T, Crew and Citadel models, the chairs are not just comfy; they also fold flat, and have the option of upgraded soft-touch armrests for an extra $695.

The brand didn’t stop at the captain’s chairs, however. To go along with the upgraded pair of seats, Dodge is offering two console options to determine what will rest in between the seats, and still allow easy access to the third row. Charging and storage are included as the highlighted features for each option.

By: Alexandra Koken

“Since the 1960s, the Mopar Brand has built a long history of adding power and performance to the Dodge Charger – and with the Redline, we Moparized the new Charger with modern-day performance and style while giving a nod to our storied past,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar. “With three kits, Mopar offers a tailored choice for every customer.”

Based on the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T, beginning with Stage I, the kit includes exterior visual upgrades such as a more aggerssive full-width Mopar chin spoiler made of carbon fiber, a special Redline Tri-coat paint finish, a unique two-piece grille, 20-inch Mopar Black Envy alloys and much more. The insides get some aesthetic tweaks as well such as a Mopar aluminum shift and instrument panel bezel and stainless steel Mopar pedals.

Stage II is where some performance upgrades are included. To help the 5.7L HEMI V8 breathe better, Mopar’s cat-back performance exhaust system is fitted, allowing for a boost in horsepower and a more menacing exhaust note (who doesn’t like that for a V8). A front strut tower cross-brace is added under the hood to help increase torsional rigidity for when the Charger carves corners (and yes it can). And co complete Stage II, the brakes are also upgraded with Mopar’s own to compensate for the little boost in power that the exhaust system offers.

And last but not least, Stage III includes everything from Stage I and II. But from the factory, Mopar removes the usual 5.7L HEMI and replaces it with their own 7.0L 426 HEMI V8 all-aluminum crate engine that was specified for racing and off-road use only. So basically, Stage III renders your Charger useless on public roads…though I doubt many would be able to tell that you’re engine was not specified for public roads should you opt for the 590-hp Stage III.

Full details on pricing and availability have yet to be announced, but the packages will be available for the 2012 Charger model year, with pricing most likely available through dealers.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

- By: Chris Chin

Dodge has just pulled the sheets off its latest attempt at an entry-level compact sedan, one that replaces the ultimately mediocre Caliber. At first encounter with the Dart, we’ve come to believe that the model will be a very strong competitor in the compact sedan market due to its aggressive design and interior build quality along with interior features.

Prices will be announced closer to launch date.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana

“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.”

Check out the Dodge Dart minisite.

The look is a fresh one, and does well to distinguish itself as a Dodge, which is important as it will be going up against one proven rival and one emerging one: the Ford Focus and the Chevrolet Cruze.

Built on Fiat’s Compact U.S. Wide (CUS-wide) architecture (same as the Alfa Romeo Giulietta), the Dart sits wide and long in dimensions with ‘body-in, wheels-out’ stance and coupe-like flow.

Check out more news on the Dodge Dart.

“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.”

On the inside, the 2013 Dodge Dat is loaded with technology and amenities. Dodge says the interior also shows a little of the brand’s next-generation interior design philosophy. Along with 14 interior color and trim combination, the interior gets an optional 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster that also houses the Uconnect Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen Media Center – the largest touchscreen in its class. So far, we think it’s one of the best interior’s in the compact sedan segment.

Power for the 2013 Dodge Dart will come from three 4-cylinder engine choices including a 160-hp Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 160-hp 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine and a new 184 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 4-cylinder. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed dual dry clutch (DDCT). EPA fuel-economy figures will be announced at a later date.

The 2013 Dodge Dart will be available in 5 trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. The model will be built in the United States at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. Production kicks off in the second quarter of 2012. Prices will be announced closer to launch.

- By: Omar Rana

“Since the 1960s, the Mopar Brand has built a long history of adding power and performance to the Dodge Charger – and with the Redline, we Moparized the new Charger with modern-day performance and style while giving a nod to our storied past,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “With three kits, Mopar offers a tailored choice for every customer.”

Click here for more news on the Dodge Charger.

The Stage One package will boast a carbon fiber splitter up front, carbon fiber door scoops and carbon fiber rear decklid spoiler. This kit will also include a Mopar aluminum shift knob and bespoke instruments. Stage Two is good for a cat-back exhaust, Mopar brake linings, front strut tower brace and brace caps.

Stage Three seems to be for ripping people’s faces off: a race-only spec Gen-III 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 putting out 590 bhp, a 220 bhp upgrade from the Charger R/T. The three kits will come out later this year as will their respective prices.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

The very first 1969 Dodge Charger from The Dukes of Hazzard will be going under the hammer next month at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona.

With no reserve price on the car, the 1969 Charger is expected to bring in a nice chunk of change from The Dukes of Hazzard fans.

Known as the Lee 1 during the 1978 production, this specific Charger was featured in a wrecked condition in a subsequent episode and the left in a Georgia to rot in a junkyard until 2001. The model was eventually pickup up by Travis Bell and went through a set of buyers before brought by Marvin Murphy. Murphy and Bell then decided to restore the car. Since its restoration, the car has been owned by Murphy.

We’re not sure how much the car will bring but a replica of the car owned by John Schneider was auctioned off for $450,000 in 2008.

- By: Omar Rana