Power for the Mopar ’12 300 comes from a 5.7 liter HEMI V8 making 363-hp – it also features four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology that helps you save some money at the pump. The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic, which Mopar says will get you from 0 to 60 mph in the low 5 second range.

Handling has also been taken care of  with a second-generation E-segment architecture performance-tuned suspension with 42 percent stiffer front and 23 percent stiffer rear spring rates compared to the Chrysler 300 models with touring-tuned suspension.

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

Visually, the Mopar ’12 300 gets a blacked-out appearance with Mopar’s Black Chrome seven-bar grille and grille-surround, black-accented headlamp bezels and fascia accents. It also features a Mopar Blue A-line body-side stripes, 20-inch by 8-inch Mopar forged-aluminum wheels in Gloss Black. Celebrating the brand’s 75th anniversary are ‘Mopar 75′ badges.

Inside the black and blue theme continues with heated-front sport seats, blue accent stitching and French-seamed stitching at the perimeter and a black/blue two-tone leather combination. The Mopar ’12 300 also comes with Chrysler’s Uconnect Touch 8.4 inch touchscreen display  and an Alpine 9-speaker premium audio system

The Mopar ’12 300 will be available this summer with prices starting at $49,700. Production will be limited to 500 units.

- By: Omar Rana

A heavy $1 million starting bid has been placed on the Chrysler 300C that President Obama previously leased.

Listing the car on eBay, and the starting bid, is Lisa Czibor, who says she is listing the car for another party, and has no personal stake in the sale apart from monetary gain.

Barrett-Jackson auto auction company Craig Jackson, says that her price is way too high. “Maybe this car would be worth $50,000 to $100,000.” Jackson is speaking from experience, as he has sold presidential cars before, including a limousine Franklin Roosevelt used, and his company sold the hearse used to carry John F. Kennedy’s body.

He also adds that because the car isn’t rare or unique in any way, there is nothing else to justify its price tag, which would otherwise be around $20,000.

Czibor notes other vehicles on the eBay motors listing that have sold for large sums of money, and posses the Illinois Certificate of Title with Barack Obama as the lessee. No information is provided as to how the current owner acquired the vehicle, however this is the vehicle Obama possessed while he was an Illinois Senator, before he purchased his 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: CNNMoney

“The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Edition is more than just our flagship car, it’s the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “It’s fitted with a paddle shifting eight-speed transmission found only on cars twice its cost, dressed with the highest grade Italian Poltrona Frau leather and finished with hand sanded real wood found only in exotic cars – all to deliver a surprising combination of hyper craftsmanship, style, technology and ‘uber’ best-in-class fuel economy at 31 mpg.”

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

Some interior luxury appointments include Black or Mochachino Poltrona Frau ‘Foligno” leather-wrapped instrument panel, cluster brow, center console side panels and upper front- and rear-door panels, nappa leather covers the door armrest, bolster and center console armrest, black or two-tone Mochachino seats are wrapped nappa leather, black or two-tone Mochachino leather-wrapped steering wheel and natural Pore Mocha wood trim featuring a matte finish.

On the outside, the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series gets 20-inch wheels on the RWD model and 19-inc wheels on the all-wheel-drive models. You also get chrome fascia accents, exterior mirror caps and door handle accents, platinum-chrome finished grille surround with platinum-chrome mesh grille.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 will also be the first luxury sedan with an 8-speed automatic transmission mated to a 3.6 liter 292-hp Pentastar V6 engine allowing for a 31 highway mpg rating. Other than that you have the 363-hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology.

Prices for the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series start at $40,145.

 The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury models is:

• Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (RWD) $40,145
• Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (AWD) $42,495
• Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (RWD) $42,895
• Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (AWD) $45,245

- By: Omar Rana

Welcome to our 10th edition of our “Top 10 most important things you need to know about” segment. Today we take a look at some brute American sedan performance with the new 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8.

Check out our other Top 10 things you need to know lists.

Top 10 things you need to know about the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8:

1. It really is capable of being the bargain version of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.
2. Power for the Chrysler 300 SRT8 comes from a  6.4 liter HEMI V8 making 470-hp with a maximum torque of 470 lb-ft – an increase of 45 horsepower and 50 lb-ft over the 6.1 liter HEMI V8 it replaces.
3. The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and a rear-wheel-drive or AWD system.
4. 0 to 60 mph in the high 4-second range; the quarter mile comes high 12-second range; 0-100-0 mph in less than 16 seconds – and a top speed of 175 mph.
5. Stopping power comes from 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo calipers painted in silver finish.
6. A full-color graphic EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center), allows you to keep track of how the car is performing while you drive. Shown on the 8.4-inch instrument touchscreen panel you can store your 0-60, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times, your 60-0 braking distance, and your g-force distribution.
7. It features a new adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system that allows you to pick from Auto and Sport mode. In Sport mode, the Chrysler 300 SRT8, the damping system rebound and compression is locked to the higher damping rate
8. Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle will get a one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Driving Experience as part of the SRT Track Experience.
9. Fuel-economy for the 300 SRT8 comes in at 14/23 mpg (city/highway) or 17 mpg combined. Annual fuel-cost is estimated at $3,203 if you drive 15,000 miles a year (based on 45% highway, 55% city driving)
10. Prices start at $47,995. Comparatively, a BMW 528i with a 240-hp 4-cylinder turbo starts at $46,700, a Mercedes-Benz E350 starts at $50,490 and the Audi A6 3.0 TFSI starts at $49,900.

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

- By: Omar Rana

Imagine what would happen if a Ferrari designer blessed Chrysler models with some style? Well, that’s exactly what’s going on right now as we type this. Fiat SpA, which now owns a controlling stake in Chrysler Group LLC is counting on Lorenzo Ramaciotti, the designer of the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, to make Chrysler models appear at home in Detroit and Milan.

63-year old Ramaciotti has a goal to create a common styling for Chrysler and its Italian sibling Lancia in a bid to save/cut costs and double sales of each brand by 2014.

“We are trying to find an international language, which could have a place both here in Italy and in the U.S.,” Ramaciotti, who heads design at Fiat and Chrysler, told Bloomberg in an interview. “If you put all the models into the showroom, they must fit together. It’s a delicate problem.”

Fiat and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne combined Chrysler and Lancia to put together a strong global team. Marchionne is aiming to increase sales of the group to 5.9 million vehicles by 2014.

Target deliveries for Chrysler and Lancia are planned to hit 800,000 in three years, up from the current 300,000 right now.

We wish Ramaciotti all the luck.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Bloomberg

“The aftermarket is a $34 billion-a-year industry and SEMA is the perfect place to showcase everything that Mopar has to offer,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service parts and customer-care brand. “At Mopar, we believe in giving our customers a lot of choices when they go to personalize their vehicles. And that is why we offer extreme personalization for every single car in our showrooms. In addition to head-turning image vehicles at the SEMA show, we also will introduce new must-see product and technology.”

Check out the list of some of the vehicles after the jump.

Mopar image vehicles that will be on display at SEMA include:

Chrysler 300 SF6
Inspired by Chrysler 300 “Spring Festival” owners who participate in the Southern California owners’ gathering, the Mopar Underground Team designed the Chrysler 300 SF6 image vehicle with discrete styling and Mopar performance parts and accessories for the sixth-annual event.

Enhancing the “born-with-attitude” look of the Chrysler 300, the 300 SF6 is bolted with hardcore enthusiast hardware. Staggered 22-inch-by-9.5-inch and 22 inch-by-10.5-inch Savini Mono Di Forza SM3 aluminum wheels are wrapped with 265/35 R22 (front) and 295/30 R22 (rear) performance tires. For improved cornering and braking, this 300S model features a custom Mopar/KW coil-over-spring kit, front and rear strut-tower braces and larger SRT8® performance brakes.

A Mopar cold-air intake, custom Mopar long-tube headers, and Mopar/Corsa custom exhaust system combine to deliver even more performance from the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. The Chrysler 300S model’s black-accented headlamps and monotone Tungsten Metallic look provide a ready-for-the-streets appearance, while unique body-color grille, front-chin and trunk spoilers provide an even more aggressive touch. Topping off the unique look is a gloss black painted roof that accentuates the clean lines of the Chrysler flagship sedan.

The interior of the Chrysler 300 SF6 exudes an athletic-luxury theme with Mopar/Katzkin performance seats trimmed in black with black/blue perforated leather and Mopar blue accent stitching.

The use of Piano Black on interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster and door-panel elements provide a uniquely lacquered and highly detailed appearance.

The Mopar audio by Kicker system in the Chrysler 300 SF6 features a dual 10-inch subwoofer enclosure mounted in the trunk; two, two-way speakers with domed tweeters mounted on the rear deck; 6-inch-by-9-inch midbass speakers mounted in each front door; and two 3.5-inch, two-way speakers with domed tweeters mounted in the left and right corners of the instrument panel.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Chrysler 300 SF6 include:

Dodge Challenger SRT8 ACR
For the 2011 SEMA show, the Chrysler Group’s Mopar Underground team created a Challenger image vehicle with some cool ties to modern history. Influenced by the success of the Mopar Drag Pak Challenger and more recently, the Dodge Viper SRT10® ACR resetting the production car lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife track in Germany, Mopar Underground created the Dodge Challenger ACR based on the stellar Challenger SRT8 392. Some of Dodge’s and SRT’s best handling vehicles of all-time come with the ACR acronym attached to them, and the Challenger ACR is no different. The Challenger ACR is a no-frills homage to the original option-delete cars of the 1960s and 70s.

Equipped with Mopar parts, such as a coil-over suspension, front-and rear-strut tower braces, short-throw shifter, front splitter, cat-back exhaust, custom exhaust headers and a set of Goodyear F1 Supercar performance tires, the Challenger ACR is an animal that has as much bark as its cornering bite. Performance enhancements in the interior include carbon fiber door panels, front race bucket seats with openings for a racing harness and the rear seat is removed and replaced by a roll bar and fire extinguisher. An SRT three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, SRT gauge cluster, custom bright pedal kit, Mopar Drag Pack center stack and a carbon fiber center console finish off the interior modifications.

The exterior has design cues similar to those found on the Viper SRT10 ACR, including a white body, charcoal painted roof, carbon fiber hood, rear deck lid, rear spoiler and tail lamp surround and an offset flame red stripe that runs the length of the car. Red painted mirror caps and brake calipers, unique black painted five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels and red “ACR” fender badging finish off the exterior design details. The white and red theme carries over to the interior with white accents on the carbon fiber door panels, red armrest bars with white foam padding, red door latch release tethers, red painted roll bars and red accents on the carbon fiber racing seats covered in black Katzkin leather.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Dodge Challenger ACR include:

Dodge Durango Tow Hook
Dodge will be turning heads at this year’s SEMA show with a special Dodge Durango Tow Hook image vehicle designed by Mopar Underground. The Tow Hook infuses a healthy dose of eye-catching style to the already-sporty Durango design. The vibrant four-coat orange and satin-black color scheme is executed both inside and out to make this Durango one of the most unique and exciting vehicles at the show.

The exterior features a muscle-car inspired four-coat orange paint scheme, with satin-black roof, fascia accents and hood graphics, along with blacked-out lighting and twin-spoke 22-inch-by- 9.5-inch forged Superalloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires. A custom mandrel bent exhaust system featuring Corsa components increases performance and belts out an unforgettable tone. To finish off the exterior, the Dodge Durango Tow Hook wears a piano black split-crosshair grille and has a 25 mm reduced ride-height for a more aggressive stance.

Tow Hook’s interior features carry over the theme from the exterior and uses high-quality Mopar components, such as Durango logo door sill guards, aluminum pedal kit and premium carpeted floor mats to add a strong sense of sport to the cabin. The black, perforated Mopar Katzkin leather seats feature orange leather trim on the tops of the seat bolsters and are decorated with orange stitching and piping. Perforated Barracuda suede covers the seat inserts, while smooth suede bolsters with orange accent stitching and piping make the seats pop. Orange leather trim, stitching and piping is found on the center front armrest as well. The door panels also feature orange stitching and silver metal brush trim that is shared on the dash just above the glove box. Finishing off the interior modifications are an SRT steering wheel, black chrome trim around the vents, and piano-white trimmed radio/HVAC and center console bezels.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Dodge Durango Tow Hook include:

Fiat 500 Titanium
Created for the performance enthusiast who wants a discretely “tuned” Fiat 500, the Mopar® Underground Team designed the Fiat 500 Titanium image vehicle with even more aggressive styling and premium sport-luxury details.

Below its Matte Titanium ‘whiskers and logo’ face, an aggressively sculpted front fascia is more pronounced and features large honeycomb grilles for maximum engine cooling. A satin black fascia insert with integrated LED fog lamps delivers a technical look. Above, circular projector headlamps are finished in gloss black to match the Fiat 500 Titanium’s exterior paint. From the side, 16 –inch-by- 6.5-inch Matte Titanium wheels feature a two-piece design. Custom Mopar lowering springs provide a lowered ride height and Matte Titanium front-and rear-brake calipers with larger rotors deliver improved stopping performance. Aggressively styled side skirts provide a more vertical profile and highlight the iconic curves of this performance Cinquecento. Matte Titanium exterior door handles and mirror caps add contrast to the deep-tinted glass. A large liftgate spoiler adds down force for improved stability at higher speeds, while a more aggressively styled rear fascia features a diffuser insert for improved aerodynamics. Additional exterior details on the Fiat 500 Titanium model include a Matte Titanium license plate brow and center-mounted trapezoidal exhaust tip. And to make sure the Fiat 500 Titanium delivers improved power, a Mopar cold-air intake and Mopar cat-back exhaust have been installed.

Inside, the Fiat 500 Titanium continues the athletic look with a black environment highlighted by Titanium Metallic accents. High-performance front seats are designed to be lightweight, and feature massive side bolsters and a racing-harness pass through for at-the-limit driving. Both front and rear seats are wrapped in smooth black leather and accented with Titanium Metallic vinyl seat centers. For added detail, all four seating positions feature a black leather center stripe with Metallic Gray accent stitching for a precise look. Titanium Metallic vinyl door bolsters feature accent stitching and pair with the Matte Titanium instrument panel and gauge cluster brow. Black floor mats with Titanium Metallic “500” logo and edge binding complete the look.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Fiat 500 Titanium include:

Fiat 500 Carbon
Adding even more style to the new 2012 Fiat 500 Sport, the Mopar® Underground Team designed the Fiat 500 Carbon image vehicle with Anodized Azzurro (blue) paint and unique blackened exterior and interior appointments – all designed to amplify the hatchback’s athletic Italian styling, craftsmanship, and nimble handling.

Enhancing the Fiat 500 Sport front fascia, the 500 Carbon integrates satin carbon fiber fog-lamp bezels and chin spoiler. For a more aggressive appearance, its signature ‘whiskers and logo’ face and circular projector headlamps are lacquered in Dark Hyper Black. Larger 17 –inch-by- 7-inch Dark Hyper Black aluminum wheels with wider 205/40 R 17 performance tires and exterior door handles are paired with satin carbon fiber mirror caps and tinted glass on the side profile. For greater cornering and performance, custom Mopar lowering springs, strut-tower brace and cold-air intake have been installed.

A more aggressive satin carbon fiber liftgate spoiler improves the Fiat 500 Carbon’s aerodynamic efficiency while adding down force for improved handling. Below, a powder-coated carbon fiber exhaust tip with Mopar cat-back exhaust provides an aggressive sound. Satin carbon fiber rear fascia bezels and valance provide additional detail, while a Dark Hyper Black license plate brow and tail lamp bezels continue the Fiat 500 Carbon’s serious look.

The interior of the Fiat 500 Carbon continues the blacked-out look and is highlighted by Anodized Azzurro accents. For a contemporary look, black leather sport seats feature embossed fabric with a textured geometric pattern in the seat centers. Azzurro accent piping on the seats, accent stitching on the sport-steering wheel and binding on the floor mats are color-matched to the Anodized Azzurro instrument panel bezel. Black chrome replaces traditional chrome on the Fiat 500 Carbon’s interior accents, while a carbon fiber instrument panel accents and shift knob provide added detail.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Fiat 500 Carbon include:

Ram 392 Quick Silver
The Ram 392 Quick Silver began life as a 2011 Ram R/T. A 470 horsepower, 392 HEMI V-8 from the SRT lineup was dropped in and mated to the R/T’s 4.10 gear set and a high-stall converter. For additional performance, the Ram 392 is equipped with a cold-air intake kit and headers featuring an electronic exhaust cutout for maximum power and sound at the track.

For normal driving, a cat-back dual exhaust system intensifies the HEMI rumble. To improve braking performance, discs and calipers are replaced with a Brembo big brake kit, featuring 15-inch vented rotors and bright silver six-piston calipers in the front and rear. With the exception of a gloss black roof, the body is finished in a three-stage bright silver while the wheels, grille inserts, mirrors and select interior trim components are coated in anodized red paint.

A Mopar Underground, reverse deep-cowl aluminum hood design with functional heat extractors is inspired by the new Dodge Charger SRT8 and smoked lenses cover all exterior lighting. The Ram 392 Quick Silver is lowered 2 inches with the help of a custom suspension kit. The “slammed” look is made more evident by a Mopar body kit, consisting of sill and box pieces, finished up with a chin spoiler.

Mopar Underground added their 22-inch wheels wrapped in 275/45R22 tires up front and 305/40R22 tires in the rear. A Mopar hard tonneau cover with a unique integrated spoiler redirects the air for additional down force at high speeds and Mopar’s Bed Rug protects the paint. The interior features high-bolster SRT seats covered in Katzkin leather with red stitching and accents to match the steering wheel, instrument panel and Laramie Longhorn inspired leather shift knob, door panels and center console trim.

A set of Mopar Pedals and door sills are installed giving the interior an additional splash of functional aesthetics. Music is blasted through Kicker speakers, including tweeters in the instrument panel, mids in the doors and in the back, and woofers in the doors leaving plenty of room for gear behind the seats. Simply put, the Ram 392 Quick Silver is designed to be a truck that would appropriately share a garage with a Dodge Viper.

Mopar performance parts and accessories on the Ram 392 Quick Silver include:

- By: Omar Rana

In the November 2009 5-year plan that Sergio Marchionne unveiled for Chrysler, he said that 14 percent of its global sales would be powered by diesels by 2014. The CEO of the Auburn Hills automaker was never really fan of going the hybrid route… until now.

To comply with tougher U.S. fuel-economy standards proposed for 2025, Chrysler will build more hybrid vehicles. Later in 2013, the Chrysler brand will offer a hybrid version of the 300.

In a a recent interview with Automotive News, Marchionne said that his attitude has not changed about hybrid but he acknowledged that fuel economy standards for 2025 have made hybrids a must.

“I have no other way of getting to 2025 numbers than by going to hybrids,” he said.

The CEO of Chrysler and Fiat said that hybrids would come in addition of a broad range of diesel offerings in the United States. Chrysler will start offering a diesel version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee in 2013.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

Chrysler has made a huge comeback post-bailout and their latest products speak for themselves. In fact, they’ve made such a huge improvement that Consumer Reports scored the Chrysler 300 C as “Excellent” in an overall road and called it “the best Chrysler sedan we’ve seen in decades.”

Scoring 80 in CR’s latest test of four upscale sedans, in comparison the previous generation scored only a 64.

“The 300C’s quick, muscular 5.7-liter V8 engine is now complemented by responsive handling and a more comfortable ride,” said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center in East Haddam, CT. “And, thanks to a major upgrade, its roomy interior is now quieter, more luxurious, and has improved visibility.”

Click here for more news about the Chrysler 300.

The other competitors in the test were the Hyundai Genesis, the Toyota Avalon and the Acura TL. Still leading the comparison was the Hyundai Genesis and after receiving a mid-cycle refresh, the Genesis received an “Excellent” rating of 92.

- By: Chris Chin

In its latest ‘Imported from Detroit’ commercial featuring the new 2012 Chrysler 300, the Auburn Hills automaker is touting the new 8-speed transmission and fuel-efficiency.

The new 60-second commercial titled, ‘If You’re Gonna,’ began airing on Friday, Sept. 16 on national and cable networks. it was filmed throughout Detroit and its neighboring cities with no celebrities this time around.

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

“The 2012 Chrysler 300 offers consumers a fuel-efficient and luxurious vehicle at an extraordinary value without compromising size or amenities,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The combination of our award-winning V-6 Pentastar engine, the new eight-speed transmission and world-class interior appointments takes the domestic luxury sedan to a new level that only can be found at Chrysler.”

The 2012 Chrysler 300 with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and a 292-hp 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 averages a nice 31 mpg highway.

The 2012 Chrysler 300, 300S (V-6) and 300 Limited models with an 8-speed automatic offer class-leading fuel efficiency with respect to:

Best-in-class highway fuel economy (31 highway mpg)
Best-in-class V-6 AWD fuel economy (18 city and 27 highway mpg)
Best-in-class combined fuel economy (23 with RWD, 21 with AWD)
Unsurpassed city fuel economy (19 city mpg RWD, 18 mpg AWD)
Overall unsurpassed fuel economy in its class (19 city and 31 highway mpg with RWD)

- By: Omar Rana

I’ve always wondered why some Chrysler vehicles were stuck in the past with 5-gear transmissions – well, today Chrysler Group LLC announced that it will be introducing a new 8-speed automatic transmission that will be introduced and licensed through ZF.

The transmission, which is usually found on high-end luxury cars including Audi, Bentley, BMW, Range Rover and Rolls-Royce, will now be available on select models of the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Charger for the 2012 model year.

Chrysler says that the new 8-speed transmission will help both model achieve an EPA-rated 31 mpg on the highway – an increase of 4 mpg. Initially, the 8-speed transmission will be mated exclusively to the 3.6 liter V6 Pentastar engine that was introduced last year. Chrysler may offer it on V8 models in the future.

Chrysler will start off buying the 8-speed automatic from ZF until it kicks off production at its Kokomo transmission facility under license by the German-based company.

- By: Omar Rana

When the Thema is launched at dealers throughout Europe in October, the “Chryancia Threema” will be available in Gold, Platinum and Executive trims.

The engines include Chrysler’s Pentastar 3.6L V6 that’s good for 286hp and is mated to an 8-speed automatic while two diesels are the other two. Both are 3.0L V6s but are tuned to 190hp and 239hp guise.

More information is expected to pop up at the official debut at Frankfurt next month.

- By: Chris Chin

Ralph Gilles could be one of the coolest executives currently in the automobile industry. If you don’t know who this man is, he’s the CEO of Dodge’s and Chrysler’s SRT brand.

From interviews, to press conferences, Gilles always appears to be very enthusiastic, passionate and just overall plain interesting whenever he discusses the products that he’s in charge of.

So that’s why we suggest you take a quick look at a YouTube video that has Gilles promoting the brand he’s now in charge of.

Have a look at the video after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

Chrysler Group announced today that its newly formed Street and Racing Technology (SRT) Brand will be hitting the road with its first-ever, “SRT High Performance Tour,” featuring four drivers, four vehicles and a visit to more than 40 clubs and event over the next for months.

The vehicles the SRT brand will be traveling with include the the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8, Dodge Challenger SRT8, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and the Chrysler 300 SRT8.

The tour will kick off in Auburn Hills, Mich., at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum on Friday, Aug. 12 at 2 p.m. Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC, and Joe Grace, Vehicle Line Executive A/B Segment & SRT, Chrysler Group LLC., will be on hand.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8:

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392:

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8:

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8:

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8:

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392:

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8:

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8:

- By: Omar Rana

Chrysler Group LLC and Fiat SpA CEO Sergio Marchionne has a lot of ambition for the Maserati brand as he focuses on increasing sales of the brand from 5,675 last year to 50,00 units a year by the end of the decade.

How does he plan on doing that? First up, Maserati will start offering an SUV, a concept version of which will debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Maserati SUV will be build on the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform and will most likely be fitted with Chrysler Pentastar V6 as one of the engine options.

That won’t be the only Chrysler Group and Maserati mash-up. Maserati will reportedly borrow a bunch of systems and components from the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Avenger to create two new sedans that will replace the company’s Quattroporte flagship sedan.

While the Maserati Quattroporte is known to be too big to be a driver’s car and too small to be a proper chauffeur’s car, the new sedans will solve those  issues.

At the end of next year, Maserati will add a sedan smaller than the Quattroporte. It will keep Maserati’s traditional layout of front longitudinal engine and rear-wheel-drive. The model will debut a revised 3.0 liter version of Chrysler’s 3.6 liter Pentastar V6. The engine will get Fiat’s MultiAir variable valve timing, twin turbochargers and direct injection – helping it pump out more than 400-hp. Prices will start somewhere around $79,000 and will go up to $101,000.

Following the baby-Quattroporte, Maserati will unveil a large and true replacement for the model in mid-2013. The larger sedan will be 2.5 inches longer than the current Quattroporte and 8.7 inches longer than the baby-Quattroporte.

Power will come from a revised version of Ferrari’s 4.7 liter V8 making around 475-hp. The engine will be mated to a ZF 8-speed transmission.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

First time at egmCarTech? Visit our home page for the latest news.

The Chrysler 300 SRT8 will enter production at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and will go on sale at dealerships before the end of the third quarter. It will be available in rear-wheel drive or with an advance AWD system.

“The Chrysler 300 SRT8 is the no compromises king of the hill in the 300 model lineup in 2012, featuring the ultimate combination of world-class luxury and performance in our most powerful, best-handling Chrysler brand sedan ever,” said Olivier Francois, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing, Chrysler Group LLC. “Engineered and built for those customers who live for the sport of being first, the 300 SRT8 brings a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving.”

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

Power for the new 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 comes from a new 6.4L HEMI V8 making 470-hp with a maximum torque of 470 lb-ft – an increase of 45 horsepower and 50 lb.-ft. over the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces. Mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 goes from 0 to 60 mph in the high 4-second range; runs the quarter mile in high 12-second range; 0-100-0 mph in less than 16 seconds – and a top speed of 175 mph. For those worried about saving some gas, Chrysler says that the Fuel Saver Technology with all-new active valve exhaust system improves fuel efficiency by an estimated 25 percent on the highway.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 also features an Adaptive Damping Suspension (ADS) system that is tuned for a comfortable and direct ride.

Hit the break for the high-res gallery and press release.

Press Release:

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8® Offers the Ultimate Combination Of World-Class Luxury and Performance

• All-new Chrysler 300 SRT8® with its 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 offers ultimate combination of world-class luxury and performance in Chrysler’s most powerful, best-handling sedan ever
• Fuel Saver Technology with all-new active valve exhaust system improves fuel efficiency by an estimated 25 percent on the highway
• New, exclusive SRT heated steering wheel features mounted paddle shifters for hands on the wheel shifting both on road and at the race track
• New, two-mode adaptive damping suspension allows for selectable suspension tuning and also automatically adapts to road and driver inputs for optimal vehicle control
• 19-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system with innovative GreenEdge® technology is available with 900 watts of power
• Newly formed SRT brand led by President and CEO Ralph Gilles will continue to build benchmark high-performance vehicles for the Chrysler Group

July 15, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The success of the modern Chrysler 300 launched in 2005 can be attributed to its broad appeal. People of all ages, incomes and lifestyles were attracted to the sedan’s dramatic styling, power and performance.

As the king of the E-segment lineup, the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8® adds high-performance hardware to the elegant proportions and head turning design to provide the ultimate combination of world-class luxury, power and handling. With 470 horsepower (351 kW) and 470 (637 N•m) lb.-ft. of torque, the 300 SRT8 is targeted at customers that seek heart pounding, adrenaline filled excitement, but don’t want to sacrifice comfort and innovative features to get it.

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

The Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance engineering team builds upon the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan already executed for a world-class luxury experience, to deliver Chrysler’s most powerful and best handling model ever.

Performance numbers include 0-60 mph acceleration in the high 4-second range; quarter mile in high 12-second range; 0-100-0 mph in less than 16 seconds, top speed of 175 mph and stopping power from 60-0 mph in 120 feet.

The return of the 300 SRT8 to the Chrysler lineup in 2012 evokes a strong comparison to the original high-performance production car of its time – the 1955 Chrysler 300. Known for simple, strong lines, excellent engineering, high levels of luxury and outstanding performance with the first modern American V-8 engine to produce 300 horsepower, the first Chrysler 300 (C-300) was styled by Virgil Exner, who radically redesigned the entire Chrysler line and created what they called “The Forward Look” in 1955. Without much chrome on the sides, his designs were simple, but strong. Exner is credited with creating the illusion of fast, forward movement.

The Chrysler C-300 won on both the road course and the “flying mile” at Daytona in 1955. In 1956, the Chrysler 300B model won both events again. In fact, the Chrysler 300s dominated NASCAR competition in 1955 and 1956, taking the overall championship in both years. A legendary and luxurious performance car was born. The “letter cars” quickly became the most desirable of the Chrysler lineup and became known as the “Beautiful Brutes.”

Awe-inspiring powertrain
Under the hood of the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8, the new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 makes its debut in the Chrysler brand product lineup delivering 470 horsepower (351 kW) and 470 (637 N•m) lb.-ft. of torque, up 45 horsepower and 50 lb.-ft. over the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces.

The improved torque output – including an additional 80 lb.-ft. at 2,900 rpm – allows for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance while new, performance-tuned motor mounts improve idle stability and ride control at any speed. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power.

Even with the elevated power numbers, an estimated 25-percent fuel economy increase on the highway is achieved by use of a new-for-2012 active valve exhaust system that allows the standard Fuel Saver Technology (four-cylinder mode) to engage over a wider rpm range. The new active exhaust system also allows for straight-through mid and rear mufflers for a throaty exhaust note under engine load.

The proven five-speed automatic transmission features new, standard steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that join the center console mounted Auto Stick, allowing for a choice of spirited shifting on both the road and the race track. Both methods give the driver the ability to manually select specific gears on the transmission.

In “Drive,” the transmission controller will automatically shift the vehicle. The aggressiveness of the shifting is defined by the mode chosen – either “Normal” or “Sport”. Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

In “Manual,” the shift method is defined by the driver choosing to use either paddle shift or Auto Stick. The “Sport” mode adds a hold function to the calibration in all gears, allowing the driver full control of the shifting schedule.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability
New for 2012 is an adaptive damping suspension (ADS) system that is tuned specifically for the Chrysler 300 SRT8 to offer a compliant and comfortable ride.

In “Auto” mode, a wide range of on-road and driver inputs – such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral/vertical accelerations – automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions.

In “Sport” mode, the damping system rebound and compression is locked to the higher damping rate. Drivers can easily choose between settings to quickly change the shock damping and harshness characteristics from “Auto” for everyday commuting to “Sport” for more spirited driving situations.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also has been improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

New seven-spoke, 20-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels and available three- or four-season tires provide great looks with fun-to-drive performance and handling.

Benchmark braking
SRT vehicles are well known for their world-class stopping power and the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 features 14.2 inch (front) and 13.8 inch (rear) vented/slotted rotors with four-piston Brembo calipers painted in silver finish.

The Ready Alert Braking system anticipates when the driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal and may initiate an emergency brake stop, after which the electronic stability control pump engages to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application.

Improved brake cooling and fade performance comes courtesy of wind-tunnel designed brake cooling ducts that direct airflow to the vented rotors for consistent stopping power.

Aggressive and functional exterior
An exclusive new front fascia has a modern, yet timeless appearance that is carried through with the all-new grille and new Chrysler wing badge. The new black chrome upper and lower grille surrounds, rear valance strip and wheels are part of the Black Chrome Package (late availability).

The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 sits a half inch lower than non-SRT models and features new SRT-exclusive side sill cladding painted in matching body color for the “planted” look of a true sports sedan. Standard wheels are seven-spoke, 20 x 9 inch, fully forged aluminum with polished face and painted sparkle silver. The available fully forged, Black Chrome aluminum wheels are the same seven-spoke, 20 x 9 inch design.

The rear includes a unique lower fascia with chrome accent bar, new 4-inch round dual exhaust tips and a modified SRT8 decklid badge with new black accent.

Race-inspired and high-performance interior
The all-new interior environment combines world-class luxury accommodations with performance-oriented technology and appointments.

An all-new leather-wrapped, heated, SRT-exclusive steering wheel features a unique satin chrome rim section with a flattened bottom surface showing the SRT logo. Standard paddle shift controls flank both sides of the new contoured palm rests while all audio and Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) controls are accessible from the horizontal spokes on the steering wheel.

For the high-performance look, real carbon fiber interior trim pieces are integrated into the new instrument panel, door spears and shifter bezel and new racing style brake and gas pedal pads are standard.

The new full-color graphic EVIC with exclusive Performance Pages includes timers for 0-60 mph, one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times, 60-0 braking distance, along with lateral and longitudinal g-forces within the touchscreen display.

The new instrument panel’s 8.4-inch color touchscreen display – the segment’s largest standard display – also has all the same Performance Pages data as the EVIC, and is further expanded to include steering angle, horsepower, and torque outputs along with engine gauges. The display is customizable to a driver selectable background.

The standard heated and ventilated front seats have active head rests with the SRT logo embroidered in seat backs. Rear seats also are heated for passenger comfort.

Modified door trim panels feature unique bolster material and accent stitching on arm rests to match the seats.

The interior is available with two-tone black and Radar Red treatment including Radar Red door armrests, center console armrest and Nappa leather seats with Axis perforated suede inserts and silver accent stitching throughout.

The available Premium Leather Interior Package offers Poltrona Frau “Foligno” leather-wrapped upper door trim panels, instrument panel, cluster brow and center console side panels. Nappa leather covers the door bolster, armrest and center console armrest.

Safety and security
The all-new 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 features more than 70 advanced safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance.

Chrysler brand’s signature SafetyTec Group is available on the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 and packages many first-time-available features including adaptive-forward lighting (AFL), high-intensity discharge (HID) projector high and low-beams with automatic headlamp leveling, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with adaptive cruise control (ACC), Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, ParkSense® front and rear park assist system, LED-illuminated rear fog lamps, exterior mirrors with supplemental turn signals and approach lamp.

In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver’s knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Connectivity and Infotainment
The state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch 8.4N system provides all of the next-generation mobile infotainment and multimedia items to keep passengers connected between any destination. With the segment’s largest standard touchscreen display (8.4-inches), the easy-to-use system delivers world-class functionality with an intuitive user interface that was benchmarked against the best E-segment sedans from Europe, Asia and North America.

Segment-exclusive Garmin® navigation on the premium Uconnect Touch 8.4N model provides easy-to-use maps, lane guidance and more than 6 million points of interest. SIRIUS Travel Link on the premium Uconnect Touch 8.4N provides real-time weather, fuel prices, sports scores and movie theater information to make any trip more efficient and fun. SIRIUS Traffic provides real-time traffic reports where available.

Uconnect Voice Command, Uconnect Touch, steering-wheel controls and familiar center-stack controls all work in synergy to make the experience intuitive and simple for the driver.

New for 2012, the Chrysler 300 SRT8 features an available 900-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®. The system offers world premier innovation, featuring a 32-volt TPS (Tracking Power Supply) 12-channel Class D amplifier that delivers outstanding acoustics and brings multi-dimensional, quality sound for all interior occupants.

The new system uses GreenEdge® speaker and amplifier technology to offer superior sound quality and high Sound Pressure Level outputs with minimum energy consumption. GreenEdge amplifiers alone outperform traditional amplifier efficiency by up to 55 percent, representing a net efficiency of more than 90 percent in some cases. The speakers are tuned for maximum efficiency and perfectly matched to the amplifier output.

The system’s 19 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers include:

• Seven 3.5-inch Unity Coaxial mid-range speakers with seven integrated tweeters located in the front dash, rear doors and rear deck• Two 6 x 9-inch subwoofers located in the front doors
• Two 6 x 9-inch subwoofers in the rear deck
• One 10-inch subwoofer in the rear deck

SRT Track Experience
Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Driving Experience as part of the SRT Track Experience, designed to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track. Sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

- By: Omar Rana

Chrysler today released its latest ‘Imported from Detroit’ commercial featuring Dr. Dre and the Beats by Dr. Dre sound system featured in the all-new 2012 Chrysler 300S.

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

“In the Chrysler 300 commercial, ‘Good Things,’ Dr. Dre is seen driving through the streets of Los Angeles in a Beats by Dr. Dre equipped 2012 Chrysler 300. As a voice over explains that ‘good things’ don’t necessarily come to those who wait, but instead to those who work to make it happen. As he drives through the streets, people respond to the music pouring out of his car. Eventually Dr. Dre reaches his destination, a hip-hop club, where he exits the vehicle and delivers a line reminiscent of the one delivered in the Chrysler brand Super Bowl commercial, “Born of Fire,” but, this time, for a different audience, ‘This is L.A. and this is what we do.’

Check out the Good Things commercial after the jump.

Refresher: The 2011 Chrysler 300 is offered in rear and all-wheel-drive configurations with the base model carrying the new Pentastar V6 making 292-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 300C will be powered by the same 5.7L V8 HEMI with Fuel Saver Technology producing 360-hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Prices start at $27,995.

2011 Chrysler 300:

2011 Chrysler 300:

- By: Roman Bronfenbrener

Following a very successful debut of the ‘Imported from Detroit’ campaign at Super Bowl XLV with a commercial featuring Eminem, Chrysler decided to create a range of commercials for its vehicles featuring celebrities from its home state. A recent 2011 Chrysler 300 commercial featured American football defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions of the NFL, Ndamukong Suh.

Chrysler has now released a new commercial called ‘Attitude’ featuring John Varvatos, an American contemporary high fashion menswear designer born in Detroit, Michigan.

“John Varvatos’s blue-collar spirit pushes him late into the night, with Detroit-based rock music serving as his fuel,” Chrysler said. “He is a man who hasn’t forgotten where he came from.”

Check out the commercial after the jump.

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

Refresher: The 2011 Chrysler 300 is offered in rear and all-wheel-drive configurations with the base model carrying the new Pentastar V6 making 292-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 300C will be powered by the same 5.7L V8 HEMI with Fuel Saver Technology producing 360-hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Prices start at $27,995.

2011 Chrysler 300:

2011 Chrysler 300:

- By: Roman Bronfenbrener

Don’t want your 2011 Chrysler 300 looking like every other 2011 Chrysler 300 on the road? Well, Mopar has just announced that it is offering eight new custom grilles and six new designs for the new Chrysler 300.

“Mopar is offering a full menu of grilles and wheels for those looking to customize and personalize their all-new Chrysler 300,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC. “By itself, the Chrysler 300 makes a statement. Our grilles and wheels provide exclamation points. And unlike other aftermarket offerings, our grilles are specifically tested for aero, cooling and thermal, and our wheels are specifically designed and tested for durability and impact.”

Click here for more news on the Chrysler 300.

The 8 new custom grilles include two constructed of billet aluminum with prices range from $310 to $750. Buyers can also pick from 6 new wheel designs in 18, 19, and 20-inch designs with prices ranging from $265 to $610.

Check out the high-res gallery and press release after the jump.

Refresher: The 2011 Chrysler 300 is offered in rear and all-wheel-drive configurations with the base model carrying the new Pentastar V6 making 292-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2011 300C will be powered by the same 5.7L V8 HEMI with Fuel Saver Technology producing 360-hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Prices start at $27,995.

2011 Chrysler 300 Mopar Grilles and Wheels:

2011 Chrysler 300:

Press Release:

Mopar Grilles New Chrysler 300

• Mopar maximizes the thrill of the grille and the appeal of the wheel; Offers eight custom grilles and six wheel-design packages for all-new 2011 Chrysler 300
• Eight new custom grilles, including two constructed of billet aluminum; prices range from $310 to $750
• Six new wheels in 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch designs; prices range from $265 to $610

May 9, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Standing out from the luxury crowd with a notable presence just got easier for owners of the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300. Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand, will offer eight new custom grilles and six new wheel designs for Chrysler’s flagship sedan.

Each grille is designed by Chrysler and provides an exact factory fit and finish. The selection includes a 13-bar grille and a diamond-pattern grille, both constructed of billet aluminum. Both grilles are chrome-plated and polished to a high luster. The 13-bar grille features narrow horizontal, 5mm blades patterned within the traditional Chrysler 300 grille shape that first defined the model more than 55 years ago. The diamond-pattern grille features 154 individual diamond shapes and has a high-chrome polish.

Harkening back to traditional sports cars, the new Mopar grille selection also includes three wire-mesh grilles constructed of 2mm steel wire set in a small-hatch diamond pattern. Mesh grilles will be available in Platinum Chrome, Gloss Black and Bright Chrome finishes.

For a bit more subtlety, two versions of the production grille will also be offered with new finishes. Both bright chrome and black chrome grilles are available.

Mopar will also offer a traditional, heritage type egg-grate grille reminiscent of the grille of the 1955 Chrysler 300, the first in a Chrysler 300 letter-car series. All of Mopar’s custom grilles are inserts and easily fit within the original grille-surround with no modifications required. Grilles may be ordered and installed on all new 2011 Chrysler 300 models and carry a 3-year 36,000 mile warranty when purchased with the vehicle.

In addition to grilles, Mopar will also offer six new customized wheel packages for the Chrysler 300. Wheels are available in 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch diameters and include an array of finishes.

Included are two different wheels measuring 20-inch x 8-inch with a 10-spoke design that are constructed of forged aluminum. Finishes include Satin Carbon and painted Gloss Black. A traditional five-spoke design, measuring 20-inch x 8-inch clad in Black Chrome will also be available.

On Chrysler 300 models that are equipped with all-wheel drive, a specific 19-inch, eight-spoke, cast-aluminum design is painted in a Satin Carbon finish.

Two five-spoke 18-inch Rallye Wheels will also be offered. Constructed of cast aluminum, the highly polished version includes black pockets and a polished lip and machined spokes. The 18-inch wheel also is offered in a Gloss Black finish. Both finishes are designed to offer durable, corrosion resistant protection.

For additional information, contact your local Chrysler dealer for date availability and pricing information on all Mopar accessories.

- By: Omar Rana