2013 Dodge Dart revealed, goes on sale 2nd quarter of 2012
In 1960, Dodge replaced their Lancer with the Dart, which lasted until 1976; it is now back as a replacement for the now-dead Caliber – meet the new 2013 Dodge Dart, the first Chrysler Group vehicle built on the Fiat SpA architecture.
“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
