Sunday, December 27, 2009

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X Official Revealed

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

Dodge today pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

-Turn-key, spec-series racer aimed at continuing Dodge Viper’s storied racing history
-Dodge and Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team combine best performance attributes of Viper ACR with Viper Competition Coupe
-Latest special-edition Viper ACR offers improved on-track performance and safety
-Dodge Viper Cup spec series will debut in July 2010

“The Dodge Viper ACR-X takes the performance attributes of Viper to an even higher level for a wide range of drivers starting with the grassroots racer all the way up to the professional,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “This project is a result of many years of performance engineering expertise from our SRT team, combined with the passion and dedication of Viper Nation, to keep the Viper racing tradition going strong on tracks around the country and the world.”

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. ““We’re going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track,” added Gilles. “The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car.”

Last month, the SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Viper ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer’s lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

"The Dodge Viper ACR-X is incredible,” said Wittmer. “After a short warm up, I was running lap times as quick as exotic GT race cars. I was blown away by the power and acceleration, and even more surprised at how the ACR-X navigated the challenging Laguna Seca corners and how friendly it was to drive at the limit.

“All aspects of the car work together perfectly to plant all that horsepower and torque without issue,” Wittmer added. “This will be a great package for someone coming out of grassroots racing with a desire to step-up to GT level competition. Dodge nailed it with this one!"

The Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

For more information on the Dodge Viper ACR-X, call Viper Race Headquarters at (888) 960-3333 or visit www.viperheadquarters.com
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

The ACR-X pumps out 640 hp that is driven by an 8.4 liter V10 developed by SRT. The suspension is set for track usage, and nearly 160 pounds was stripped down. Aerodynamic upgrades, factory installed safety equipment, racing seats and other notable racing standard features make the ACR-X truly one for the tracks.

Wittmer, who took the ACR-X for a track test at Laguna Seca raceway was able to make a consistent 1:31.00 lap time around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. He said, he was blown over by the power and acceleration of the ACR-X, and that driving it gave him the feel of driving an exotic GT race car. It struck him how easily the ACR-X was able to navigate the Laguna Seca corners. According to him “This will be a great package for someone coming out of grassroots racing with a desire to step-up to GT level competition.

All New Dodge Viper SRT-10

Dodge could not have made a better appearance at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show with the much hyped Viper SRT 10. Dodge SRT 10 offers an incredible 8.4 liter V-10 engine, churning out 600 horsepower (450kW), and capable of performing some remarkably insane action on the road. This beast races from 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds and 0-100 mph in 12 seconds boasting a sport car performance.

Dodge Viper SRT-10

The 2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 is available in two body styles – Roadster and Coupe. Both design features a substantial cowl with a more efficient cowl scoop for air induction and functional cowl. This provides a greater cooling effect for the coercive 8.4-liter 600-horsepower V-10 engine underneath.

The design features a strong exposed induction with the help of an effective head scoop while the hood’s functional louvers complement the aggressive look of the viper. The 2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe offers accumulated down force and high-speed stability with its curved roof and deck lid spoiler. To add more to it, the Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe features an extra 6.25 boxlike feet of luggage space than the Viper SRT10 Roadster.The 2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 will be available in four new exterior colors.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

Base Price: $30,945

As-Tested Price: $40,245

Drivetrain: 5.7-liter V8; RWD, six-speed manual

Output: 376 hp @ 5,150 rpm, 410 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,041 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 19/14.6 mpg

Options: Customer preferred package 27M including premium sound, uConnect studios with satellite radio, 20-inch aluminum wheels, all-season tires, automatic headlights, body-color exterior mirrors, body-side stripe, functional hood scoop, heated front seats, leather-trimmed bucket seats, luxury floor mats, power heated/fold-away mirrors ($3,460); uConnect navigation ($1,390); electronics convenience group including illuminated cupholders, LED-illuminated interior door handles, instrument cluster with display screen, keyless go, auto-dimming rearview mirror, security alarm, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, temperature and compass gauge, mini trip computer, uConnect phone, iPod interface, universal garage-door opener ($1,260); six-speed manual transmission including track pack, 3.73 axle ratio, antispin rear differential, bright pedals, hill start assist ($995); power sunroof ($950); HID headlights ($695); blue pearl coat paint ($225); sound group II including 368-watt amplifier, seven speakers ($185); compact spare tire ($100); engine block heater ($40)

TEST DRIVE: 2009 Dodge Challenger

2009 Dodge Challenger

This Challenger Fails to Meet the Challenge

2009 Dodge Challenger


Detroit’s mid-decade desire to return to the glory days of muscle cars resulted in well-received concepts from the each of the “Big 3” automakers. At Chrysler’s Dodge division, that meant the return of the Challenger.

I was excited about this car when it appeared in concept form at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Dodge designers had clearly recaptured the muscular magnificence of Challenger’s past, creating a look that had me salivating at the thought of one day driving one. It took a while, but that day finally came and I found myself less than impressed.

Having driven a Chrysler 300 SRT-8 with the 6.1 liter HEMI V-8 engine-- loving its quick acceleration and taut, muscular feel-- I was extremely disappointed to find that the Challenger R/T, equipped with the 5.7 liter HEMI V-8, produced little-- if any-- feeling of muscular power. Everything about the driving experience—seating, steering, acceleration—felt loose. It was not what I expected. Yes, the Challenger R/T had power, but it felt more like big touring sedan power than muscle coupe power. I felt like I was driving a boat, not a sports car.

Maybe I need the perspective of having driven a late 70’s model Challenger, like the “General Lee,” featured in the television series “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

My guess is the Challenger SRT-8 is tight. My experience with the challenger R/T was not. Sales seem to bear this out. The Challenger lags behind the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang.

Features

Standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T test model included remote keyless entry, day/night rear view mirror, cruise control and AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with 4-speaker sound. SIRIUS Satellite Radio was the only added option.

Summary

As 21st Century muscle cars go, the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T has the look, but doesn’t completely deliver on performance. I expected a lot more.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Race-ready Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X revealed

The Dodge Viper special editions continue, and on Thursday a turnkey race car, called the Viper SRT10 ACR-X, broke cover.

It's not street-legal and is upgraded with a slew of performance modifications aimed at racing enthusiasts. Power grows by 40 hp, to 640 hp, for the 8.4-liter V10. The suspension is tuned for the track, and weight is cut by 160 pounds compared with a standard production Viper.

A Viper ACR-X turned 1:31 laps at Laguna Seca last month, Dodge says. That's about three seconds faster than the time turned in by a production ACR at the track, which the company says is the record.

Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X
Pictures and video courtesy of Red Letter Dodge.

The car follows on the heels of the Viper 1:33 and Voodoo editions, the other special versions of the Dodge supercar announced so far. The current generation of the Viper will end production as a 2010 model with a run of 500 copies. The ACR-X will have an MSRP of $110,000, and production is expected to begin in the spring of next year.

The powerful racer will launch this summer as part of a new spec series called the Dodge Viper Cup. It will be sanctioned by the current Viper Racing League, but each car must be an ACR. Two races will be run over five weekends, starting July 9-11, 2010, at Virginia International Raceway. The series wraps Oct. 22-24 at Daytona International Speedway.

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X Pictures

2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10
2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10
2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10
2010 Dodge Viper ACR-X interior
2010 Dodge Viper SRT10
2008 Dodge Viper ACR

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X Picture

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X Picture

This special-edition turnkey racing car, aimed at road-racing enthusiasts, is the centerpiece of the new Dodge Viper Cup spec series.
The 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X, a special-edition turnkey racing car targeted at road-racing enthusiasts and priced from around $110,000, will be the centerpiece of a new Dodge Viper Cup spec series that kicks off next July. The current-generation Viper is slated to go out of production at the end of the 2010 model year.

Developed by the Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team, the ACR-X combines attributes of the Viper Competition Coupe and the Viper ACR. Powered by a special version of the production Viper's 8.4-liter V10, fitted with a low-restriction exhaust and factory headers, the ACR-X delivers 640 horsepower.

The Viper ACR-X will commence production in the spring.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Dodge 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR

Dodge 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR Breaks Laguna Seca Class

Dodge’s current Viper still has something to give before the production for it comes to an end this year. The street-legal Viper was taken to the Laguna Seca and took home a course record.

SRT engineer Chris Winkler drove the 2010 Viper SRT 10 to its way to a 1:33.915 lap. An in-vehicle data recording device documented the time. The existing Laguna Seca record was broken by the Viper’s track time by more than 1.1 seconds. The record was recaptured by Dodge, which help it from 2008 until August when a one-off prototype beat it.

The 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR was slightly modified for the Laguna Seca. A shorter fifth gear ratio, a new short shifter and some aerodynamic modifications were added to the Viper to help it clench the track record.

2011 Dodge Charger Spied

2011 Dodge Charger

A 2011 Dodge Charger has been spotted while doing a test drive. By the looks of it, the Charger prototype is the SRT8 variant powered by the 6.4 Liter Hemi V8.

The Dodge Charger is expected to roll in the market in late 2010 as a 2011 model. The redesigned Dodge Charger is recently previewed during Chrysler’s five-year product plan announcement. The Dodge Charger reflects the sweeping character line of the 1999 Dodge Charger Concept. It is also expected to combine qualities of the present retro model with the more modern show car that preceded it.

The Dodge charger will come standard with Chrysler’s new Pentastar V6, while the more powerful R/T could have the turbocharged V6 instead of the current 5.7 Liter V8. The SRT8 is expected to be powered by an enlarged 6.4 Liter V8 that boasts at least 450 horsepower.

At the launch of the Dodge Charger next fall, all three engine configurations are expected to be available. The production of the 2011 Dodge Charger at Chrysler’s Brampton, Ontario plant will start October 2010.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

2009 Dodge Challenger Pictures

2009 Dodge Challenger

2009 Dodge Challenger

B5 Blue Challenger

2009 Dodge Challenger
2009 Dodge Challenger
The Good

In the 2009 Challenger, Dodge has created a great-looking retro-muscle car that offers three levels of old-school, rear-wheel-drive brute force, and they all handle considerably better than their '70s inspiration.

The Bad

The only thing the Challenger has trouble passing is the gas pump, as the SRT8 gets slapped with a substantial gas-guzzler tax.

The CarGurus View

Muscle cars were never practical, and Dodge’s stylish, retro-classic Challenger fits that mold. The V6-powered SE trim attempts to break out by offering better mileage at a substantial power penalty, but the Hemi-powered R/T and SRT8 provide plenty of tire-smoking power at the expense of efficiency.

At a Glance

One of the most anticipated American retro-muscle cars, the Dodge Challenger appeared briefly in 2008. For 2009 the Challenger is here in earnest and available in three trims: SE, R/T, and SRT8.

The two-door, rear-wheel-drive Challenger seems to have hit the styling middle line – the new version is not an identical copy of the '70s icon, but it's easily recognized as inspired by it. The new version is big – 10.1 inches longer than a Mustang, its direct competitor - and weighs around two tons. It is a striking automobile that has good ride characteristics, owing largely to its use of the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger platform.

But of course it’s a muscle car, and this year's line-up offers muscle for every budget. Dodge has planned well with three trims. The “economy” SE packs a 250-hp, 3.5-liter V6. The midlevel R/T brings you to “Hemi” land with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that produces 370 hp when coupled with the standard five-speed automatic or 375 hp with the optional six-speed manual, which comes right out of the Viper. Open your wallet wider, and you’re at the top of the line: The SRT8 packs a fire-breathing 6.1-liter Hemi V8 that puts out 425 hp and offers the same transmission options as the R/T.

Drivetrain Details

With any American muscle car, the focus and the fun lie under the hood, and the Challenger doesn’t disappoint. The SE's 3.5-liter V6 produces 250 hp with 250 lb-ft of torque and spins through a four-speed automatic - the only transmission available. The EPA rates it at 18/25 mpg. Reviewers feel the SE will appeal to buyers looking for a distinctively styled V6 coupe that will preserve some sanity at the gas pump.

Pop the hood at the R/T trim level, and you'll find a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with Variable Cam Timing that produces 370 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque with the standard five-speed automatic. Or choose 375 hp and 404 lb-ft of torque by selecting the optional six-speed manual transmission, which uses a two-disk clutch system for easier shifting with lower clutch pedal effort.

A Multi-Displacement System, standard with the five-speed automatic, switches from eight to four cylinders during highway cruising to improve fuel economy. The EPA rates this premium-fuel engine at 16/23 mpg with the automatic and 15/23 with the optional manual. Reviewers figure the R/T will appeal to older buyers who’ve always wanted the Challenger of their youthful days. Dodge says the R/T in stock form can do the 0-to-60 jump in less than 6 seconds.

The SRT8 represents the Challenger’s ultimate performance trim, and its buyers will be interested in only one thing: power. Its 6.1-liter Hemi V8 produces 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful engine ever offered in the Challenger. This Hemi has been massaged with a high-performance cam and special cylinder heads, intake, and exhaust systems. All of this is set in a reinforced engine block, with a forged steel crankshaft, high-strength piston rods, and a special anti-foaming oil pan. Although SRT8 owners might not be particularly interested, the EPA rates the big Hemi at 13/19 mpg. Most road tests so far have focused on the SRT8 and have generated 0-to-60 times of 4.9 seconds.

Ride & Handling

The Challenger derives many of its structures, parts, and systems from the tried-and-true Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger/Magnum, though the Challenger’s wheelbase is 4 inches shorter. Unlike its rival the Mustang, strapped with a solid rear axle, the Challenger features a five-link independent rear suspension.

The SE is 420 pounds heavier than a Mustang V6 manual, and the R/T is 591 pounds heavier than the V8 Mustang, but not only do the Challengers match or beat the Mustangs' gas mileage, they also handle better. Basically, it’s the Challenger’s independent rear suspension vs. the Mustang’s solid axle. On a smooth surface, there’s little difference, but as soon as the road is less than perfect, the Challenger has an advantage, with its all-around independent suspension smoothing out irregularities that few solid-axle setups could deal with. Reviewers praise the big Challenger’s compliant ride and handling.

Some reviewers note similarities between the ride of the SE and the Dodge Charger – no surprise there, for they have similar mechanicals. The R/T adds a firmer suspension, bigger tires and brakes, and the optional six-speed manual transmission. The ride is firmer, but still compliant enough that reviewers didn’t object to its role as a daily driver. It should be noted that the six-speed manual comes in the Track Pak, which includes the twin-disc clutch, famous pistol-grip shifter, limited-slip rear end, performance steering, load-leveling shocks, hill-start assist (applies the brakes when you start on an incline to prevent roll back), metal pedal covers, and high-performance mufflers.

Moving on up to the performance peak, the STR8, the ride stays civilized, making it a grand highway cruiser. You also get a 180-mph speedometer, and Dodge claims that the “natural” – ungoverned - top end is somewhere above 170 mph. Yes, you can get into a lot of trouble very quickly with the big Hemi. The standard traction control system does a good job of translating wheel spin to forward motion, but you can turn it off and just melt the big 20-inch tires in billows of white smoke.

At all levels, the Challenger’s brakes do a competent job stopping the big coupe. Air ducts in the front fascia of all Challengers direct airflow to the front brakes, which Dodge claims reduces temperatures by 15% during heavy braking. The manual transmission has a solid feel to it and gets different mufflers that produce a deeper tone, while the five-speed automatic performs well with crisp upshifts and fast downshifts. Steering is quick, with less than three turns lock-to-lock, but reviewers feel the Mustang’s steering feels more precise, with the big Dodge exhibiting excessive power assist that limits steering feedback.

Overall, the Challenger handles quite well given its size and bulk, with little body roll, substantial grip, and smooth transitions in quick maneuvers – such as on a slalom course or when engaging the twisties.

Cabin & Comfort

Reviewers point out that original “pony cars” were based on standard sedans and usually had standard sedan interiors. Dodge has followed this formula in its new interpretation of the Challenger. Thus, sitting in a Challenger is much like sitting in a recent Dodge or Chrysler sedan. This is not to say the Challenger’s interior is an unpleasant place to enjoy all the attention it will undoubtedly cause, but it is the least exciting aspect of this exciting car.

Reviewers note that the interior was assembled with care, though the materials are rather ordinary. Most interior materials are dark, with chrome door handles, control knobs, gauge bezels, and a big chrome band around the shifter boot to brighten things up. The front seats are heavy bolstered buckets on the SRT8 that include leather outers and velour inserts to keep you planted. The large steering wheel tilts and telescopes for comfortable adjustment. Gauges – left to right – are fuel, tachometer, speedometer (140, 160, and 180 mph for SE, R/T, and SRT8, respectively) and coolant temp. These gauges are easy to read even in bright daylight, because they are recessed and plainly marked; the SRT8 gauges get a light facing with dark numbers all illuminated with a blue-green light that matches the digital display. The SRT8 also gets a message center in the tach that offers displays for 128 functions including timing your own 0-60 or quarter-mile, braking, and lateral acceleration performance. This message center is optional on the R/T.

The center console, which includes the infotainment and HVAC controls, has a moderate lateral slope toward the driver. Road view is good, with no large blind spots.

The big news is that both the back seat and trunk are fit for human habitation and use! Reviewers were surprised at the ample back seat space when compared to its leading competitor, the Mustang. The back seats will accommodate two smaller adults and a child, although with moderate legroom, reviewers recommend short trips. The back includes a fold-down armrest with cupholders, two central vents, and two integral headrests. The back seats also fold down, adding to the other big news: This muscle car has a usable trunk, sort of. The 16.2-cubic-foot trunk matches the Dodge Charger's and the Audi A5 coupe's, leaving the Mustang behind. Reviewers, however, found fault with the fairly high liftover required to get things into that storage space.

The Challenger shows its performance-car nature in its trims and their various option packages. The SE is the most civil. Standard equipment includes cloth seats, air, power windows,locks, and mirrors, a tilt/telescoping steering column, 60/40-split rear bench seats, cruise control, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, remote keyless entry, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Options include leather, a power driver’s seat, a moonroof, a nav system, an upgraded stereo system, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and stability control with ABS and traction control.

The R/T adds body trim, 18-inch aluminum wheels and wider tires, a firmer suspension, stability control, and bigger ABS brakes. Options include leather, nav system, a more-powerful stereo system, 20-inch chrome-aluminum wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, hood-into-fender stripes and functional hood scoops – they bring cool air into the engine compartment, but not directly into the engine - the 128-function message center, and the Track Pack, mentioned above, which includes the six-speed manual transmission and a number of other performance mechanical upgrades.

The top-line SRT8 has Brembo brakes, a high-performance suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, functional hood scoops, a polished aluminum fuel cap, heated sport seats, and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels. Many of the R/T's options are standard here, including the bi-xenon headlamps and Sirius satellite radio. The SRT8 has a flat black rear spoiler and a deeper front spoiler. The Track Pack, upgraded Kicker audio system, nav system, hood stripes, and high-performance staggered-size tires are also options.

Safety

All Challengers feature dual front airbags and side curtain airbags. ABS with Brake Assist, traction control, and stability control are optional on the SE and standard on the R/T and SRT8. In addition, Hill Start Assist, automatic headlamps, and a tire pressure monitoring system are also available.

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the '09 Challenger five stars across the lineup in front and side impact protection, and four stars for rollover protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not yet tested the '09 Dodge Challenger.

What Owners Think

The '09 Challenger is a huge hit with owners, virtually all of whom rave about its looks and power. There are, however, a few issues worth mentioning, such as the gas-saver feature with the six-speed manual that makes shifting from first through fourth challenging at best, and the difficulty of accessing the rear seats from the driver's side of the Challenger. Additionally, a significant blind spot is noted when changing lanes and passing. The lack of an optional V8 and/or manual transmission in the Challenger SE also irks many owners.

Much of this is overlooked, however, by the vast majority of owners who can't get enough of the '09 Challenger's acceleration, performance, drive quality, Boston Acoustics sound system, comfort, engine rumble, six-speed manual transmission, fold-down rear seats, and, of course, its killer styling.


2009 Dodge Challenger
2009 Dodge Challenger

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Chrysler's Dodge Ram and Challenger win awards

On Tuesday, the Dodge Challenger sports coupe was named “Most Satisfying” in a Consumer Reports survey.

The Ram and Challenger news is a rare bright spot for Chrysler in a year that saw a steady downpour of bad news. The company has been through a government-sponsored bankruptcy, gotten a new owner, shuffled executives and pared its dealerships. The automaker also has faced criticism for its current product line, which underscored the importance of the awards announced this week

image

In the Consumer Reports survey, more Challenger owners said they'd buy another one than owners of any other car.

Motor Trend's editors, in selecting the Ram, cited the truck's comfortable and quiet interior, attractive exterior styling and Cummins diesel engine, which meets emissions standards in all 50 states without needing expensive aftertreatment technology.

The award can influence sales, and most automakers tout it in their advertising.

In the Consumer Reports survey, more Challenger owners said they'd buy another one than owners of any other car.

Dodge Ram is the winner


2010 Dodge Ram

On Friday, the Chrysler corporation announced that the editors of Motor Trend named the 2010 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Heavy Duty pickups as "Truck of the Year." The award is the conclusion of superior rating in the areas of design advancement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety and value in a vehicle that has been substantially changed from the previous model.

“The 2010 Ram Heavy Duty absolutely nailed the award in terms of our criteria, from the attractive exterior styling, to the plush and quiet cabins, to the tough and capable powertrains, especially the impressive Cummins diesel, which meets 50-state emissions standards without needing expensive after-treatment technology,” said Angus MacKenzie, Editor-in-Chief, Motor Trend. “It delivers the capability heavy duty truck users demand, with style and refinement they perhaps did not expect.”

From model year 2009, which you are likely to strike an amazing deal on right now, I fell in absolute love with the Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie for numerous reasons starting with its big ole chrome bumper and commanding chrome grill sits at the tip of the tractor trailer like hood. In fact, chrome is king of the 20” rims, on the gas cap, dual exhaust pipes and RAM insignia. As a result, this baby turns the heads of men and women both on and off the road. Make no mistake it is THE Mack Daddy!

Second to its compelling presence is interior luxury. Expect to discover all the features you’ve come to expect in a luxury SUV including video entertainment with Sirius TV for passengers on the heated second row, a heated leather wrapped steering wheel for the driver-whose seat also cools (as does the front passengers), a very nice 506 watt Alpine stereo with satellite radio, iPod connection, navigation system, back-up camera, rear park assist and a powerful 5.7 liter V8 Hemi engine.

Keep your tools and other precious items locked in the side boxes that align the lighted rear cab with locking tailgate. Class IV receiving hitch for towing allows you to pull one mighty heavy load. Keep this in mind when you realize the MPG rating at 14 city/20 highway, at $48,315. So if power with a huge heaping of style is what sets you apart, you've gotta love this Ram!

Friday, December 4, 2009

Dodge Boasts With Viper ACR 1:33 Edition

To celebrate the final production year of the current generation Dodge Viper SRT10, Dodge plans to deliver a vehicle lineup like no other since the introduction of the iconic American sports car in 1992.

The special-edition Dodge Viper ACR 1:13 comes with a unique color combination and performance enhancements. (Photo: Dodge)
Numerous special limited-edition models are planned for the 2010 model year, including the Dodge Viper ACR 1:33 Edition, which will pay tribute to the new production-car lap record set on Nov. 24 at Laguna Seca raceway.

The unique two-tone Black Clear Coat/Red Clear Coat exterior color scheme on this model is the opposite from the original Viper ACR. Interior highlights include piano-black console bezels with red gauge highlights complemented with red accent stitching in the seats. Only 33 cars will be produced as 1:33 Edition Viper ACR models.

At the heart of the 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 remains the venerable 8.4-liter (510 cubic inch) V-10 engine that produces 600 (450 kW) horsepower and 560 lb.-ft. (760 Nm) of torque. Benchmark performance numbers – including 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, quarter-mile time in the mid 11-second range, 0-100-0 mph in 11 seconds flat, and a top speed of 202 mph – continue to prove how the serious, race-inspired, street-legal two-seater performs without apology.

Body style offerings remain unchanged with the availability of Roadster and Coupe models along with the ACR (American Club Racer) package. Approximately 500 vehicles will be built for the 2010 model year.

2009 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Nürburgring-Record-Breaking Car Shows Face in L.A.

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR Nürburgring

Tucked back in a dark corner of the 2009 L.A. auto show was a snake pit containing five vicious Vipers harnessing enough horsepower and torque to pull the convention center off its foundation.

Easily overlooked as just a few race cars and production Vipers, we wandered over to find the sinister new Voodoo Edition, the 2000 24 Hours at Daytona overall wining car, and the 2009 Viper ACR that broke the unofficial production-car Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record in 2008. After an all-out ‘ring-time war started with the Nissan GT-R, Porsche 911 GT2, and Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, the Viper guys decided to step in with their ACR and put all the supercars to shame with a time of 7:22.1, over four seconds faster than the ZR1 which previously held the crown. The Viper and especially the ACR always provide some nice eye candy so we thought we’d share some treats with all of you.

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR 1:33 Edition: 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster Picture

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster Picture

2010 Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR 1:33 Edition takes its name from a new production-car lap record, set at Laguna Seca in late November.