2010 Chrysler 300C SRT8 remains a guilty pleasure

If the economic downfall of 2008 had happened just a few years earlier, the Chrysler 300C SRT8 probably wouldn't exist. Think about it: when the nation was on the verge of $4.00/gallon gasoline and people were doing everything possible to get out of their fuel-sucking SUVs and into smaller, more efficient vehicles, a 425-horsepower flagship sedan with a free-breathing 6.1-liter Hemi V8 doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But then again, did it ever?


The 300C SRT8 is the product of a pre-castrated Chrysler. This was a time of Viper-powered Rams, Hemi-powered Jeeps and SRT-badged Neons. "You want it, you got it." Chrysler wanted the 300C SRT8 to start a new trend of muscle sedans – a land where quarter-mile times reigned supreme, and booming exhaust notes were all that mattered. This trend never really caught on (save the Cadillac CTS-V, which has been honed to be one hell of a machine), and at the end of the day, Chrysler was left with a big, heavy, powerful sedan that didn't offer much in the way of refinement and carried a near-$50,000 price tag.

But despite its flaws – and there are quite a few – we still think of the 300C SRT8 as a guilty pleasure. It has all the ingredients of an American muscle car wrapped in a four-door, luxury(ish) package. We'd probably never buy one or recommend buying a new one to a friend, but if we're totally honest, there's still something about the SRT8 that gets us all giddy when one comes through the Autoblog Garage. Make the jump to find out why.

Future Chrysler production

Chrysler, now led by Sergio Marchionne and the rest of the management crew brought in by Italian automaker Fiat, has big plans in place that will replace just about every single vehicle the American automaker currently offers. Judging from the purported list of new vehicle launches secured by the Mopar fanatics at Allpar, it would seem that new Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles will be hitting the market all through 2010 and well into 2011.


Looking over the list of 2010 production start dates, the first date to get excited about (barring the March 29th Viper production launch, of course – we're talking about for the mainstream market), is May 10th, which is when the thoroughly recreated Jeep Grand Cherokee will begin rolling down the assembly line. In mid-August, the 2011 Wrangler will make its initial appearance, and we're really hoping for a new powertrain combination for the venerable off-roader.

Towards the end of 2010, we should begin seeing the heavily revised Pentastar minivans along with the new Avenger and Sebring replacements, though the Chrysler midsizer seems likely to get a new moniker to erase memories of the current car. Finally, the three LX-based cars – those being the Challenger, Charger and 300 – will go into production in November, followed closely by the North American 2012 Fiat 500. Keep it together, Chrysler.

2008 Orange County Auto Show: 2009 Chrysler 300C HEMI

I drove my first HEMI-powered vehicle today.

For those of you who are not in the know (I believe that’s one of you), “HEMI” refers to a particular type of engine trademarked and manufactured by Chrysler. The name is based on the engine’s hemisphere combustion engine design (hemisphere = HEMI, get it?).

I test drove the 2009 Chrysler 300 C, which houses the HEMI engine. And alone. Among the Ride & Drives here at the 2008 Orange County Auto Shows, I was allowed to drive the vehicles solo.

Anyway, this would not be the first time I’ve driven a 300; I’ve rented one shortly after the model went on sale back in 2004 as a 2005 model.

The difference between the two is like night and day. The 2005 base model felt floating even on a straight line, nevermind curvy mountain roads. Today’s version, on the other hand, easily handled my more wheel-squeeking efforts. The tighter suspension kept the 300 M level, and the car responded well to my steering efforts (if a bit numbly).

Engine noise was loud but not annoyingly so.

Few, if any, changes could be found in the 300’s sheet metal or interior.

My personal take? If power and space is important, but you don’t want a crossover or SUV, buyers should take a look at the 300 C. Same for those looking for a more unique-looking vehicle.

Chrysler Minivans Dominate Fuel Economy in Segment

Auburn Hills, Mich., - New 2009 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan models equipped with a 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine now deliver EPA fuel efficiency in the city of 17 mpg and 25 mpg on the highway, a label unbeaten among minivans.

“Chrysler and Dodge minivans continue to lead the segment,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Car and Minivan Product Team, Chrysler LLC. "With an improved 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a minivan-first six-speed transmission, no other minivan has better fuel economy. We optimized both the engine and the transmission to give our customers the fuel economy they want, and the power and responsiveness they expect.”

A best-in-class aerodynamic exterior encapsulates the optimized 4.0-liter single overhead cam (SOHC) aluminum V-6 engine that produces a powerful 251 hp (189kW) and 259 lb.-ft. (350 N·m) of torque. A re-tuned six-speed transmission and higher numerical first gear launches Chrysler and Dodge minivans more briskly than a comparable four- or five-speed transmission. The engine also provides smaller steps between ratios, which means the engine speed changes less with each shift, creating a smooth driving dynamic, with improved fuel economy. The end result is a fuel economy improvement to 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, or up to 8 percent when comparing the previous 2008 engine's fuel economy of 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Chrysler engineers have spent more than 25 years perfecting its award-winning minivan formula and have created more than 65 minivan-first features and more than 40 improved features from the previous generation minivans. Today, Chrysler and Dodge minivans command more than 40 percent of the U.S. minivan market segment.

New 2009 ChryslerTown & Country
The new 2009 Chrysler Town & Country offers a contemporary appearance, three different models, two distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and safety features. The Chrysler Town & Country has 40 new and improved features over the previous generation, including a 4.0-liter V-6 engine mated to a minivan-first six-speed transmission and more standard equipment including Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The minivan-first Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system offers second-row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor and the second row, third-row uncovered storage, and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating. The 2009 Chrysler Town & Country received the U.S. Government’s Five Star crash test rating in both front and side impacts. The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the new 2009 Chrysler Town & Country LX is $26,500, which includes $770 destination.

New 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
As the first to introduce the modern minivan in 1984, Dodge continues to revolutionize the family road trip. The new 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has 40 new or improved features over the previous generation including the exclusive Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system, turning the minivan into a “family room on wheels.” The vehicle also offers an entertainment system with minivan-first dual DVD players and uconnect studios SIRIUS Backseat TV with family programming channels that include Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network Mobile. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan received the U.S. Government’s Five Star crash test rating in both front and side impacts. The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the new 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan SE is $24,300, which includes $770 destination.

Dodge Brand
With a U.S. market share of 6.2 percent, Dodge is Chrysler LLC’s best-selling brand and the sixth largest nameplate in the U.S. automotive market. In 2007, Dodge sold more than 1.3 million vehicles in the global market.

The Dodge brand’s first crossover vehicle — the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey — arrived in dealer showrooms in the first quarter of 2008, and is now available outside North America in petrol and diesel powertrains in both left- and right-hand drive. The limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 with a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque started hitting the streets this past spring. This fall, Dodge will add three more vehicles to its product lineup – the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram with game-changing exterior and interior design, innovations, best-in-class features and craftsmanship; the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern interpretation of the American muscle car; and the 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid, a hybrid electric vehicle that combines fuel-efficient advance hybrid technology with full-size SUV performance and capability.

Last fall, America’s best-selling minivan, the all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan, was introduced with the newest innovation, the Swivel ’n Go™ seating system. In 2007, Dodge sold 33,500 commercial vehicles, a 285 percent increase over 2003 when the company returned to the commercial vehicle market and is now the sixth largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles sold in the U.S. Also in 2007, the Dodge Avenger and Nitro entered key volume segments outside North America, joining the Dodge Caliber, the highest sales volume vehicle for the company outside of North America.

Chrysler Brand
Chrysler is the seventh largest brand in the U.S. automotive market. The brand’s succession of innovative products continues to solidify Chrysler’s standing as the leader in design, agile performance and innovative technology built around a customer’s needs, all at an extraordinary value.

Loaded with premium features, including the fuel-saving Multi-displacement System technology, the 2009 Chrysler 300 continues to stand apart from the crowd. The dramatic exterior design of the award-winning Chrysler 300, along with sophisticated interior amenities and technologies, establish a new large-car formula not easily copied.

The award-winning 2009 Chrysler Town & Country is a “family room on wheels” with the Swivel `n Go™ seating and storage system, stowable table, dual DVD entertainment system and SIRIUS Backseat TV available.

Now arriving at Chrysler dealers nationwide, the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid will give a unique option to customers who need the cargo and towing capability of a sport-utility vehicle, but want a more efficient alternative. Chrysler Aspen Hybrid is more than 25 percent more fuel efficient overall, and up to 40 percent more fuel efficient in the city. Also, for customers seeking fuel efficiency, the Chrysler Sebring sedan achieves 30 miles per gallon (mpg) highway fuel economy and has been certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay program, which recognizes the cleanest, most efficient vehicles sold in the United States.

Chrysler wins Freedom Award in Support of U.S. Military

Washington, D.C., Sep 19, 2008 - Chrysler Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli accepted the 2008 Secretary of Defense Freedom Award today at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.

The Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for outstanding support of their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. A total of 15 companies in multiple categories were recognized.

“I am truly honored to accept this Freedom Award on behalf of the men and women of Chrysler,” said Nardelli. “Because the Freedom Award is based upon employee nominations, this award demonstrates the pride our employees have in working for Chrysler, knowing that our company provides military-friendly benefits and policies while on active duty.”

Members of the National Guard and Reserve or their families can nominate employers for their support of military service. More than 2,000 nominations were received by the Department of Defense from across the country for 2008. A national selection board comprised of senior Defense officials and business leaders selected the recipients for this year’s award.

Chrysler employee Theresa Jones, a Powertrain Instrumentation Technician in the company’s Engine Development Laboratory and Petty Officer Second Class in the Naval Reserve, was one of four employees who submitted Chrysler as a candidate for the Freedom Award. Jones delivered remarks introducing the company to those in attendance at the black-tie event.

“I’m honored to be employed by a company like Chrysler because they truly support their military employees not just in words, but in actions,” said Jones. “Their generosity allowed me to remain financially secure and maintain my current lifestyle, which had a huge impact on my morale in sometimes difficult circumstances.”

Honoring Those Who Serve
Chrysler has a long tradition of support for the U.S. military that stretches back to the creation of the Jeep® vehicle prior to WWII and continues today. As a part of its participation in Military Appreciation Month in May 2008, Chrysler announced its military support initiative, “Honoring Those Who Serve,” to recognize those men and women who serve in our armed forces. The initiative consists of three components: Employment, Transportation and Community.

Employment: Chrysler is partnering with the Departments of Defense and Labor and Veterans Affairs to bring current and former members of the military together with the Company, its dealers and suppliers to find suitable career opportunities as they transition to civilian life. The company created a Web site for those looking for career opportunities at www.ChryslerHonoringThoseWhoServe.com.

Transportation: The Company continues to offer military-only discounts, benefits and warranties on Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products. Currently, the company offers a free three-year maintenance agreement and employee pricing specifically for members of the military who purchase a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle.

Community: Chrysler joined America Supports You (ASY), a Department of Defense program that connects nonprofit support groups with military people and their families. The Company is currently working with two ASY home-front groups – The Freedom Calls Foundation and Operation Gratitude. Along with Operation Gratitude, Chrysler recently presented an all-new Jeep Liberty with a custom-painted mural to Cpl. Michael Gallagher, at Fort Lewis, Wash., on July 1, 2008. Gallagher originally received the vehicle keys in one of the 300,000 Operation Gratitude care packages that were delivered in December 2007 while on duty in Iraq.

Chrysler Scores 100 as Best Place to Work by HRC

Auburn Hills, Mich., -- Chrysler LLC achieved a score of 100 percent by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC) in their annual Corporate Equality Index, which measures equality in corporate America for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender employees.

Chrysler has achieved a 100 percent rating for the fourth consecutive year, and is further recognized as a “Best Place to Work” for 2009 by the organization. The Company is one of only two automotive manufacturers to score 100 percent for four consecutive years or better.

“Chrysler is pleased to receive this award as an indication of our efforts to maintain an inclusive environment,” said Lisa J. Wicker, Chrysler LLC Director – Global Diversity Office. “Achieving the 100 percent rating for four consecutive years validates the Company’s commitment to diversity for all employees.”

Since its inception in 2002, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation Corporate Equality Index has provided businesses with a blueprint for establishing and maintaining inclusive workplaces for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees.

Chrysler Says Federal Loan Necessary for Automotive Jumpstart

As General Motors and Ford visit Capital Hill, rival Chrysler voices what journalists, pundits, and the industry have known for some time.

Chrysler President Jim Press says that a low interest direct loan from the federal government to the Big Three domestic auto makers is necessary so that the auto manufacturers can develop new technologies that allow them to be competitive with their rivals.

Of great concern to Press is the possibility of exchanging our dependence on foreign oil for reliance on imported batteries. This is because at the present time companies in other locations of the world lead us in the development of batteries that would be appropriate for use in electric cars.

Currently, Congress is considering two packages, one that would provide $50 billion in low interest loans to automakers and the other would give $25 billion in loans. In fact, the $25 billion package was actually past by Congress last year but has not been funded.