Chrysler Bolsters AWD Fuel Economy

All-wheel-drive vehicles’ fuel economy ratings typically begin about 1 mpg lower than their two-wheel-drive counterparts because of their design. According to the Detroit Free Press, Chrysler has devised a new drivetrain design to fix that, giving all-wheel-drive vehicles like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger the same fuel ratings as their rear-drive counterparts.

All-wheel-drive vehicles lose some efficiency because their engines send power to the front axle even when it’s not necessary. Chrysler's new design will disconnect the front axle from the drivetrain under normal driving circumstances. Only when additional control is needed will the drivetrain reconnect.

This was just one of several new technologies Chrysler unveiled at its technical center in Auburn Hills, Mich., this past Friday and will be included in all AWD 2009 models.

Fuel Economy Boosted in All-Wheel-Drive Cars (Detroit Free Press)

It's Official: Chrysler Cuts Four Models

Chrysler announced today it will cut four models from its lineup: The Chrysler Crossfire, Pacifica and PT Cruiser convertible, and the Dodge Magnum. The automaker also announced plans to cut some 9,000 jobs at assembly plants that produce a number of other models: the Chrysler 300 and Sebring; Dodge Avenger, Caliber, Charger and Nitro; and the Jeep Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Patriot. Though those 11 models – as well as the regular PT Cruiser – will still be sold, expect production to be scaled back. For shoppers, that likely translates to fewer cars with massive discounts clogging showroom floors.

The decision has been coming for several weeks now, with rumors brewing that Chrysler could cut up to five models. The Crossfire and Pacifica have trailed the competition for years, but it’s a shame to see the Magnum go. With the Hemi V-8, it was one fun cruiser. If they’d asked us, we probably would have advised canning the latest Sebring instead – or at the very least taking it back to the drawing board.

Chrysler spokesman David Barnas told us 2008 would be the last year for all four models. That means in about a year’s time there should be some steep discounts to clear the last of them off the lots.

Dodge Advertises Journalist Speeding Ticket

Earlier this month, an automotive journalist in Quebec was caught going 138 mph in a 62 mph zone. Both the journalist and police officer were driving the same car — a Dodge Charger SRT8 with a 425-hp Hemi engine. That said, the police cruiser’s flashing lights were one special option that led to the journalist getting a $985 ticket.

Dodge of Canada went ahead and decided to make lemonade out of the much-publicized event — Canadian newspapers apparently covered the incident heavily — with this ad extolling the performance of the SRT8.

A roulé vite, vite, vite. (Drove fast, fast, fast)
À vendre vite, vite, vite. (Sell fast, fast, fast)

And the bottom numbers are a telephone number. Of course they added a disclaimer that owners should only drive that fast on a track. Good idea.

Source: Dodge