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.

This Week in Ask.cars.com

Minivans are a staple for families that make vacations — or at least the driving portion — bearable by offering good passenger room and comfort. This week we answered the question, what is the best minivan for the money, with our recommended vehicle having already been distinguished multiple times at Cars.com for its value.

• What is the best minivan for the money?
• When does the 2008 Acura MDX go on sale?
• What is the cheapest car for a college student?
• How many distinct models are available for sale in the 2008 model year?
• What are the differences between the 2007 and 2008 Dodge Nitro R/T 4x4?

2007 Jeep Wranglers, Dodge Nitros Recalled

The redesigned 2007 Jeep Wrangler has been a significant sales success for Chrysler. Too bad it’s back in the news for a recall. Tuesday, Chrysler announced that 80,895 2007-model-year Jeep Wranglers and Dodge Nitros will be recalled to fix faulty power modules that could lead to engine stalls.

Wrangler owners had complained of engines stalling at highway speeds, which is a significant problem. In February, Chrysler recalled the same two models, along with many others in the Chrysler family, for faulty antilock brake software.

Owners should receive notification in the next week, and Chrysler will reprogram the power module at no cost.

For more information, owners can call Chrysler at 800-853-1403.

Chrysler to Recall Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Nitro Over Engine Stalls (The Wall Street Journal)

Related
Two Chrysler Recalls: 50,000 New Cars, 86,000 Dodge Rams (KickingTires)
Most Recalled 2006 Models (KickingTires)

Urban DINK: 2007 Dodge Nitro SLT

The Urban DINK who wants to look tough around town might seriously consider the new Nitro as his (or her) SUV of choice. It’s certainly one of the most menacing looking SUVs we’ve seen in a long time. There’s just one thing: Don’t get it in electric blue, like my test vehicle. If it had been red or, even better, black, I would’ve been pumping some loud music with the windows down. Alas, I was cowering behind rolled-up windows in what, to me, looked like a clown car.

Of course, while color is an easy fix, a rough ride and ergonomically challenged interior aren’t. Since I’ve been so negative lately, though, I’ll start with the good. Chrysler has been getting hammered for its interior quality, and with good reason; most vehicles in the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge lines have felt especially cheap, even compared to other domestic brands. The Nitro, however, has the best mix of material quality, fit and finish, and comfort of any Chrysler in a long time. It’s still not up to par with the best from Honda or Nissan, but we won’t hold that against the Nitro. Plus, it’s a tough-guy truck. Who cares if the plastic only has a millimeter or two of gap space?

Friday Fleet Notes

We get a lot of cars to test at the Cars.com offices, and often many of our staff — besides the lead reviewer — get to test-drive vehicles. We wanted to give them a place to add their thoughts on cars we’ve already reviewed. Friday Fleet Notes is a new feature we’re thinking of bringing back. Tell us what you think in the comments to help determine its fate.

2007 Dodge Nitro SXT 4WD

The only explanation I can come up with for out-there styling like the Dodge Nitro’s is that it must be aimed at a particular niche. That, of course, is thinly veiled code for “I think it’s ugly,” but the truth is somebody must like it if it made it to production. For Dodge’s sake, I hope the group of buyers meant to appreciate the Nitro’s aesthetics doesn’t include many of my stature. Which is to say, short.

Cars.com Faceoff: Dodge Nitro, Hummer H3, Toyota FJ Cruiser

We had some fun with the latest Cars.com Faceoff. Mike Hanley, Joe Wiesenfelder and I took three of the most macho SUVs on the road and pitted them against each other on things like their rugged looks, offroad prowess and everyday usability. You might be surprised to learn which of these grown-up Tonka trucks took home the prize.

Cars.comparison: Macho SUVs

2007 Dodge Nitro Test-Drive Tips

Mike Hanley just posted his full review of the all-new Dodge Nitro R/T. The Nitro is a very important product for Dodge, giving the company a masculine midsize SUV that is definitely competitive in the marketplace, but it isn’t for everyone. Here are some tips if the Nitro’s brawny looks draw you into the showroom for a test drive. 

• Do some research ahead of time to figure out what the different trim levels mean and how much they cost. Names like SXT, SLT and R/T can be confusing. Knowing that SXT is the cheapest and R/T the most expensive, with the largest engine, will force you to narrow down your shopping. The SXT has gray plastic molding along the bumpers and bottom of the fenders that may look cheap to some.

SEMA 2006: Chrysler's Concepts

We’re going to try to keep the SEMA coverage light around here and just tackle the big stuff from the big manufacturers that may or may not make it to a dealership near you. First up is a handful of concepts from the Chrysler Group.

Dodge Readies Nitro Panel Van Concept

Every year, the folks who build those ridiculously huge wheels and gigantic spoilers you see on the road get together for a trade show like no other: SEMA. We won’t be covering all those wheels, spoilers and tuner versions of new cars like some other blogs will; that’s just not us. But anything you may potentially find at a dealership fits in our realm of coverage, and this early look at one of the show’s concepts is as good a starting point as any for our SEMA coverage.

Dodge’s new Nitro SUV hasn’t been out long enough for a full Cars.com review, but we did get some seat time a few weeks ago and were impressed. Is there need for a flat-panel version, like the HHR Flat Panel that Chevy introduced for production a few weeks ago? We’re not sure. These early sketches look good and could sway a few businesses —  think surf shops —  to plunk down real cash, but the regular four-door version has a floor that folds almost as flat and still fits four people for a lunch run.

2007 Dodge Nitro: First Drive

Dodge’s first midsize SUV is a noticeable improvement over anything else in the Chrysler group’s portfolio in this segment. The Nitro features nice interior touches, a user-friendly cargo area and a tough look in a very crowded segment. After a short test around suburbia, I was impressed with the ride and handling, even if the brakes weren’t up to par. 

On the road, the R/T model was remarkably quiet and smothered bumps with ease. The ride was incredibly high, too. While many SUVs are aiming for a carlike ride and are even built on car platforms, the Nitro is based on a truck-like platform similar to — but not shared with — the Jeep Liberty.

Drivers will also note a large hood stretched out in front of them. It was hard to judge where the corners were, but the Nitro didn’t drive like it was much bigger than the Liberty; the Nitro is actually 4.5 inches longer and 1.5 inches wider.

Huge 20-inch wheels cap off the exterior, which looks cartoonishly macho. This is the vehicle Bluto would drive if he had to chase Popeye today. The high beltline and small windows add to this Hummer-like look, but also detract from the day-to-day chores you need a car to handle. In my short time with the Nitro I could barely talk to someone outside the SUV — let alone shake their hand — because of the small windows. I can’t imagine using a drive-through ATM in this thing with any success. Expect to park and go inside the bank unless you want to look like an idiot opening the door to get to your cash.