DODGE DART

Jeep Patriot, Compass Gain a Temporary Reprieve

June 21, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

Two compact Jeeps will be replaced by one new model in 2017.

The Jeep brand’s two smallest models slotted above the Renegade may reach the 2017 model year after all. The Jeep Compass and Patriot, compact SUVs introduced in 2007, will be built until Dec. 23, 2016. A Brazilian-manufactured replacement vehicle bearing one of the two model names will launch in 2017, according to Automotive News.

Plant and Product Shuffling

The reprieve comes as Fiat Chrysler realigns its manufacturing base to build more SUVs. Both the Compass and the Patriot as well as the Dodge Dart are assembled in Belvidere, Illinois. All three models will be canceled or moved out to make way for the Jeep Cherokee.

The Cherokee is currently built in Toledo, Ohio, but will be moved to Illinois in an effort to provide additional capacity for the next-generation Jeep Wrangler and a much anticipated Jeep pickup truck. Following extensive retooling, Cherokee production is due to begin in May.

Jeep Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee.

The plant shuffling also extends to Sterling Heights, Michigan, where the Chrysler 200 midsize sedan is being built, but in modest numbers. FCA plans to lay off an entire shift of workers as it realigns Chrysler 200 production with demand. Sales of the 200 are down sharply over last year as consumers shift to pickup trucks and SUVs.

By 2018, the Sterling Heights plant will begin making the next-generation Ram 1500 pickup truck. FCA is still looking for a partner to build the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart, models it says it no longer have priority in its portfolio. So far, no manufacturer has been identified as a potential partner.

Lengthy Model Run

Eleven years is a long time for a model run and both the Compass and Patriot are showing their age. The two models were extensively updated in 2011 as part of a massive product overhaul conducted by the then Chrysler Group in advance of its merger with Fiat.

Strong incentives coupled with increased interest by consumers in all matters of SUV have helped Patriot and Compass sales stay strong. However, with new models above (Cherokee) and under (Renegade), customers have much better choices.

Jeep Renegade

Jeep Renegade.

Future Jeep Product

FCA has two significant moneymakers in its Jeep and Ram brands. However, unlike Ram, Jeep is now a global brand and will continue to provide the most significant growth and drive the greatest profits for the automaker going forward.

FCA is also holding down costs by building Jeep’s two smallest models overseas. Besides the Brazilian-built replacement for the Compass and Patriot, the entry-level Renegade is built in Italy. All other Jeep models are built in the US.

Slotted above the Cherokee is the Grand Cherokee and in its own special category is the Jeep Wrangler, the only body-on-frame Jeep model presently built.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Grand Wagoneer Reprise

In a Jan. 2016 update to FCA’s 2014-2018 business plan, the automaker noted that future “white-space” products are planned – Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Jeep pickup truck.

The Grand Wagoneer name was last used in 1991, a model based on the Jeep Wagoneer, itself introduced in 1963. The original Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer was based on Jeep’s full-size truck platform. Later Grand Wagoneer models incorporated features common to today’s SUVs, including a roof rack with rails, power bucket seats, leather surfaces, and upgraded sound systems.

As for the new Grand Wagoneer we know it will be a three-row luxury model, based on the next-generation Grand Cherokee platform. Further, FCA has promised the grandest of all Jeeps will compete with Land Rover for luxury SUV shoppers. FCA will introduce the Grand Wagoneer to dealers only this August. As for the rest of us, expect the luxury Jeep’s global unveiling to take place in a major US auto show by early next year.

Recent News — Limited Edition Mopar ’16 Ram Rebel Revealed

On the Horizon: A Front-Wheel Drive Chrysler 300?

May 9, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

What could this mean for the Dodge Charger and Challenger?

2015 Chrysler 300

The next-generation Chrysler 300 may switch to a FWD platform.

The days for the current Chrysler 300 are numbered.

Introduced in 2005, the second-generation 300 bowed in 2011, offering dimensions only slightly longer and wider than the first-generation model. Now in its sixth model year, the current Chrysler 300 is showing its age — plans for its replacement are underway.

What may follow could stun enthusiasts, especially if parent Fiat Chrysler elects to place the large sedan on the same front-wheel drive platform underpinning the all-new Chrysler Pacifica minivan. If FCA utilizes Pacifica architecture to support the third-generation 300, it’ll offer optional all-wheel drive, just as it does today.

News of the 300’s possible successor was shared by FCA Chief Executive Officer Sergio Marchionne with reporters at the company’s manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ontario, on Friday reports Reuters. Marchionne was on hand to thank workers for launching the Chrysler Pacifica, representing a $2.6 billion investment in its minivan line.

That investment may never be recouped unless other models are derived from the platform. One of the models thought possible was a Dodge SUV variant — either to replace the current Durango or to supplement it.

2016 Dodge Dart

A replacement for the current Dodge Dart is still open.

Front-Wheel Drive Architecture

Moving to front-wheel drive architecture aligns with the approach Chrysler’s competitors have long taken, including the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet’s Impala, and the Toyota Avalon. Of the three, only the Taurus offers available all-wheel drive — the possible Chrysler approach is also one Audi takes, but the latter’s market is the luxury segment.

Mention “Chrysler 300” and two other models come to mind: Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger. The current Dodge sedan and coupe share nearly everything with the Chrysler, including the platform and most major components. One difference is found in the Hellcat lines as these are unique to Dodge and have effectively placed a lucrative halo over each one.

Marchionne’s pronouncements typically provide reporters with enough fodder to keep FCA in the news, while omitting some information about related products, brands, and production facilities.

Chrysler and Dodge Separation?

Although long tied at the hip, there is nothing written in the FCA playbook that the Chrysler 300 and its Dodge cohorts must continue on the same path. Indeed, Chrysler is now a mainstream brand, while Dodge represents its performance brand.

Thus, the next-generation Dodge Charger and Challenger might continue as is or adopt an Alfa-based rear-wheel drive platform as reported by Automotive News last August. The new platform should yield a third Dodge model, Barracuda (‘Cuda), a sport coupe convertible.

Rumors that FCA might eventually kill off Dodge seem like just that — although the Dart in its current form is doomed (as is the slightly large Chrysler 200), other models such as Viper, Charger, Challenger, ‘Cuda, Durango, and the eventual replacement for the Journey should keep this brand relevant.

2015 Chrysler 200

Chrysler 200 production is winding down.

Other FCA Products and News

The 300’s future isn’t the only FCA news of late.

The next-generation Jeep Wrangler may get a twin-turbocharged, four-cylinder engine making 300 horsepower, supplementing the standard 3.6-liter, V-6. Further, production of the all-new Ram 1500 pickup truck will begin by Jan. 2018.

Production of the Dodge Dart will cease by year’s end as the Belvidere, Illinois plant where it is produced is converted to build the Jeep Grand Cherokee, now built in Toledo, Ohio. Ohio production will focus primarily on the next Wrangler as well as a Jeep-based pickup truck. Also, just as the company’s Sterling Heights, Mich., plant loses the Chrysler 200 by early next year, it will be retooled to supplement future Ram 1500 capacity.

As for the Dart and 200, Marchionne is still holding out hope that a partnership with another manufacturer to build replacement models will happen. Those models would be based entirely on a competitor’s technology. For example, Volkswagen Jetta and Passat models might be tapped and rebadged as the Dart and 200 respectively, although there has been no mention VW is even considering such a relationship.

It’s a Buyers Market for Small Car Shoppers

April 12, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

Some of the best deals are for small cars.

You might have your eye on that small SUV, but if you’re trading up from a compact car the incentives for small cars are very strong as we reach the heart of the spring selling season.

Consumers continue to shift their interest from cars to trucks and SUVs, and that means demand for the former has fallen, while interest in the latter is soaring. And if you know anything about the impact of supply and demand on prices, incentives follow the low-demand vehicles.

2016 Jeep Renegade. — 2016 Jeep Renegade priced from $17,995.

Dodge Dart Discounted, Models Realigned

For example, sales of the 2016 Dodge Dart are down by about one-third year-over-year through the first three months of this year. Further, the entire segment is down by just over 5 percent and would be much worse off if Honda hadn’t updated the Civic. Notably, Civic sales are up 30.8 percent and have moved ahead of the previous category leader, the Toyota Corolla (down 7.1 percent).

To help move Dart sales, Dodge is doing a couple of things:

1. Incentives are strong, depending on region. Some models are marked down by up to $3,250. Low-rate financing is also available. Visit the Dodge website, enter your zip code, and check out the discounts in your area.

2. Three trim levels instead of five. Just past the halfway mark of the model year and the 2016 Dart now has two fewer trim levels. The three remaining trims were renamed and given engines to correspond to each level. Likewise, Dodge shuffled content, cut prices, and spread its package options across all three lines. All in all, the result should be a model better positioned to compete in a very tough segment.

2016 Honda HR-V. — 2016 Honda HR-V priced from $19,125

Financing and Cash Back Incentives

Toyota incentives also vary by region. In my area (southeast USA), the current deal is 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 0.9 percent financing for 72 months. But those incentives are better elsewhere, including in Los Angeles, where Toyota is offering $1,500 cash back or low-rate financing. Furthermore, attractive lease offers are in play as well.

Demand for small SUVs is up 6.3 percent year-to-date, a modest number. But the biggest gainers are found in the entry-level, subcompact SUV segment as those sales are up a whopping 78.7 percent. Of course, there are four new products in the mix and are driving sales. These are: the Fiat 500X, Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and the Mazda CX-3. The segment has expanded to accommodate the new models as customers shift their interest from small cars to SUVs.

Despite the strong sales, there are incentives on some of the smaller SUVs. At present, Jeep is offering 0 percent financing plus $1,000 cash back on 2016 Renegade models. The brand is also jockeying for market share, hence the discount.

Honda isn’t offering any special deals at the moment for the HR-V, but it is providing a lease deal on its hot-selling Civic. As for financing deals, Honda simply says “Please see your local Honda dealer for available offers.”

Incidentally, both segments offer comparable passenger and storage room, hence the comparison.

Sample Dodge Dart Savings

Using the Dodge build and price configurator, I spec’d out a mid-grade Aero model ($21,095). I then added the $1,250 6-speed automatic transmission and immediately that cost was fully offset by an “applied offer.” The net price came in at $22,090.

For a better deal, go to the next-level Dart GT and the discounts climb to $2,750 and the final price actually comes in lower at $20,340. You also get a larger and more powerful engine, while saving nearly $1,700 off the Aero price. With smart negotiating you can get the price down even lower, probably below $19,000.

Chevy v. Chevy Price Comparison

Of course, comparing models takes some theatrics, especially if the brand under consideration doesn’t offer both a subcompact SUV and a compact car such as Chevrolet and Honda do.

Chevrolet may offer the best example of the price differences between compact car (Cruze) and subcompact SUV (Trax). The 2016 Cruze is priced from $16,120 and the Trax starts out at $20,300.

With the Cruze, discounts of $1,000 and 1.9 percent financing apply to the LS Manual ($18,995) on up. Choose the Trax and you’ll get a $500 purchase bonus and you may qualify for 2.9 percent financing. Typically, you’ll pay about $4,000 more for a similarly-equipped Trax versus the Cruze. Add another $1,500 for all-wheel drive, available only with the Trax.

To sum up, similar-sized cars and SUVs offer significant price differences, especially after all incentives have been taken. If you really want an SUV, then by all means shop for one. But if you’re on the fence and money is a factor, bargaining down the price of a compact car can make a significant difference for your budget.

Sales figures courtesy of GoodCarBadCar.net.

Will Renault Models Replace Fiat Chrysler Products?

February 3, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

French automaker Renault may have the solution to FCA’s product needs.

If you want to buy a French-built model in the US, you probably know that Renault, Peugeot and Citroen have no presence in the market. Instead, you’ll only be able to consider the Toyota Yaris, the lone model currently built in France and exported to the US.

2015 Chrysler 200. — The current Chrysler 200 may be replaced by a competitor’s model.

Exit…Stage Right

Both Renault and Peugeot-Citroen once had a presence in the US. Indeed, Renault had controlling interest in American Motors for several years, but exited the market in 1989, two years after selling those assets to the Chrysler Corporation. In 1991, Peugeot made its own exit from the US market, ending Citroen sales too. Some twenty-five years later, few Americans under 40 can recall cars built by French manufacturers and sold in the United States.

Neither manufacturer is poised to return to the US, a market that is immensely profitable, but is also brutally competitive. Beyond domestic manufacturers such as Packard, Checker and Studebaker, a host of foreign makes have thrown in the towel too, including Isuzu, Yugo, Daihatsu, and Suzuki.

However, one of the two French manufacturers could make a return, especially if partnered with a company already present in the US. Renault’s logical partner is Nissan, as both companies own a slice of each other and are jointly led by Carlos Ghosn, the Brazilian-born CEO for the two automakers. Its a successful alliance that has produced numerous cars for the two companies since the confederacy was forged in the late 1990s.

On the other hand, Peugeot-Citroen is not so lucky. A brief partnership forged with GM in 2012 was ended less than two years later as Peugeot sought assistance from Dongfeng, a Chinese manufacturer to support its operation. Of the two French companies, Peugeot’s financial picture is the weakest.

Renault to the Rescue?

Turning back to Renault, this automaker could very well find its way back across the Atlantic, especially if Fiat Chrysler works out an agreement for the French automaker to supply it with vehicles. Indeed, FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne announced last week that his company would no longer build its compact Dodge Dart and midsize Chrysler 200 sedans, choosing instead to devote plant capacity to build more Jeeps and Ram pickup trucks. That move means FCA should become more profitable as well as more attractive to a potential suitor.

At the same time, Marchionne said it would turn to its competitors to supply these models, but the likelihood that a Ford, Toyota or a Hyundai would dilute their own model lines to accommodate FCA seems very unlikely.

Renault may be the most logical supplier for FCA as it has two models — the midsize Latitude and the compact Mégane — that might possibly be rebadged and sold in the US. Both models are underpinned by platforms shared with current Nissan products (Altima and Sentra), but otherwise the cars are all Renault.

The downside in choosing the Mégane is that it isn’t a sedan — Renault builds hatchback, coupe and wagon variants, but no four-door sedan. That said, the hatchback might be a fit for a market that is finally accepting this body style again. Currently, Renault builds the Mégane at four plants scattered across Europe and might be in a position to supply the next generation Dodge Dart.

The second model is the Renault Latitude and this one is already sold in Mexico, where it is known as the Renault Safrane. Interestingly, the Renault Latitude/Safrane is built in Korea by Renault Samsung Motors, a minor car manufacturer operating in a market dominated by Hyundai and Kia.

Busan Plant Capacity

Although the Korean company has built more than 2.4 million cars since its 2000 introduction, its Busan manufacturing plant has the capacity to build 300,000 vehicles annually. Supplying the Latitude as the Chrysler 200 in the US and Canada would keep the Busan factory humming and give Chrysler a much-needed product.

Will Renault respond if Marchionne comes calling? There is a good chance that they would. In 2013, Mitsubishi sought a similar tie up with Renault to supply it with a midsize sedan for the US market, but that deal collapsed. In any case, Mitsubishi is barely hanging on in a market where demand for Renault-supplied vehicles would be much smaller than that of a network composed of Dodge and Chrysler dealers.

At the same time, any Fiat Chrysler and Renault relationship could push out further, perhaps including Nissan and forming at least one kind of a business relationship Marchionne desires.

These are interesting times in the auto industry. Then again, the industry is always fascinating.

Fiat Chrysler: SUVs Trump Small Cars

January 29, 2016 by admin 1 Comment

More Jeeps and pickup trucks. And partners sought to build small cars.

2015 Chrysler 200S — Future Chrysler 200s may be built by a competitor.

Shop for a small Chrysler product in a few years and that Dodge Dart or Chrysler 200 just may be built by one of the automaker’s competitors. Earlier this week Fiat Chrysler announced its revised North American business plan with future production now geared toward producing more SUVs and fewer cars.

Modified Business Plan

The updated business plan, released by Fiat Chrysler on Wednesday, reveals several important changes about the company’s direction in North America, including:

Producing more SUVs and pickup trucks, and fewer small cars.
Outsourcing production of two vehicles — the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart sedans — to competitors.
Adjusting its Alfa Romeo plans by concentrating on bringing its Giulietta sedan to the market during the first half of this year and bringing its midsize SUV online by the end of 2017. Other models are still on tap, but will arrive further out in the production planning cycle.

More Trucks and SUVs

Long top-heavy in pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, Fiat Chrysler plans to tilt further in that direction as it sees increased permanency in the currently low fuel prices. A global glut in fuel availability has driven down prices tremendously and some analysts believe low prices will be around for many years.

FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne says that the company’s two US-built small cars, Dart and 200, will “run their course.” Instead of funding development of new product, the company plans to reach out to its competitors to build these models for them. The manufacturing plants tasked with building the two models will eventually be converted to building Jeep products and pickups.

The company’s Sterling Heights plant in Michigan currently builds the 200 but will be retooled to build the next generation Ram 1500 pickup trucks due out in 2018. A similar transition is in the works for the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois, producer of the Dodge Dart. That plant also produces the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Patriot.

Additional Product Plans

Other important points of the Fiat Chrysler business plan include:

Partnerships are in the offing. Fresh on the heels of partnering with Mazda to build the Fiat 124 Spider, FCA will seek additional partners to help it maintain a presence in the small and midsize car categories. Such collaboration between automakers is nothing new, but this practice has increased steadily over the past several years.

New hybrid models are on the way. FCA will step up its hybrid game by offering more models across multiple platforms. Even the Jeep Wrangler and the Ram 1500 pickup truck will receive hybrid variants.

No new manufacturing plants are planned. FCA plans to maintain its current manufacturing plant count and won’t build an additional plant in Toledo as had been expected. Instead, FCA will utilize its current footprint as it leans toward building more Jeeps and Ram pickup trucks.

Build me a diesel. FCA will also bring a diesel Wrangler Unlimited to the market, but likely not for five years. Even so, a diesel-powered Wrangler would appear a few years before a hybrid variant is released.

Making More Money

Fiat Chrysler’s profitability has always hinged on its North American market. By producing even more Jeeps and pickup trucks and fewer cars, the automaker’s profitability picture should remain robust for several years.

At the same time, its greater commitment to these models could leave the company exposed if consumer tastes suddenly shift following a huge spike in fuel prices. That’s a gamble the automaker is willing to take as consumers flock to a variety of high-profile vehicles.

See Also — X Marks the Spot for GMC Sierra

Fiat Chrysler Not Giving Up On the Dodge Brand

April 23, 2014 by admin 3 Comments

Refreshed Charger and Challenger models may lift brand sales.

Dodge’s compact Dart has been a sales disappointment.

As of April 2014, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has officially added Alfa Romeo to its US product line, quietly debuting the sensuous 4C at the New York International Auto Show.

Besides Alfa, the Italian-American automaker also sells Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, and SRT brand vehicles. Add in its Mopar automotive parts division and you have eight brands to balance for one of the largest car portfolios outside of the Volkswagen Group.

FCA also owns Ferrari and Maserati, brands that are marketed and sold separately in the US. Only Lancia and Ducato do not have a presence stateside and neither seem likely to be established here. With so many brands it seems possible that one or more makes might get cut with Dodge mentioned as a likely candidate by Ward’s Auto in a story it ran in June 2013.

Since the Ward’s article was published, other industry analysts and casual observers have shared their own thoughts about the future of Dodge. Not to be left out, the following are my reasons why I expect Dodge not only to survive, but thrive. Input from other industry experts was sought as well.

Refreshed Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger

Tim Kuniskis is the CEO of the Dodge brand, and as such has a stake in the success of the brand. This brand’s large cars are its Challenger coupe and Charger sedan, models that share the same platform and have been extensively reworked for 2015. Kuniskis had previously identified the pair as Dodge’s heart and soul models.

Since the current generation for both models went on sale five years ago, Dodge has sold more than 1 million vehicles combined, enjoying year-over-year sales increases since then. With FCA strengthening the brand’s heart and soul that’s reason alone to preserve Dodge.

2015 Dodge Challenger

Good-Bye, Dodge Avenger

In 2013 Dodge sold 93,842 units of is Avenger midsize sedan. Though those numbers pale in comparison to what Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Ford push with their respective models, it still represents a significant number of car shoppers. Those shoppers, however, won’t find an Avenger in Dodge showrooms after 2015 as the automaker is discontinuing the model even as it replaces the similar Chrysler 200.

Dodge hopes to recover some of its Avenger cancellation by switching people to the Dodge Dart, a compact model that has been a major disappointment for the company. FCA also expects some Avenger shoppers to move over to the 200 as the automaker seeks to reduce brand overlap. The Avenger cancellation and Dart sales slump have fueled rumors of Dodge’s demise, but with its heart and soul models in place, the automaker may simply be looking to narrow Dodge’s focus even as sales take a hit.

Making it With Crossovers

Where the Charger and Challenger represent the center of the brand, its crossover Dodge Durango and Dodge Journey models may be its bread and butter. The Durango is based on a stretched wheelbase version of the platform that underpins the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Though the Durango’s 60,727 units sold in 2013 come in far below the Jeep’s 174,275 units, Durango sales rose by 43 percent in 2013 and are up 19 percent through March 2014 where price tags approaching $40,000 a piece are common.

The Dodge Journey came to the brand in 2009 and has been a good seller. This midsize crossover has been given an extended lease on life as an all-new model is set to roll out for 2016, one year later than originally planned. That vehicle will be built on the same platform underpinning the Jeep Cherokee, itself exceeding sales expectations. While FCA will most certainly distinguish the Jeep and Dodge models, the next generation Journey could itself attract a new group of customers.

A Minivan or Not

Rumors continue to swirl about Chrysler’s two minivans: the Chrysler Town & Country and the Dodge Grand Caravan. CEO Sergio Marchionne made it known several years back that only one of the two models would survive with the other likely to be remade as a crossover. With the Durango firmly in place it seems likely that Dodge will get the minivan and Chrysler the crossover.

The current Grand Caravan will stay in production through 2017, extending its life cycle by two years according to Automotive News. That will give the automaker time to develop the hybrid system that has reportedly been considered for this model. A diesel-powered model also seems likely.

2015 Dodge Charger

Beyond the Essentials

Might Dodge survive with just five models, namely the Challenger, Charger, Journey, Durango and Dart? Certainly, especially if the other brands pick up the slack.

Dodge’s rumored demise has been talked about since Chrysler separated its Ram trucks from Dodge and later reassigned Viper to SRT. That the Dart is selling poorly has been no comfort to brand loyalists either, a model outclassed in a very competitive segment.

Dodge sales rose in 2013 by 14 percent yet are down 9 percent through March 2014, largely due to declining Avenger and Dart interest. In resolving its Dart problems, Dodge may narrow its sales losses, but not entirely. Even then, the brand should have enough healthy models to press on as Fiat Chrysler seeks to bolster the rest of its portfolio.

The Experts Weigh In

Though the rumors about Dodge’s pending demise have received some traction over the past year, a number of experts are now saying otherwise.

Jason Lancaster, editor of AccurateAutoAdvice.com, believes that Dodge should focus on performance, taking a similar approach that has worked with with BMW and Porsche. Said Lancaster, “They should offer upgraded versions of cars in the Chrysler-Fiat family, with catchy names, flashy styling, and excellent stats.” With these changes Lancaster believes that “Dodge could become a symbol for modern American muscle.”

Ryan Freeze, a leader of change at Ajunt, a cloud-based agency platform, believes Dodge will survive but faults the brand for not offering a convertible and for currently presenting a line up that resembles a “Hertz commercial.” Freeze gives high marks to Ford for its reworked Mustang, but criticizes the Dart for “…too much body and [for not having] the same road feel as many competitors.” Like Lancaster, Freeze pointed to BMW as a brand for Dodge to aspire to.

We also heard from Justin Cupler, Chief Editor for TopSpeed.com, who was NOT at a loss for words. Said Cupler, “The entire Chrysler group, along with Maserati, is supporting FIAT Chrysler Automobiles NV and the FIAT brand. FCA NV would be insane to pull focus from Dodge at this point, as the muscle car realm is likely to explode in the next two years. The Mustang and Camaro are both selling pretty well, particularly the Mustang (up 19 percent YTD), and the Charger/Challenger siblings should see a boost from their respective refreshes. The Avenger and Dart are both huge losers, and the Avenger is already slated for the axe in 2016, with a RWD, midsize sedan rumored to take its place. This leaves the oddball that is the Dart, which needs a refresh to bring it more in line with the rest of the brand. If anything, FIAT S.p.A. needs to inject more into Dodge to cut the fat (Avenger), rework the slow sellers (Challenger and Dart) and introduce a midsize RWD sedan to replace the Avenger.”

So, there you have it. Dodge will likely be around for the long haul, but clearly an improvement in the way that this now 100-year-old brand approaches the market is required.

Photos courtesy of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, NV

Cars and Coffee Cary: March 2014

March 3, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

The second of two Corvette Stingrays present lifts its hood.

While much of the eastern part of the nation remains locked within winters icy grip, mild weather throughout the southeast has allowed monthly Cars and Coffee meetups to continue throughout much of the Carolinas and extending all the way to Texas. Cars and Coffee Cary (NC) is one event that has continued uninterrupted throughout the colder months despite a pair of snowstorms in Jan. that paralyzed the Raleigh area.

This past Sat., the Cars and Coffee faithful gathered at the upscale Waverly Place shopping center, on a gray, chilly morning. Several hundred drivers and their cars showed up, bringing with them an assortment of antique, classic, performance, and modified rides for display.

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1941 Packard One-Twenty

The oldest car on the lot was a 1941 Packard One-Twenty. Its owners bought the car on Long Island, NY, and have had it for two months. It underwent a restoration 10 years ago.

Cars and Coffee Cary

Just as it did last month, a McLaren MP4-12C showed up, a two-door convertible that retails for $265,750. Clearly, it was the hit of the show, with dozens gathering around the sports car, sitting inside, or simply admiring its sleek design including its alluring dihedral doors.

Snapping away with liberality, Auto Trends captured dozens of the cars in attendance including the ones pictured here. At the very end of this story, please read up about a new event in Raleigh as well as updated information about two more North Carolina show and tells that begin or return this month.

Jump to: Cars and Coffee Raleigh

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1972 AMC Gremlin

This 1972 AMC Gremlin was classified as a subcompact car when new. AMC used a variety of engines ranging from a 2.0-liter four to a 5.0-liter V-8.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Ford Mustang

Every generation of Ford Mustang is well represented, although not always at the same time. Classic and late model steeds alike draw much fan interest.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Yes!

There are only three registered Yes! sports cars in the entire United States. This orange one made an appearance at Cars and Coffee.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Chevrolet El Camino

Will we ever see the return of the Chevrolet El Camino?
In many eyes, it represents the ultimate car-truck.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Corvette Stingray

Classic and new sports cars dominate Cars and Coffee. The occasional 1960s era Corvette Stingray will make an appearance.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Dodge Dart

Most people are familiar with the contemporary Dodge Dart.
This classic edition was in mint condition.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Jaguar XJ12C

A handful of British models tend to show up including this very good condition
silver Jaguar XJ12C with Michigan plates.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Porsche 911 GT3 RS

This Porsche 911 GT3 RS needs no introduction. Its orange wheels, side mirror caps, and graphics offer an unusual contrast to the body.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Triumph

This British pair underscores the way that a hood should be lifted.

Nissan GT-R

One person’s Nissan Skyline is another person’s GT-R. No matter, it was one of the fastest cars to make an appearance this month.

Cars and Coffee Cary: 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback

The owner of this 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback has had it for 14 years. Prior to its restoration it was his sons driver while attending the United States Air Force Academy.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Chevrolet Bel Air

All eyes are on this Chevy Bel Air,
a mint condition model that represented 1950s Chevrolet design quite well.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Volkswagen Golf

This Volkswagen Golf rally car seems anxious.
Give it a track or a back road and it will strut its stuff.

Cars and Coffee Cary: Mopar

Dodge Charger and SRT Viper in red: Mopar Madness offers
the same fevered condition as does March Madness.

Cars and Coffee Raleigh

The Cary, NC gathering regularly fills the allotted parking lots, demonstrating strong local interest in automotive meetup events. That has led to the formation of Cars and Coffee at the Raleigh Grande, a monthly gathering that will supplement, but not replace Cars and Coffee Cary.

Beginning on Sat., March 15, 2014, at 4840 Grove Barton Road in northwest Raleigh, display and spectator parking will be available for this monthly show. Auto Trends talked with Dave Marsic, one of the new events organizers, learning that more than 500 display and parking spaces will be available. The concession stand at the Raleigh Grande will be open during the show with attendees invited to take in a movie afterward. You can learn more about the Raleigh event by clicking here.

Cars and Coffee Greensboro (NC) will also resume on March 15 after a four-month break. And Cars and Coffee Charlotte is also back (now meeting on the second Saturday of each month) despite having been canceled following the stupid antics of a few drivers that wrecked it (literally). Visit the Facebook pages of (Greensboro) and (Charlotte) to learn more.

The Five Top Selling Compact Cars of 2013

January 8, 2014 by admin 5 Comments

2014 Honda Civic. — A broad model line keeps the Honda Civic on top.

Compact cars are nearly as popular as midsize models, small front-wheel drive models that typically retail for under $20,000. Also known as C-segment models, these vehicles are produced by every full line manufacturer and are typically sold as sedans with hatchbacks usually part of the mix as well.

2013 Compact Cars

Toyota and Honda have routinely battled for segment supremacy and in recent years fresh challenges from Chevrolet, Ford and Hyundai have brought balance to the segment. Beyond the leaders there are a number of other cars to consider including the Nissan Sentra, Dodge Dart, Volkwagen Golf, Mazda3, and the Kia Forte.

1. Honda Civic. Toyota and Honda are position 1-2 in the midsize segment, but those places are reversed where compact cars are concerned. In 2013, Honda sold 336,180 Civics including 7,719 hybrids. Civic sales rose by more than 18,000 units or 5.7 percent for the year. Following a new design in 2012, Honda launched a significant refresh for 2013 to address several design deficiencies, a move that largely silenced its critics and paid off with increased sales.

Toyota Corolla Compact Car.

Fresh styling marks the 2014 Toyota Corolla.

2. Toyota Corolla. If Hondas hold on the compact segment is threatened, it will come from Toyota. For 2014, a new and larger Corolla was introduced, a model that Toyota expects will challenge the Civic for segment leadership. In 2013, Toyota sold 302,180 Corollas, up 3.9 percent for the year. Unlike the Civic sold in sedan, coupe, hybrid and CNG configurations, Toyota is maintaining its sedan-only focus for its compact model. No word whether Toyota will break out of the box and field additional body styles as in days past.

3. Chevrolet Cruze. The big news for Chevrolet in 2013 is that the Cruze outsold its chief nemesis, the Ford Focus. Chevrolet may not have long to celebrate, however, as Focus ST sales are likely to grow. And with no performance sub-model to respond with directly, Chevrolet will have to rely on it newly available diesel option to stoke Cruze sales. For 2013, Chevrolet sold 248,224 Cruzes, up 4.4 percent for the year, edging the Elantra by just 312 cars sold.

Hyundai Elantra GT compact car.

The Hyundai Elantra dressed in GT garb.

4. Hyundai Elantra. The Sonata still garners the lions share of attention for Hyundai, but Elantra outsold the midsize sedan for 2013. Indeed, Elantra sales enjoyed the largest lift among the top sellers, increasing by 23 percent for the year. With 247,912 units sold, the Elantra is within easy striking distance of the Cruze, itself likely to be overtaken by the Ford Focus. Capacity issues may be the only thing to hold back Hyundais surging star in the coming years.

5. Ford Focus. The Ford brand was the top selling automotive brand in the US in 2013, beating Chevrolet and Toyota. Its Focus compact car has been a big contributor in recent years to help elevate the brand, but for 2013 sales fell by 4.6 percent on 234,570 units sold. You can blame part of that loss on the rise of the subcompact Fiesta and its 25.2 year-over-year sales increase. The next generation Focus is expected to roll out in Europe later this year followed by North America in 2015. Incidentally, both the Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla sell more than 1 million units annually around the world.

Looking Ahead

Stiffer competition among compact car manufacturers will provide consumers with new and better choices in the coming years. An all-new Mazda3 hits the market this year and sales of the Nissan Sentra, Dodge Dart, and Kia Forte continue to grow. Volkswagen will continue with its multi-prong Jetta strategy, marketing its sedan and wagon lines separately while emphasizing its diesel option.

Strategic Vision: Dodge Dart, Kia Soul and Volkswagen CC Among Best Models

May 14, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Domestic car manufacturers score well in latest TQI study.

About Strategic Vision

Strategic Vision, the California consultancy group that measures consumer buying behaviors and trends, has released the results of its 18th annual Total Quality Index™ (TQI) study. This years study has revealed that domestic car manufacturers the General Motors Company, the Ford Motor Company and the Chrysler Group have made significant progress, finishing atop multiple vehicle segments including some of the most competitive ones.

Dodge Dart -- Strategic Vision Surprise Winner Topping the small car category was the Dodge Dart, one of the newest models on the market. Among midsize cars, the Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Volt tied for first place. The Chrysler 200 Convertible beat out all other convertibles and the Buick Enclave scored highest in the near-luxury utility segment.

Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision, noted that domestic manufacturers now lead in more segments than foreign manufacturers. Edwards explained that the domestics have been striving to lead, but he also said that companies such as Hyundai and Toyota continue to perform admirably as well. Significant quality improvements by the Detroit Three have forced, …all manufacturers to build the most superior, innovative and holistically quality vehicles possible to gain the hearts and minds of the customer.

Total Quality: Love

Strategic Vision began to measure quality in 1994, using an approach that goes beyond counting problems. The company uses more of an emotional thrust to gauge vehicle satisfaction, employing a five-point scale based on love. Specifically, Strategic Vision examines 155 specific aspects of total quality in a bid to understand buyer sentiment with its rankings ranging from 5 for I love it to a 1 for failure.

For the eighth consecutive year the Volkswagen Group of America was the best overall corporation when measuring total quality. Audi, a Volkswagen Group brand, tied with Toyotas Lexus brand as the best brand overall. Among corporations, the Ford Motor Company took second place with GM and Hyundai tying for third place.

2013 Volkswagen CC.

TQI Segment Winners

Other segment winners included the Kia Soul in the small multifunction segment, the Honda Accord Crosstour among mid-size multifunction models and the Volkswagen CC in the large car segment.

For near-luxury car models, the Hyundai Genesis Sedan and Audi A4 Sedan tied for first place. In the midsize crossover utility segment, the Chevrolet Traverse beat out its competitors. Other winners included the Dodge Durango, Porsche Cayenne, Chevrolet Avalanche, Ford F-250/350 and the Toyota Tacoma. The MINI Cooper Hardtop, both coupe and convertible versions of the Chevrolet Corvette, and the GMC Yukon were also segment winners. Since the survey was conducted, the Chevrolet Avalanche has been discontinued.

2013 Kia Soul.

All-New Dodge Dart

Perhaps the most surprising model to finish on top of any segment was the Dodge Dart. All-new for 2013, the Dodge Dart is a compact sedan based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta and is also the first Chrysler Group model derived from FIAT. The Dart is sold in six trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Aero, Limited and GT, and competes in a segment dominated by the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra and the Chevrolet Cruze.

The Strategic Vision study, in particular, its Total Quality Index, was calculated from 17,568 buyers who purchased 2013 models during September, October and November 2012. The study employs psychology and research methods defined by Dr. Darrell Edwards in 1968 and enhanced in the 1970s by J. Susan Johnson and Sharon Shedroff.