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Motor Authority - blog Category: Avenger

  • Chrysler looking to replace Sebring and Avenger with new RWD sedan

    Chrysler looking to replace Sebring and Avenger with new RWD sedan June 22nd, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, June 22nd, 2009 James Martinez 4 Comments

    Chrysler looking to replace Sebring and Avenger with new RWD sedan Chrysler’s viability plan presented to the U.S. Treasury back in February turned out to be a goldmine for information about the company’s future plans. Not only were there details about the next-generation Chrysler 300 and 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, but the documents also outlined details for some of Fiat’s future models that will be heading to North America once the alliance between the two was formed.

    One of the models mentioned was a brand new sedan to be designed and built in the U.S. but based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, which currently underpins cars like the Fiat Bravo and upcoming 2010 Alfa Romeo Milano. This... Chrysler’s viability plan presented to the U.S. Treasury back in February turned out to be a goldmine for information about the company’s future plans. Not only were there details about the next-generation Chrysler 300 and 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, but the documents also outlined details for some of Fiat’s future models that will be heading to North America once the alliance between the two was formed. One of the models mentioned was a brand new sedan to be designed and built in the U.S. but based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, which currently underpins cars like the Fiat Bravo and upcoming 2010 Alfa Romeo Milano. This isn’t the only American designed and built sedan Chrysler is planning, however. Automotive News is reporting that Chrysler is currently considering launching a new RWD sedan to replace the slow-selling Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger. Current options for the car include using a stretched version of Fiat’s D-Evo platform, which is currently found in the Alfa Romeo 159 sedan, as well as sourcing a platform from Opel. However, inside sources have revealed that Chrysler would most likely use the shortened ‘LX’ RWD platform developed for its 200C electric vehicle concept from January’s Detroit Auto Show if the project goes ahead. The LX underpins cars like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. The sources explained that development could be sped up by borrowing components, such as powertrains and suspension units, from Fiat and installing them in the shortened LX platform. An affordable RWD model in the midsize sedan segment would leave Chrysler with a relatively unique offering in one of the most lucrative - and competitive - segments in the industry. Whether the project is green-lighted remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain and that is Chrysler needs a new model for the midsize sedan segment. Both the Sebring and Avenger will be phased out late next year as production at the cars’ Sterling Heights plant in Michigan comes to an end. You can read about the rest of Chrysler's planned lineup changes in our previous story by clicking here.Chrysler 200C EV Concept Read More

  • Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring safe from the axe through 2010

    Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring safe from the axe through 2010 May 6th, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, May 6th, 2009 Kenneth Hall 3 Comments

    Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring safe from the axe through 2010 As Chrysler pushes forward during its bankruptcy period and prepares for its new face and alliance with Fiat, many are wondering what will come along for the ride and what will be left behind. News today from within Chrysler reveals that the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger, as oft-maligned as they are, will be sticking around.

    Neither of the two sedans are going to win any beauty pageants, and sales have absolutely plummeted, charting just under 7,000 units so far this year - down 80% from 2008's figures. But in an interview with Edmunds, Chrysler spokesman Rick Deneau said, "We definitely have plans for these vehicles beyond December... As Chrysler pushes forward during its bankruptcy period and prepares for its new face and alliance with Fiat, many are wondering what will come along for the ride and what will be left behind. News today from within Chrysler reveals that the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger, as oft-maligned as they are, will be sticking around. Neither of the two sedans are going to win any beauty pageants, and sales have absolutely plummeted, charting just under 7,000 units so far this year - down 80% from 2008's figures. But in an interview with Edmunds, Chrysler spokesman Rick Deneau said, "We definitely have plans for these vehicles beyond December 2010. That's about all I can tell you, but it's pretty definitive." The 2010 deadline was thrown out there because that is the date of the expected closure of Chrysler's Sterling Heights plant, where the two cars are made. Instead, it appears the Avenger and Sebring could be made elsewhere, leveraging Chrysler's flexibility in plant configuration. The Belvidere plant was given as an example, but it's not the confirmed location for the post-2010 production of either car. In the end, however, despite Chrysler's plans for the cars extending beyond 2010, if the market continues to reject them as they have so far this year, those plans may change - especially once Fiat enters the picture.2009 Chrysler 300, Sebring and Dodge Avenger updates Read More

  • Boeing demonstrates first successful Humvee-mounted laser gun

    Boeing demonstrates first successful Humvee-mounted laser gun January 29th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, January 29th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 4 Comments

    Boeing demonstrates first successful Humvee-mounted laser gun Testing last month at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico confirmed that a prototype weapons system consisting of a laser mounted on the back of an Avenger ground combat vehicle is capable of shooting down UAVs.

    The first-ever successful demonstration of such a mobile laser weapon, which is dubbed the Laser Avenger, involved a 1kW laser system that's been adapted to track flying objects in complex situations. Shooting down UAVs will be increasingly important, as already the high-tech drones are becoming a serious threat on the modern battlefield.

    But why laser guns - aside from the obvious 'cool factor', that is? The advantages to a... Testing last month at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico confirmed that a prototype weapons system consisting of a laser mounted on the back of an Avenger ground combat vehicle is capable of shooting down UAVs. The first-ever successful demonstration of such a mobile laser weapon, which is dubbed the Laser Avenger, involved a 1kW laser system that's been adapted to track flying objects in complex situations. Shooting down UAVs will be increasingly important, as already the high-tech drones are becoming a serious threat on the modern battlefield. But why laser guns - aside from the obvious 'cool factor', that is? The advantages to a laser-based system over conventional weapons are numerous, but primary among them is stealth. "Laser Avenger, unlike a conventional weapon, can fire its laser beam without creating missile exhaust or gun flashes that would reveal its position," said Gary Fitzmire, vice president and director of Boeing Directed Energy Systems, the company behind the laser itself. "As a result, Laser Avenger can neutralize these UAV threats while keeping our troops safe." The mobile laser cannon system is itself based on a fixed-position unit used for safely detonating unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive devices. For the Humvee-carried application, the laser's power was doubled, the system was ruggedized, then fitted with a tracking and aiming system and integrated into a package that could easily be carried by a military Humvee. All of the conventional weaponry of the standard Avenger aerial defense vehicle is also fitted to the Laser Avenger, making it a formidable fighting machine even without the futuristic laser cannon.Laser Avenger Humvee Read More

  • Chrysler adds features, efficiency to Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger

    Chrysler adds features, efficiency to Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger November 3rd, 2008 ByRalph Hanson Ralph Hanson, Author, November 3rd, 2008 Ralph Hanson 1 Comment

    Chrysler adds features, efficiency to Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger Stronger fuel efficiency, better value and more features are the focus of the 2009 model year updates for Chrysler's Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger. Other touches include updated exterior design and upgraded interior materials.

    Fuel consumption is improved by offering smaller engines, such as the 2.7L V6 in the Chrysler 300 or the 2.4L four in the Sebring and Avenger, while maintaining a relatively higher options trim level than in the past. Value is added by keeping prices low - entry pricing for the Sebring sedan is just $23,380, the Avenger SXT base model at $21,255 and the 300 at $27.415.

    The Sebring also gets standard leather... Stronger fuel efficiency, better value and more features are the focus of the 2009 model year updates for Chrysler's Sebring, 300 and Dodge Avenger. Other touches include updated exterior design and upgraded interior materials. Fuel consumption is improved by offering smaller engines, such as the 2.7L V6 in the Chrysler 300 or the 2.4L four in the Sebring and Avenger, while maintaining a relatively higher options trim level than in the past. Value is added by keeping prices low - entry pricing for the Sebring sedan is just $23,380, the Avenger SXT base model at $21,255 and the 300 at $27.415. The Sebring also gets standard leather interior, chrome and brushed metal-look trim accents - features of the Limited sedan - at the pricing of the 2008 model year Touring model. Buyers can of course still upgrade to the V6 engine, six-speed Auto Stick transmission, dual exhaust tips and 18" wheels for $25,630. The 300 lineup is simplified by moving the Touring trim model to the entry position, retaining the upgraded interior and adding a new front grille. Moving up to the WPC Touring Signature Edition raises the price to $31,825 and adds 18" wheels, touring ride control, 60/40 folding rear seat, power adjustable pedals, Lifetime Powertrain warranty, plus navigation, side airbags and - though the option is no longer available for 2009 Avengers or Sebrings, the 300 retains the option of all-wheel drive. The Limited adds the exterior and interior features of the 300C while retaining the 3.5L V6 engine for better efficiency and a price of $36,035. The 300C remains largely the same, but now also offers the option of the V6 engine, though the V8 is standard and included in the $37,585 price. Dodge treats the Avenger to most of the same changes as its platform-mate the Sebring gets, plus the range-topping R/T model gets the option of the 2.4L four-cylinder engine and a price cut of $1,160 over the previous R/T when equipped with the 3.5L V6. A new entry-level model dubbed the SXT joins the range as well, featuring the four-cylinder engine mentioned above. Increasing the value proposition for its core models is a hopeful move to spur sales in the few areas where Chrysler is still doing relatively well. Starting November 3, all of the new model-year examples of these three lines will feature the new equipment.2009 Chrysler 300, Sebring and Dodge Avenger updates Read More

  • Chrysler plans to drop AWD option on 2009 Sebring, Avenger and Caliber

    Chrysler plans to drop AWD option on 2009 Sebring, Avenger and Caliber October 19th, 2008 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, October 19th, 2008 James Martinez 1 Comment

    Chrysler plans to drop AWD option on 2009 Sebring, Avenger and Caliber Chrysler will drop its all-wheel-drive option for the 2009 Dodge Avenger, Caliber and Chrysler Sebring because of low demand. The information was confirmed by company spokesman Jiyan Cadiz, who said the option never really caught on since its introduction for those particular models late last year.

    “For the Avenger, the take rate was 1.5% for 2008, and for the Sebring it was at 0.7%.” Cadiz revealed during a recent interview with Wards. “So obviously the bottom line is people want fuel economy, and the AWD modules are not profitable for us. That’s something we can get rid of as we’re consolidating products and... Chrysler will drop its all-wheel-drive option for the 2009 Dodge Avenger, Caliber and Chrysler Sebring because of low demand. The information was confirmed by company spokesman Jiyan Cadiz, who said the option never really caught on since its introduction for those particular models late last year. “For the Avenger, the take rate was 1.5% for 2008, and for the Sebring it was at 0.7%.” Cadiz revealed during a recent interview with Wards. “So obviously the bottom line is people want fuel economy, and the AWD modules are not profitable for us. That’s something we can get rid of as we’re consolidating products and finding what’s profitable.” Both price and fuel-economy play a major role in affecting customer buying decisions in these segments. The FWD V6 Sebring, for example, is $2,000 cheaper than the AWD model and gets a city/highway EPA fuel-economy rating of 16/26mpg (15-9L/100km) versus 15/24mpg (16-10L/100km) for the AWD model. Chrysler president and vice chairman Jim Press has also in the past questioned why an AWD option was offered on these three vehicles in the first place. However, a spokesman from BorgWarner, the company that supplies Chrysler with its AWD system, said the move was odd given market research that showed AWD is gaining popularity in the B, C and D segments globally. Chrysler is currently developing an active AWD system that normally runs in 2WD mode and only switches to all-wheel mode when there’s loss of traction. The system is expected to debut in the next-generation Chrysler 300 sedan and fuel-economy is expected to be almost the same as the 2WD-only model. The company also plans to keep its AWD option on its other models. Read More

  • Chrysler cancels Getrag dual-clutch contract

    Chrysler cancels Getrag dual-clutch contract October 18th, 2008 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, October 18th, 2008 Kenneth Hall 3 Comments

    Chrysler cancels Getrag dual-clutch contract Just as Chrysler was preparing to begin bringing a dual-clutch transmission to its North American fleet, a dispute with Getrag has sent plans for yearly production of up to 700,000 of the units up in smoke. Earlier this month Chrysler brought a lawsuit against Getrag, and now the German gearbox maker has revealed that the contract between the two companies has been canceled after a meeting on Friday.

    The lawsuit is based on Getrag's failure to secure $300 billion in debt financing for the construction of the Tipton, Indiana plant that would build the gearboxes. Now both the plant and the supply agreement have been canceled, reports... Just as Chrysler was preparing to begin bringing a dual-clutch transmission to its North American fleet, a dispute with Getrag has sent plans for yearly production of up to 700,000 of the units up in smoke. Earlier this month Chrysler brought a lawsuit against Getrag, and now the German gearbox maker has revealed that the contract between the two companies has been canceled after a meeting on Friday. The lawsuit is based on Getrag's failure to secure $300 billion in debt financing for the construction of the Tipton, Indiana plant that would build the gearboxes. Now both the plant and the supply agreement have been canceled, reports Automotive News, leaving Chrysler without a supplier for the new, more efficient gearbox technology in the U.S. For its part Getrag has decried the lawsuit by Chrysler as 'without merit' and said in a written statement announcing the result of Friday's meeting, "GETRAG is astonished by this action and will pursue all rights and remedies under the terms of the supply agreement for, among other things, reimbursement of all expenses incurred by GETRAG and its suppliers in connection with the project." The essence of the suit brought by Chrysler revolves around a dispute over whether Getrag adequately sought financing. Chrysler believes it did not do so, but Getrag says it was only obligated to secure financing as long as the German government would guarantee it. The German government, however, would not guarantee the loan without a $300 million escrow account from Chrysler to secure repayment. Hence the lawsuit, which seeks damages for any investments Chrysler has made to this point. Nevertheless, construction work on the site of the planned facility is already underway, and still continuing as of today. Chrysler has long sought to become the leader in dual-clutch gearboxes in the U.S. The extraordinarily poor credit market certainly has played a role in getting the two companies to their current adversarial situation, but that doesn't lessen the impact on either company. Chrysler had intended to use Getrag as its sole supplier of the advanced fuel-saving transmissions, but that's now off the table. Chrysler currently offers two models in Europe with a dual-clutch transmission: the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger twin sedans. There had been no plans announced to bring those cars to the United States, but Chrysler has been looking for some time to include a great deal of the dual-clutch gearboxes in its fleet, and including those two cars in the plan would have made a great deal of sense in terms of sales volume. Now it's anybody's guess as to how the company will proceed, especially with open talk of mergers and acquisitions ongoing.2008 Dodge Avenger unveiled Read More

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