AUBURN HILLS, MI – Chrysler’s Dodge division announced that it will introduce a new compact sedan, the 2013-MY Dodge Dart, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in early 2012. The automaker said the vehicle is based on a Fiat architecture adapted from the Alfa Romeo Guilietta.
Under the hood, the 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by three four-cylinder engines. Drivers can select from a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.0L engine, a 16-valve 1.4L MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, and a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.4L MultiAir four-cylinder engine. These three engines offer three transmission choices as well.
Chrysler said the MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The automaker said this can result in up to a 15% increase in low engine rpm torque, a 7.5% improvement in fuel efficiency, and a 10% reduction in C02 emissions. The automaker hasn’t provided miles-per-gallon estimates yet.
The new vehicle features a tailored split-crosshair grille, projector headlamps and fog lamps, and accentuated fenders up front. Dodge full-width LED “racetrack” tail lamps and integrated dual exhaust – both inspired by Dodge Charger – are designed to accentuate the vehicle’s stance and look.
Chrysler said the all-new Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) architecture used in the Dart offers a high percentage of high-strength steel, at 68% of the vehicle’s body. This results in a strong and rigid structure, according to Chrysler. Other exterior features include four-wheel independent suspension and available 18-inch wheels.
The automaker said the all-new Dodge Dart will be made in America at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. The company is in the process of investing $600 million dollars to support the production of future products, including the 2013 Dodge Dart. The investment includes the construction of a 638,000-square-foot body shop, as well as the installation of new machinery, tooling and material handling equipment. Work on the expansion began in the summer of 2010 and will be completed this year, according to the company.
Chrysler also launched a teaser site for the new sedan.
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