• Dodge Scat Pack performance stage kits from Mopar will be supported by vehicle warranty — an industry-first from an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for such a high-level of performance modifications
• Scat Pack 1, 2 and 3 performance stage kits available for the 2014 Dodge Challenger and 2014 Dodge Charger R/T include an optimized calibration and much more
• Dodge Scat Pack stage kits deliver increasing boosts of power for the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, with up to a 58 horsepower gain with the Stage 3 kit –performance upgrade levels unmatched by an OEM without use of a forced-induction system
• Scat Pack 1 kit, priced at a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $2,195, is one of multiple options that make affordable performance upgrades available to owners ranging from the everyday enthusiast to the weekend warrior
• Scat Packs to be available beginning in the Spring of 2014

Dodge owners who want to upgrade their vehicles with new Scat Pack performance stage kits, first unveiled by Dodge and Mopar last November at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, can do so with confidence that the vehicle warranty will remain unaffected.

In an industry-first for such high-level performance modifications offered by an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), the factory warranty will be maintained on 2014 Dodge Challenger and Charger vehicles modified with the Scat Pack 1, Scat Pack 2 and Scat Pack 3 performance stage kits with installation at an authorized dealer.

“The Scat Pack factory stage kits can help boost 5.7-liter HEMI performance up to an additional 58 horsepower and 47 lb.-ft. of torque, allowing Dodge enthusiasts to extract the maximum performance from their vehicles without the fear and guesswork typically associated with modifying late-model vehicles,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “And now with a warranty guarantee, they can do so with the peace of mind that their manufacturer’s warranty remains intact.”

“The new Scat Pack kits reinforce our commitment to the performance arena,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “By maintaining the vehicle warranty, we are demonstrating to customers our confidence in the kits, which were built to exactly complement the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger by working hand-in-hand with the engineers who use factory specs to create these vehicles — exclusive knowledge available only to Mopar.”

Mopar and Dodge also revealed specifics on pricing and performance benchmarks for the trio of Scat Pack performance stage kit options. The Scat Pack 3 stage kit will provide a boost of nearly 60 horsepower and close to 50 lb.-ft. of torque — numbers currently unmatched by any OEM without the use of a forced-induction system.

The Scat Pack 1, 2 and 3 performance stage kits will be available beginning this spring with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $2,195 for the Stage 1 kit, $1,895 for the Stage 2 kit and $4,995 for the Stage 3 kit. Each Scat Pack kit includes a numbered hard badge associated with its performance stage, so enthusiasts can proudly display the emblem on their vehicle as a badge of honor.

The Scat Pack 1 performance stage kit for the 2014 Dodge Challenger and 2014 Dodge Charger achieves a boost of up to 18 horsepower and 18 lb.-ft. of torque through modifications including a Mopar cold-air intake to provide increased air-flow into the engine, Mopar cat-back exhaust to free up downstream airflow, and an all-new performance calibrated engine controller, optimized to the 5.7-liter HEMI^® engine.

For the 5.7-liter HEMI, Scat Pack 2 adds up to a 30 horsepower bump and is geared towards the performance enthusiast looking for that competitive edge. In addition to a customized, optimized performance calibration feature tailored for Scat Pack 2, a new Mopar performance camshaft works in conjunction with the components of the Scat Pack 1 kit to take advantage of improved engine breathing and deliver an additional acceleration advantage.

Scat Pack 3 takes aim squarely at the competitive enthusiast looking for extreme performance and ultimate bragging rights. Huge gains of up to 58 horsepower and 47 lb.-ft. of torque are realized through customized, optimized performance calibration tailored for Scat Pack 3, new Mopar performance CNC-ported cylinder heads and Mopar hi-flow headers.

Following is pricing, performance and parts details for the Scat Pack 1, Scat Pack 2 and Scat Pack 3 performance upgrade kits available for the 2014 Dodge Challenger and 2014 Dodge Charger:

SCAT PACK 1 5.7L
Starting at a U.S. MSRP of $2,195, Scat Pack 1 offers gains of up to 18 horsepower and 18 lb.-ft. of torque, and includes:

• Mopar cold air intake
• Mopar cat-back exhaust
• Stage 1 performance PCM
• Mopar low restriction oil filter
• (2) Scat Pack 1 stage kit hard badges

SCAT PACK 2 5.7L
With a starting U.S. MSRP of $1,895, Scat Pack 2 yields increases of up to 30 horsepower.

Works in conjunction with Scat Pack 1 and features:

• Mopar performance camshaft kit: includes camshaft, tiebars, heavy-duty pushrods and gaskets
• Stage 2 performance PCM
• (2) Scat Pack 2 stage kit hard badges

SCAT PACK 3 5.7L
The top-tier offering, Scat Pack 3 ratchets performance up to an exhilarating 58 horsepower and 47 lb.-ft. of torque and a U.S. MSRP of $4,995:

Works in conjunction with Scat Pack 1 & 2 and features:

• Mopar performance CNC ported cylinder heads
• Mopar hi-flow headers
• Mopar hi-flow catalysts
• Stage 3 performance PCM
• (2) Scat Pack 3 stage kit hard badges

• Full-line Dodge product showcase features test drives and interactive consumer experiences at more than 50 ‘Dodge Power Rallye Tour’ event locations across America
• Touring vehicles include the 2014 Dodge Charger, Challenger, Dart, Durango, Grand Caravan and Journey, as well as Charger SRT and Challenger SRT
• ‘Dodge Power Rallye Tour’ kicks off this weekend at the first major stop, March 22 in Irvine, Calif., at the ninth annual Spring Festival Tour of LX vehicles

The Dodge Dart offering consists of three kits, with Scat Package 1 providing a shot in the arm of performance and handling improvements from Mopar through a cold-air intake, performance brake pads and a new short-throw shifter.

The next-level, Scat Package 2 amps up horsepower by providing Dodge Dart owners with a no-nonsense customized engine calibration to work in harmony with a Mopar cat-back exhaust.

At the top level, Scat Package 3 provides the ultimate package for those seeking optimal track times. Included is a Mopar big brake kit, including 13-inch vented rotors, four-piston front calipers and stainless steel lines to maintain optimum temperatures during extreme braking maneuvers. Also included is a performance suspension comprising of adjustable springs for ride height, adjustable dampening struts and front and rear sway bars.

Mopar modifications extend beyond the Scat Package kits with the dual vented functional aluminum hood, which captures cool air for the Mopar cold-air intake and exhausts hot air to achieve optimal operating temperature.

The aero package from the limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart is imported into the 2014 Dodge Dart, with Mopar side sills, chin splitter and rear diffuser, and a unique new three-piece decklid spoiler to boost downforce. A new exhaust dump with side exhaust helps the engine breathe, and the Dart rides on concept 19 x 8-inch lightweight gloss black wheels, accented with Mopar logo center caps.

As with the Dodge Challenger and Charger, Katzkin performance leather seats add a premium touch to Dodge Dart’s interior. Door bolster inserts with a red border and red accent stitching on the seats, dash, armrest, wheel and shift boot are also found inside, along with red seat-belt webbing on the driver’s side, red trim accents and premium floor mats with red piping. Black chrome graces the door pulls, HVAC bezels, and shifter cluster, while an array of Mopar accessories, including the bright-pedal kit, leather-wrapped shift knob, bright door-sill guards, molded cargo tray and wireless charging complete the interior.

SCAT PACKAGE 1 2.4-liter
– Mopar cold-air intake
– Mopar short-throw shifter
– Mopar performance brakes, including slotted rotors and performance brake pads

SCAT PACKAGE 2  2.4-liter
– “Optimized” engine calibration (premium octane)
– Mopar cat-back exhaust

SCAT PACKAGE 3 2.4-liter
– Mopar big brake kit with stainless lines
– Performance suspension with adjustable springs and struts
– Upgraded performance front and rear sway bars

Building on the success of the Mopar ’10 Challenger, Mopar ’11 Charger and the Mopar ’12 300, the limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart will be built and customized with Mopar performance parts and accessories. Production for a limited run of 500 units will begin this spring at the company’s assembly plant in Belvidere, Ill.

“Our new Mopar ’13 Dart will turn heads and stand out from the crowd,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “For this special, limited-edition vehicle, we specifically kept the driver in mind as we added select Mopar parts and accessories.”

Inspired by the tuner scene, the Mopar ’13 Dart is designed for driving enthusiasts. Powered by a 1.4-liter MultiAir® intercooled turbo engine with a manual transmission, the Mopar ’13 sports a gloss-black finish with a pair of car-length Mopar Blue stripes, which mirror each of the three previous Mopar-themed models.

For enhanced handling, upgrades include a performance steering-gear calibration, a 7 millimeter-lowered suspension and low-profile 40 aspect performance tires (225/40R18). From the racing scene, Mopar added a premium brake kit with slotted rotors. Engine breathing is enhanced with a performance-tuned exhaust and to further optimize aerodynamics and increase downforce, the custom Dart features Mopar’s ground-effects kit, which includes a front-chin spoiler, one-piece deck-lid spoiler, as well as a unique and aggressively styled rear diffuser.

Unique exterior elements include a Mopar badge in the crosshair grille and gloss-black 18-inch wheels with a Mopar logo on the wheel center caps. The vehicle’s unique interior, featuring a serialized plate, gives the driver a custom Mopar Blue leather seat with black accents. To keep the emphasis on the driver, the driver seat is Mopar Blue while all other seats are black with blue accent stitching. The centerpiece of the interior is a floating island bezel that is accented with Mopar Blue paint and lighting. The interior is further enhanced with rich details, including Mopar Blue accent thread, as well as light-black chrome and gloss-black elements.

Along with a Mopar serialized badge on the dash, the special-edition Mopar ’13 includes industry-first wireless charging for smartphones, a blue-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with an identically garnished shifter knob, a bright sport-pedal kit, premium Mopar carpet floor mats, door-sill guards and an 8.4-inch navigation screen.

The limited-edition Mopar ’13 Dart will be delivered to each customer with a personalized owner kit. Assembled in a custom-made black case, contents include a personalized plate with vehicle specifications, the date of manufacture and the unique identification number (of 500) of the vehicle. Along with a Mopar ’13 brochure and other memorabilia, the kit will include a limited-edition sketch of the vehicle signed by Mark Trostle, Chrysler Group Chief Designer for the Mopar Brand.

Information on the Mopar ’13 will be go live at  http://www.dodge.com/en/2013//dart-mopar13/ tomorrow, Friday, Feb. 1

The sporty Dart GT model originally made its debut in 1963 and offered drivers enhanced performance and style, including a heavy-duty suspension that delivered improved ride and handling characteristics.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart GT model delivers sport-tuned suspension attributes that cater to the driving enthusiast, distinctive styling, including standard class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps and integrated dual exhaust, and it’s loaded with premium standard features, including perforated heated Nappa Leather seats, 8.4-inch touchscreen and 7-inch TFT for an outstanding value, with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of only $20,995 (excluding destination).

“The new Dart GT embodies the best attributes that compact car buyers are looking for, including outstanding style, performance, technology and value,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO Dodge Brand. “With 184 horsepower, 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension, premium leather interior and several class-exclusive features, the Dart GT represents the sweet spot in the compact car market, offering mid-size roominess combined with premium amenities for only $20,995 MSRP.”

The Dart GT model is the latest addition to the 2013 Dodge Dart lineup, which currently includes the Dart SE, SXT, Rallye, Aero and Limited models. Dodge continues to investigate a high-performance R/T model.

Building off the exceptionally well-equipped Dart Limited, the GT adds: 184 horsepower 2.4-iter Tigershark with MultiAir 2 with six-speed manual or available six-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick; 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black projector headlamp bezels; body-color door handles; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps; unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats in Black with Ruby Red stitching or two-tone Black/Ruby Red; class-exclusive heated steering wheel; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic temperature control; remote start (with automatic transmission); universal garage door opener and GT badge.

Additional standard equipment on the 2013 Dart GT model includes: projector fog lamps; power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps; class-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen; class-exclusive floating island bezel; ParkView rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces; leather steering wheel with audio controls and speed control; accent stitching on the instrument panel; power 10-way driver seat, including power lumbar support; driver and front passenger seatback pockets; overhead console with sunglass holder; front passenger in-seat storage; illuminated front cup holders; illuminated vanity mirrors; temperature and compass gauge; 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console; speed-sensitive power locks; power windows with express one-touch up/down front windows; ambient LED interior lighting; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; underbody aerodynamic treatment; tire pressure monitoring display; air conditioning with micron filter; power mirrors; remote keyless entry; front center console with fore and aft sliding armrest; 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest with storage/cup holders and trunk pass-through; six-speakers; security alarm; front and rear floor mats and 600-amp maintenance-free battery.

A variety of options are available to allow the GT customer the ability to personalize their Dart to their exact specifications. It starts with a choice of 12 exterior colors – all available at no extra charge – including Redline Red, Header Orange, Blue Streak, Citrus Peel, Laguna Blue, Pitch Black, Tungsten, Bright Silver, Bright White, True Blue, Maximum Steel and Winter Chill.

 Optional equipment includes:
Six-speed Powertech automatic transmission with AutoStick
Technology Group (push-button start, keyless Enter ‘N Go, rain sensing wipers, smart beam headlamps, blind spot monitoring with rear cross path detection)
18-inch Hyper Black Aluminum Wheels
Power Sunroof
HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Garmin Navigation with Sirius XM Travel Link
Alpine Premium Sound System with 10 speakers, including subwoofer and 506 watt amplifier
Engine block heater

—————————————

Highlights:
New 2013 Dodge Dart GT Model to Debut at North American International Auto Show
Dart GT model hits the mark with 184 horsepower, premium Nappa leather and a sport-tuned suspension that caters to the driving enthusiast for a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of only $20,995
Dart GT is powered by the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four-cylinder engine, which produces 184 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, providing just the right balance of power and fuel efficiency
New 2013 Dart GT model features a sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks that delivers ride and handling attributes designed to cater to driving enthusiasts
Unique exterior and interior design elements, including standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and premium perforated Nappa heated leather seats, differentiate the GT model from the rest of the Dart lineup
Standard class-exclusive features include racetrack LED taillamps, integrated dual exhaust, 8.4-inch touchscreen, 7-inch TFT display, in-seat storage and much more
The new 2013 Dart GT delivers an incredible value, with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $20,995

Powered by the sporty, fun-to-drive and advanced 1.4-liter MultiAir intercooled turbo engine combined with several aerodynamic enhancements, including lightweight aluminum chassis components, active grille shutters, underbody aero kit, a lowered profile and low-rolling resistance tires, the Dodge Dart Aero model achieves an impressive 41 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway with the six-speed manual and 40 mpg on the highway with the six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT).

“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking vehicle, offering features and benefits never before offered in a compact car,” said Reid Bigland, President CEO – Dodge Brand. “The new Dart Aero builds on these attributes by combining a remarkable 41mpg with interior room of a mid-size car and class-leading technology, style and safety, for only $19,295.”

The Dodge Dart Aero model also is packed with a slew of standard features, such as the 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, an unsurpassed 10 standard airbags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control, cruise control, auto headlamps, air conditioning with micron filter, power windows and locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, projector headlamps and class-exclusive LED ‘racetrack’ taillamps.

High-tech features, including the class-exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen media center and 7-inch TFT reconfigurable gauge cluster, also are available on the Dodge Dart Aero.

• 2013 Dodge Dart delivers exceptional value with a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of just $15,995 MSRP
• All-new Dart hits the mark with features and benefits never before seen in a compact car
• Five well-equipped trim levels offer class-leading safety features, unparalleled customization, breakthrough technology and amenities typically found in more expensive vehicle segments
• Built on a world-class architecture, Dodge Dart offers three technologically advanced, fuel-efficient and powerful engines including the 1.4L MultiAir® Turbo
• The 2013 Dodge Dart competes in the largest retail automotive segment in the United States, the compact car segment, which represents approximately 15 percent of the new car market

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Apr 16, 2012  –  The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart leverages the world-class architecture and DNA of Alfa Romeo and then infuses it with Dodge passion and design, creating an agile, fun-to-drive compact car with mid-size levels of interior roominess and unmatched style, technology, safety and customization. The Dodge Dart brings this style and technology to market starting at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $15,995 (excluding destination), delivering a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s beautifully designed and crafted with high-quality materials, attention to detail and precision craftsmanship.

“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car, offering features and benefits never before found in a compact car,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “With class-leading style, customization, safety, technology, and interior levels of roominess, the all-new Dart perfectly blends Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge passion and style into one all-new car that customers will be proud to own and look forward to driving.”

Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is available in five different trim levels in the United States. Customers can choose from the SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T.

The starting U.S. MSRP for the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart (all prices exclude$795 destination):

• Dodge Dart SE $15,995
• Dodge Dart SXT $17,995
• Dodge Dart Rallye $18,995
• Dodge Dart Limited $19,995
• Dodge Dart R/T $22,495 (available Q3 2012)

2013 Dodge Dart SE – $15,995 starting U.S. MSRP
The Dodge Dart SE offers customers a stylish new car that breaks the mold of the typical compact car, while delivering great value. It’s powered by the new 2.0-liter 16-valve Tigershark I-4 engine, which produces a best-in-class standard 160 horsepower (hp) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or available six-speed automatic.

Select standard equipment includes class-leading safety features, such as 10 standard air bags, four wheel disc anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. Dart separates itself from the competition with world-class aerodynamics and distinctive style with standard projector headlamps, LED taillamps, body-color crosshair grille and laminated windshield. The interior features a premium soft-touch instrument panel with bright accents, six-way manual driver seat with height adjuster, unique ‘Denim’ cloth seats, power windows, AM/FM CD with MP3 and much more. All 2013 Dodge Dart models feature the security of a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2013 Dodge Dart SXT – $17,995 starting U.S. MSRP
The 2013 Dodge Dart SXT model includes the standard equipment of the SE model, as well as 17-inch aluminum wheels; power body-color mirrors and door locks; remote keyless entry; six-speakers; security alarm, 60/40 split folding rear seat, sliding armrest; air conditioning with micron filter and more.

Owners can customize their SXT with a wide array of options, including the class-exclusive 8.4-inch touch screen, Garmin navigation, in-seat storage, rear backup camera, power sunroof and a 506-watt sound system.

2013 Dodge Dart Rallye – $18,995 starting U.S. MSRP
The Dodge Dart Rallye adds a customized look to the Dodge Dart with distinctive performance front and rear fascias and a choice of four interior colors – Black with Light Diesel Grey, Diesel with Light Diesel Grey, Black with Ruby Red or Diesel Grey with Citrus Peel.

Rallye includes the standard equipment of the SXT model and also adds the following to create a one-of-a-kind look: unique black front fascia accents; black headlamp bezels; projector fog lamps; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; leather-wrapped steering wheel; speed control; steering wheel audio controls; trip computer and more.

Rallye customers can further express themselves with class-exclusive Hyper Black wheels or the powerful efficiency of the 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo delivering 160 horsepower and an impressive 184 lb.-ft. of torque.

2013 Dodge Dart Limited – $19,995 starting U.S. MSRP
The all-new Dodge Dart Limited represents the ultimate in luxury with mid-size levels of interior roominess, class-leading safety and technology, all for less than $20,000 MSRP.

The Dodge Dart Limited includes the standard equipment of the Dart SXT and adds the following impressive list of equipment, including unique bright grille and door handles; 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen with rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; floating island bezel; projector fog lamps; 10-way power driver seat; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; premium accent stitching on the instrument panel; and much more.

Limited customers can indulge in a variety of class-exclusive features, including premium Nappa leather with heated steering wheel, Garmin navigation, rear cross path detection and polished aluminum wheels.

2013 Dodge Dart R/T: $22,495 starting U.S. MSRP (3rd quarter 2012 availability):
The Dodge Dart R/T pays homage to the heritage of the R/T badge with distinctive styling and performance attributes that cater to the performance enthusiast with discriminating taste.

The Dodge Dart R/T is powered by the new 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 4-cylinder that produces an impressive 184 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or available six-speed automatic with AutoStick.

The R/T features the standard content of the Limited and adds the following distinctive equipment: 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black headlamp bezels; integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; R/T-unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats; dual- zone automatic temperature control; heated seats; class-exclusive heated steering wheel;and more.

Customers can also enhance their R/T with class-exclusive Hyper Black aluminum wheels, Keyless Enter ‘n Go, HID Headlamps and a 506-watt sound system, to name just a few features.

Production of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart begins at Chrysler Group’s Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant in the second quarter 2012 and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in June 2012.

• 2013 Dodge Dart gets earlier start on new quality processes previously introduced with award-winning Dodge Durango
• Dart expands on performance quality attributes of its Italian cousin, Alfa Romeo Giulietta
• Dodge tested the Dart for more than 8.5 million miles
• Belvidere (Ill.)Assembly Plant adds $20 million in new facilities and equipment to enhance quality

Belvidere, Ill. , Apr 2, 2012  –  As the first vehicle to evolve from Chrysler Group’s alliance with Fiat, the Dodge Dart builds off Alfa Romeo’s performance virtues and Dodge’s increasingly zealous attention to quality.

“This is a crucial vehicle launch for the company as we re-enter the compact sedan market, and everyone is committed to launching a high-quality product,” said Doug Betts, Senior Vice President – Quality, Chrysler Group LLC. “We’ve invested $20 million in new quality tools and processes at the Belvidere Assembly Plant to achieve the strict quality targets we set for Dodge Dart.”

“We learned a lot as we launched 16 updated vehicles and introduced many new quality processes for the 2011 model year,” Betts said. “We’re applying the lessons from all the 2011 launches to the Dodge Dart’s development right at the beginning of the program.”

For example, the Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which builds the Dodge Durango and Jeep® Grand Cherokee, was the first Chrysler Group assembly plant to install a dedicated Metrology Center to house state-of-the-art quality tools. JNAP’s Metrology Center started operations just prior to Job 1 and helped establish a new standard for fit-and-finish for Dodge vehicles, and propel the all-new Dodge Durango to the top of influential quality surveys in its launch year.

However, the Metrology Center at the Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant got an earlier start and provided valuable feedback to suppliers on pre-production components before the first Dart prototype was built. The Metrology Center allows engineers to find the sources of build variation – even when components appear perfect to the naked eye – and resolve any fit and finish issues before customer vehicles are built.

Dodge expands, literally, on the virtues of its Italian cousin
While the Dodge Dart is an all-new vehicle, its underpinnings evolved from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, an upscale Italian hatchback known in its home market for dynamic, road-gripping performance.

For the Dart’s early development work before prototypes were built, Dodge engineers literally cut a Giulietta in half, widened it and welded the body to match Dart’s dimensions to create several engineering mule vehicles for testing. The Giulietta mules disguised the Dart’s hardware and helped the engineering teams test the durability of suspension components and evaluate vehicle dynamics and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

“We’re starting with a great architecture that helps us achieve our strict performance quality standards that will make the Dart very competitive in the North America compact sedan segment,” Betts said.

As Chrysler Group defines it, performance quality measures how well a vehicle matches customer priorities and stacks up against its competition. Criteria such as acceleration, braking, handling, seat comfort, quietness, storage space and fuel economy are among the hundreds of attributes Dodge engineers compare versus competitive cars.

Refinement you can see, touch and hear
Knowing that many car buyers make judgments about a vehicle’s quality the first time they see it, the company’s Perceived Quality (PQ) team set the bar high so that the Dart would fare well under the scrutiny of the most discerning car shoppers.

The PQ team works with designers, engineers and suppliers to enhance the fit-and-finish, surface quality, material options and even the sound quality of moveable parts like doors and storage bins. The Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle program that used PQ best practices from the start of development.

Although the Dart will compete in the heart of the compact sedan segment, the PQ team benchmarked more expensive European sedans with the goal that the Dart will look and feel comparable to an entry luxury sedan under close inspection.

Taking the high road, the low road . . . and lots of really rough roads
Dodge is testing the Dart day and night, on all kinds of road surfaces, at high and low altitudes and through blizzard conditions, as well as dry, desert heat. All that testing adds up to more than 8.5 million reliability validation miles.

Some of the most punishing tests take place inside the Chrysler Technology Center on the Road Test Simulator (RTS). It recreates the abuse vehicles endure at the hands of a 95th percentile customer – meaning a customer who drives the vehicle in more severe conditions than 95 percent of all owners. The RTS replicates a wide range of on-road and off-road driving surfaces and puts a lifetime of wear-and-tear on a vehicle in one month’s time.

Dodge also evaluates vehicles under more typical customer scenarios. More than 100 Dart vehicles are tested daily for about 3 months until each vehicle reaches 36,000 miles. To reflect typical daily driving scenarios, these test drivers do not originate from the engineering ranks and are intentionally chosen from diverse backgrounds to represent customers of different ages, sizes and ethnicities. The test drivers also scrutinize all the customer functional aspects of each vehicle, every day of testing. This includes functions as simple as seat belt buckling, heating and ventilation operation and opening and closing storage compartments and windows. Seven different test protocols are used to better simulate random customer use and prevent test drivers from becoming desensitized to expected outcomes. The Dodge Dart quality team reviews the test drive data daily to find and fix any issues that arise.

The Uconnect® Touch Media Center also gets a thorough test drive as testers work through a 12-page checklist to test the functionality and reliability of the system as well as how compatible it is with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other media devices.

Building quality into each Dodge Dart
Chrysler Group’s manufacturing plants have integrated Fiat’s World Class Manufacturing (WCM) principles that involve all employees in the manufacturing process for continuous process and quality improvements.

The Belvidere Assembly Plant, where Dart is assembled, has invested in new technology and processes to improve the quality of its vehicles. In addition to the new Metrology Center, the plant also built a new Center for Technical Vehicle Validation (CTVV) and Materials Laboratory – the first such quality center in a U.S. Chrysler Group plant.

The CTVV will randomly audit newly built vehicles and measure 437 functional characteristics, including emissions, fit-and-finish, heating and air conditioning performance and ride height. The Materials Laboratory, staffed with an on-site chemist, and the CTVV allow the plant to identify and troubleshoot emerging issues onsite, with fewer delays from sending parts to Auburn Hills or supplier locations for analysis.

“We obsessed over the quality and refinement of the Dodge Dart as it was developed, tested and built,” Betts said. “As a company, we’ve really overhauled our processes and expectations for building quality vehicles and doing whatever it takes to satisfy customers.”

Taking Passion for Performance to New Heights

Dodge and SRT Motorsports Announce Global RallyCross Championship Entry With Dodge Dart Piloted by Four-time Rally America Champion Travis Pastrana

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Mar 26, 2012  –  Dodge and SRT Motorsports announced today an all-new 2013 Dodge Dart rally car piloted by four-time Rally America Champion and 17-time X Games Gold Medalist Travis Pastrana will compete in the 2012 Global RallyCross Championship (GRC) Series.

“At Dodge, racing is an integral part of our heritage and embodies our competitive spirit, so we’re very excited to announce the next chapter in racing for Dodge with our all-new Dodge Dart,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “The new Dart Global RallyCross Championship car with 600 horsepower and driver Travis Pastrana takes our passion for performance to all new heights.”

Pastrana, 28, is a four-time Rally America champion and owner of multiple supercross and motorcross championships. He also owns Nitro Circus, an empire that includes a television show, live tours and 3D feature film project. Pastrana is one of the most searched athletes in the world (6 million Google searches in 2010) and he has more than 3.5 million Facebook followers.

“When I first heard about GRC, I was really interested, and after watching some of the rounds last year and then actually competing at X Games I was hooked!” said Pastrana. “Now to be able to partner with Dodge to field my own program this year is a dream come true. The new Dodge Dart offers the perfect platform for rally cross, and I look forward to putting it on the podium all season long!”

Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – Street and Racing Technology Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC, said that having Pastrana piloting a Dodge Dart and competing in GRC is a natural fit.

“Travis is a living example of what action sports activities are all about, so he fits in perfectly with the youthfulness and passion for performance of the Dodge brand and the SRT Motorsports team,” said Gilles. “He’s proven that he can handle just about anything with wheels, so it’s going to be great to watch him pilot our new Dodge Dart in Global RallyCross.”

The Dart rally car is custom built specifically for Global RallyCross racing, but shares a few traits with the production Dodge Dart. Both vehicles have exceptional aerodynamics, are agile and fun to drive and will add a little excitement to their segments. Powered by a purpose-built, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbo-charged 600-horsepower engine mated to a Sedav 4-wheel drive gear box that puts out more than 550 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dart rally car is ready to go.

The 2013 production Dodge Dart features three state-of-the-art powertrains that produce up to 184 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque and a sporty, fun-to-drive experience. The Dart features an athletic, sporty exterior, a world-class interior with high-quality materials, state-of-the art technology and enough exterior and interior color and material choices to fit any customer.

David Bailey, Senior Engineering Manager for SRT Motorsports, knows the new Dodge Dart rally car is equipped to handle the intense racing conditions.

“The sport is extremely exciting and the on-track action can be brutal on the drivers and the cars,” said Bailey. “The cars are jumping higher than ever and landing safely. The Dart rally car is lightweight with a very powerful motor. The zero to 60 mile-per-hour times are incredible, as low as 1.9 seconds, so with Travis behind the wheel, we can’t wait for the season opener.”

Global RallyCross is a spin-off of the X Games rally races. It combines the skill of rally racing with the excitement of X Games. The revolutionary motorsports series enters its second season and features high-flying extreme competition between cars that are relevant to today’s youth. The series consists of seven racing events in closed-course rally tracks and incorporates bumper-to-bumper competition among 600 horsepower all-wheel drive vehicles. There are 70-foot jumps over racing traffic, creating a “motocross with cars” action.

The series begins May 26 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and concludes Sept. 29 in Las Vegas. Also included are races at X Games scheduled for June 30-July 1 in Los Angeles. It’s one of the most anticipated stops on the schedule. The ESPN family of channels will broadcast live coverage of the entire 2012 race series.

2012 Global RallyCross Race Schedule:

• May 26 – Charlotte Motor Speedway
• June 10 – Texas Motor Speedway
• June 30 – X Games, Los Angeles
• July 1 – X Games, Los Angeles
• July 14 – New Hampshire Motor Speedway
• Sept. 1 – TBD
• Sept. 29 – Las Vegas Motor Speedway