Ford Expedition adds EcoBoost power and Platinum trim 2015

Getting its formal reveal on the eve of the DFW Auto Show in Dallas, Texas, the 2015 Ford Expedition boasts a fresher look, a more connected character, enhanced dynamics and a new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.  Continuing in standard and EL (119-inch/131-inch wheelbase) configurations, the 2015 Expedition models will offer a range-topping Platinum trim grade when it goes on sale this fall

While modest in scope, visual changes to the 2015 Expedition's fascias add more contemporary flair to the package. Up front, the soft cap is edgier, a look complemented by new lighting elements - including available LED fog lamps - plus a bolder lower valance treatment. The rear sports a redesigned liftgate and new chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets. In addition to new colors that are specifically keyed to the XLT, Limited, King Ranch and new Platinum trims, the 2015 Expedition lineup also gets redesigned alloy wheels that range up to 22 inches in diameter

The cabin makeover on this 7/8-passenger SUV travels a similarly purposeful route. Key revamps consist of new 4.2-inch LCD driver information screens in the main instrument cluster and a restyled center stack to accommodate an 8.0-inch high-res color display for the Expedition's available SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment/navigation system. Other standard/available tech highlights for 2015 include a 10-speaker/700-watt Sony premium audio system, Intelligent Access with push-button start, seven-color ambient LED lighting, a rearview camera and Ford truck apps to facilitate trailer towing and off-road driving. Going Platinum brings all of the above and more, including supple leather upholstery, power-adjustable pedals, Ford's radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert and unique trim accents

For many, the most meaningful change on the 2015 Ford Expedition will be found underhood where the current 5.4-liter V8 gives way to Ford's well-proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 as sole engine in the North American market. While final figures on the popular twin-turbo/direct-injected engine have yet to be released, they'll at least match the 365-horsepower/420 lb-ft of torque it produces when fitted to an F-150 pickup. Both numbers handily exceed the 310/365 output stats of the current V8, and promise to add a good deal more snap to the Expedition's overall performance. The EcoBoost engine is also expected to deliver significantly better fuel economy in both rear-drive and 4-wheel drive models. While gear-changing will still be handled by a 6-speed automatic, for 2015 the transmission adds SelectShift manual-style capability

Although the 2015 Expedition's standard fully-independent suspension is largely carryover, it does gain more energy-efficient electric power steering that improves driver feedback across the entire speed range. The Expedition also will be the first Ford-badged product to offer the automaker's trick Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system as an option. The tri-mode (Comfort/Normal/Sport) CCD setup constantly reads and reacts to 46 different steering/braking/dynamic inputs. It alters shock absorber settings in milliseconds to minimize unwanted body motion and enhance overall ride comfort

Pricing, EPA figures and final equipment details for the 2015 Ford Expedition will be announced closer to its arrival in dealer showrooms

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Subaru Outback gets a major makeover 2015

Ready to start a new chapter in its illustrious history, the fully redesigned 2015 Subaru Outback made its debut at the New York Auto Show boasting more of everything that matters. Still available in 2.5i/2.5i Premium/2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited variants, the fifth generation of Subie's versatile compact all-wheel-drive crossover SUV matches a bolder appearance with enhanced on/off-road capabilities, greater efficiency, new tech touches and a more refined overall character

Marginally longer, lower and wider than the vehicle it replaces, the 2015 Outback has a sleeker and more stylish profile abetted by a redrawn greenhouse that brings a more steeply raked windshield and back glass. The new front-end shares grille and lighting cues with the also new-for-2015 Legacy Sedan while upsized wheel/tire fitments impart an even greater sense of purpose. Ground clearance on the 2015 remains a generous 8.7 inches, but boonie bounders will be happy to hear the recasting process also increased both the approach and departure angles

Inside, the 2015 Outback takes a step up in look and feel thanks to additional soft-touch surfaces, new trim, better sound isolation and enhanced standard features highlighted by a new gauge cluster plus a selection of model-specific upgraded infotainment systems that have a 6.2-inch touchscreeen display and full smartphone/Bluetooth/iPod integration. Modest gains in hip and shoulder room enhance passenger comfort while  cargo space rises from 34.3 to 35.5 cu ft with the Outback's rear seatback up and 71.3 to 73.3 cubic feet with it folded. In addition to new easy-release/fold-flat backs, accessing the rear bay is now more convenient thanks to a lower liftover height and an optional power rear hatch

Motivation for the 2015 Outback comes from an enhanced and slightly more potent --- 175-hp vs 173-hp - version of the 2.5-liter flat-four and a carryover 256-horsepower/3.6-liter boxer-6 but both are now backed by a standard Lineartronic CVT that offers six virtual gears that can be selected using shift paddles on the steering wheel. That transmission change plus Active Grille Shutters on the 2.5 and new electric power-assist steering on both helps improve EPA numbers across the board, adding 2 mpg to the combined ratings. The 2015 Outback's mechanical remake bolsters the existing suite of vehicle dynamics systems with an extensively retuned suspension, upgraded brakes and enhanced Symmetrical AWD with Active Torque Split power vectoring for improved stability plus Subaru's driver-selectable X-Mode system that further optimizes engine and CVT mapping on all terrains

Safety also figures prominently into the 2015 Outback's recasting process, with all models getting new front seat-cushion airbags, rollover sensors and rearview cameras while Limited-spec vehicles add a Rear Vehicle Detection System (optional on the 2.5i Premium) that includes Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert

The 2015 Subaru Outback will arrive in dealers this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date

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Acura TLX to bow in New York 2015

It's now official: the production version of the all-new 2015 Acura TLX sport-luxury sedan will have its global unveiling next month at the New York Auto Show. 

Acura provided a good deal of technical information on the production 2015 TLX when the wraps came off of the TLX Prototype, much of it concerning the powertrain. The 2015 TLX will be offered with two direct-injected i-VTEC engines and two new transmissions. The all-new 2.4-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder base motor gets backed by a new 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission while the optional 3.5-liter V6 pairs up with a new 9-speed autoshifter.  Performance and EPA stats still remain undisclosed, but Acura anticipates best-in-class status for both

All-Wheel Steer Featured

All front-drive versions of the 2015 TLX will feature a new generation of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer technology that offers independent left/right rear toe-angle control. Stepping up to a V6 will allow buyers to opt for a next-gen version of the automaker's Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that incorporates new torque-vectoring control logic. We now know that this new SH-AWD package also is 25 percent lighter than the current setup, which should further enhance the dynamic qualities of the 2015 Acura TLX

Acura also announced driver assist technology available on the new TLX. Topping that long list are a Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Blind Spot Indicator. We'll have full details on the 2015 Acura TLX following its reveal on April 16

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Nissan Murano: Boldly Beautiful 2015

 unveiled at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, the dramatically recast 2015 Nissan Murano made a scintillating debut in the Big Apple. In addition to bringing show car looks to the showroom, the third generation of Nissan's mid-size crossover SUV has a new cabin to match the bold exterior design

 Inspired by what Nissan calls "a new age of future flight," the exterior of the 2015 Murano embodies the automaker's latest design thinking. Slightly lower, wider and longer than the current model but with the same 111.2-inch wheelbase, the new Murano sports dramatically contoured bodywork, a bold "V-Motion" front fascia, boomerang-style LED-infused front/rear lights and a jet-inspired "floating roof" with a unique D-pillar treatment. Matching form with function, the 2015 Murano also features loads of aero-enhancing details from articulated grille shutters to a tasteful decklid spoiler, tweaks that help improve overall aerodynamics by more than 16 percent. While the standard wheel/tire fitment wraps 235/655 rubber around 18-inch alloy wheels, the new also Murano offers 20-inch rims shod with 235/55 rubber

Futuristic interior

The cabin in this new-age Murano parallels the forward thinking evident in its exterior, eschewing convention in favor of a more open, lounge-like realm. Nissan's NASA-inspired "zero-gravity" seats in all outboard positions ensure that second-row passengers enjoy a first-class travel experience. The revamped interior offers an extra four cubic feet of cargo space. Other key features include a 7.0-inch reconfigurable Advanced Drive-Assist main instrument display, NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, full Bluetooth smartphone/streaming-audio integration and dual-zone climate control. Murano options include leather upholstery, climate-controlled front buckets, Bose audio, NissanConnect with Navigation/SiriusXM, an 8.0-inch touchscreen and an expansive single-pane panoramic glass roof

Available in S, SV, SL or Platinum trim and front- or all-wheel drive, every 2015 Murano variant will share Nissan's well-proven 260-horsepower/3.5-liter V6 engine backed by the automaker's Xtronic CVT automatic transmission. Although EPA numbers haven't been released, the Murano's sleeker shape and 130-pound weight reduction coupled with minor drivetrain tweaks and low rolling resistance tires are expected to net about a 20-percent gain in combined fuel economy

The 2015 Nissan Murano will be produced at the automaker's Canton, Mississippi, assembly plant and arrive in arrive in dealers in late 2014. Pricing will be announced closer to its actual on-sale date

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Dodge Challenger: Retro Packaging, Current Technology 2015

Following up on six years of steadily increasing sales, Dodge revealed an update of the revivalist Challenger pony car at the New York International Auto Show, an extensive freshening that preserves the look, spirit, and rumble of yesteryear with contemporary engineering and electronics

The 2015 Dodge Challenger sustains its unabashedly retro roots, but the updated styling is drawn from the 1971 model, rather than 1970, according to the Dodge. That year, its second on the market, marked the zenith of Challenger performance, the final year with the option of 426 Hemi V-8 muscle

Subtle Design Cues

The design distinctions between 1970 and '71 were subtle, and that's true of the 2015 update. The front and rear fascias have been redesigned-a thinner split grille slot, deeper airdam, an LED halo surrounding the quad headlights, a bigger power bulge in the hood, a new Shaker hood option, and LED taillights

But like the transition from 1970 to '71, the 2015 profile is essentially the same as 2014. Aside from a new cast aluminum axle housing, that's also true of the chassis. And the retro theme is sustained by what Dodge calls "high impact heritage hues:" B5 Blue, Tor Red, and Sublime, an electric green that may be visible from low earth orbit. There are also seven "heritage inspired" stripe options

Redesigned Cabin

The all-new interior is a blend of retro design and contemporary technology. Highlights under this heading include a new 7-inch TFT cluster nestled between the tachometer and speedometer with programmable information via Dodge's Performance Pages feature; a new 8.4-inch touchscreen option with Chrysler's U-Connect telematics; driver selectable operating modes; and a new rearview camera. An S3 card slot, auxiliary audio input and USB outlet are integrated into a new media hub housed in the center armrest

The front seats have been redesigned, with upholstery choices ranging from cloth to Nappa leather, and the option of heating and cooling for those clad with hides. There's also a performance seat option with heftier bolstering

V-6 and V-8 Power

As you'd expect, there's no shortage of muscle. Engine choices are familiar: Chrysler's 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, and 5.7- and 6.4-liter Hemi V-8s. EPA fuel economy ratings weren't final at show time, but are expected to be about the same as 2014

Output for the Hemis ranges up to 375 hp and 410 pound-feet of torque in the Challenger R/T when the intake air is enhanced by cold air from the optional Shaker hood, and the engine is paired with a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission. The Shaker package also includes a low restriction exhaust, emitting a visceral rumble.The Shaker package also extends to the chassis via the optional Super Track Pack, with upgrades to suspension, brakes, steering, three-mode stability control, and Goodyear Eagle F1 performance rubber

The 6.4 Hemi generates 485 hp and 475 lb-ft, and both Hemis will include the option of Chrysler's TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic (standard with the V-6), replete with paddle shifters and a new electronic shift feature

Also new: an electric power steering system

Scat Pack Returns

Dodge has also introduced a new line of Scat Pack accessories from Mopar, Chrysler's in-house aftermarket department. Scat Pack hardware includes 5.7-liter V-8 engine upgrades, performance suspension parts, and 20 x 9-inch forged alloy wheels, and Brembo brakes, plus a Scat Pack appearance package with a 276-watt audio system and animated start-up screen

Offered in eight trim levels-SXT, SXT Plus, R/T, R/T Plus, R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker, 6.4-liter Scat Pack, and 392 HEMI Scot Pack Shaker-the 2015 Challengers will reach showrooms this fall, with some of the high performance Shaker elements due later in the year

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Audi Q3 previewed for U.S. in Detroit 2015

 the Detroit Auto Show provide an early look at its smallest crossover-style offering, which it believes also will find favor with plenty of buyers here. In presenting the 2015 Audi Q3, Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America noted: "Our growing SUV family will now offer three distinct products in the premium SUV category; and like the successful Q5 and Q7, the Q3 will continue with the established standards they started with regards to utility, technology, craftsmanship and performance

Sharing much of its basic design DNA with its larger siblings, the new Q3 offers room for five in a stylish, well-appointed package that includes a number of standards that are optional in other markets. In addition to sleek bodywork with a low, flowing roofline bookended by a lightweight aluminum hood and tailgate, the Q3's exterior is highlighted by Audi's signature monoform grille flanked by slim-line xenon plus headlights combined with LED daytime running lights up front and full LED taillights. The U.S. Q3 will ride on standard 18-inch alloy wheels but offer an optional 19-inch upgrade

The 2015 Audi Q3 will be available in front-drive or Quattro all-wheel drive, all fitted with the same 200-horsepower/2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 207 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed Tiptronic automatic will be standard and versions will feature electromechanical power steering and a stability system with an off-road mode and hill descent control. Like the Q5 and Q7, the Q3 also can be fitted with the Audi drive select system, an option that brings adjustable shocks and permits a driver to choose one of three modes (Comfort/Sport/Auto) that remap the steering, damping and throttle responses

The Q3's nicely turned out cabin features leather seating surfaces with heated 12-way power front buckets, a panoramic sunroof with retractable shade and LED ambient lighting as well as the ultra-convenient Audi advanced key and a 60/40 folding rear seat that can expand cargo space from a standard 16.2 cu ft to 48.2 cu ft. The top-line Prestige trim level also includes the Audi connect infotainment system that brings Audi's sophisticated MMI navigation, a factory-fitted Wi-Fi hotspot that can handle up to eight devices, real-time news/weather/traffic, myAudi Destination, Google Voice Local Search  and more

Enhancing its personalization potential, the new Audi Q3 also will offer an impressive selection of optional equipment. Highlighting that roster is a 14-speaker/465-watt Bose premium audio system, the MMI navigation system with a 7-inch color screen, a programmable power tailgate, a Sport Package with upgraded front seats and a Driver Assistance Package that brings Audi side assist plus the Audi parking system with rearview camera.  Pricing for the 2015 Audi Q3 will be announced closer to its on-sale date

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Chevrolet Trax Arrives Stateside 2015

Chevrolet introduced a new, small SUV to its U.S. portfolio in the form of the 2015 Trax at the New York Auto Show. Originally launched in both Mexico and Canada back in 2012 and then Europe last year, the 2015 Chevrolet Trax joins division's SUV lineup bringing features like available OnStar 4G LTE, Siri Eyes Free, and a built in Wi-Fi hot spot

Available in three trim levels - LS, LT, and LTZ - the 2015 Chevrolet Trax sports divisional styling cues like the signature dual-port grille, a prominent bowtie emblem, and swept headlights. Other available exterior details include fog lights and simulated front and rear skid plates. Out back, vertical taillights flank the tailgate which help accent bodylines and give the wheel arches a more pronounced look. In all, 10 exterior colors will be available including Orange Rock metallic, Blaze Red, and White Pearl Tricoat

High Line Interior

Inside, a dual-cockpit instrument panel shares styling with that found in the subcompact Sonic and features a large, performance-oriented analog tachometer. The speedometer as well as other vital readouts is displayed digitally. A 7-inch color touchscreen display sits in the middle of the center console. Chevy's MyLink system and all of its apps come standard with the display screen and can accommodate an available GPS-enabled app navigation system that can be downloaded. A rearview camera is also standard. A small-diameter, thick-rimmed steering wheel is wrapped in leather on LTZ and some LT models. LS models get a cloth interior while LT trims get deluxe cloth or you can opt for the available cloth/leatherette. LTZ models get the full leatherette treatment. The 60/40 split rear seat folds down flat giving way to 48.4 cubic feet of space. With the seats in place, the Trax offers 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space

Under the hood, a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is the only option and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Chevy estimates that the 2015 Trax will rated at 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain configuration allows the Trax to keep its weight down, boost interior space, and enhance safety crush zones

Pricing will be announced closer to its on sale date, which is expected to be sometime early next year

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Land Rover Discovery Sport 2015

Previewed at the New York Auto Show last April as the Discovery Vision Concept, the production version of the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport has been revealed in conjunction with a literally out-of-this-world promotion that involves the company's global partner, Virgin Galactic. While lacking several of the show car's more avant-garde touches, the newest Land Rover boasts visual cues and technology that will be found in future models across the range. The Discovery supplants the current LR2 -- which ceases production at the end of the 2015 model year and features 5+2 seating, a first for the compact premium SUV segment. 

Designed for tomorrow 

Expanding on styling themes found on the Vision Concept, the new Discovery Sport adds distinctive flourishes of its own to create a bold presence complemented by a host of wind-cheating/noise-abating aero bits. A laid-back acoustic windshield, wraparound lighting units - including optional Xenon headlamps and LED running lamps - along with a two-bar mesh grille, new blade-like front fender vents, flared wheel arches and a rakish C-pillar treatment help create a tailored but tough look. 

The core structure of the new Discovery Sport consists of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel complemented by weight-saving aluminum alloy in various body panels and suspension elements. The combination yields excellent platform rigidity and passenger protection while improving dynamic balance and lowering the vehicle's center of gravity. Built on a 107.9-inch wheelbase that splits the LR2/LR4 models, the front chassis design of this new Land Rover SUV shares much with the popular Evoque but its rear underpinnings are an all-new multilink setup that improves interior packaging as well as enhances ride and handling. 

Inside, the new Discovery Sport melds existing Land Rover design elements with unique accents. All versions feature a bevy of power assists, dual-zone climate control, multi-function steering wheel, navigation system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and premium audio systems as well as leather upholstery that ranges from seating-only surfaces on the base SE to a full Windsor hide treatment on the range-topping Discovery Sport HSE Luxury. The Discovery Sport's elevated 60/40 split-folding second row bench has 6.3-inches of fore/aft travel, a feature which makes the optional third-row split-folding bench seat a far more viable perch whenever it is called into what LR describes as "occasional use." 

Leveraging the Land Rover pedigree

The new Discovery Sport shares the Evoque's powertrain, matching a 240-horse/2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a ZF close-ratio 9-speed automatic transmission. Operated by a central rotary controller supplemented by steering-wheel-mounted shifter paddles, the transmission features adaptive logic and fully integrates with the Haldex intelligent full-time all-wheel drive and Land Rover's multi-mode Terrain Response system. To further optimize the Discovery Sport's go-anywhere capabilities, its full complement of conventional stability/traction technology is bolstered by features like Hill Descent Control, Roll Stability Control, Trailer Stability Assist and Engine Drag Torque Control as well as a new available Autonomous Emergency Braking option that can help prevent or mitigate collisions.

Available in SE, HSE and HSE Luxury trims, pricing for the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport will start at $40,920. It will offer plenty of personalization potential starting with the descriptively named Black Pack trim package that adds noir accents set off with 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels. Other key factory options include a contrast roof panel finished in Santorini Black, full glass panoramic roof, custom luggage, tubular stainless-steel side step and front/rear undershields while dealers will offer items like quick-release headrest-mounted iPad holders and a leather-covered cooler/warmer box for the center stow bin.

3-2-1 Blastoff

To help launch the new Discovery Sport, Land Rover and Virgin Galactic have created the Galactic Discovery Competition. Aspiring astronauts from 29 countries are being invited to produce a photo or a 30-second video that best demonstrates their personal spirit of adventure. Top prize for the winner and three of his/her friends is a sub-orbital flight in Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo. For complete details, visit http://landrover.us/space.

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Dodge Charger: Retro Muscle in a Sleeker Package 2015

The Charger has been the full-size bread-and-butter sedan at Dodge since its revival for the 2006 model year, and the division expects this extensively freshened version to maintain sales momentum when it reaches showrooms next fall

All New Skin

Aside from new aluminum axles and axle housings, the chassis carries over from the current Charger. But the skin is almost all new-grille, headlights, hood, fenders, and rear fascia. The roof and rear doors are the only exterior panels that survive, though the base of the rearmost roof pillar has been pulled aft, giving the rear window a faster slope and visually reducing the rear overhang

The goal of the design team was to imbue the new Charger with a sleek skin that would make this big sedan look smaller and lighter, even though the 2015 dimensions are almost exactly the same as those of the current car. A concurrent objective was to preserve the Charger's four-door muscle car persona

It's fair to say the styling effort was successful. Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, the new Charger sustains the powerful presence of the current car. Dodge cites the 1969 Charger as the inspiration for the 2015 redesign, from the heyday of the muscle car era even though those '69 models were coupes

New Wheels, Hemi Power

Other new exterior details include projector beam headlamps, LED fog lamps, a three-piece rear spoiler (standard on R/T models), center high-mounted stop lamp, and Dodge's "racetrack" LED taillight array. The wheels are also new for all four trim levels, with six different 20-inch styles, including a forged aluminum set, 20 x 9 inches

The car's muscular persona is backed by Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque-in R/T and R/T Road and Track models. The base engine continues to be the 3.6-liter V-6 (292 hp, 260 lb-ft), with 300 hp and 264 lb-ft available in SXT models with the Rallye Appearance Group option package. Both the Hemi and the V-6 are paired with Chrysler's 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic, new with the Charger's Hemi V-8 and the only transmission offered

With the V-6, the Charger is EPA-rated for 31 mpg on the highway, best in class, according to Dodge. All-wheel drive continues to be available, and features a new active transfer case that automatically disconnects the front axle when it's not needed. Dodge engineers claim this feature can improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent

Interior Upgrades

The all-new interior includes new seats, extensive soft touch material on the dash, center console, and door panels, with eight different trim packages, including cloth and leather upholstery choices

The sporty three-spoke steering wheel is new, backed by paddle shifters (optional). A new electronic feature delivers brisk shift times-400 milliseconds, according to Dodge, diminishing to 250 milliseconds in sport mode, which also holds the selected gear to redline. Sporty also applies to the electronic power steering, updated to provide three modes-normal, comfort, and sport-that vary effort to suit the driver's mood

As with almost any of today's new cars, new telematics abound. A standard 7-inch TFT (thin film transistor) programmable screen nestles between the speedometer and tachometer, with programmable info including Dodge Performance Pages. The new center stack embraces a 5.0-inch touchscreen (standard) or 8.4-inch version (optional), with a next generation radio and premium audio options, as well as the available nav system. Chrysler's optional U-Connect Access provides a variety of connectivity features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and mobile apps

New safety features include lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist; adaptive cruise control capable of a full stop and speed resumption; and forward collision Warning-Plus, which will provide autonomous braking if the driver fails to respond to the situation

As noted, the freshened Charger will go on sale this fall as a 2015 model

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