Chevrolet Colorado GearOn Special Edition lands in Chicago 2015

debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Available on extended or crew cab Colorado LT models with long or short beds and rear- or 4-wheel drive, this new member of the lineup will arrive in dealers this spring with a starting price of $32,125

As its name implies, this activity-oriented Colorado features Chevy's patented GearOn system first seen last summer on the Colorado Sport Concept. The GearOn kit includes an easily configurable selection of bed rails/bars, a cargo divider package and tie-down rings. It's all designed to allow Chevy's new mid-size pickup to carry everything from mountain bikes, kayaks, skis and paddle boards to a bed-mounted tent -- all but the latter positioned well above floor level to maximize the amount of usable cargo space. Other related items from the GearOn accessory catalog also can be purchased individually and their cost rolled into the monthly payment if ordered before the vehicle is delivered -- an option open to all Colorado buyers

The 2015 Colorado GearOn Special Edition also features cosmetic and functional upgrades including an EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, off-road assist steps, fog lamps, a rear-window defogger, remote start and Gloss Black 18-inch aluminum wheels. Rounding out the mix is a body-color grille and black front/rear Chevy bowtie emblems

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Range Rover 2016

Debuting at the Geneva Auto Show, the 2016 Range Rover Evoque rolls onto the scene with a number of upgrades aimed at further bolstering its appeal to luxury compact crossover buyers. The revamp is accompanied by a realignment of its trim designations -- SE, HSE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography -- to parallel the Range Rover Sport

The key exterior changes to the 2016 Evoque are found up front. An edgier fascia with larger air intakes and wider tow-eye covers imparts a more aggressive character set off by new slim-line LED fog lamps and DRL's. These frame a redrawn grille that offers new bright and black insert elements, the latter confined to Evoque Dynamic models. The 2016 Evoque also introduces JLR's first application of full LED headlamps with corner-following adaptive capability, an optional upgrade that uses less energy while providing superior visibility

New hands-free tailgate

The hood on the 5-door Evoque HSE Dynamic and Autobiography now has the same functional vents previously found only on the Evoque 3-door coupe models. Modifications to the tail are more subtle, and consist of a new spoiler with wider high-mount stop light sitting atop the Evoque's new hands-free Gesture Tailgate and an optional roof fin that houses an integrated cell phone antenna. Rounding out remix are three new alloy wheel designs and an expanded color palette

Inside, the Evoque's leather-lined cabin is recast with new trims and enhanced materials along with redesigned 8-way power front seats. In Autobiography models, the seats feature 14-way adjustment along with an optional massage feature.  All 2016 Evoque models boast a new Land Rover InControl Touch infotainment setup with an 8.0-inch swipe-style center screen and InControl Apps. Optional on the SE but standard on all other models is InControl Touch Plus that adds HDD-based premium navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 8.0-inch screens and an 11-speaker or 17-speaker Meridian audio system

Expanded selection of driver assists

While the European-spec 2016 Evoque will offer JLR's new 2.0-liter/148-horsepower Igenium 4-cylinder turbodiesel as an option, the U.S. lineup will continue with the existing 2.4-liter/240-horse turbocharged gasoline-fired four mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Evoque's already outstanding off-road capability gets a further enhancement thanks to a new All-Terrain Progress Control that can automatically maintain a preset speed in forward or reverse gears between 1.1 and 19 mph. Other on-road driver assist upgrades for 2016 include Lane-Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking that helps to avoid impacts at speeds below 32 mph and mitigate crashes below 50 mph as well as a Driver Drowsy Monitor that tracks steering inputs and provides warnings if it senses the driver may be nodding off

The 2016 Range Rover Evoque arrives in dealers here this fall. While pricing won't be announced until closer to the actual on-sale date, Land Rover indicates the bottom line numbers will be "comparable" with the existing 2015 Evoque models

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Porsche Cayman GT4 revealed 2016

Making its first public appearance at the Geneva Auto Show in March, the 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 is the most intense version of the mid-engine two-seat coupe unleashed on the street. The first Cayman to carry a "GT" designation, the car was developed by Porsche's motorsport division to demonstrate its commitment to build "truly industry-leading two-door sports cars." With enhanced aerodynamics, suspension bits from the 911 GT3, a 385-horse version of the 911 GTS engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, it's clear they're serious about that making good on that claim

Visual cues distinguishing the exterior of the new Cayman GT4 include a bolder front fascia with a deeper splitter and larger air intakes, upgraded side air inlets and a prominent fixed rear wing. Inside, this high-velocity hauler matches a smaller-diameter multi-function sport steering wheel with deeply bolstered sport buckets covered in leather and Alcantara

Stunning on the street or circuit

While the 2016 Cayman GT4's 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six does spot the 911 S engine 15 horsepower it boasts 45 more ponies than the 3.4-liter in the current Cayman GTS. Mated exclusively to a 6-speed manual gearbox, it has the power to send the new GT4 streaking from 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 183 mph making it 0.1 tick quicker to 60 mph and 6 mph faster than a Cayman GTS. In addition to liberally borrowing upgraded chassis/brake components from the 911 GT3, the Cayman GT4 rides nearly 1.2 inches lower than a standard-spec car. Hard-core enthusiasts looking to bolster the GT4's capability will be able to add more edge with lightweight composite seats, a set of carbon-ceramic brakes and a bespoke version of the Sport Chrono Package that features a Track Precision app. As the ultimate proof of concept, Porsche recently lapped a Cayman GT4 on the North Loop of the fabled Nürburgring in 7-minutes and  40-seconds - exactly the same pace as a 2011 911 GT3

The 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 is set to arrive in the U.S. this July. With a starting price of $85,595, Porsche's latest legend-in-the-making is a modest $9,300 more than a 2015 Cayman GTS but nearly $46,000 less than today's 911 GT3

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New York International Auto Show: Sedans in the spotlight 2015

There's no question that the auto industry is mad for crossover SUVs as the compact-sized variety is one of the fastest growing segments currently. But that's not to say that the traditional 4-door sedan has been consigned to the ash pile of history. At least that's the conclusion to take away from the New York International Auto Show, which played host to a bevy of new 4-door models

The most anticipated new sedan at the show was the all-new Cadillac CT6, a full-size sedan offered in either rear- or all-wheel drive positioned to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. The CT6 not only ushers in new nomenclature for the car side of GM's luxury division, but also debuts a new lightweight architecture and a new family of twin-turbo V6 and V8 engines. It is a make or break product in Cadillac's bid for global parity among the top luxury cars. Cadillac's longtime rival Lincoln showed off an early look at its own new flagship sedan, the Continental Concept

No less important to Jaguar/Land Rover Group is the remake of the mid-size Jaguar XF, which will share the aluminum-intensive approach introduced in the compact XE. In addition to hitting the show floor in New York, the car also bowed in London as part of a high wire act

In the mainstream market, the Nissan Maxima has also been redesigned and will again stress its performance-oriented suspension and drivetrain under the 4-door sports car positioning, Chevrolet's much needed remake of the Malibu midsize sedan showed off completely new skin and a package that promises more rear legroom, while Kia took the covers off the next installment of its popular Optima midsize family car. At a more entry-level price point, Scion gave us a two-fer: The iA is that division's first 4-door sedan, and it bowed alongside the all-new iM hatchback

Other non-SUV offerings include a new Chevrolet Spark hatchback, Smart hosted the American debut of its new Fortwo city car and McLaren flaunted the high-performance 570S Sport two-seater

And even though sedans dominated the New York Auto Show headlines, there were some significant SUV introductions, too. Making their world debuts were the Mercedes-Benz GLE — a replacement for the current ML — a redone Mitsubishi Outlander and perhaps most important of all, the all-new Lexus RX, a remake of the iconic crossover SUV that created the segment

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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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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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Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class unveiled 2015

The wraps have just come off the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class prior to its public debut next month at the Frankfurt Auto Show

The production version of the 2015 GLA-Class retains most of the basic styling cues seen in the GLA Concept that was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. In creating the package, M-B design chief Gorden Wagener aimed to create a look that was both traditional and progressive but also embodied a uniquely youthful character. The GLA's boldly contoured yet aerodynamically efficient bodywork is complemented by edgy but elegantly rendered front/rear fascias, a low greenhouse, and prominently flared fender arches filled with a standard 18-inch wheel/tire package or optional 19-inch upgrade. In addition to numerous visible wind-cheating details -- from the shape of its mirror housings and taillamp lenses to a subtle but effective liftgate spoiler and rear diffuser -- the profile of the GLA-Class has been further streamlined through the use of various hidden air-channeling devices that include an array of underbody fairings

The young-and-cool persona of this new compact SUV carries over to its passenger compartment, starting with a dash design that, save for GLA-specific wood or aluminum trim finishes, is a virtual clone of the one in the new CLA-Class. Beyond the GLA's leather-wrapped, 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel is an instrument cluster that matches analog main gauges with digital ancillary readouts, while a large multimedia display screen positioned high in the center of the dash works in concert with the GLA's various infotainment systems, including the standard mbrace2 connectivity services and optional COMAND telematics. Like other Mercedes offerings, the GLA-Class will be available with M-B-Tex or optional leather upholstery in a variety of colors, with standard buckets or more aggressively bolstered sport seats up front. The GLA's aft quarters feature a belted-for-three split rear bench with flat-folding seatbacks. At the rear, its large liftgate teams with a low sill height to ease cargo loading chores

The 2015 GLA-Class will share all of its key powertrain elements with the A-Class/CLA-Class. That includes the CLA 250's 2.0-liter turbocharged/direct-injected 4-cylinder engine that cranks out 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and a 7-speed (DCT) dual-clutch automatic transmission. In addition to standard front-wheel drive, the GLA also will offer M-B's all-new lightweight and super-efficient 4Matic system specifically designed for vehicles with a transversely-mounted engine. Opting for this sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup also nets Downhill Speed Regulation control that uses a variety of engine/transmission/brake inputs to maintain a safe pace on challenging grades as well as a dedicated "off-road" transmission mode that tweaks the throttle and shiftpoint mapping to optimize the GLA's traction and handling on loose surfaces

Like all M-B vehicles, the new GLA-Class will come with a comprehensive array of standard safety systems highlighted by Attention Assist drowsiness detection and M-B's radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist that can help protect against impacts from as low as 4 mph. Other available safety upgrades include Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, Collision Prevention Assist Plus all-speed autonomous braking capability, Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist and Parktronic with optional Park Assist. In addition to Sport and Driver Assistance Packages, the new GLA-Class also will be available with a power liftgate and Panorama sunroof

While Mercedes has not yet released pricing for any GLA-Class model, it has confirmed that the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic will be the first to reach showrooms here when it goes on sale in fall 2014 and takes on rivals like the Acura RDX, BMW X1 and upcoming Lincoln MKC. The front-drive 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is set to make U.S. debut in early 2015. No word yet on any arrival date for a performance version of this classy crossover, although it's believed that a CLA45 AMG powered by the same 355-horse engine used in the CLA45 AMG Sedan is in the pipeline

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Ford F-150 debuts in Detroit 2015

One of the most anticipated debuts at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show has finally happened and it comes in the form of the 2015 Ford F-150.  Right off the bat, we can now confirm that the latest F-150 is comprised of a high-strength steel frame and a high-strength aluminum-alloy body, which helps shave off 700 pounds compared to the out-going model. Besides the weight-saving materials, an available 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine bows for the first time, confirming what we already had been expecting. This new engine, along with the rest of the 2015 F-150 lineup, went through more than 10 million miles of testing and even ran in the 2013 Baja 1000

Starting with the most important change, Ford hasn't come out and said exactly what type of aluminum the 2015 F-150 will consist of but it did say it is similar to that found on a military HUMVEE, commercial transportation and other various aerospace applications. The F-150's signature fully boxed ladder frame consists of new high-strength steel and is stronger and lighter than the one it's replacing. This new steel frame is rated up to 70,000 psi, which is stronger than some competitors' heavy-duty truck frames.  In all, eight through-welded crossmembers beef up stiffness and staggered rear outboard shocks bolster stability. Ford claims that the 2015 F-150 is the strongest and most durable model to ever be introduced and was tested under a variety of conditions, including crisscrossing the United States while towing a trailer through desert valleys and over high-altitude mountain passes. As mentioned above, Ford even went as far to test the 2015 F-150 and its new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine by entering a disguised truck into the Baja 1000, which it completed, and then engineers drove it home

In all, four engines are set to be offered in the new F-150, including the new turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine that features auto start-stop technology. This start-stop technology only shuts the engine off when you're not towing anything or not in four-wheel drive. Ford promises this new engine will offer power similar to that of a mid-range V8. The outgoing 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 has been downsized slightly to 3.5-liters, while the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine will return as expected. The 5.0-liter V8 engine is now the biggest engine offered in the F-150's portfolio as the 6.2-liter V8 sails off into the sunset.  All four engine choices are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. On 2015 F-150s equipped with an EcoBoost engine, Active Grille Shutters, which stay open when the engine requires extra cooling, will be a standard feature. These same shutters will automatically close in an effort to reduce aerodynamic drag when cruising at highway speeds

Design-wise, it's immediately obvious when looking at the 2015 Ford F-150 that the nose reflects the Atlas Concept very closely, giving the Blue Oval's latest variation of its light-duty pick-up a chiseled look. The LED headlight and tail lamp design also shares similar styling cues from that of the Atlas Concept.  The next-gen tailgate step makes its debut on the latest F-150 along with other new features like a 360-degree camera view, integrated loading ramps in the bed, 400-watt power outlets in the cab and a remote tailgate release

Inside, the 2015 F-150 features some styling cues that were first seen in the Atlas Concept at the Detroit Auto Show last year. The steering wheel is one of the more notable features that made the jump from the Atlas Concept to the production version of the 2015 F-150. A new 8-inch touchscreen sits in the middle of the dashboard and allows drivers to customize the home screen with apps they expect to use often. Big buttons and controls are easy to operate even when wearing gloves, and various storage spaces positioned through-out the F-150's cabin can accommodate the usual job-site staples like cell phones, drinks and laptops. In the Super and Crew cab configurations, rear under-seat storage provides a spot to store valuables away from prying eyes. Other new features include second-row inflatable seat belts, Curve Control that regulates four-wheel braking when entering a corner too quickly, adaptive cruise control, Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, trailer hitch assist and a smart trailer tow module

When it goes on sale late this year, five primary trim levels will be available: XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch. Those who like chrome can opt for the chrome appearance package on the XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels, while the FX4 off-road package can be added to most four-wheel-drive models. The FX4 off-road package includes an electronic locking rear axle, skid plates and off-road tuned shocks

The 2015 Ford F-150 will continue to be assembled at the Blue Oval's truck facility in Dearborn, Michigan, and its Kansas City assembly facility in Claycomo, Missouri. Pricing and fuel figures are expected to be made available closer to the 2015 F-150's sale date

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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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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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