Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO and Chrysler Group design head, has just wrapped up an address to the Chicago Economic Club that was peppered with several choice quotes and quips. You can read the Chrysler’s PR-filtered version on its Twitter feed, but here are our favorites:

From the true: “Brands and companies don’t die. They are victims of homicide.”

To the sublime: “Viper important to image of “my brand” [Dodge]”

To the ridiculous: “The further away you are from Detroit the less you know the facts about the auto industry.”

To the more ridiculous: “I liken management to X-Men… all have special abilities.”

To the funny/creepy: Ad agency interviewed him before creating Super Bowl spot. “I had to smoke a cigarette,” afterwards, he joked.

To the important: “Fiat 500 on sale in U.S. at end of the year”

That last bit coincides with earlier reports that the Fiat 500 could reach the States as early as this year as a 2011 model. Although the 500’s importation into the U.S. has been fast-tracked, there’s still some question about whether it will meet U.S. crash and safety standards. We expect to have an exact on sale date soon, and Gilles also said that the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is due to go on sale within the next three months.

[Source:Autoblog]

JeepGarage.com was the first to get spy shots of the 2011 Jeep Cherokee out testing, and now it’s apparently come through with exhaustive – perhaps complete – pricing of Jeep’s ‘I’m bringing sexy back’ SUV. According to the documents, the all-new Cherokee will start at $31,480 (including destination charges) for the base Laredo “E” 4×2, climbing to $45,770 for the Overland-trim 4×4. For comparison’s sake, the outgoing 2010 model starts at $31,490 including freight, leaving a Hamilton left over to top off the gas tank.

In addition to the new paints and packages, there are 46 new standard and optional features. Some of them are unequivocally true and new, like including two transfer cases, Adaptive Speed Control, a larger fuel tank, dual-pane sunroof, bi-Xenon headlamps, and of course, illuminated cupholders. Others, like the “Best-in-class premium interior” we’re going to have to see to validate.

On top of that are eight pre-packaged trim groups: Electronic Infotainment System, Luxury II, Off Road I & II, Popular Equipment Group, Technology Group, Trailer Tow, and Trailer Tow IV. Naturally, they can’t be had across the model range, and a couple of them have intriguing requirements, like the Luxury II which can only be fitted to the Limited models that have the black/light frost beige interior. The new model will finally go on sale later this year, and the way it’s looking, this Cherokee might just fulfill the promise of its reveal, and its maker.

[Source:Autoblog]

The position of the plastic fuel tanks in 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees makes them potential fireballs, argues the Center for Auto Safety. The nonprofit organization says that the fuel tank’s location makes the pre-2005 Grand Cherokees prone to catching on fire when involved in an accident. Located behind the rear axle and hanging down below the bumper, shorter vehicles can impact the tank directly, says the Center. The fuel filler neck has also sheared off during some of these incidents, leading to fuel spills and the increased potential for fires.

The Center is petitioning the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to open an investigation and recall some three million vehicles. Chrysler says the Grand Cherokee will come out of the study having met or exceeded any applicable standards. The organization also notes that NHTSA’s files reveal 1993-2004 Jeeps involved in 172 crashes with fires and 254 deaths, while just one post-’05 Cherokee has had a fatal fire incident. The defect petition got underway with NHTSA on November 6, and could take a while, though this isn’t the first time the agency has looked at problems with these Jeeps.

NHTSA’s “defect petition” process began earlier this month, but a resolution isn’t immediately forthcoming – such investigations can take many months – possibly years.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Chrysler’s bankruptcy filing will undoubtedly affect every aspect of the automaker’s short- and long-term endeavors, and not surprisingly, product isn’t immune. While testifying in court, Chrysler’s manufacturing chief, Frank Ewasyshyn, said the current plant shutdowns and the resulting effect on suppliers will delay Chrysler’s 2010 product suite, primarily comprised of minor updates to existing models. While that’s not a huge loss, any delay is bound to affect sales, particularly when Chrysler is struggling to maintain a positive public perception. Even worse, Ewasyshyn said that the plant and supplier issues could mean Chrysler’s 2011 models could also suffer the same fate. Although he didn’t outline exactly what models would be affected, it doesn’t bode well for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee or the redesigned Chrysler 300C.

[Source:Automotive News – Sub. Req.]

[Source:Autoblog]

In an effort to revive lagging sales, automakers often create new packages that bundle desirable features into one new trim level at a slightly reduced cost. Such is the case with the new Rocky Mountain Editions of the Jeep Patriot, Liberty and Grand Cherokee for 2009. Included in the package are a sunroof, an uplevel audio package that includes uConnect and SIRIUS satellite radio, alloy wheels and unique paint colors with special badges. As you would expect from Jeep, four-wheel drive is available on all of these models.

Checking the Rocky Mountain Edition box on the vehicle order form will add a total of $1,595 to the vehicle’s bottom line. If added separately, the components that make up the package would cost $2,300, which makes for a pretty good deal (though not quite as good as the “approximately $1,000″ in savings that Chrysler is touting). Read the full press release after the break.

[Source: Chrysler]

PRESS RELEASE:

New Rocky Mountain Edition Models Add Excitement and Value to 2009 Jeep(R) Lineup

Offer value option package with $2,300 in popular customer features for only $1,595 — including a no-charge power sun roof for that “only in a Jeep” open-air driving excitement

– 2009 Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition includes 17-inch aluminum wheels and monochrome exterior paint theme and adds uconnect tunes, Boston Acoustics premium speakers, power sun roof and leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls — Best-in-class 28 highway miles per gallon (mpg) available on Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models — 2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition includes 17-inch fully painted tech silver aluminum wheels, uconnect tunes 30 -gigabyte radio, power sun roof, deep-tinted glass and speed control — The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition features 17-inch machined-faced aluminum wheels with gray painted pockets, power sun roof, Boston Acoustics sound system, uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte stereo, heated front seats and more

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 16 /PRNewswire/ — New 2009 Jeep(R) Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition models expand the fun, freedom, utility and available best-in-class 4×4 capability that Jeep is known for–now with even more customer features at a great value. The 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition models offer approximately $1,000 off popular bundled customer features, including innovative uconnect tunes, power sun roof and aluminum wheels. In total, the 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition package adds more than $2,300 in content for $1,595.

“The new 2009 Jeep Patriot, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Editions add more value and features to our iconic Jeep lineup,” said Mike Accavitti, Director–Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Brands, Chrysler LLC. “And with Jeep’s best-in-class legendary 4×4 capability, our new 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Editions are ready to make any adventure–from the snow-covered mountain trails to sand dunes at the beach–even more fun.”

The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) on new 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Editions (including destination) are:

– Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition at $19,765
– Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition at $25,355
– Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition at $32,825

The 2009 Jeep Rocky Mountain Edition models are available for ordering now and will arrive at Jeep dealerships in the United States and Canada later this month.

2009 Jeep(R) Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition

Based on the 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport model, the new Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition adds uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte stereo, uconnect studios SIRIUS Satellite Radio, leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, body-color door handles and liftgate applique, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/60R17 all-season tires, ‘Rocky Mountain’ driver and front-passenger door badging, power sun roof with express open/close operation, nine premium Boston Acoustics speakers including subwoofer, two additional articulating liftgate speakers and a 458-watt amplifier.

The 2009 Jeep Patriot 4×4 Rocky Mountain Edition features the Freedom Drive I 4×4 system providing best-in-class four-wheel-drive fuel economy and best-in-class capability in the compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

The Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition features a 2.4-liter engine, coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle, that produces 172 horsepower (128 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (222 N*m) of torque, and delivers a best-in-class 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway on two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models. A Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT2) with Auto Stick also is available for both models.

For Jeep Patriot customers seeking maximum fuel efficiency without a manual shift, an optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to the CVT2 with Auto Stick to provide 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 N*m) of torque. The spirited 2.0-liter delivers an EPA 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway and is available on two-wheel-drive equipped 2009 Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition models.

The 2009 Jeep Patriot Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in all-new Optic Green Crystal Pearl, as well as Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl and Bright Silver Metallic paint colors.

2009 Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition

The new Jeep Liberty Rocky Mountain Edition is based on the 2009 Jeep Liberty Sport model and is available in both 4×4 and 4×2 models. Included in the Rocky Mountain Edition package are refreshed 17-inch aluminum wheels with tech silver paint finish, P235/65 R17 A/S tires, uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte radio, power sun roof, deep-tinted glass, speed control and a ‘Rocky Mountain’ badge.

The 2009 Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4×4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated(R) four-wheel-drive systems - Command-Trac(R) standard with 4×4 models and the optional Selec-Trac(R) II on 4×4 models.

A 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine is standard on all Jeep Liberty Sport and Limited models sold in the United States. The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2009 Jeep Liberty with competitive peak power and torque while providing smooth, quiet operation and proven durability. It produces 210 horsepower (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N*m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy is estimated at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway (4×2) and 15 city / 21 Hwy (4×4).

Towing capacity on all models is 5,000 lbs. maximum when equipped with the optional Trailer Tow Group.

The 2009 Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in Deep Water Blue, Bright Silver Metallic, Inferno Red and Brilliant Black exterior paint colors.

2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition is based on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo model and is available in 4×4 and 4×2 models. Included in the Rocky Mountain Edition package are 17-inch machined-faced aluminum wheels with gray painted pockets, power sun roof, Boston Acoustics sound system, uconnect tunes 30-gigabyte stereo, heated front seats, 12-volt power outlet, chromed body-side molding and a ‘Rocky Mountain’ edition badge.

Since its introduction in 1992, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has revolutionized the SUV market. With its best-in-class traction capability and power, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed, engineered and built to master every imaginable day-to-day driving condition, whether on- or off-road.

The 2009 Grand Cherokee Laredo model features a standard soft-touch center armrest cover, leather-wrapped park brake handle, floor mats, interior chromed door handles and audio control buttons.

The standard 3.7-liter V-6 engine provides the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 210 horsepower (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N*m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. A sophisticated Electronic Throttle Control system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions and maintains a consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active. An exhaust gas recirculation valve helps increase fuel economy.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s available Flexible-fuel Vehicle (FFV) 4.7-liter V-8 engine incorporates electronic throttle control, two spark plugs per cylinder, increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 305 horsepower (227 kW) @ 5,650 rpm, a 30 percent increase, and 334 lb.-ft. (453 N*m) of torque @ 3,950 rpm, a 10 percent increase compared with the previous generation 4.7-liter V-8 engine. It also delivers more than a 5 percent increase in fuel economy. This FFV engine also gives customers the ability to use up to an 85 percent concentration of ethanol (E85) to fuel their vehicles.

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Electronic Roll Mitigation maintains vehicle stability in a variety of road surface and weather conditions. Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control deliver off-road and towing capability.

The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Rocky Mountain Edition will be available in four exterior paint colors: new Inferno Red, Light Graystone, Bright Silver and Brilliant Black.

About the Jeep Brand

Staying true to its strong values and character, the Jeep brand is purpose-built for adventurous lifestyles. With 68 years of legendary 4×4 capability, the Jeep brand continues to fulfill promises of adventure, liberation and independence for those who truly embrace life, whether traveling on- or off-road. The ruggedness and responsiveness of Jeep vehicles provide owners with a sense of security to handle any situation with confidence.

For 2009, the brand’s legendary Go Anywhere, Do Anything(TM) heritage is maintained with the addition of more interior refinement, comfort and technology in the widest range of sport-utility vehicles (SUV) under one brand. The Jeep product line includes the brand icon, the Jeep Wrangler; the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited; the popular mid-size Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America); the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee; the seven-passenger Jeep Commander; and the Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass with all-new redesigned interiors and best-in-class 4×4 fuel economy of 28 mpg on the highway.

[Source:Autoblog]

Ever since Cerberus bought a controlling interest in Chrysler, many have openly speculated that the private equity fund would ultimately split up the company and sell it off. Those rumors have intensified in the last six months as the troubles of Chrysler and the rest of the industry have grown. Of the three brands in the stable, Jeep is generally considered to be the only one that has any significant value to potential buyers. Interestingly, the same thing was true in 1987 when Chrysler bought American Motors Corporation just to get the Jeep brand.

A report has just popped up on the website for JP Magazine that the International Trucks unit of Navistar has purchased Jeep. We’ve contacted Chrysler for a comment on the story and spokesman Ed Garsten told us he hasn’t “…heard a thing on this.” The story may turn out to be untrue – in fact, we suspect it may be an unfortunately-timed April Fool’s joke that’s been published online commensurate with that publication’s newsstand schedule. Despite all that, International would perhaps be a fitting owner for Jeep. Back in the ’60s and ’70s, the International Scout was perhaps the closest competitor to the CJ and old Scouts are still popular among off-roaders. As for the fate of Jeep and the rest of Chrysler, we’ll have to keep waiting.

[Source:Autoblog]

Just about everyone in the automotive industry is struggling, but Chrysler is taking the brunt of the punishment. The Pentastar’s sales were down 30% in 2008, and the prospects aren’t so hot for 2009. In an effort to drum up dealer traffic, Chrysler is pulling out all the stops with its new Employee Pricing Plus Plus campaign. The name isn’t very catchy, but if you have an inkling to purchase a Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep, this may be as good a time as any.

For starters, Chrysler is offering up its “been there, done that” employee discount. To make the deal that much more enticing, Chrysler is also offering cash rebates of up to $6,000 on 2008 models and $3,500 for 2009 models. On top of those two deals, Chrysler is also offering 0% interest for up to 48 months and another $1,000 in customer cash for using Chrysler financial. We’re no dealer sales rep, but these are some big league incentives. Heck, it’s almost a liquidation sale. If you’re getting ready to log off your PC and head to the nearest Chrysler dealer, we regret to inform you that the Dodge Sprinter is not included in the program – sorry. The Employee Pricing Plus Plus program begins January 26, and it will likely run until people start buying Chrysler products.

[Source: Chrysler, Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty]

PRESS RELEASE

Chrysler LLC Announces New “Employee Pricing Plus Plus” Program for All Customers

New vehicle customers receive employee price on all 2008 and 2009 Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles
Customers also receive discounts of up to $3,500 on 2009 model year vehicles and $6,000 on 2008 model year vehicles
Zero percent financing is available for up to 48 months
$1,000 consumer bonus cash is available on most models when financed at Chrysler Financial or local credit union
New program is effective beginning on Jan. 26, 2009

Auburn Hills, Mich., Jan 22, 2009 - Chrysler LLC announced today that it will offer the new “Employee Pricing Plus Plus” program to all customers toward the purchase or lease of a new 2008 or 2009 Chrysler, Jeep® or Dodge vehicle. In addition to the employee price, customers will be eligible for cash discounts of up to $3,500 for 2009 model year vehicles and up to $6,000 on 2008 model year vehicles. Chrysler Financial is also offering zero percent financing to qualified customers for up to 48 months. Other finance terms and rates are also available.
“Chrysler is offering America the same pricing our employees receive through the new ‘Employee Pricing Plus Plus’ program with great savings off the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price, plus cash discounts of up to $3,500 on 2009 models, plus zero percent financing through Chrysler Financial,” said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President – North American Sales, Marketing, Mopar Parts and Service. “With affordable financing available and some of the best pricing we have offered in recent months, this really is a great time to visit a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge dealer.”

The “Employee Pricing Plus Plus” incentive program is available to all customers beginning on Mon., Jan. 26. Dodge Sprinter is not included in this program.

The new “Employee Pricing Plus Plus” program will be featured in a comprehensive ad campaign starting Jan. 26, and includes national print, broadcast and digital media. The overall campaign continues with the “Driving America” theme combined with the newly available Employee Pricing.

[Source:Autoblog]

Chrysler is again relying on employee pricing to move metal from its dealer lots, but this time the promotion comes with a catch. You have to be a returning lessee, Chrysler supplier or associate, or be in the military to take part in the offer. Chrysler employees will also receive one additional discount to dole out as part of the promotion, which ends September 30. The employee pricing incentive can be used on top of any current discounts, making for a very healthy rebate on any new Dodge, Jeep, or Chrysler product. For example, the slow selling 2008 Dodge Ram can be had with $9,000 on the hood. That’s enough money to partly make up for several years of bad fuel economy and rapidly depreciating value. The incentive program is also meant to help the automaker retain a greater portion of its lease customers who have been left out in the cold since Chrysler stopped leasing vehicles through Chrysler Financial on August 1, which has made already poor sales results even worse.

[Source: Chrysler, Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty]

PRESS RELEASE:

Chrysler LLC Makes Employee Pricing Available for Key Customer Groups

* Employee pricing offered to eligible military personnel, returning lessees, supplier and affiliate employees; and current incentives apply
* Chrysler U.S. employees and retirees receive one additional employee price discount for a friend or neighbor
* Nearly all 2008 and 2009 model-year vehicles in stock are eligible for discount

Auburn Hills, Mich., Sep 18, 2008 - Chrysler LLC is offering eligible military personnel, returning lessees, supplier and affiliate employees the opportunity to purchase a new Chrysler, Jeep® or Dodge vehicle for nearly the same price that a Chrysler employee pays.

Through Sept. 30, eligible participants can visit their local dealer and receive one employee discount number toward the purchase of a new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle. The discounted price is the employee price (printed on the factory invoice), plus a $200 program fee. All relevant incentives can be combined with the discount.

“We’re extending employee pricing to these key groups to offer our best and most competitive deals of the year,” said Michael Keegan, Vice President – Volume Planning and Sales Operations, Chrysler LLC. “This additional purchase offer, combined with our special finance deals and current incentives, will help create more affordable deals and keep our most loyal customers in the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge family.”

Eligibility Requirements:

* Military – Eligible participants include active military, active military reserve, retired military (honorable discharge and 20 years of service required) and retired military reserve (honorable discharge and 20 years of service required). Honorably discharged veterans are eligible within six months of discharge date.
* Suppliers/Affiliate Rewards – Eligible participants include Tier 1 supplier company employees, retail fleet employees, and designated corporate customer employees, retirees and spouses.
* Returning Lessee – Eligible participants include customers who are current lessees of a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle; they automatically qualify for this program.

Additionally through Sept. 30, Chrysler U.S. employees and retirees can give one employee price discount to anyone they choose, enabling a customer to buy a new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle at the employee price. This employee price discount is offered in addition to the six Employee Purchase numbers that employees receive for eligible family members, and the six Preferred Program Discount numbers that can be offered to friends. These discounts also include relevant incentives that are in effect at the time of sale.

The employee discounts can be used on nearly all 2008 model-year vehicles and select 2009 model-year vehicles in stock. Customers should visit their neighborhood Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge dealer for complete details.

Available Incentives
Chrysler’s “Shop ‘Til You Drive Sales Event” continues through Sept. 30, offering up to 40 percent off MSRP on select vehicles, and zero percent APR for 72 months on the 2008 Dodge Ram, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Commander. Especially strong values are available on Dodge Ram pickup trucks, with up to $9,000 discounts in select markets.

Customers can take advantage of bonus consumer cash of $2,000 on select retail purchases when financed through Chrysler Financial. For those customers who still wish to lease a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle through an independent financial institution, they can take advantage of Chrysler’s Customer Cash Allowance of up to $2,000 on select vehicles.

Returning lease customers will receive a lease loyalty incentive of up to $750 for use toward the retail purchase of an eligible new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle. The disposition fee, up to $425, will be waived by Chrysler Financial.

[Source:Autoblog]

News out of Toledo is that Chrysler plans to drop either the Jeep Liberty or the Dodge Nitro within four years and merge the two vehicles into one. These two ‘utes are built on the same exact platform, use basically the same engines and are built in the same Toledo plant. There is no good reason for both of them to exist, which makes us wonder why they ever did in the first place and why it will take three years to correct. Regardless, considering that Jeep will always be the off-road brand, it would make most sense to keep the Liberty name going. Losing the Nitro, meanwhile, might actually help Dodge improve its image as a volume performance brand.

This convergence of duplicate vehicles is part of Chrysler’s Project Genesis plan. Under the plan, dealers will begin to offer Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles under the same roof. Other nameplates that are or should be converged include the Jeep Compass/Jeep Patriot and Dodge Durango/Chrysler Aspen, the latter of which could see themselves replaced by a new model with Jeep underpinnings.

[Source:Autoblog]

It’s no secret that Chrysler has some overlapping models in its lineup. Case(s)-in-point: it’s hard to make a rational argument that Jeep should be offering both the Compass and Patriot (not to mention Dodge selling the Patriot’s platform sibling, the Caliber) or the Grand Cherokee and the Commander. The Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango barely pretend to be different vehicles and there’s no reason to sell both the Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro when they’re basically the same machine. This revelation is as obvious to Chrysler’s new management as it is to us, and Chrysler President Jim Press, says as much. “We’re going to stop overlapping, we’re going to bring everything under one roof. By doing that we will have more products in the markets we are not covering.”

Also marked as redundant by Press are the Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Caravan minivans, but as easy as it may be to pinpoint overlapping models, fixing that problem may prove more difficult. Dealers will need to begin offering the whole Chrysler line of vehicles if this strategy of “bringing everything under one roof” is to succeed. Expect to see drastic changes taking place in the next four to five years.

[Source: AutoBlog]