Dodge Challenger makes NASCAR debut on Friday

For those who watch NASCAR, the speed of the vehicles is nothing short of spectacular. To fully appreciate that speed, as well as the smells and sounds, you have to actually attend a race.

Whether you're actually at the track or watching on TV, the cars look like high-tech machines designed for speed and a little bumping and grinding. In other words, none of the vehicles and their cookie-cutter designs really resemble any vehicles you'd see going down the road...until now.

This Friday at the NASCAR Nationwide Series event at Daytona that all changes when Brad Keselowski drives the No. 22 car on the track, a Dodge Challenger R/T.

Before Friday night's highly anticipated return of the Dodge Challenger to NASCAR Nationwide Series' competition after almost 30 years, the Dodge brand will play a key role in providing Challenger owners and fans with a wide array of pre-race action and activities in and around Daytona International Speedway.

- For a list of all the pre-race events, click here.
- For a behind-the-scenes look on the final preparations being made on the car.

Critics weigh in on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

For months you've heard about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's the next best thing since sliced bread, or that's what the folks at Chrysler would have you believe. Now, that it's finally here, automobile critics have had a chance to take it for a test drive and spend some quality time behind the wheel.

What are they saying about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee? We think they like it.

Motor Trend - "With the air suspension raised 2.6 inches, the Grand Cherokee's moderately high and wide stance and precise steering makes rock crawling at Moab easy for a sub-expert off-road driver. Jeep faithful can breath a sigh of relief."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/29mvgme

Autoblog - "The GC's Benz architecture makes for a seriously pleasing ride on the open road, and with a triple-sealing strategy to separate engine and wind noise from the cabin, NVH levels are vastly improved. We're talking Lexus quiet."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/22qyrec

Cars.com- "The new Grand Cherokee manages to provide on-road driving refinement that can go toe-to-toe with the best that the crossover segment has to offer — and it does so without sacrificing its considerable off-road capabilities.

"It's a no-excuses SUV if there ever was one and, in effect, takes on Land Rover at its own game. Let your brain wrap itself around that concept for a moment, and it becomes clear how much the Grand Cherokee has evolved."

- Read more: http://tinyurl.com/23s3uku

Dodge Challenger kicks England's butt

Last week we previewed the new Dodge Challenger commercial before the U.S. - England game in the World Cup. As we all know in the actual contest, after England jumped out to an early 1-0 lead, the Americans never quit and eventually battled back to earn a 1-1 tie and an important point against a quality English side.

Now, check out the finished commercial. The Americans, led by the Challenger, aren't looking for any ties. Victory is sweet!

General George Washington has a message for England

My Dear England,

As a gentleman, I feel it is my grim but solemn duty to notify you that it is, indeed … ON. We declared our independence once. And on Friday night (11:00 PM EST on ESPN) I must declare it yet again. Our armies will meet upon the field of battle, but you’ll soon find your “Red Coats” are easily bested by three men … wearing only black. Incidentally, our “minute” men in fact only require a mere 4.7 seconds to reach the 60 mile per hour threshold.

With utmost respect,

George "Can of Whup A**" Washington

(Blog Editor's Note: Please tune into ESPN at 11 p.m. Friday, June 11 to find out how this ends).

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee receives first honors

It's just started arriving in dealerships across the country, but the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has already impressed and has received its first honor and a very important one as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the vehicle a Top Safety Pick, the organization’s highest rating.

“The all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee provides consumers with enhanced safety and security, in addition to legendary Jeep capability and a premium driving experience,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand. Manley noted the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s more than 45 different safety and security systems, which all work in harmony. They include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation, Active Head Restraints, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and a Blind-Spot/Rear Cross-path detection system.

“Our new Jeep Grand Cherokee will allow customers to benefit from a new level of protection, on- and off-road,” Manley said.

Now, if you add the great look and countless new features including a new upscale interior, advanced four-wheel drive system, keyless entry and numerous other improvements with the recognized safety features, you have a vehicle that will find its way into the driveways and garages of customers across the country.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - The Video

For a couple of months, the buzz about the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has steadily increased as we get closer to its debut this summer. Up until now, we've only seen a few pictures. Now, there's a video.

Check it out.

After you see the video, you'll understand why Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne is confident in the new vehicle and the impact it will have for the company.

“The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a signature vehicle for Chrysler. It represents the best of this company, the direction we’re moving toward producing high quality, technologically advanced vehicles. We are confident the Grand Cherokee will receive the proper recognition for what it stands for when it hits the road in June.”

The Family Trip Vehicle

We've all been there as kids. Now we get to experience it from the other side as an adult.

The conversation goes something like this.

"Are we there yet?" your child asks.

"Not now, son/sweetie/honey (or use your own word choice). We still have a ways to go."

Ten minutes pass.

"Are we there yet?" the question is repeated by the same child or another child who has completely ignored the question and answer from just minutes before.

According to CNNmoney.com, the Chrysler Town and Country has suddenly become a mute button for that conversation as the vehicle was named one of 7 great road trip cars.

Read more.

Dodge Viper earns high praise in Texas

When asked, Michael Herzing, president of the Texas Auto Writers Association said this about the Dodge Viper (American Club Racer).

“The Dodge Viper ACR is the worthy recipient of our first Performance Car of Texas award. By topping some of the toughest competitors in today’s performance car marketplace, we feel this award is a real testament to the Dodge Viper’s superior level of overall performance,” Herzing said.

We couldn't agree more. Check out the full story on the Viper and how the Texas writers loved its overall handling and performance.

Read more.

How Ram Monster Trucks Roll - BIG!

You love Ram Trucks. You love Monster Trucks. Then you'll love the Raminator and the Rammunition trucks.

These two trucks, which feature stylish graphics courtesy of Mossy Oak in a partnership with Ram Trucks and Hall Brothers Racing, put on a display this past weekend at the 4 Wheel Jamboree in Springfield, Missouri.

The next 4 Wheel Jamboree is in Lima, OH on May 14-16. These weekend-long events feature between 2,000 to 3,000 trucks and draw around 50,000 spectators.

Go big or go home!

The Jeep - Standing the Test of Time

Through the years, vehicles change. The shape. The size. The colors. One vehicle has stood the test of time sticking to its same basic, yet very memorable and stylish design - the Jeep.

While the Jeep has sometimes been described as a “sardine can on wheels,” since its creation in the 1930s as a vehicle used as a light, rugged “reconnaissance car” to provide speedy movement of key personnel and equipment in the rear and on the battlefield, it has become one of, if not the most recognizable automotive silhouettes in the world. It also made “four-wheel drive” a household term.

Check out this story in the American that says - "...the Jeep is one of the most influential designs in automotive history.

Enter to Win a Dodge Challenger R/T

The weekend is over and now you can start off your week right by entering the “Challenger Chase to Win” sweepstakes at www.dodgemotorsports.com to win a Dodge Challenger R/T. One lucky fan will drive away with a custom HEMI®-powered Challenger R/T to commemorate the Challenger’s debut in the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series.

The Grand Prize 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is finished in a black-and-orange color graphic scheme that resembles Penske Racing driver Justin Allgaier’s No. 12 Verizon Wireless Dodge, which he will race in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning on July 2, 2010 at Daytona International Speedway and carries a retail value at close to $40,000.

Read more.

Moms-Dads get navigation and entertainment all in one package

Dodge recently unveiled its new UConnect system at the New York Auto Show. UConnect is a system that combines the latest in information and entertainment technology to provide the ultimate experience for busy, constantly-connected drivers.

Take a look.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oltNKNYWCH0&feature=player_embedded

Spray-on, factory-installed bedliners now an option

In Texas, even though we have sun more than enough days, spray-on tans aren't uncommon. So maybe that's not your style. But a spray-on bedliner, which is a similar concept in its application process, just might be.

The Ram Truck Brand just introduced a spray-on factory-installed bedliner for 2010, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, an option dealers can order starting now.

Read more.

C-Note Search

Now that our Facebook page is quickly gaining momentum, we thought it was time to add a fun new contest to the mix. So, with that, we introduce our Cecil C-Note Search. This is a fun contest where fans can easily win $100. Sometimes it will last two weeks, other times the contest will run just a week. Regardless of the length, there's always at least $100 on the line for our fans/customers.

So make sure you go and check out our Facebook page and get to searching for that $100 bill. Make sure and check our Facebook page often as we'll be adding other fun and interactive items in the future.

The 44th Annual Easter Jeep Safari

Only a few more days until Easter. For Jeep, this time of the year means one thing - a look at the 2010 Easter Jeep Safari vehicles.

Like chocolate to peanut butter, the Safari brings together two of our favorite things: Mopar and Jeep. Mark Allen, Head of Jeep Design as well as Mopar Underground, takes us through the full lineup of Moparized Jeeps as well as a very worthy Ram PowerWagon.

To read more: The 44th Annual Easter Jeep Safari

Even Fido Likes It

We all love our pets. We love to travel. Many of us take our pets with us when we travel. Ever wondered what was the most pet-friendly car available? Wonder no more.

For five years now the folks at Animal Radio® have been ranking autos based on their Fido-friendly qualities and for 2010, the top two spots go to Chrysler Group brand vehicles. Thanks to their innovative safety features, Animal Radio awarded first and second place to the Dodge Journey and Chrysler Town and Country (respectively), marking the first time a domestic automaker has snagged first place.

In honor of the new award, Dodge CEO Ralph Gilles sat down with Animal Radio hosts Hal Abrams and Judy Francis to dish on the design process behind the two vehicles and share a little about his own furry companions.

To read more or listen to the interview:
CEO Ralph Gilles Talks [Pet] Shop With Animal Radio

Behind the Scenes - The Making of the Ram Trucks Commercial

Klaus Obermeyer Gives a Sneak Peek into the Making of “Ram Truck of the ___”

Check out the Ram “Behind The Scenes” video, and get all the inside information on the latest epic Ram Trucks brand TV commercial about to be released for the Ram Heavy Duty pickup truck – celebrating its status as the 2010 Motor Trend Truck of the Year®.

This piece was produced by the well-known Aero Films, and filmed and directed by acclaimed director Klaus Obermeyer, known for his outstanding extreme sports cinematography and whose credits include work with other major advertisers like Visa, Sony, Bridgestone, Gillette, GM, and Nissan.

Filmed in a variety of locations throughout California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Arizona, the new “Truck of the _____” TV spot celebrates the nobility of grueling, gritty, and tough jobs that build America and keep it rolling, and most importantly, it celebrates the authentic men and women who perform these tasks. Throughout the production, Aero Films worked hard to cast real people who perform these tasks every day, for realism and authenticity. Many shown here are not actors. These guys (and gals) are the real deal.

The creative combines a variety of dramatic scenes and breathtaking scenery including the mountains of Mammoth, California, the Hoover Dam, and the Nevada desert. Locations and jobs fit for one truck, and one truck only: the all-new 2010 Ram Heavy Duty. In addition, a spectacular fire scene was staged at a warehouse in downtown Los Angeles, and the backlot at Universal Studios was employed to create a realistic disaster scene. All created to connect with the human spirit and celebrate the honorable work done by everyday heroes.

Watch the video and learn even more about some of the unique film techniques and proprietary equipment used to create this larger-than-life production.

The New Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Patriot Extreme and other new vehicles to debut in Moab

What do you think of the new sketches on Jeep and Ram? We're kind of biased, but we like them.

Cecil in Orange

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Mopar Ready for Moab

Mopar® has Moab on in its sights. Chrysler Group LLC's fifth brand is getting ready reveal a truck-load of "Moparized" vehicles at the 44th annual Easter Jeep® Safari in Moab, Utah which takes place from March 27 through April 4. But we've got a preview for you right now with some sketches of the Jeep Wrangler J7, Jeep Patriot Extreme, Jeep Wrangler Trail Boss and Ram Power Wagon.

To read more:
http://blog.chryslerllc.com/blog.do?id=963&p=entry

The 10 Best Movie Performances Ever By a Dodge

Our friends at redletterdodge.com have come up with a list of the 10 best movies with a Dodge. We're curious to see what our customers think. Do you have any others?

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In this season of Golden Globes, SAG awards, and Oscars, we couldn’t help but wonder: Where’s the recognition for the real hard-working actors in many movies: the cars? They dominate the screen, they propel the action, they do all their own stunts — and, let’s face it, they often turn in a more nuanced performance than some of the actors in the movies listed below. So, in recognition of a job well done without the perks of magazine covers, big-bucks contracts, or their own trailers, we hereby salute the 10 best performances in a motion picture by the world’s most cinematic car brand. And the nominees, in no particular order, are…

1968 Dodge Charger R/T in Bullitt (1968)

It starts off innocently enough, with a bad guy (Bill Hickman) tailing Bullitt (Steve McQueen) in a black 1968 Dodge Charger 440 through the up-and-down streets of San Francisco. But McQueen quickly turns the tables, Hickman buckles his waist-only seatbelt, floors it, and begins what’s possibly the most famous, and terrifying, car chase in movie history. There’s no dialogue, no music — just nearly 10 full minutes of the ungodly deep growl of the Charger’s engine careening down back roads and highways, before it runs off the road, crashes into a gas station, and goes out the only way a hero can — exploding in a flaming ball of cinematic glory.

Fun fact: The Charger was apparently so much faster than the Mustang that they had to put thinner wheels on to slow it down to film the chase.

To read more:

http://www.redletterdodge.com/2010/01/29/the-10-best-movie-performances-ever-by-a-dodge/