Thursday, April 20, 2006

All-new 2007 Jeep® Patriot Delivers Traditional Jeep Styling, Best-in-class Capability

  • All-new Jeep® technology gives Patriot more capability than any other vehicle in its class, providing confidence in all driving conditions
  • Patriot introduces rugged, classic Jeep styling at an affordable, entry-level price
  • Jeep Patriot’s interior features utility, flexibility and many cool innovations
  • Value abounds with excellent fuel economy and a long list of standard safety features

The Jeep® brand continues its expansion into untraveled territory with the 2007 Jeep Patriot. This all-new compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) delivers fun, freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4x4 capability, as well as a new entry-level price point for the Jeep brand.

Based on the Jeep Patriot concept first introduced at the 2005 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, the 2007 Jeep Patriot is a modern interpretation of traditional Jeep styling. Jeep Patriot combines the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car or small pickup. Safety features, such as standard side-curtain air bags and standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), add to Jeep Patriot’s tremendous value.

All-new Jeep technology gives Patriot more capability than any other vehicle in its class. Jeep Patriot will be available in the United States and Canada in three drive configurations: front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I™ (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with Lock mode) and Freedom Drive II™ Off-Road Package (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with low range that provides true Jeep 4x4 Trail Rated capability).

“The Trail Rated Jeep® Patriot will be the most capable 4x4 in the compact SUV segment,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President — Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “Jeep Patriot’s capability, combined with its classic Jeep design, interior flexibility and terrific fuel efficiency, will attract new buyers to the Jeep brand.”

The 2007 Jeep Patriot and Jeep Patriot Limited models will be available in U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2006 and in global volume markets in both left- and right-hand drive starting in the first half of 2007.

Most Capable Vehicle in its Class
Jeep Patriot is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Patriot also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with Lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance, as well as the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use, including driving in snow and rain. Freedom Drive I features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Patriot in four-wheel-drive Lock mode to handle deeper snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that makes the Jeep Patriot a Trail Rated 4x4, creating the most capable vehicle in the crowded compact SUV class. The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with a low range (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated, 17-inch all-terrain tires and aluminum wheels, a full-size spare tire, air-filtration system, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and seat height adjuster. The available Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is recommended for true off-road situations that include steep grades, wheel lift and rock or log climbing.

“The Jeep Patriot’s innovative Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package uses all-new Jeep 4x4 technology to achieve Trail Rated capability,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President — Front-Wheel-Drive Product Team. “This four-wheel-drive technology, developed by Jeep engineers, provides many of the benefits of a traditional transfer case without the additional weight.”

This all-new Jeep technology includes the CVT2L’s best-in-class 19:1 low ratio, which is ideal for crawling over obstacles. Off-road Brake Traction Control maintains forward mobility during heavy articulation or on split-friction surfaces where one wheel loses traction. Hill-Descent Control modulates brake hydraulic pressure without driver intervention for downhill assistance at a safe and controlled rate of speed. Three-mode ESP and off-road anti-lock brakes (ABS) also add to the Patriot’s off-road capability.

The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot sits 1 inch higher than non-Trail Rated versions and meets Jeep off-road capability requirements for traction, water fording, articulation, maneuverability and ground clearance, including 9 inches of ground clearance, a 29-degree approach angle, a 33-degree departure angle and a 23-degree breakover angle. This version of the Patriot also has additional body sealing and high-mounted drivetrain vents to support 19-inch water fording capability. In fact, the Jeep Patriot’s body and chassis were developed and tested over numerous rugged off-road terrains to meet the requirements of the enthusiast Jeep customer.

“From its approach and departure angles to every sealant and chassis component in between, Jeep Patriot is engineered to be the most capable vehicle in its class,” added Matt Liddane, Chief Engineer — Jeep Patriot. “Whether climbing rocks, stair steps, logs or steep grades, Jeep Patriot drivers will have the confidence of knowing they’re in a Jeep 4x4.”

All Jeep Patriot models available in the United States and Canada include standard Brake Traction Control, driver-controlled three-mode ESP, Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation and anti-lock brakes with rough-road detection. Patriot’s standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes provide a competitive 60–0 mph stopping distance of 134 feet on dry pavement.

A Modern Interpretation of Classic Jeep Styling
Strong and capable, Patriot is unmistakably Jeep, designed to appeal to compact SUV buyers who want traditional Jeep styling with best-in-class off-road capability. Jeep Patriot is rugged, exuding the brand’s key attributes of mastery, authenticity, freedom and adventure, while also offering excellent fuel economy, interior flexibility and utility at a great value.

“Simple yet distinctive geometric forms and planar surfaces define Jeep Patriot’s timeless proportions” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President — Design. “Combined, these features give Jeep Patriot its robust, strong, capable off-road image.”

Jeep Patriot is built for maximum cargo volume, rugged driving conditions and excellent utility. Patriot’s face is classic Jeep, featuring the brand’s signature seven-slot grille, a robust bumper and round headlamps.

A stiffer windshield and upright backlight combine to create Patriot’s easily identifiable side view. Classic Jeep design cues include available 17-inch aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires housed inside signature Jeep trapezoidal wheel openings. Jeep Patriot’s high beltline completes the vehicle’s protective side profile.

The rear of the vehicle features an upright backlight and a bold bumper that further illustrate the Jeep Patriot’s interior spaciousness and add to its rugged appearance and capability. Four doors and a rear liftgate provide easy access to Jeep Patriot’s spacious and functional interior.

Jeep Utility From the Inside and Out
Jeep Patriot’s flexible interior gives buyers the capability to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear. A command-of-the-road seating position gives drivers an added feeling of control. Jeep Patriot has 39.6 inches of rear seat leg room, 54.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded flat and 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the front passenger seat back and rear seats folded flat, giving plenty of room for an 8-foot ladder, skis or two-by-fours from the lumber yard.

In addition to interior spaciousness and flexibility, Jeep Patriot has many clever and unique available interior features that add functionality not typically found in a compact SUV, including:

  • Standard side-curtain air bags
  • Available nine-speaker Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group that includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate; when the liftgate is open, the speakers swing down to face rearward for tailgating and other activities
  • Auxiliary audio input jack for MP3 connectivity on standard radio
  • Available dual purpose, self-recharging removable cargo lamp, which is mounted in the headliner above the cargo area and can snap out of the bezel to serve as a flashlight
  • A sliding center armrest that moves forward 3 inches to accommodate shorter drivers. The armrest lid includes a unique flip pocket for storing a cell phone or an MP3 player
  • Available 115-volt outlet in the center console that powers small electronics
  • Available fold-flat front passenger seat that creates a table-like surface for versatility
  • Standard 60/40 rear seats that fold flat and have an available recline feature
  • Ultra Floor™ — a washable and removable vinyl load floor in the rear cargo area with a 250-lb. load capacity
  • YES Essentials™ Fabric —a n easy-care, soil-repellant and anti-microbial textile that protects seats from stains, odors and discoloration
  • Available Navigation System

World-class Engineering
The 2007 Jeep Patriot’s powertrain is designed to deliver world-class performance, fuel economy and refinement, all at an affordable, entry-level price.

Patriot features a standard 2.4-liter World Engine that produces 172-horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque. This 2.4-liter World Engine has dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Jeep Patriot’s price class.

Jeep Patriot also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle and an available CVT. The Patriot’s CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response and precise ratio control. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6–8 percent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic. Patriot’s CVT2 also improves vehicle performance compared with a traditional automatic transaxle because of optimized gear ratios, especially in the 30–60 mph range during passing maneuvers.

A 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine, paired with a six-speed manual transaxle, will be available for Jeep Patriot in key diesel markets outside North America.

Conquering New Territory
Jeep Patriot will compete in the compact SUV segment, which is expected to almost triple in the next 10 years, giving the Jeep brand the opportunity to grow with it. Annual compact SUV volume in the United States for the 2004 calendar year was 297,000 units or 1.7 percent of the market. The compact SUV segment is expected to nearly double to 568,000 units by 2010, and triple to 814,000 units by 2016.

With the all-new Jeep Patriot, Jeep in the United States is targeting single and married educated professionals in their early 20s to early 40s who earn a median income of $65,000. Fifty-five percent have a college education. These upwardly mobile Patriot buyers are confident, independent, rugged individuals who enjoy the outdoors. Safety and security and the confidence that come with Jeep 4x4 capability rank high on their priorities. They like the Jeep brand and want a vehicle that is unique, and with its one-of-a-kind traditional Jeep styling and best-in-class off-road capability, Patriot is designed and engineered to meet their needs.

Jeep Patriot Model Line-up
The newest Jeep will be available in both Patriot and Patriot Limited models. Both are available in the United States and Canada with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4x4 system with low-range capability.

The Jeep Patriot includes a standard 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle. Other standard equipment includes: standard side-curtain air bags, ESP, Brake Traction Control, electronic roll mitigation, anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes, Sentry Key theft-deterrent system, Vinyl Tech seats, rear 60/40 fold-flat seats, an Ultra Floor vinyl load floor, AM/FM single-disc CD radio with an auxiliary audio input jack, outdoor temperature display, 12-volt power outlet, manual windows, locks and foldaway mirrors, tilt steering wheel, dome and cargo lights, rear window defroster and a center console sliding armrest that moves forward 3 inches to accommodate shorter drivers. The armrest lid features a unique flip pocket for storing a cell phone or an MP3 player. On the exterior, the Jeep Patriot features a standard body-color grille and fascias, accent-color bodyside molding, black door handles, accent-color liftgate appliqué, black side roof rails, 16-inch styled steel wheels and all-season tires.

Optional features on Jeep Patriot include four-wheel-drive capability through either the Freedom Drive I or the Freedom Drive II 4x4 system, a second-generation CVT2, seat-mounted side air bags, flexible 60/40 rear seats that both fold flat and recline, fold-flat passenger seat, premium cloth low-back bucket seats with YES Essentials Fabric, air conditioning, power windows, including driver one-touch down feature, speed-sensitive power locks, power foldaway mirrors, Remote Keyless Entry, engine block heater, 115-volt outlet in the center console, a removable/rechargeable interior cargo lamp, map lights, passenger assist handles and illuminated entry, speed control, AM/FM radio with six-disc CD player and MP3 CD play capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, UConnect™ hands-free communication system, deep-tinted sunscreen glass, trailer tow prep package, Off-Road Group (which includes CVT2 with low range, 17-inch all-terrain OWL tires and aluminum wheels, a full-size spare tire, air-filtration system, skid plates with tow hooks, fog lamps and seat height adjuster), a Security Group (which includes a soft tonneau cover, security alarm and daytime running lamps) and a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group (which features two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate; when the liftgate is open, the speakers can swing down from the trim panel to face rearward for tailgating and other activities).

The Jeep Patriot Limited features a standard 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine coupled with a standard five-speed manual transaxle, an optional CVT2 or an optional CVT2L.

In addition to the standard equipment on the Jeep Patriot model, the Limited model features standard air conditioning, power windows with driver one-touch down feature, speed-sensitive power locks, Remote Keyless Entry, power fold-away mirrors, deep-tinted sunscreen glass, all-season floor mats, a standard fold-flat, reclining rear seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, driver height adjuster, passenger assist handles, 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, removable/rechargeable cargo lamp, speed control, premium cloth low-back bucket seats with YES Essentials fabric, fog lamps, rear-view automatic dimming mirrors, temperature and compass gauge, universal garage door opener and tire pressure monitoring system. On the exterior, the Jeep Patriot Limited model has body-color fascias with bright silver appliqués, body-color bodyside moldings, 17-inch aluminum wheels and all-season touring tires.

Beyond the options offered on the Jeep Patriot, additional options on the Limited model include 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, a power express open/close sunroof, heated cloth seats and a Leather Interior Group (which includes leather-trimmed bucket seats, manual lumbar adjuster, carpeted front and rear floor mats, heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls).

Full model details and specifications for markets outside the United States will be confirmed ahead of the vehicle’s introduction in each respective market.

All 2007 Jeep Patriot models will be available in Jeep Green Metallic Clear Coat, Light Khaki Metallic Clear Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Marine Blue Pearl Coat, Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Black Clear Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

All models feature a two-tone interior color theme of dark and light shades of Pastel Slate Gray or Pastel Pebble Beige.

2007 Jeep Patriot Production
Production of the 2007 Jeep Patriot begins in the third quarter of 2006 at the newly refurbished Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant. The new 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine that powers the Patriot is built in the state-of-the-art Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance Assembly (GEMA) assembly plant in Dundee, Mich.

Jeep Brand
The heroic heritage of Jeep and its dominance of the sport-utility market stretch back 65 years. Jeep is known worldwide for its core values of mastery, authenticity, freedom and adventure. The Jeep Patriot, with excellent fuel efficiency, an affordable price and proven Jeep four-wheel-drive with low-range capability, provides an opportunity to expand the brand and attract new buyers around the world.

Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA)
The World Engine is a family of world-class four-cylinder engines produced by GEMA in Dundee, Mich., delivering an exceptional combination of quality, fuel efficiency, refinement and performance. GEMA is owned equally by DaimlerChrysler Corp., Mitsubishi Motors Corp. and Hyundai Motor Co. By optimizing the three joint venture partners’ strengths, global economies of scale and the latest practices in flexible teams and machines, GEMA aims to set a new benchmark in engine plant productivity.

Saturday, April 15, 2006

2006 Dodge Hornet Concept Set to Create a Buzz

Internationally Sized, Amped With American Attitude

Rallye-ready and eager to go, the new Dodge Hornet concept vehicle is designed to bring to the B-segment market a unique blending of European sensibility regarding engine size and overall footprint with an American flair for aggressive attitude and flexible interior space.

"We wanted the Hornet to be dynamic, nimble, fun to drive, and have an adaptable space-efficient interior," said Mark Moushegian, Principal Exterior Designer. "At the same time we set out to create a vehicle with a uniquely American character to expand the image and presence of the Dodge brand in Europe and international markets, especially in the entry-level market."


Video replay of the 2006 Dodge Hornet Concept world premiere at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show (Windows Media Player required)

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"We went for a rallye-inspired look — robust, capable, and most definitely not 'cutesy.' We wanted a distinct 'edge' to the design. We especially wanted to push the envelope of interior volume. That's why the Hornet is almost as wide as a C-segment vehicle," Moushegian continued. Consequently the Hornet's chunky, wheels-to-the-corner silhouette imparts the fun of assertive motoring to even the most mundane of errands.

With its wide stance, the Hornet is solidly planted on the road. Up front, the signature Dodge crossbar grille is set above an exposed engine intercooler flanked by front brake air ducts and fog lamps. The raised plateau on the hood features a recessed scoop on the driver's side to funnel air to the engine air box. Underhood is a 1.6L 16-valve OHC supercharged I/C four-cylinder engine putting out 127 kW (170 hp)/224 N•m (165 lb.-ft.) of torque @ 4000 rpm.

The muscular side view is dominated by the large 19-inch diameter open-section aluminum wheels designed to show off the "mechanicals," including the gold-colored brake calipers. The arching wheel flares and notched sill are complemented by curving body surfaces that "spear out" into the full front and rear opposed half-doors which, in section, are quite shallow so as to maximize the interior space. The framed doors open to reveal the absence of a B-pillar, while the three-window side glass terminates in a dynamic wedge-shaped quarter window.

Inspired by the look of fashion sunglasses, all the glass in the vehicle, including the oversize sunroof, is rendered in a deep "Blue View" tint which contrasts vividly with the car's Liquid Silver exterior.

"The idea is that the car would be available in a limited number of colors," Moushegian said. "The customer selects the contrasting glass color of his or her choice as an accent." Inspired by the legendary Dodge Viper, dual "skunk stripes" in Beryllium Gray boldly traverse the hood, roof, overhanging rear defuser wing and the liftgate, including the "sky view" sun roof which offers a panoramic outlook overhead for both front and rear passengers.

Set in matte metallic gray tiered bezels and grouped under clear covers, all exterior lamps share a common "mechanical" style vocabulary that features prominent circular elements plus "triple orange slice" front and rear turn signals. Similar repeater lamps are set into the side mirrors which also incorporate auxiliary rallye lamps. The circular theme is reprised by three-inch diameter dual exhaust tips propelled through the rear chin spoiler.

"Like the exterior, the interior is geared around young rallye enthusiasts," said John Sodano, Principal Interior Designer. "Our intention was to maximize the interior volume by pushing all interior surfaces to the perimeter of the vehicle as much as possible. I studied images of space capsule interiors, since they are designed for high efficiency in a limited space. I wanted the Hornet inside to have a functional, 'engineered' look, but with pleasing surfaces and materials."

Extreme flexibility also is central to the sporty interior. The space-saving foam seats are exceptionally slim but comfortable, with the striking satin-silver finished aluminum framing deliberately exposed. Seat bolsters are covered in a smooth, black urethane-coated fabric while a black, fine-woven textured Pique cloth is used on the cushion and back inserts. Belts are integral with the seats.

Good-looking as they are, the seats' real beauty lies in their adaptability. Both the passenger front bucket seat and the 40-60 three-passenger rear seats fold forward and collapse to the floor to provide a flat load bed. To facilitate this, the headrests fold forward to stow between the seat back and cushion. The cabin floor is covered with an attractive and durable honeycomb-texture rubber.

In addition, the rear seats also flip rearward to stow in back, flush with the liftgate sill. This position provides for the highest possible vertical storage behind the front seats. When upright, the rear seats track rearwards to provide an additional 225 mm of legroom for rear seat passengers. Accessible to passengers regardless of the fore-aft seat position, overlong grab bars are mounted high on each rear quarter and also serve as clothes hangar racks.

The crisp black and slate gray interior is designed for both style and utility, with surfaces having a disciplined, space-saving planar look. The driver's door trim panel, for example, contains a first aid kit, open storage bin, and a closed case with carrying handle that can be removed from the car. The passenger door boasts both open and closed bins plus a longer open bin with bungee cords to retain stowed items. All bins are removable and can be easily rearranged to suit each customer's requirements. Moreover, the designers envision the Hornet as a vehicle that can be easily customized through the purchase of add-on exterior and interior parts and accessories, allowing owners to personalize their cars to express individual needs and desires.

Both front doors also have a hinged storage pocket just above the remote handle. The driver’s side rear door contains a handy beverage cooler while the door opposite boasts a fold-out table module. On all doors, cloth-covered armrests with integral pull cups are underlined by narrow satin silver moldings while side air bags are concealed in the Pique cloth bolsters.

Designed to accommodate both left- and right-hand drive, the modular instrument panel features twin horizontal Pique cloth wrapover pads divided by a satin silver center stack topped by a fixed navigation screen with non-glare glass. The pads front shallow open storage trays directly ahead of the driver and front seat passenger, with storage for smaller items provided in divided bins below. The center stack also accommodates large, easy-to-use entertainment and heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system controls whose circular elements mimic the exterior lamp detailing, "because," explains Sodano," we sought to create a common style architecture for the exterior and interior." Ten spherical speakers in varying sizes are supplied in the cabin, two on each front door and three on each quarter panel.

The three-circle, six-gauge delta-shaped instrument binnacle with attached hood moves with the steering column while the steering wheel itself features a textured, molded rubber rim and three "tuning fork" spokes that echo the exterior wheels. A freestanding cantilevered center armrest "floats" over the front floor console, pivoting downward to permit unfettered access to the six-speed manual shift lever during aggressive driving.

Tough, brash and eager to be off, the Dodge Hornet concept vehicle brings to the competitive entry-level B-segment market an ideal combination of American fun and European function.

Friday, April 07, 2006

Breakthrough Jeep® Compass Conquers All-New Territory

Chrysler Group today announced the U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for its all-new 2007 Jeep® Compass is $15,985 (including $560 destination). A modern-styled Jeep that delivers fun, freedom, utility and Jeep 4x4 capability, the Compass provides excellent fuel economy, safety and interior flexibility — all at a great value — in the compact SUV segment.

  • All-new Jeep® Compass expands Jeep lineup — modern design appeals to new, youthful Jeep buyers in global compact SUV segment
  • Value abounds with excellent fuel economy, cool innovations and long list of standard safety features (side-curtain air bags, ESP, Traction Control, ABS)
  • Compact SUV segment expected to triple in volume by 2016 in United States

The Jeep Compass will begin to arrive in U.S. dealerships and international volume markets in the third quarter of this year.

“With Compass, Jeep continues to expand globally by offering a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient and affordably-priced Jeep vehicle designed to reach youthful customers who may not have previously considered the brand,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President — Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “Compass is a new type of Jeep vehicle for non-traditional Jeep buyers. It allows the brand to compete in the fast-growing compact SUV segment, where there is increasing market demand for fuel economy, ride comfort and efficient packaging in an SUV.”

Annual compact SUV volume in the United States for the 2005 calendar year was 368,000 units, up from 297,000 units in 2004. The compact SUV segment is expected to almost double to approximately 600,000 units by 2010 and almost triple to more than 814,000 units by 2016.

The newest Jeep will be available in both Compass and Compass Limited models. Both are available with front-wheel and four-wheel-drive capability.

“Jeep Compass will offer customers the confidence and assurance that comes with Jeep 4x4 capability,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President — Front-wheel Drive Product Team. “Compass is a breakthrough all-new Jeep vehicle that provides the utility and functionality of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a small car or small pickup.”

Jeep Compass’ available, active, full-time 4x4 system (Freedom Drive I) is recommended for daily use, including driving in snow and rain. The four-wheel-drive “Lock” mode is recommended for deep snow, deep sand and other low-traction surfaces.

Jeep Compass

Jeep Compass includes a standard 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle. The MSRP for Jeep Compass is $15,985 (including $560 destination), and $17,585 (including $560 destination) for Jeep Compass 4x4 models.

Other standard equipment items on Jeep Compass include:

  • Side-curtain air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control and ABS
    60/40 rear split seats
  • Fold-flat vinyl load floor (UltraFloor TM)
  • AM/FM CD radio with an auxiliary audio input jack, cloth seats, 12-volt power outlet, manual windows, locks and foldaway mirrors
  • Silver interior bezels and door arm-rests, tilt steering wheel, dome and cargo lights, floor mats and a center console sliding armrest that moves forward 3 inches to accommodate shorter drivers (the armrest lid features a unique flip pocket for storing a cell phone or an MP3 player)

Additional exterior standard features include fog lamps, body-color grille and fascias, body-color bodyside molding, black door handles, accent-color liftgate appliqué and 17-inch aluminum wheels and touring tires.

Optional features available on Jeep Compass include:

  • A second generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT2)
    Sunroof
  • AM/FM radio with six-disc CD player and MP3 CD play capability
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio
  • Reclining rear seats, fold-flat passenger seat, passenger assist handles, illuminated entry, and manual height adjuster
  • Air conditioning
  • Power Group (which includes driver one-touch power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry and power mirrors)
  • Deep-tinted glass
  • Security Group (alarm, tonneau cover, daytime running lamps)
  • Trailer tow prep package
  • 17-inch all-terrain OWL tires
  • Full-size spare tire
  • Removable, rechargeable interior lamp, map lights
  • Speed control
  • YES Essentials® worry-free fabric
  • Driver Convenience Group (which includes tire pressure monitor and electrochromic mirror, compass, temperature gauge, Universal Garage Door opener and Electronic Vehicle Information Center)
  • Nine-speaker 458-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system that features two flip-down speakers packaged in the liftgate

Jeep Compass “E” Package
A special package available on Jeep Compass adds a number of popular features as standard. The MSRP for Jeep Compass models equipped with the “E” Package is $18,585 and $20,185 for 4x4 models.

In addition to the standard features on the Jeep Compass model, the “E” package features the following items as standard:

  • Power, fold-away mirrors, driver one-touch power windows, speed sensitive power locks, Remote Keyless Entry
  • Air Conditioning
  • 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, map/dome reading lamps and interior removable/rechargeable lamp
  • Reclining rear seats, driver seat height adjuster, front-passenger forward fold-flat seat, passenger assist handles, deep tint sunscreen glass

Jeep Compass Limited

The Jeep Compass Limited also is available in both front-wheel and four-wheel drive (Freedom Drive I) and features a standard 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine coupled with a five-speed manual transaxle. The MSRP for the Jeep Compass Limited is $20,140 (including $560 destination). The MSRP for the Jeep Compass Limited 4x4 is $21,740 (including $560 destination).

In addition to the standard features on the Jeep Compass models equipped with the "E" package the Limited model features:

  • Leather trimmed bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel mounted audio controls, speed control and heated seats
  • 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-season performance tires
  • Bright front and rear fascia overlays, bright side moldings
  • Driver lumbar support

Beyond those offered on the Jeep Compass model, available options on the Jeep Compass Limited model include:

  • A second generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT2) with Autostick
  • 18-inch chrome clad wheels
  • UConnect hands-free communication system

Jeep Brand
The Jeep brand’s 65-year history of legendary capability has made it synonymous with freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity. In 2006, the Jeep brand continues to deliver on its promise to provide versatile, innovative four-wheel-drive vehicles with the introduction of the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler and the 2007 Jeep Compass.

“The Jeep brand is on a product offensive, and will continue to grow with new offerings that leverage Jeep’s legendary 4x4 leadership,” said John Plecha, Director — Jeep Marketing. “We’re solidifying the Jeep brand’s foundation with the bigger, more powerful all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler — the most capable off-road vehicle in the world — while also stretching the brand to reach new customers with Jeep Compass.”

Sales of Jeep brand vehicles increased 12 percent in 2005 to their highest total since 2000 to 476,532 units compared with 2004 sales of 427,329 units. The positive sales momentum for the brand has continued this year. Through March, Jeep brand sales in 2006 are 10 percent more than the same period in 2005.

Saturday, April 01, 2006

New showroom for Chrysler Jeep in Singapore

Chrysler Jeep Automotive of Singapore recently moved into a new showroom at 30 Leng Kee Road. This new showroom will be the first in Asia to adopt Chrysler's Corporate Identity for its dealerships.

The spanking showroom will house 12 cars and three brands, Chrysler, Jeep and in May, Dodge. Dodge will be making a comeback after forty years with the launch of the All New 2007 Dodge Caliber.

On display in the showroom will also be the Chrysler 300C, Crossfire coupe and roadster, PT Cruiser and cabrio, and the Grand Voyagers. Jeep will have the Wrangler, Cherokee Sport, Grand Cherokee and towards the third quarter of this year, the Commander.

The 2006 Jeep® Commander Earns Top Government Safety Rating From NHTSA


Jeep® Commander Is the 11th Vehicle in the All-new Chrysler Group Lineup to Receive Five Stars for Frontal Crash Protection

The 2006 Jeep® Commander has received the government's highest rating for frontal-impact crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Jeep Commander's five-star rating for frontal crash protection makes it the 11th new product from Chrysler Group to achieve the top safety rating in the governmental frontal crash tests.

"Chrysler Group is offering Jeep Commander customers peace of mind through more standard safety and security equipment and the application of a broad range of engineering technologies," said Craig Love, Vice President – Rear-wheel Drive Product Teams, Chrysler Group. "The inherent stability and security we design in to all Chrysler Group vehicles is enhanced by both passive and active safety systems, whether driving on- or off-road."

The new 2006 Jeep Commander includes the highest level of standard safety and security technology and features ever offered on a Chrysler Group vehicle. Introduced for the first time on the Jeep Commander, standard side-curtain air bags with a roll detection system deploys air bags in certain rollover and side-impact situations. In addition, Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Brakes, and 4-Wheel Brake Traction Control System are also standard on Jeep Commander. These are only some of the many safety and security features — designed in from the beginning — that provide the Jeep Commander with the ability to "go anywhere, do anything" safely and securely.

Starting with the Chrysler Pacifica in 2003, Chrysler Group has had 11 product launches that produced NHTSA-rated five-star vehicles for frontal crash protection. These vehicles include: Chrysler Pacifica, Chrysler and Dodge minivans, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram 1500, Dodge Ram Quad, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Dakota, Jeep® Grand Cherokee, Dodge Charger and Jeep Commander.

The 2006 Jeep Commander is built at Chrysler Group's Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, Mich., on the same production line as the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee.