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2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 70th Anniversary Edition
March 30, 2011 , Denver – The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) association today named the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee its 2011 SUV of the year. Comfort on-road, toughness off-road, and impressive quality throughout were all attributes cited by voting journalists.
“It takes a very exceptional vehicle indeed to master both the plains and mountains of the Rocky Mountain West and I’m thrilled that the journalists of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press have voted the new and innovative Jeep Grand Cherokee our 2011 SUV of the year.”
-Roman Mica
President of RMAP
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was selected from among 26 eligible crossovers and SUVs evaluated by RMAP members in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 70th Anniversary Edition
“The climate, terrain and active lifestyle of Colorado creates the perfect environment for the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee to showcase its go-anywhere capability. We are delighted that these prominent Rocky Mountain automotive journalists have recognized the capability, comfort, craftsmanship and refinement of our new premium Jeep SUV.”
Mike Manley, President and CEO
Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.
Rocky Mountain Automotive Press is a Denver-based association of automotive journalists, automaker-communications representatives and other motor-industry professionals. This is the fifth year RMAP has presented its Rocky Mountain Vehicle of Year Awards. The awards recognize the top cars, pickups, and SUVs.
The new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee provides consumers premium on-road performance, while maintaining legendary Jeep four-wheel-drive capability – courtesy of a torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case, a choice of three 4×4 systems, a new Jeep Selec-Terrain™ system with five terrain settings, and a new Quadra-Lift™ air suspension system. In addition, Grand Cherokee offers improved fuel economy (up to 23 mpg), a world-class interior cabin, and more than 45 safety and security features.
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 70th Anniversary Edition
The 2011 SUV of the Year from the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press is the most recent award in a long list of honors given to the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Other accolades include:
- 2011 Official Winter Vehicle of New England
- MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Large Utility
- Consumers Digest “Best Buy”
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick”
- Four Wheeler magazine’s “Four Wheeler of the Year”
- Detroit News “Truck of the Year”
- AutoWeek “Best of the Best 2011 Truck award”
- Urban Truck of the Year
- Internet Truck of the Year
- Popular Mechanics “Automotive Excellence Award for Off-Road Ability”
- Texas Auto Writers Association “SUV of Texas”
- Texas Auto Writers Association “Full-size SUV of Texas”
- Ruedas ESPN “Best SUV”
That’s quite the list of awards! Jeep has truly built a legendary vehicle! In this post I’ve also included photos of the 70th Anniversary Edition 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Click any of the images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles. Thanks for checking out Chrysler Catchall!
Under the Pentastar is a quick video recap of significant events at Chrysler Group LLC over the past week. This week’s episode covers the introduction of the new line of “Imported From Detroit” merchandise, new honors for Ram and Jeep and the new Premier marketing program that puts 25 bucks in the pockets of customers who come into dealerships for a test drive.
2011 Chrysler 300
Just for the fun of it, I’ve included some photos that Dodge took at the 6th Annual Spring Festival of LXs in Irvine, California. To see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles, simply click any of the images in the post! Thanks again for checking out Chrysler Catchall!
Spring Festival of LX's 2011
Spring Festival of LX's 2011
Spring Festival of LX's 2011
Spring Festival of LX's 2011
Spring Festival of LX's 2011
Seven Mopar Maintenance Tips
“Now is the time to get your vehicle into shape for the summer travel season. Performing preventative maintenance is critical for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. For those who own a Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep or Ram vehicle, we recommend that they stick with the specialists and have all maintenance and repairs done by qualified, factory-trained technicians in our dealerships. Our technicians have the expertise, tools and factory-backed parts for these vehicles. And they work on them every single day.”
-Jim Sassorossi, Head of Sales at Mopar
Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand
Check Tires
Tire wear is a good indicator of how your vehicle’s steering and suspension are performing. Excessive edge wear, center wear and shoulder wear can be clues that other maintenance is needed. Check air pressure on all tires, including the spare, as incorrect tire pressure can cause tires to wear prematurely. Tread and sidewall areas should be inspected for uneven or irregular wear and should be replaced if worn or damaged. Mopar offers a range of tires including B.F. Goodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, Kumho, Michelin, Uniroyal and Yokohama.
Checking Tire Tread
Check Brakes
Every time you brake, a thin layer of the pad is removed. The key is to replace the pads or shoes before the drums or rotors become damaged. Pads, shoes, rotors, calipers, fittings, brake hardware and parking brake should be checked for the summer driving season. If your brakes sound like they’re squealing, it may be time for replacements.
Checking Pads and Rotors
Check Fluid Levels
Engine oil should be changed or replenished, and all vehicle fluids and lubricants should be checked and changed at factory-recommended intervals to make sure they’re fresh and filled to the recommended levels. Low, or dirty fluids can have an impact on how your engine and components perform and could potentially damage your engine.
Checking Fluids
Check Engine Belts, Hoses and Fuel Filter
In today’s vehicles, a single drive belt provides power to many engine accessories, and hoses carry vital fluids under high pressure. Prevent a breakdown or serious engine damage by replacing belts and hoses at recommended intervals. Quality-tested Mopar belts and hoses offer precision fit, optimal service life and original-equipment performance.
Checking Engine Belts
Change Air Filter
The air filter is designed to protect your engine from airborne contaminants. Poor air flow to the engine inhibits performance and can generate greater fuel consumption. A new air filter allows clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine and helps to ensure proper performance and longer life.
Checking The Air Filter
Check Battery
Whether it’s the first start up in the morning or having the reserve power to run the air conditioning and other accessories, the battery is the critical source. Corroded terminals, a bulging or cracked case are signs that a battery has been subject to extreme conditions. And each battery has a limited “life” to it. Test your battery and replace it if necessary to make sure you have the cranking power to start your vehicle and keep it running.
Checking the Battery
Check Wiper Blades
Worn wiper blades can affect your vision and ability to see the road and vehicles in front of you. For greater visibility and smooth operation, Mopar all-season wiper blades are built for the long haul and feature a strong, all-metal superstructure for durable, reliable performance. An innovative wear indicator gradually turns from black to green to yellow as the blades wear.
Checking Wiper Blades
There you have it! Make sure to check over those vehicles before you hit the road this summer on those fun adventures! As always click on any of the images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles and more! Thanks again for checking out Chrysler Catchall!
Formula DRIFT Challenger and Viper
Below is an excerpt from an article published by Chrysler Media late last week.
“Two-time champion Samuel Hubinette is set to unleash a one-two Dodge punch on the Formula DRIFT (FD) Series in 2011.
The “Crazy Swede,” who returns for a second year of dual owner and driver roles, will drive his own Samuel Hubinette Racing (SHR) Dodge Motorsports Dodge Challenger, while new teammate, European ProDrift champ Dean Kearney will pilot the SHR Dodge Viper SRT10, sponsored by V-LEDS-Federal.
Samuel Hubinette
Dodge Motorsports will again serve as primary sponsor for Hubinette’s Challenger. V-LEDS will take the primary sponsorship role on Kearney’s Dodge Viper SRT10, while veteran Brad Manka will return as crew chief for both SHR machines.
“We’re very excited about the upcoming season and can’t wait to get to Long Beach,” said Hubinette, who earned two FD championships in his first three seasons, including the series’ inaugural year in 2004. “The SHR Dodge Challenger should be even more formidable with a year of competition under our belt, and Dean Kearney is a talented, young driver who will surely be competitive right out of the gate in the SHR Dodge Viper SRT10.
SHR/Dodge Motorsports Dodge Challenger in Action
“I’m also very grateful to continue important relationships in 2011 with sponsors such as Dodge, BFGoodrich, and welcome in new sponsors, including Discount Tire and V-LEDS. We intend to repay their support by putting on the best drift show we can and by bringing home some victories and competing for a championship,” Hubinette added
Kearney is more than ready to join Hubinette in the SHR spotlight. The 22-year-old native of Waterford, Ireland, nicknamed “Karnage” is an accomplished driver, having captured the 2009 European Pro Drift Championship.
Formula DRIFT Dodge Viper SRT10
“This is a perfect fit for me, and I feel right at home with Samuel and the whole SHR family,” Kearney said. “With driver nicknames ‘Crazy Swede’ and ‘Karnage,’ fans are going to quickly see SHR as one of the most exciting teams in all of drifting this season.”
Dodge is looking forward to another successful season of drift competition. “Samuel brings a ton of passion and experience to everything he does for Dodge, so we’re excited to be back with Samuel Hubinette Racing in 2011 and look forward to the arrival of a second champion, Dean Kearney in the SHR Dodge Viper,” said Bryan Viger, Head of Dodge Motorsports. “We can’t ask for a better team to represent Dodge and Dodge Motorsports in the Formula DRIFT Series.”
Formula DRIFT Dodge Viper SRT10
Jake York, president and CEO of new team sponsor V-LEDS, one of the largest automotive LED replacement bulb retailers in the world, shares the enthusiasm as the 2011 season opener approaches. “We can’t wait to see our logo on the SHR Dodge Viper SRT10,” York said. “Dean is sure to quickly let loose on the Streets of Long Beach and we look forward to the start of the season and developing a long-term relationship with SHR.”
Hubinette, Kearney and SHR kick off their season in the 2011 FD Round One event on the Streets of Long Beach, Calif. on April 8-9. The season continues at Road Atlanta, Braselton, Ga., May 6-7; Palm Beach International Raceway, Palm Beach, Fla., June 3-4; Wall Speedway, Wall, N.J., June 17-18; Evergreen Speedway, Monroe, Wash., July 22-23; Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Aug. 26-27; and Irwindale, Calif., Oct. 7-8.”
Check out the video below of Sam in action at the Spring Festival of LXs in Irvine, CA last weekend. Thanks again for checking out Chrysler Catchall! As always, click any of the images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram Vehicles!
Check out the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 HEMI being put through the paces on the Dyno at Hennessey Performance in the video above! Also in the other video below, John Hennessey himself takes the Challenger for a ride and lets us in on his thoughts on the new 392 HEMI. Below that is an excerpt from an article published yesterday on RedLetterDodge.com about the Challenger‘s trip to Hennessey.
“During the HEMI Highway Tour in late 2010, our Dodge Ambassadors Scott and Heather stopped by Hennessey Performance in Sealy, Texas for a shop tour and to checkout all the cool “eye candy” for late-model enthusiasts. Now you veteran gear heads know Hennessey has been a major player in making modern day super cars even more wicked, mean and nasty. Their talent pool includes a combined 100 plus years of experience in design, manufacturing, testing and installation of high-performance upgrades.
2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392-Green with Envy
With over a one thousand city and highway “break-in” miles, our new 392 HEMI® SRT8 Challenger was ready to make some noise. When Hennessey gave us the invite, we couldn’t resist the temptation to strap our Challenger on their Dynojet 248C chassis dynamometer. Now we know the 392 HEMI is rated 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft.torque at the flywheel, however we wanted to know how much was getting to the rear wheels. The Hennessey technicians quickly quick set-up the chassis dyno and calibrated the equipment. We fired-up the mighty 392 and made some warm-up runs and then dropped the hammer.
2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392-Green with Envy
Like a sucker punch to the face, the graph on monitor flashed the numbers – 432 rear wheel horsepower and 424 rear wheel torque! The Hennessey guys were amazed and impressed on how stout the numbers were for a bone stock engine. Now granted, our Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual probably helped minimize the inherent parasitic loss of horsepower and torque as it travels along the drive train to the rear wheels. Still, the guys began crunching the numbers and concluded the actual power is north of the factory 470 rating. Think of it as an added bonus at no extra cost.
So, sit back and turn your speakers up and listen for yourself!
2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392-Green with Envy
Thanks for checking out Chrysler Catchall! To see more pictures of the New 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 with the 392 HEMI, click on any of the images in the post! Thanks again!
Chrysler released a video yesterday afternoon that goes into depth about their TPMS system that is equipped on most newer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles. TPMS means Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which is the series of sensors located inside the tire that communicates with the vehicles computer, telling drivers when the pressure has dropped in one of the four tires.
TPMS Light
Chrysler explains not only the operation of their TPMS system, but also offers some tips for how to keep your tires properly inflated to the correct pressure, as well as explaining how to obtain proper pressure on the Ram 2500. With the Ram 2500, the proper air pressure will vary from 45 to 70 psi, depending on whether the truck is empty or loaded down.
TPMS Wheel Sensors
In other news, it appears Chrysler has addressed the issues iPhone users have been having with the 730N radio (RER).
Previously, users had intermittent connectivity when using Bluetooth to connect their iPhone 4 to a RER radio. The software upgrade is designed to eliminate any “disconnects” and give customers uninterrupted service.
Media Center 730N (RER) Radio
The software upgrade is covered under the 3-year/36,0000-mile warranty, and possibly under some service contracts. For specific details in your case and to schedule an appointment to upgrade your 730N radio (RER) for the iPhone 4 compatibility issues, contact your local Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep® or Ram dealer.
Thanks again for checking out Chrysler Catchall! As always, click any of the images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles!
Imported From Detroit!
The Chrysler brand introduced the new “Imported from Detroit” merchandise a few weeks back on the Chrysler brand’s website. The new collection features an array of products with the “Imported from Detroit” logo which represents the hardworking spirit captured and celebrated in the Chrysler brand’s Super Bowl commercial, “Born of Fire.”
2011 Chrysler 200 Super Bowl Commercial
The two-minute commercial resonated throughout the country, as many felt a connection to the attitude and work ethic portrayed in the scenes and narration. While the commercial focused on Detroit, in many ways, it encapsulated the spirit of the country and the comeback of the Chrysler brand and Chrysler Group LLC.
"Imported From Detroit" Merch
“The objective of the ‘Born of Fire’ commercial was intended to generate a conversation about the Chrysler brand and the new 2011 Chrysler 200, we are humbled at the thought that the conversation continues and is generating a spark throughout the country. The Chrysler brand, the company and its employees have adopted the principle that failure is not an option – this merchandise reflects that spirit and attitude. The entire company is proud that we are manufacturing and producing products that embody beauty and quality such as the 2011 Chrysler 200.”
Olivier Francois
President and CEO, Chrysler Brand
Lead Executive for Marketing, Chrysler Group LLC
"Imported From Detroit" Merch
In keeping with the spirit in which the logo was created, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of “Imported from Detroit” merchandise found on Chrysler.com will go to four Detroit-area charities.
"Imported From Detroit" Merchandise
Charities are as follows:
The Marshall Mathers Foundation
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
Check out the video below to see more of the “Imported From Detroit” Merchandise! As always, click any of the images in the post to see more! Thanks for Checking out Chrysler Catchall!
2012 Ram 5500 with Boxtruck Body Upfit
More good news in the Ram world! It seems the Chrysler Group Brands have racked up quite a few awards lately, with the latest being awarded to the 2011 Ram Chassis Cabs.
Last week, Work Truck magazine named the Class 4 and 5 Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab truck its 2011 Medium-Duty Truck of the Year.
2012 Ram 5500 with Rollback Upfit
Nineteen vehicles were included in an online ballot and voted on by professional fleet managers, who were asked to consider which medium-duty truck model best fit their fleet requirements, including application effectiveness, durability, quality, servicing, maintenance, and lifecycle costs.
“The commercial truck segment is all about total cost of ownership. When you account for fuel economy, brake wear, tire wear and the best powertrain warranty in the business, Ram Chassis Cab trucks offer the lowest cost of ownership.”
Fred Diaz
Ram Truck President
CEO and Head of U.S. Sales – Chrysler Group LLC
2012 Ram 5500 with Tow Truck/Wrecker Upfit
The May/June issue of Work Truck magazine will feature a complete article on the Medium-Duty Truck of the Year award.
Earlier this month, Ram Truck announced that 2012 Ram 4500 and 5500 medium-duty Chassis Cab commercial trucks will be available with an optional 30,000-lb. gross combined weight rating (GCWR), an increase from 26,000 lbs.
2012 Ram 5500 with Dump Bed Upfit and Snow Plow
The info above is from a Chrysler New Release, click here to read more about the 2011 Ram Chassis Cabs. As always, click any of the images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles. Thanks for checking out Chrysler Catchall!
Unless you’ve been in solitary confinement for the last 10 days, you know that Japan is in need, and many in the USA are coming to their aid, including Chrysler Group LLC. Chrysler announced on Friday that it will donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross to aid in the relief effort currently in progress, as well as matching donations made by employees and dealers up to an additional $100k.
Below is an excerpt from the Chrysler News Release published on Friday, March 18th of 2011.
““Our hearts go out to the people of Japan. We are confident that Chrysler employees, contractors and dealers will once again respond to help others in need, which is why the Foundation will also match their generous contributions.”
Jody Trapasso, President
The Chrysler Foundation
The Chrysler Foundation has a long history of providing humanitarian aid throughout the United States and the world.
Within days of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, a $10 million Help the Children Fund was established for the children of victims. Chrysler employees, retirees and dealers raised another $400,000 for the scholarship fund and many employees worked at the recovery site or collected donations of supplies.
Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, The Chrysler Foundation contributed $550,000 for disaster relief, including $150,000 in matching funds. The donations were distributed to the American Red Cross, The United Way and food banks in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. The Company also donated 100 vehicles and supplies, collectively valued at $4.4 million.
The Foundation also provided $100,000 for flood relief and cleanup programs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 2008, and $100,000 for wildfire disaster relief in San Diego in 2007. Both of these initiatives also involved volunteers and in-kind support from Chrysler Group dealers.
In 2010, the Foundation donated $100,000, $50,000 each to Oxfam America and the United States Fund for UNICEF, to support humanitarian relief and recovery efforts in Haiti after that country’s devastating earthquake. Later that year, the Foundation contributed $50,000 to the village of Dundee, Mich., and another $50,000 to ISOH/Impact in Perrysburg, Ohio, for relief efforts following severe tornadoes that hit Michigan and Northern Ohio.”
Thanks again for checking out Chrysler Catchall! Drop us a line below and let us know what you think!
Under the Pentastar is a quick video recap of significant events at Chrysler Group LLC over the past week. This week’s episode covers the introduction of the new line of “Imported From Detroit” merchandise, new honors for Ram and Jeep and the new Premiere marketing program that puts 25 bucks in the pockets of customers who come into dealerships for a test drive.
Brad Keselowki's 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8
In other news, Dodge recently awarded 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Brad Keselowski a specially built 470 horsepower 392 HEMI® 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8. The car was customized by the folks on the “Mopar Underground” team and is far from anything you’ll find on show floors at Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealers across the nation. Check out Dodge Motorsports for more info on the BKR (Brad Keselowski Racing) Commemorative Edition 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392.
Thanks for checking out Chrysler Catchall! As always, click on any images in the post to see more photos of Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Vehicles!
Chrysler Catchall 