The Dodge Caliber will be the first of a series of new Dodge products coming into the UK over the next three years. The five-door hatchback will be powered by a 2.0-litre Volkswagen diesel engine, as well as being the first application of the new petrol ‘World Engines’.
Simon Elliott, Chrysler Group UK managing director, said: "Although we have only revealed the concept car version of the new Dodge Caliber so far, confirmation of the VW diesel power plant in the production car is a significant step.
"The first of the new Dodge line-up looks outstanding, but we recognise that customers are looking for modern diesel engines with efficiency and performance that match the car’s striking looks. The new 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine will dramatically enhance the Dodge Caliber’s appeal in the UK when it arrives next July."
The 2.0-litre engine is a direct-injection turbo diesel with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The turbo diesel engine is expected to position the Dodge Caliber among the best in its class for power, torque, acceleration and towing capacity. Maximum power is estimated at 136bhp and peak torque is estimated at 236lb-ft.
The Chrysler Group World Engine family is targeted to improve fuel efficiency by 5% compared with the engines they replace - rivalling the best four-cylinder engines in the world.
The 2007 Dodge Caliber will be available with all three displacements in the 'World Engine' family: 1.8-litre, 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre. Performance objectives are targeted to match the best in the segment – 140, 150 and 170bhp respectively.
The Jeep Commander, the first Jeep to offer seven seats, will arrive in the UK in March 2006.
Commander is only 47 mm longer than the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, despite the three rows of seats.
The Jeep Commander shares the same 4x4 systems, suspension and powertrains as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, including an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.
Elliott said: "The Jeep Commander initiates the expansion of the Jeep vehicle line-up. Chrysler Group also revealed two new Jeep concept cars – the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot – at the show. These two compact SUVs focus on performance and fuel economy as well as nimble handling and a flexible interior, and help demonstrate where the Jeep brand may be heading at the other end of the range."
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