Thursday, June 21, 2007

All New 2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4

2008 Jeep Liberty 4x4

2008 Jeep(r) Liberty - All-new From the Ground Up

* All-new 2008 Jeep(r) Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage
* Improved on-road ride and handling with new independent front and new five-link rear suspension systems
* All-new Jeep classic exterior styling, functional interior space and upgraded amenities designed to broaden its appeal to consumers
* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider(tm) full-open canvas roof

The Jeep(r) Liberty has remained a leader in the mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) market since its introduction in 2002. The popular mid-size SUV gives off-road enthusiasts and owners their own sense of personal freedom and capability that only defines the Jeep brand.

All-new from the ground up for 2008, the Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated(r) four-wheel-drive systems - Command-Trac(r) and the all-new Selec-Trac(r) II. On-road ride and handling have been improved and refined with the new independent front suspension, new five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

The Liberty's exterior has been redesigned, and takes on a more rugged, classic Jeep look that is sure to captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners and broaden its consumer appeal. Inside, cargo and storage space increases and seat comfort improves. Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider(tm) full-open canvas roof, an industry-exclusive; giving the Jeep Liberty that "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience. Remote start, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle's ever-growing list of available features and options. There are two models - Jeep Liberty Sport and Jeep Liberty Limited.

"The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty stands out from the competition by offering customers classic Jeep design, two four-wheel-drive systems, refined on-road ride and handling, cargo and utility, as well as features that are not typically found on vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President - Global Marketing, Chrysler Group.

The all-new Jeep Liberty is designed to appeal to customers who are looking for Jeep 4x4 capability as well as comfort and convenience. It is targeted to young couples and new families, as well as professional, young single men and women between 30 and 40 years of age, balanced male to female. Jeep Liberty owners will balance day-to-day responsibilities with their passion for adventure as well as the outdoors. They are athletic, and pursue activities that combine their various interests with their active lifestyle. The Jeep Liberty will be available at Jeep dealerships starting in the third quarter of 2007.

Engineering

The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty offers a balance of off-road capability and on-road refinement.* All-new independent front suspension, all-new five-link rear suspension, and a power rack-and-pinion steering system contribute to the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty's blend of on-road ride comfort and nimble, confidence-inspiring handling
* Two four-wheel-drive systems - all-new Selec-Trac II, full-time four-wheel-drive system and Command-Trac, a part-time four-wheel-drive system - both are Jeep Trail Rated
* The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2008 Jeep Liberty with competitive peak power and torque while providing smooth, quiet operation and proven durability. It produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N*m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy has been improved and now achieves an estimated *16 city (18 mpg using 2007 EPA standards), and *22 mpg on the highway (23 mpg based on 2007 EPA standards).
* Two transmissions are offered on the Jeep Liberty in the United States: a six-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission
* The 2008 Jeep Liberty was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new products

Design

In its first redesign since its introduction, the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty embraces its roots by taking on a more rugged, classic Jeep design that is guaranteed to strengthen its draw to current owners and broaden its appeal to a new audience.* Jeep classic exterior styling and functional interior space are designed to broaden its consumer appeal* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-open canvas roof brings "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience to mid-size SUV market* Cargo capacity increases and front and rear passengers will notice the improved seat comfort along with added space

Safety and SecurityThe 2008 Jeep Liberty has a full range of active and passive safety systems. Among the vehicle's standard equipment are Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation, All-speed Traction Control, Brake Assist, advanced anti-lock brakes, rain sensing wipers, Tire Pressure Monitoring, and side-curtain air bags.

Technology

The 2008 Jeep Liberty offers the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System(tm) a completely integrated audio, navigation, entertainment and hands-free communication system. MyGIG allows customers to use touch screen or voice commands to control features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. The system also includes a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on traffic conditions. All of these functions can be controlled through voice commands and by utilizing a touch screen.



Chrysler Pacifica holding on



The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica has a freshened exterior appearance that includes a new hood, front fenders, headlamps, grille and front fascia.


Chrysler Pacifica holding on
June 21, 2007

Chrysler communications people still bristle when I call the Pacifica a “wagon,” as they prefer the term “sports tourer.” Chrysler has backed off on its efforts to convince prospective buyers that the Pacifica is not a tall wagon or a version of their popular minivans.

In actuality it’s neither a van or a wagon but a blend of the two with the interior feel of a sedan and the added capability of all-wheel drive. While station wagons are enjoying a resurgence of sorts, the Pacifica has been lost between the crossover craze, hybrid surge and the new interest in the sporty mid-size and compact wagons that are popping up on dealers lots.

Chrysler hopes that a fresh face, new safety, performance and flexibility features will entice potential buyers to consider this hard to categorize vehicle.

What’s the look?

Well, the 2007 Chrysler Pacifica has a freshened exterior appearance that includes a new hood, front fenders, headlamps, grille and front fascia. The hood features Chrysler’s new “character lines” that streak back from the leading edge of the hood to the base of the windshield all Chrysler brand vehicles will have this feature in 2008. Additionally, the test vehicle came with re-styled 17-inch machine-finished aluminum wheels. Pacifica has new paint options including optional body color-matched exterior-mounted mirrors.

Step inside

When you open the door to the Pacifica your mind instantly thinks “sedan” and the amount of leg and headroom help reinforce this impression. The new two-tone instrument panel and revised instrument cluster graphics combined with the new door trim panels really freshens things up. I liked the cloth seats with fold down armrests.

This year Chrysler adds a notable new feature; YES Essentials stain resistant, odor resistant, anti-static cloth on the seats. For parents this is a great option and I highly recommend it. Seating provided good support on long trips, but were not firm enough for short around town jaunts. Seating holds six, but if you need cargo space fold the second and third rear seats down for 92.7 cubic feet of storage.

A few gripes about the interior include headrests that block rear visibility, thick “b” pillars that hinder side visibility and the sunroof housing that cuts into headroom for tall drivers. Also, wider opening or doors would help entry and exits.

Powering up

The 4.0-liter V-6 engine produces 255 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 265 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm, which is 15 more pound-feet of torque at peak power rpm, and as much as 35 pound-feet more torque throughout the power curve than the old 3.5-liter V-6 engine.

The engine felt much smoother and quieter than the old engine. A new six-speed automatic transmission upshifts smoothly and downshifts readily to provide confident passing power. It also featured AutoStick, which I feel is a waste in a wagon or minivan. Fuel economy is 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which is not exactly thrifty, I would have liked to see higher numbers.

No minivan performer

Minivans and wagons are usually not known for their handing or performance prowess and the Pacifica will not be either. However, the new 4.0-liter V-6 delivers improved acceleration and decent take-offs with plenty of power for passing. The Pacifica does perform better in turns than a Town and Country minivan, but there is noticeable body sway and steering does not provide enough feedback.

Pacifica rides on a four-wheel independent suspension equipped with a five-link rear suspension. The four-wheel, anti-lock brake system bit quickly and kept the nose level without any alarming dive. The 17-inch tires provided decent grip and soaked up most pavement irregularities. The Pacifica does tend to rock over dips and quick rises. In town the ride was very smooth and only the deepest potholes upset this vehicle.

Safety & security

The 2007 Chrysler Pacifica enhances the existing safety features by adding standard all-row side curtain air bags, standard ESP, traction control and brake assist. A ParkSense rear back up system and ParkView rear back up camera also are available. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system is standard equipment on all Pacifica and Pacifica Touring models.


Chrysler Pacifica Interior


Dollars and cents

On the pricing front there’s good news as Pacifica models offer consumers a $2,700 better value than its 2006 predecessor at a lower Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).

"We were able to lower the price on Pacifica models an average of $1,300 while adding an average of $1,400 in standard content across the lineup, and as high as $1,800 on select models, offering consumers an inspired driving experience and best-in-class safety at a price that makes sense,” said David Rooney, director Chrysler brand marketing.

The sensible price of the 2007 test vehicle came to $29,950 including $720 in destination charges. The AWD test vehicle’s only options were an upgraded audio system, ParkSense, Park View systems and a sunroof.

The Pacifica’s competition is strong with the Toyota Highlander and Mazda CX-7 leading the way with the Nissan Murano, and Ford Freestyle also in the segment.

As for longevity the Pacifica should be in the lineup for a more model years if of course enough of this “people hauler” are sold.

The clear winners

photo

(RASHAUN RUCKER/Detroit Free Press)

The Jeep Trail Hawk SUV took the award for best truck concept.

    (J. KYLE KEENER/Detroit Free Press)

    BEST CONCEPT: It's the Holden Efijy, a curvaceous 1950s-style coupe from General Motors Corp.'s Australian unit.

  • photo
  • (ERIC SEALS/Detroit Free Press)

    The Chevrolet Volt was named best specialty concept.

  • photo
  • (RASHAUN RUCKER/Detroit Free Press)

    The Jaguar C-XF won as the best vehicle that reflects an upcoming production model.

  • photo

Brands owned by Detroit's automakers swept four awards for best concept cars.

The Chevrolet Volt, Holden Efijy, Jaguar C-XF and Jeep Trail Hawk got the nod Wednesday from a panel of automotive journalists as the top concept cars in their respective categories from the late 2006-07 auto show season.

The winner of a fifth award for most significant concept vehicle is to be announced tonight at an awards ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn.

The Chevrolet Volt, a new kind of hybrid gasoline-electric vehicle, was named best specialty concept for its innovative technology. The Volt is a strong contender for most significant concept.

The Jeep Trail Hawk SUV took the award for best truck concept. The Holden Efijy, a curvaceous 1950s-style coupe from General Motors Corp.'s Australian unit, won best concept car.

While the concept car and truck awards reward style and looks, Jaguar's C-XF got the nod as the best vehicle that reflects an upcoming production model.

All four of the winners debuted at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this year. The Southeast Automotive Media Organization organizes the award. The two dozen jurors include Free Press auto critic Mark Phelan.

By Free Press staff

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Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0803006 Date of Bulletin: AUG 25, 2006
NHTSA Item Number: 10021239
Component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary:
 POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE INITIALIZATION. *KB
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1900805 Date of Bulletin: NOV 02, 2005
NHTSA Item Number: 10017651
Component: STEERING
Summary:
 REVISED POWER STEERING SYSTEM BLEEDING PROCEDURES. *SC
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0802801 Date of Bulletin: AUG 16, 2005
NHTSA Item Number: 629139
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Summary:
 MOISTURE ACCUMULATION INSIDE A VENTED HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY CONDITION. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0801505 Date of Bulletin: MAR 02, 2005
NHTSA Item Number: 10013731
Component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
Summary:
 POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE INITIALIZATION. *SC
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1100105 Date of Bulletin: JAN 11, 2005
NHTSA Item Number: 10012320
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
Summary:
 DUAL EXHAUST TIPS ARE NOT IN EQUAL FORE/AFT ALIGNMENT. *EH
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 2100804 Date of Bulletin: OCT 16, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10008383
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary:
 MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION -DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P1776 SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE LATCHED IN LR POSITION. *MJ THIS BULLETIN REPLACES 21-008-04 DATED JUNE 1, 2004. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0300604 Date of Bulletin: SEP 15, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10010478
Component: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT
Summary:
 FRONT HUB/HALF SHAFT CLICK/POP SOUND. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1900204 Date of Bulletin: AUG 27, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10009784
Component: STEERING
Summary:
 STEERING COLUMN CLICK SOUND. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1900702 Date of Bulletin: APR 06, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10000833
Component: STEERING:COLUMN
Summary:
 LOWER STEERING COLUMN CLICK SOUND. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1801204 Date of Bulletin: MAR 16, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10006451
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:
 WOT ACCELERATION STUMBLE/NUMBER 4 SPARK PLUG WIRE APPEARANCE. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0900704 Date of Bulletin: MAR 02, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10006455
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:
 IRREGULAR ENGINE SNAPPING SOUND. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1100104 Date of Bulletin: FEB 10, 2004
NHTSA Item Number: 10005987
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
Summary:
 EXHAUST TIP ALIGNMENT. 2004 NEON SRT4 ALSO INCLUDED. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : C24 Date of Bulletin: SEP 01, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10003999
Component: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Summary:
 OWNER'S MANUAL ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATION CORRECTION - CUSTOMER SATISFACTION NOTIFICATION C24. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 2100503A Date of Bulletin: AUG 01, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10003550
Component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary:
 DELAYED OR TEMPORARY LOSS OF TRANSMISSION ENGAGEMENT AFTER INITIAL START UP ON VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 PACIFICA, SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN, INTREPID AND 2003 SX2.0. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 0801003 Date of Bulletin: APR 25, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10001520
Component: SEAT BELTS
Summary:
 SEAT BELT CINCH BAR SERVICE FOR VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2004 MODELS. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1801803 Date of Bulletin: APR 25, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10001527
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary:
 MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATION (MIL), ERRONEOUS DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC). *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 03005 Date of Bulletin: MAR 14, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10002291
Component: STRUCTURE:BODY
Summary:
 RIGHT SIDE COWL WATER LEAK. RAPID RESPONSE TRANSMITTAL. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 03004 Date of Bulletin: MAR 06, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10002290
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:
 IMPROPER RIGHT MOTOR MOUNT THROUGH BOLT THAT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF BOLT TORQUE. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 08 Date of Bulletin: MAR 01, 2003
NHTSA Item Number: 10002289
Component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
Summary:
 COMPUTER DRIVER CHIP THAT COULD FAIL. REPLACE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 02025 Date of Bulletin: DEC 16, 2002
NHTSA Item Number: 10000831
Component: INTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary:
 MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATION / TRANSMISSION LIMP-IN CONDITION. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 02020 Date of Bulletin: OCT 23, 2002
NHTSA Item Number: 10000329
Component: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
Summary:
 DELAYED TRANSAXLE ENGAGEMENT AFTER INITIAL START UP. *TT
Make : DODGE Model : NEON Year : 2003
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
Service Bulletin Num : 1802902 Date of Bulletin: OCT 07, 2002
NHTSA Item Number: 10000313
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary:
 ENGINE NO START (ENGINE WILL START IMMEDIATELY AFTER CYCLING THE IGNITION KEY), MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0016, P0335, P0339, P0340, P0462, P0498, P0499, P0522, P0622, P1604, P1681, P1686. *TT