FIAT completes takeover of Chrysler Group.

Fiat S.p.A. (“Fiat”) through its wholly owned subsidiary, Fiat North America LLC (“FNA”), today completed its previously announced acquisition of all of the VEBA Trust’s[1] membership interests in Chrysler Group LLC (“Chrysler Group”). Chrysler Group is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fiat. The consideration for the acquisition consisted of:

• a special distribution paid by Chrysler Group to its members on January 21, 2014 of U.S.$1,900 million (FNA directed its portion of the special distribution to the VEBA Trust as part of the purchase consideration); and
• a cash payment by FNA to the VEBA Trust of U.S.$1,750 million.

Fiat funded the U.S.$1,750 million payment from available cash on hand. Chrysler Group funded the special distribution from available cash on hand.

As previously announced, contemporaneously with the transactions described above, Chrysler Group and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (the “UAW”) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding under Chrysler Group’s existing collective bargaining agreements to provide for additional contributions by Chrysler Group to the VEBA Trust of an aggregate of U.S.$700 million in four equal annual instalments, the first of which was paid in connection with closing of the transaction with Fiat.

As part of the transactions and as promptly as practicable, FNA and the VEBA Trust will dismiss with prejudice the proceedings before the Delaware Court of Chancery with respect to the interpretation of the call option agreement.

USA - Chrysler group wins five POLK Automotive awards

• Chrysler Town & Country wins Polk Loyalty Award for record 13th consecutive year
• Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler win their respective SUV categories, Grand Cherokee for fifth time
• Dodge Challenger wins third Polk Loyalty Award for Non-Luxury Sport Mid-size Car
• Fiat 500 wins Non-Luxury Traditional Subcompact Car

The Chrysler Group starts off the 2014 calendar year by winning five Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards, presented by IHS Automotive. The Chrysler Town & Country won its 13th consecutive Loyalty Award taking the Non-Luxury Mid-size Van category, extending its own record of consecutive wins. The Jeep Grand Cherokee won its fifth award in the Non-Luxury Mid-size SUV category and the Dodge Challenger took Non-Luxury Sport Mid-size Car honors for the third time. Jeep Wrangler nabbed the Non-Luxury Compact SUV award and the Fiat 500 won the Non-Luxury Traditional Subcompact Car category, both winning their first Polk Loyalty Awards.

”Chrysler Group’s emphasis on owner loyalty across their lineup is an indicator that the organization is truly working with consumers to bring them back” said Jeffrey Anderson, director of loyalty and source of sales solutions at Southfield, Mich.-based IHS Automotive, a division of research and analytics firm IHS. “To see five awards across multiple segments is impressive, and Town & Country’s run is unprecedented.”
                                                                                     
The Polk Loyalty Awards recognize manufacturers for superior owner loyalty performance, which is determined when a household that owns a new vehicle returns to market and purchases or leases another new vehicle of the same model or make. The 2013 awards are based on an analysis of more than 7.4 million new vehicle owners who bought new vehicles again during the 2013 model year.

“Winning five Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards is proof-positive of Chrysler Group’s drive to build the best vehicles on the market,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales, Chrysler Group LLC. “Customers will only come back if they trust their vehicles to deliver flawless quality and reliability, and these awards speak volumes about Chrysler Group’s extensive vehicle lineup.”

Chrysler Town & Country
The 2014 Chrysler Town & Country minivan is celebrating its 30th anniversary as one of the leading innovators in the segment it created back in late 1983. The world-class interior of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan is beautifully crafted with high-quality materials that are soft to the touch, and offers tech-savvy entertainment features and smart storage and seating options including Stow ‘n Go® seating with one-touch fold-down function, class-exclusive dual Blu-ray DVD entertainment system, navigation and SIRIUSXM satellite radio with Travel Link making the Chrysler Town & Country the ultimate family vehicle. A 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces a best-in-class 283 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a fuel economizer mode delivering up to 25 miles per gallon highway.

Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee completely redefines the premium SUV, delivering an unprecedented combination of best-in-class fuel economy and driving range, available clean-diesel technology, legendary benchmark capability, world-class craftsmanship, and a host of advanced user-friendly technology and safety features. For 2014, Grand Cherokee offers a new EcoDiesel engine with best-in-class 30 mpg highway and an unmatched driving range of more than 730 miles.  A new eight-speed transmission drives all Grand Cherokee engines, including the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 – achieving up to 25 mpg and more than 600 miles driving range – and the 5.7-liter V-8, now achieving up to 22 mpg.

Jeep Wrangler
The iconic Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – is equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and up to 21 miles per gallon. Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability with legendary four-wheel drive and is produced with more than seven decades of 4x4 engineering experience.  Wrangler continues to offer a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, live axles, electronic lockers, and is one of the few mid-size SUVs that offer a six-speed manual transmission – in addition to its five-speed automatic transmission.

Dodge Challenger
With record sales levels since the reintroduction of the Challenger in 2008, the Dodge brand’s performance icon continues to deliver exactly what muscle car enthusiasts want – a powerful and efficient engine lineup, iconic muscle-car design with numerous personalization packages. Dodge Challenger combines world-class ride, refinement and braking performance with more power and a track-tuned suspension to deliver a thrilling driving experience. With its award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower and an impressive 25 mpg highway, the Dodge Challenger is the most powerful, refined and technologically advanced entry-level Challenger ever. And now with the return of “Scat Package” performance stage kits, plus the enthusiast-demanded Shaker performance hood with its HEMI® V-8 engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element for cold-air induction – the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker delivers up to 375 horsepower, performance and even more heritage-inspired style for the most hardcore Dodge enthusiasts.

Fiat 500
Reminiscent of the original 500 or "Cinquecento" born in 1957, the new Fiat 500 builds on the vehicle's global popularity. Since its initial launch on July 4, 2007, more than 1,000,000 Fiat 500 vehicles have been sold in more than 100 countries around the world. In addition to success on the sales front, the Fiat 500 has earned more than 80 international awards, including being named the 2008 European Car of the Year, 2009 World Car Design of the Year and Best New Engine of 2010 (Fiat MultiAir® Turbo). In the U.S., the 2012 Fiat 500 was named "Best Buy" in the subcompact category by Consumers Digest and was deemed a "Top Safety Pick" by the influential Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

EURO NCAP releases 2013 best in class winners.

Each year, Euro NCAP identifies the models tested that have achieved the highest scores in their respective class. In 2013, a total of 33 cars were tested in 7 different categories. The top achievers gained the highest overall scores, calculated from the results achieved in adult, child, pedestrian protection and safety assist tests.

The 2013 best in class cars are:

• Renault ZOE - Supermini
• Qoros 3 Sedan - Small Family
• Lexus IS 300h - Large Family
• Kia Carens and Ford Tourneo Connect - Small MPV
• Jeep Cherokee - Small off-road 4X4
• Maserati Ghibli - Executive

The Qoros 3 Sedan becomes the best performer of any car subjected to Euro NCAP's crash tests in 2013 and is the first vehicle developed in China to achieve the highest five star rating under the overall rating scheme. The Supermini electric car Renault ZOE and the Large Family car Lexus IS 300h were the all round performers of the electric/hybrid cars tested by Euro NCAP in 2013. This year, the best in class honour in the Small MPV category is shared by the Kia Carens and Ford Tourneo Connect. Finally, the Jeep Cherokee and the Maserati Ghibli also receive the coveted designation from Euro NCAP in the Small Off-Road 4X4 and Executive categories respectively.

In 2013, Euro NCAP updated its assessment of child occupant protection, giving credit to manufacturers that allow for easy installation of most popular types of child seats and which comply with the most recent revised child safety standards. Furthermore, the organization has started to test voluntary-set intelligent speed assistant systems as part of the rating.

Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General, says: 'Euro NCAP is continuously evolving in response to industry innovation and consumer expectation. It is very positive that the number of 4 and 5 stars is still significant despite of the ever increasing requirements. In 2014, another big step forward is taken by adding crash avoidance systems such as Autonomous Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Warning tests to the overall star rating.' Michiel van Ratingen to add: 'The decision to reward collision avoidance technologies on new cars will encourage more widespread fitment and further improve the safety of all road users in Europe. We hope that this, together with very high levels of occupant protection, will allow consumers to choose the very safest vehicles in 2014 and after.'

USA - December 2013 Sales: Automakers Shatter Records

The end of the year usually brings strong sales figures, and while a good number of automakers saw negative sales numbers for the month, they still managed to break yearly sales records. Some automakers even managed to set new sales records, like Audi who had its best U.S. sales year to date.Looking at the month of December, Honda had its best December sales, while Volkswagen managed to have its second best December since 1972. Other automakers boasted strong months, including Mitsubishi that had its best December in seven years.

We can't look at the month of December and not take a peek at overall sales records. Ford claimed its best year of sales since 2006, Kia had its second best full year of sales in the U.S., and Mazda managed to have its best year of retail-only sales since 1994.Even the luxury automakers outdid themselves. Mercedes-Benz achieved its highest year of sales in the U.S. with 312,534 units sold in 2013. BMW managed to break its U.S. all-time sales record, while both the BMW and Mini brands set new sales records.Take a look at the chart below to see how each automaker finished out 2013.

REPORT HERE

MEXICO - Chrysler Group announces December sales across all brands.

• FIAT brand sales, driven by Fiat 500, up 111 percent during December 2013, marking this its best sales year since its launch
• Ram Crew Cab increased its sales volume 29 percent during December 2013
• Jeep® brand sales grew 5 percent, led by Jeep Patriot and Jeep Grand Cherokee; Jeep Cherokee has arrived in dealerships, well accepted
• Dodge brand sales propelled by Dodge Journey, which registered sales of 1,579 units — its best sales month in the last two years; Dodge Challenger registered sales of 96 units, best sales month ever and Dodge Durango sold 196 units, marking this its best sales month in five years

Chrysler de Mexico announced sales of 10,473 units for the month of December 2013, setting a sales record for the year.

“As the year ends, we feel very proud of what we accomplished. We closed 2013 with our best month of sales for the year. This month our sales were driven by Dodge Journey, Jeep Patriot, Ram Crew Cab and Fiat 500," said Bruno Cattori, President & CEO of Chrysler de Mexico. "Our new product launches, such as Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Cherokee and Ram ProMaster, pushed our growth sales for the year. During 2013, we opened the Saltillo Van Assembly Plant and added a production line in the Saltillo North Engine Plant, creating new jobs and demonstrating the confidence the Company has in the products assembled in Mexico. We will continue providing new and revamped products in order to satisfy our customers’ needs.”

Chrysler Brand
Chrysler brand continues to perform well with 520 units sold during December 2013. Chrysler Town & Country sales rose 2 percent. Chrysler 200 sold 112 units during December 2013.

Jeep® Brand
Jeep brand sales grew 5 percent. Jeep Patriot led brand sales with 984 units sold, best sales month of the year. Jeep Grand Cherokee posted sales of 632 units, representing an increase of 15 percent. Jeep Wrangler sales improved 27 percent, all versus December 2012. Jeep Cherokee has had very good acceptance among Mexican customers in its second sales month.

Dodge Brand
Dodge brand continues its streak of successful numbers, posting sales this month of 3,894 units. The Dodge Challenger sold 96 units, best sales month ever, while the Dodge Durango registered a sales increase of 32 percent — its best sales month in 5 years. Dodge Journey sales surged 7 percent versus December 2012, with 1,579 units, marking this its best sales month in two years. Dodge Avenger sales grew 16 percent.

Ram Truck Brand
Ram brand showed sales of 1,371. Ram Crew Cab reported a sales increase of 29 percent, with 503 units sold during December 2013. Ram ProMaster, proudly assembled in Mexico, registered sales of 151 units.

FIAT and Alfa Romeo Brand
FIAT and Alfa Romeo achieved sales of 108 percent, with 1,013 units sold. Fiat 500 reached excellent results with 432 units sold during December 2013. Fiat Ducato sales surged 45 percent. This month, Alfa Romeo Giulietta sales improved 60 percent, marking this its best sales month since its launch.

USA - Chrysler announces December and full year corporate figures.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 6 Percent – Best December Sales in Six Years; Full-Year Sales Up 9 Percent – Strongest Annual Sales Since 2007

• 45th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
• Chrysler Group full-year U.S. sales increase 9 percent in 2013; fourth-consecutive year of annual sales growth
• Jeep® and Ram Truck brands each post double-digit sales increases in December compared with same month a year ago
• Jeep brand posts best December sales ever with 34 percent sales gain; brand sets global sales record in 2013
• All-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee sales top 15,000 units in its second full month of sales; sales up 48 percent compared with previous month of November
• Motor Trend selects Ram 1500 as its 2014 Truck of the Year; Ram pickup sales up 11 percent in December
• 2014 Dodge Dart, Dodge Avenger and Chrysler 200 sedans earn Top Safety Pick ratings from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 161,007 units, a 6 percent increase compared with sales in December 2012 (152,367 units), and the group’s best December sales since 2007.

The Jeep® and Ram Truck brands each posted double-digit percentage sales gains in December compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 34 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during the month. FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 45-consecutive months in December.

“Chrysler Group ended the year with a 6 percent sales gain in December and our 45th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Our Jeep and Ram Truck brands had a strong finish led by the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and the Ram pickup truck, Motor Trend’s 2014 Truck of the Year. Sales of the new Cherokee topped 15,000 units in December as our newest SUV continues its solid sales performance out of the gate.”

In its second full month of sales, the new Cherokee mid-size SUV recorded sales of 15,038 units, surpassing sales of the Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep brand recorded its best December sales ever. In addition, the Wrangler and Jeep Patriot each recorded their best December sales ever.

Full-year Chrysler Group sales were up 9 percent in 2013, compared with sales during 2012. It was the fourth-consecutive year of Chrysler Group sales growth. The Ram Truck brand, with its 22 percent increase in 2013, had the largest full-year sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand. Chrysler Group realized sales growth in both its car and truck segments during the year. Chrysler Group car sales in the U.S. were up 11 percent in 2013, while truck sales were up 8 percent. The Jeep brand set a global sales record in 2013.

Chrysler Group finished the month of December with a 79 days supply of inventory (508,615 units). U.S. industry sales figures for December are internally projected at an estimated 15.8 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

December 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 34 percent in December, its best December sales ever and the largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. The Jeep brand’s December sales were second only to record sales in July 2005.

Sales of the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee were up 48 percent compared with the previous month of November. Jeep brand dealers sold 15,038 units of the new Cherokee during December, its second full month of sales. The Cherokee topped Jeep Wrangler sales in December as it continued its strong sales launch. The Cherokee was crowned the “Best New SUV/CUV Under $35,000” in December by the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada. The new Cherokee bested a quartet of rivals from one of the country’s most popular and hard-fought vehicle segments.

The Wrangler, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass each posted year-over-year sales gains in December. The Patriot compact SUV, with its 35 percent increase, logged the largest percentage sales gain of any Jeep brand model in December. Wrangler sales were up 4 percent in December, compared with the same month a year ago. Both the Wrangler and Patriot each posted their best December sales ever.

Ram Truck Brand

Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 11 percent in December, its 44th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best December sales since 2004. Sales of the Ram Heavy Duty pickups were up 16 percent, while Ram Light Duty sales increased 7 percent. Motor Trend selected the Ram 1500 in December as its 2014 Truck of the Year, its first ever back-to-back winner. Nine Truck of the Year contenders were put through an extensive battery of testing designed to evaluate virtually every aspect of each vehicle. The judges were particularly impressed with the performance of the Ram 1500’s all-new EcoDiesel V-6 engine as well as its eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission, a combination that boasts a towing capacity of up to 9,200 pounds. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 is among Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2014.

Ram Truck brand sales were up 17 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster van were up 126 percent, compared with the previous month of November. The ProMaster van went on sale in the U.S. in October. The Ram Commercial Truck division in December announced that it will offer an all-new small van for the North American market. Joining the larger ProMaster as an additional van offering, the 2015 Ram ProMaster City will compete with small commercial and passenger vans.

Full-year Ram Truck brand sales were up 22 percent in 2013, the largest percentage sales increase of any Chrysler Group brand for the year.

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago. The FIAT brand recorded nine months of year-over-year sales gains during 2013. Sales of the new Fiat 500L, which debuted in June, were up 52 percent in December compared with the previous month of November.

The all-electric Fiat 500e Battery-Electric Drive System was among Ward’s 10 Best Engines for 2014 and the lone representative of electric-vehicle technology. The battery-electric drive system in the 500e hatchback delivers the best-in-class range of 87 miles.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales were down 9 percent in December, but full-year sales in 2013 were up 14 percent on strong Dodge Dart, Dodge Durango, and Dodge Challenger sales. Sales of the Durango full-size SUV were up 3 percent in December compared with the same month a year ago, extending its run of year-over-year sales gains to 14-consecutive months. It was the Durango’s best December sales in eight years. Sales of the Dodge Charger were up 29 percent in December.

The 2014 Dart and Dodge Avenger sedans earned Top Safety Pick ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in December. The announcement marks the fifth-consecutive year that the IIHS has commended the Avenger mid-size sedan. Meanwhile, the insurance industry organization has hailed the Dart compact sedan each year since it arrived on the market in 2012. The Dodge sedans feature significant advanced-technology steel content, which enhances structural integrity. The Dart’s 68 percent content ratio of high-strength steel is among the highest in the industry. The Dart also boasts a 5-star safety rating based on crash tests performed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were down 21 percent in December, but sales of the award-winning Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 5 percent compared with the same month a year ago. It was the Town & Country’s best December sales in three years. For the full year, Town & Country sales were up 9 percent in 2013.

Chrysler 200 sedan sales were up 3 percent for the full year, compared with sales in 2012. The 2014 Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in December, the model’s fourth-consecutive Top Safety Pick from the insurance industry organization.

USA - Sales for November by brand and with best seller.

Another month has come and gone, and automakers have announced November sales figures. Just like last month, all but six automakers managed to have positive numbers. The majority of automakers show double digit percentage increases over the same month last year, showing the industry as a whole is continuing to grow.

This month’s sales leader was once again Jaguar, with an increase of 103 percent. Not as high as last month, but the automaker continues to outpace the rest of the industry. High sales of the new XF have boosted Jaguar to the top, and with new models coming out in the months ahead, we can expect the numbers to continue to climb.

Volkswagen continues to struggle with sales, and although the numbers weren’t as low as last month, it seems like the automaker needs to do something to get back in the positive. Volvo has also struggled this month, showing a decrease of over 30 percent when compared to November 2012. Hopefully with the holidays coming, sales will increase for the automakers.

Check out the numbers below to see what automakers managed to stay on top.

REPORT HERE

Jeep celebrates a win and highly commended in 4x4 awards

The legendary Jeep Wrangler continues to demonstrate its award-winning credentials after taking 4x4 Magazine’s 4x4 of the Year, Hardcore class for the second year running.

The award, which goes specifically to the four-door Wrangler, comes from the specialist publication’s panel of expert judges, who put the rugged US-built off-roader above some extremely capable competitors.

In the same awards, Jeep’s new Grand Cherokee received a Highly Commended accolade in the Premiums category.

In awarding it top honours, the 4x4 of the Year competition judges praised the Wrangler’s value for money, comfortable interior, off-roading ability, towing prowess and iconic design.

“The Jeep Wrangler remains 4x4 Magazine’s Hardcore Class champion. It effortlessly demonstrates its off-road capabilities with immense power and torque, while delivering a gorgeously low, first crawler gear for when finesse is needed,” says Nigel Fryatt, editor, 4x4 Magazine.

“All this in a comfortable, well equipped interior. Our only real criticism? There should be more of them around.”

“It's the classic 4x4 vehicle that is instantly recognisable the world over. The Jeep Wrangler is the essence of what Jeep stands for and we're honoured to receive a top award such as the Hardcore 4x4 of the Year," says Steve Zanlunghi, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK.

"We're especially happy to win in consecutive years as it speaks volumes for the design and capability of the current generation Wrangler."

The diesel-powered, automatic Wrangler returns 34.9 mpg (34.0 mpg 4-door) on the combined cycle and has a CO2 figure of 213 g/km (217 g/km 4-door). Prices start at £27,315 OTR for the two-door Wrangler 2.8 CRD Sahara, rising to £31,670 OTR for the four-door 2.8 CRD Overland Axle +.

Now with lower emissions of 198 g/km together with fuel consumption of up to 37.7 mpg (combined), the new Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel range also offers real value in terms of running costs. The new Grand Cherokee range starts at £36,995 (OTR) for the 3.0 CRD V6 CRD Laredo, rising to £49,495 (OTR) for the 3.0 V6 CRD Summit.

USA - Jeep® Wrangler Named SEMA’s ‘Hottest 4x4-SUV’ for Fourth Consecutive Year

Jeep® Wrangler Named SEMA’s ‘Hottest 4x4-SUV’ for Fourth Consecutive Year; Mopar Announces New Jeep Performance Parts and Accessories

• Jeep® Wrangler recognized as ‘Hottest 4x4-SUV’ for fourth consecutive year at SEMA
• New Mopar performance parts and accessories for the Jeep Wrangler have been added to the catalog of more than 300 already available

The Jeep® Wrangler was recognized as the “Hottest 4x4-SUV” for a fourth consecutive year at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in Las Vegas. The SEMA Award recognizes vehicle models that specialty equipment manufacturers believe are the best platforms for accessorization and that showcase the year’s coolest products.

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting presented the award to Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“Consumers are increasingly interested in customizing vehicles, so having an accessory-friendly platform is important,” said Kersting. “The Jeep Wrangler has consistently ranked Number One as the Hottest 4x4-SUV since the inception of the SEMA Award, a clear reflection of its versatility.”

“It’s amazing to have the Jeep Wrangler recognized for a fourth straight year by SEMA with this award,” Gorlier said. “The Wrangler is our most accessorized vehicle and to see it consistently winning accolades is a demonstration of the quality of the vehicle and the work that Mopar has put in to develop accessories and quality Jeep Performance Parts. Enthusiasts will be happy to know we have just added new offerings to our more than 300 performance parts and accessories already available for this vehicle to provide even more options for customization.”

Mopar and Jeep recently created Jeep Performance Parts as a portfolio of high-end, hard-core Jeep parts including axles, lift kits, bumpers, winches, skid plates and suspension components. These performance parts will offer factory-engineered solutions to increase off-road performance.

The following are the newest Mopar parts and accessories available for the Jeep Wrangler:

2014 Jeep Wrangler Trail Rated Kit: Strap it up and tow it along with this Trail Rated kit, which includes a durable, high-quality tow strap and two heavy-duty D-rings. A pair of gloves is included for protection and the kit is transported in an attractive Jeep carrying bag.

Front Axles: Engineered to exact specifications to bolt into any Jeep Wrangler from 2007 to 2014, these production front-axle assemblies come completely assembled and provide the next level of off-road performance. The Dana 44 axles include a 4:10 ratio, 5 x 5-inch bolt pattern and an electric locker with an available wiring kit.

Rear Axles: Engineered to exact specifications to bolt into any Jeep Wrangler from 2007 to 2014, these production rear-axle assemblies come completely assembled and provide the next level of off-road performance. The Dana 44 axles include a 4:10 ratio, 5 x 5-inch bolt pattern and an electric locker with an available wiring kit.

Hardtop Headliner:  Three years of development and testing were involved in creating this kit. The high-density foam-backed non-woven fabric serves a triple purpose, enhancing the appearance of the hardtop, boosting the efficiency of the Wrangler’s HVAC system and providing a quieter ride environment. Available for models 2007 and newer.

Black Grille: Juice up the Jeep Wrangler with personalized style by customizing it with a satin black grille. This Mopar accessory is a direct, easy replacement to the production body-color grille, and also features the hood seal and a matching black Jeep badge.

Side Visor:  Sunshine is a delight — up until it becomes a distraction. The fold-down Mopar side visor for the Jeep Wrangler is a low-cost, easy-to-install defense that blocks sidelong sunlight glare that can pull attention away from the road or trail.

2014 Jeep Wrangler
The iconic Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – kicks off the new model year with new features such as a new Trail Rated Kit featuring two D-rings, a tow strap, gloves and a bag to store the items.  Clear park lamps and turn signal indicators replace the amber units, and Sport models can now be equipped with the Uconnect 6.5-inch touchscreen radio with hard drive storage and SiriusXM Radio.  Sport models also have an available 32-inch Tire and Wheel Group featuring semi-gloss black 17-inch Rubicon aluminum wheels and BF Goodrich KM LT255/75R17 off-road tires.

Chrysler Group’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine – two-time winner of the prestigious Ward’s 10 Best Engines award – delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and up to 21 miles per gallon. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading.  Engineers also designed the oil sump to provide oil to the pump even at extreme vehicle angles, and the alternator was placed up high so Wrangler can maintain its water-fording capability.

The 2014 Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability with legendary four-wheel drive and is produced with more than seven decades of 4x4 engineering experience.  Wrangler continues to offer a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, live axles, electronic lockers, and is one of the few mid-size SUVs that offer a six-speed manual transmission – in addition to its five-speed automatic transmission.

Jeep Brand
Built on more than 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models sold outside North America are available in both left and right-hand drive configurations and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC products are available in more than 150 countries around the world.

Mopar Brand
Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand and distributes 280,000 parts and accessories. With the creation of the industrial alliance between Chrysler Group and Fiat S.p.A., Mopar is extending its global reach, integrating service, parts and customer-care operations in order to enhance dealer and customer support worldwide. Mopar’s global portfolio includes more than 500,000 parts and accessories that are distributed in more than 130 markets. Mopar is the source for genuine parts and accessories for Chrysler Group brands as well as Fiat brands.
Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler Group and Fiat vehicles – a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at www.mopar.com.

Mopar-first Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

• Vehicle-information apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with customers
• Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format. First to offer complete vehicle-information kits in Spanish
• Wi-Fi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
• Wireless charging: first to introduce in-vehicle wireless charging for portable devices
• Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to market with interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters
• wiAdvisor: first to provide factory-connected tablet technology in the service lane for instant vehicle diagnosis
• wiTech: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network
• 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car

More than 75 Years of Mopar
Mopar (a simple contraction of the words Motor and PARts) was trademarked for antifreeze product in 1937. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s – the muscle-car era. The former Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth “package cars” equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of “special parts” for super-stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use. The brand has expanded to include technical service and customer support.

About SEMA and SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks

Chrysler Group LLC has reported U.S. sales of 140,083 units, an 11 percent increase compared with sales in October 2012

• 43rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each post sales increases in October compared with same month a year ago
• Six Chrysler Group vehicles each set sales record for month of October
• Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass and Patriot each post year-over-year sales gains led by the 68 percent increase in Compass sales
• Two all-new models – 2014 Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV and 2014 Ram ProMaster van – arriving at dealerships across the country; first sales recorded in October for both new vehicles
• Ram Truck, Jeep and Dodge brand vehicles take top honors at the annual Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Texas Truck Rodeo
• All-new 2014 Fiat 500L and all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee each earn a Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)

Chrysler Group LLC has reported U.S. sales of 140,083 units, an 11 percent increase compared with sales in October 2012 (126,185 units), and the group’s best October sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Ram Truck brand’s 22 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during the month. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 43 consecutive months in October.

“After a choppy start to the beginning of the month, Chrysler Group sales accelerated in the second half of the month with renewed consumer confidence and the launch of our all-new Jeep Cherokee,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Following a meticulous focus on quality, our new Jeep Cherokee began shipping to dealers and quickly selling which helped us to achieve our 43rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases.”

The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster went on sale in October, expanding the Chrysler Group product lineup. Six Chrysler Group vehicles logged their best October sales ever, including the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot, and the Dodge Journey crossover, Dodge Dart compact car and the Dodge Challenger. This was the Wrangler’s seventh sales record this year, including an all-time sales record in May. The Ram Cargo Van also logged its best October sales ever.

Chrysler Group finished the month with an 86 days supply of inventory (445,271 units). U.S. industry sales figures for October are projected at an estimated 15.7 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

October 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

Ram Truck Brand

Ram Truck brand sales were up 22 percent compared with the same month a year ago.  Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 18 percent, its 42nd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best October sales since 2004. The Ram Truck brand recorded its first sales of the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster van in October.

The Ram Truck brand took home eight awards last month at the annual Texas Auto Writers Association Texas Truck Rodeo, including the Truck Line of Texas. The 2014 Ram 1500 was named Truck of Texas for the second-consecutive year, as well as Full-Size Truck and Luxury Truck of Texas. The 2014 Ram 2500 received the Heavy Duty Truck of Texas award and Best Technology award for its five-link coil rear suspension. The 2014 Ram ProMaster was named the Commercial Vehicle of Texas, while the Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee shared the Best Powertrain award for the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine.

Sales of the Ram Cargo Van were up 120 percent, its best October sales ever.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales were up 12 percent in October, the brand’s best October sales since 2005 and its 29th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Dodge Dart, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Journey mid-size crossover each recorded their best October sales ever, while sales of the Dodge Charger sport sedan were up 60 percent.

Sales of the Dodge Grand Caravan were up 9 percent, the minivan’s best October sales in seven years. To celebrate 30 years of minivan leadership, the 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan 30th Anniversary Edition, available on both the SE and SXT models, is now on sale featuring unique content, including commemorative badging, special paint and black interior trim.

The Dodge Durango full-size SUV extended to 12-consecutive months its run of year-over-year sales gains with its 59 percent increase. The Durango was named the 2014 Full-Size SUV of Texas during TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo in October.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 7 percent in October as all Jeep brand vehicles, excluding the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee, posted year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep Compass, with its 68 percent sales gain, recorded the largest percentage increase of any Jeep brand model in October. The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot each set a sales record for the month of October. The Wrangler has set a sales record in seven months this year, including an all-time record in May. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the SUV of Texas for the fourth-consecutive year, were up 20 percent in October, its best October sales since 2005. The flagship Grand Cherokee also won Mid-Size SUV and Luxury Mid-Size SUV of Texas during last month’s Texas Truck Rodeo. The Wrangler took home the award for Off-Road Utility Vehicle of Texas.

The all-new Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV went on sale in October in dealerships across the country, recording sales of 579 units in its partial month of sales. The Cherokee has already won an award in its first head-to-head vehicle competition – Compact SUV of Texas – in TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo. In addition, the Cherokee earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in October.

The Cherokee completely redefines the mid-size SUV segment, delivering legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission, fuel economy improvements of more than 45 percent (versus the former Jeep Liberty model), superior on-road ride and handling, a cutting-edge, revolutionary design, world-class craftsmanship, class-exclusive technology and more than 70 advanced safety and security features.

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were up 6 percent, the brand’s best October sales performance since 2007. Sales of the award-winning Chrysler Town & Country were up 28 percent, the minivan’s best October sales in six years. As the creator of the minivan segment, Chrysler Group is celebrating 30 years of the minivan this fall. Now on sale, the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country 30th Anniversary Edition is based on the Touring L model and features unique exterior and interior content. Town & Country sales are up 6 percent through October this year compared with the same period in 2012.

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales were down slightly in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat 500e all-electric model, available in the state of California, logged its best sales month so far this year. Sales of the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L were up 26 percent in October versus the previous month. October was the 500L’s best sales month since launch in June. The 500L was named a 2013 Top Safety Pick in October by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 500L recorded the highest-possible rating in each of four IIHS tests to determine the Top Safety Pick. The innovative, four-door B-segment hatchback was one of two Chrysler Group vehicles to earn the designation during the latest round of IIHS evaluations. Top Safety Pick testing simulates a side impact, front moderate-overlap impact, roof-crush consistent with a rollover, and a rear collision capable of inducing whiplash.

USA - New Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition to enter showrooms from November

• Following debut at Frankfurt Motor Show, new Wrangler Polar Edition to hit Jeep® showrooms in November
• New limited-edition Jeep Wrangler features new front grille with Black accents, body-color hardtop, aggressive 18-inch polished Gloss Black alloy wheels and Polar White interior finishes
• Standard Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential with available electronic locker for challenging the most extreme routes and the most demanding driving conditions in any weather

Jeep® Wrangler is legendary for its go-anywhere capability, no matter what challenges the weather or seasons may bring. To celebrate the upcoming winter season, the Jeep brand is bringing its new Wrangler Polar Edition, which made its debut at last month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, to U.S. showrooms in November.

“Jeep Wrangler is known for its 4x4 capability on any road or trail and in any weather condition,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The new Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition represents a tip of the hat to our loyal Jeep enthusiasts who are also lovers of outdoor winter activities and adventures. This new winter-themed Jeep will get them where they want to go, in a fun, new, unique – and very capable – special-edition package.”

The new 2014 Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition takes inspiration from the severe climate and extreme conditions that characterize the Antarctic region. Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition was designed to express the freedom of going beyond the known limits to venture into unexplored territories:  an experience that only Wrangler enthusiasts can enjoy, thanks to the reliability and safety granted by a vehicle featuring benchmark technology and unmatched off-road capability. With its hostile routes and severe climate, the Antarctic region offers the driving conditions that the iconic Jeep Wrangler was engineered to conquer.

The "Polar" badge, located on the vehicle’s side next to the front fender flares, exhibits the 78° S and 106° E coordinates that correspond to the location of Vostok in Antarctica: the exact point where the absolute severest temperature in the world was recorded at -128.56° F (-89.2° C).

Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition
Featuring exclusive styling cues, 18-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels, and a body-color hardtop, the new Jeep Wrangler Polar will be available in both two- and four-door Unlimited versions. Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, the exterior of the new Wrangler Polar Edition boasts unique features such as the new front grille, Powerdome hood and the body-color hardtop with deep-tint sunscreen glass. A Gloss Black Jeep logo above the front grille and Gloss Black 18" alloy wheels enhance the distinctive look of the vehicle. Completing the exterior appointment of the new Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition is the unique, three-color hood decal, featuring the outline of mountains, and the black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

The interior features Black heated leather seats enhanced by Pearl White accent stitching and “Polar” logo embroidered on the upper portion of the backrests. Standard equipment also includes a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with Pearl White stitching and high-gloss Ceramic White painted bezels. Pearl White accent stitching is found also on the door armrests and center console lid. The passenger-side dashboard grab bar and dashboard vent rings are finished in high-gloss Ceramic White to create the contrasting effect of the light on Antarctic glaciers.

The exclusive cabin of the Jeep Wrangler Polar special edition also features an all-new cluster overlay with rings painted high-gloss Ceramic White and surrounding a blue instrument background with “Polar” logo. Mopar tread-pattern slush mats complete the interior appointments of the new Wrangler Polar Edition.

In addition to an all-new Hydro Blue, the Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition model is also available in Billet Silver Metallic and Bright White exterior colors.

Engineered to take on the most challenging off-road trails and snow-covered roads, Jeep Wrangler Polar is equipped with the Dana 30 front axle and powerful Dana 44 rear axle. Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. In order to handle any off-road track in utmost safety, the new Wrangler Polar model comes standard with the Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential with an available electronic locking differential.

The standard equipment for on-board comfort includes automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat, Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) and cruise control.

The new limited-edition model will be powered by the award-winning Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine that delivers 285 hp and 260 ft.-lbs. of torque and is paired to a standard six-speed manual or an available five-speed automatic transmission. Wrangler achieves up to 21 miles per gallon while still providing strong low-end torque necessary for easy off-roading.

The 2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT has been named “SUV of the Year” by Esquire magazine

The 2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT has been named “SUV of the Year” by Esquire magazine in this year’s Esquire Car Awards.

Vehicles considered for the 2013 Esquire Car Awards were required to be all-new, appealing to Esquire readers, stylish, a good value and most importantly, a vehicle you want to drive.

“The one sonic experience of the year that I will not forget is engaging the ignition on the [Grand Cherokee] SRT,” said David Granger, Esquire magazine editor-in-chief. “This is the sweetest-sounding most reasonably priced engine note of our time.”

Esquire editors drove numerous vehicles to make the selections for the 2013 Esquire Car Awards, which appear in the magazine’s November issue on newsstands now.

“The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT combines impressive performance and luxury wrapped in a muscular and stylish exterior,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO – SRT Brand and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. “Winning Esquire’s ‘SUV of the Year’ award continues to help set us apart from esteemed competitors by appealing to the passionate, performance-enthusiast consumers with its unique blend of value, technology, power and character.”

Starting with the performance-oriented and functional designs from Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT model builds on that success with new technologies and exterior and interior styling cues that convey an even higher level of opulence and power.

Enhancements for the 2014 model year include an all-new, fully electronic eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers improved fuel economy, significantly improved towing capacity, hardware and software revisions that further heighten Grand Cherokee SRT’s fun-to-drive factor during a daily commute or for more spirited driving on the race track.

The new transmission is mated to the proven and powerful 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology delivering 470 horsepower (351 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 465 lb.-ft. (630 N•m) of torque at 4,300 rpm and helps deliver greatly enhanced towing performance of 7,200 pounds – a 44-percent improvement over the 5,000-lb. towing capacity from the previous model.

Outside, the new 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT sports styling that is even more aggressive than the previous model. Design enhancements for 2014 include a new signature LED character lamp treatment, a brawnier grille, a new, one-touch liftgate and a new rear spoiler.

Inside, Grand Cherokee SRT customers are treated to a new 8.4-inch touchscreen that displays a wealth of SRT-exclusive Performance Pages data. A new launch control button is situated behind the new T-handle shifter on the center console, and a redesigned SRT-exclusive three-spoke, heated steering wheel with more ergonomically efficient paddle shifters, features a host of comfort, convenience and connectivity controls.

About SRT
The Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The 2014 SRT lineup features five vehicles that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. The Chrysler 300 SRT, Dodge Challenger SRT, Dodge Charger SRT and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT join the flagship SRT Viper, which made its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market in 2013.

Jeep Cherokees missing in action as thousands stack up at factory

Sometimes I wonder if Chrysler didn't have bad luck, if they'd have any....

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee rolled into the spotlight to much debate in February, with its angular looks boldly moving away from the slab-cut Cherokees of yore. First assembly began in July, and reviewers drove the cars in August and September. Yet today, weeks after it was expected to hit the market, there's not a single Cherokee up for sale in any Jeep dealership in America — despite at least 19,000 having been built.

A search of Chrysler's nationwide dealer inventory system shows nine Cherokees listed as "in transit" to dealers, a small break in a giant logjam; Chrysler's own data showed it had built 18,849 Cherokees at the plant in Toledo as of September 30, and production has continued since then. Chrysler has offered few specifics about the delay, saying it involved "powertrain calibration" issues and vowing that it would not let buyers have a half-baked SUV:

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee has an all-new nine-speed transmission, two new powertrains, three advanced four-wheel-drive systems and has undergone more than 14 million test miles in order to ensure the vehicle meets our highest quality standards. Once the latest powertrain calibration is validated, the company will be able to quickly update the powertrain software on Cherokees already built and ship vehicles to dealership around the country in quantity.

Complex may be an understatement. The nine-speed transmission, an industry first designed by German firm ZF but built by Chrysler at its own factory in Indiana, has been expected to see duty in many Chrysler front-wheel-drive models as a key part of the company's plan to meet future fuel efficiency standards. The electronics and chassis of the Cherokee come from a platform shared with Fiat. And because it's a Jeep, the Cherokee has not just a typical all-wheel-drive system for its four- and six-cylinder engines, but an optional off-roadable four-wheel-drive unit with trick pieces like a locking rear differential — all of which has to work seamlessly with software controls.

Automakers occasionally have bumpy launches; last year Ford had to ship thousands of Lincoln MKZ sedans from Mexico to Michigan for repairs after factory troubles. And such delays hit the bottom line directly; automakers don't book a sale until a car leaves the factory, and dealers get antsy when they don't have the vehicles they expected to sell. But the alternative — selling cars with known problems that then require customers to go back to the dealership a few months later — would only shift Chrysler's reputation into low gear.

Source;

http://autos.yahoo.com/blogs/motoramic/jeep-cherokees-missing-action-thousands-stack-factory-192527121.html