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Ward's Auto Rates Chrysler's Pentastar V6 Among the Elite

Popular Engine Named to Publication's 10 Best Engines List for Second-Straight Year

December 27, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Refinement, power and efficiency are strong points of Chrysler's Pentastar V6, and those qualities have been earning praise from high places since the engine debuted for the 2011 model year. For the second year in a row the advanced engine, which is housed in SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, was chosen by the editors at Ward's Auto for its 10 Best Engines list.

Ward's editors tested 36 vehicles that featured 34 new or significantly upgraded engines, scoring them on power, technology, observed fuel economy, noise, vibration and harshness. The publication picked the Pentastar V6 after testing it in the Chrysler 300S and the 2012 Jeep Wrangler currently available at Jeep dealerships, noting that it had better fuel economy than most direct-injection V6s without being direct injected. Of course, the real advantage of an engine designed for SUVs should be its performance, and Ward's was impressed by the Pentastar's "outstanding refinement and power."

"Chrysler's engineers created a world-class engine when they designed the Pentastar V6," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Braintree, Massachusetts Jeep dealer. "The main goal of the Pentastar was not to improve fuel economy; it was to create a better-performing engine. But, the efficient way the unit produces power just lends itself to more miles per gallon."

Displacing 3.6-liters and using port injection rather than direct injection, the Pentastar produces 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Jeep claims that more than 90 percent of that torque is available from 1,600 to 6,400 rpm, which means strong acceleration in any situation, as well as impressive towing capability. In a properly equipped Grand Cherokee, the Pentastar V6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds, enough for a boat, small camper or jet skis when owners are looking to get away from it all on the weekends.

Even with that power, the 2012 Grand Cherokee is rated to return a very respectable 23 mpg on the highway with the Pentastar, granting the midsize utility a driving range of more than 500 miles on a single tank. That distance is roughly equal to driving from Boston to New York City and back without stopping for fuel. While that thought alone could endear the Grand Cherokee to Massachusetts commuters, it is the Jeep's all-conditions features, like standard Hill Start Assist and available Hill Descent Control, that are likely to win them over in the dead of winter.

U.S. sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee jumped 23 percent in November when compared to the same month last year, making it the best-selling Jeep vehicle for the month. All told, 13,545 Grand Cherokees found new homes in November, combining with impressive sales increases from the Wrangler and Compass to help boost the brand's sales by 50 percent for the month and 44 percent year-over-year.

"Jeep's two best-selling vehicles, the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, come with the Pentastar engine. That's no coincidence," Ao noted. "Modern Jeep owners are demanding more fuel efficiency but don't want to give up power to get it. That's where the Pentastar V6 comes in."

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Jeep Seeks Epic Driving Stories for 2012 Wrangler Giveaway

Adventurous Jeep Fans Share Times of Their Lives for Facebook Contest

October 24, 2011, Braintree, MA -- If you've had an outrageous time in a Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee or any Jeep for that matter, the sport-utility automaker wants to know about it. Through November 9, Jeep is accepting photos, videos and essays through its Facebook page from Jeep fans describing their favorite escapades involving a Jeep vehicle. It's called the Jeep Times of Your Life contest, and the most adventurous entrant will win a new 2012 Jeep Wrangler.

While entrants may not all be World War II veterans recounting how they stole their general's Jeep like a current video on Jeep's Facebook page, everyone is encouraged by Jeep to submit their "most boisterous, adventurous, or mischievous Jeep stories." In a separate video, Mark Smith, founder of Jeep Jamboree USA, explains the long history behind the nationwide Jamboree events and how they teach environmentally conscious off-roading.

"Smith started the iconic Jeep Jamboree because he fully explored his passion for off-roading, and we encourage our customers to do the same," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Jeep dealer. "When you're in a vehicle like a Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon with big tires and a custom tread, it's hard to stop yourself from looking for opportunities for adventure."

Massachusetts Jeep fans looking to win a 2012 Wrangler can enter the Times of Your Life contest via the application on Jeep's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/jeep. Entrants must upload a photo or a video between 15 seconds and 1 minute in length along with an essay no longer than 500 words recounting their best Jeep story.

After an initial public voting round on Facebook, sponsor-selected judges will then evaluate entries based on relevance, originality, entertainment value and the number of public votes received. The top 10 entries will then be posted to the Jeep Facebook page for a grand prize voting round, and the winner of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler will be determined in December.

For Jeep fans looking to enjoy off-roading in slippery conditions, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, now available at Massachusetts Jeep dealerships, features more capability than any model before it. Massachusetts drivers, not likely to be exploring dry desert conditions or completely flat plains, will appreciate the Wrangler's best-in-class water-fording capability and ground clearance, as well as approach and departure angles designed for tackling surprisingly sharp inclines and unexpected obstacles.

"Jeeps have been built to handle extreme road conditions and weather for decades, but the 2012 Wrangler is the best yet," added Ao. "And now the Wrangler comes with a new Pentastar engine that improves fuel efficiency by 10 percent, which means less sacrifice for all that performance."

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Chrysler Unveils First U.S.-Made Eight-Speed Transmission

New Gearbox Boosts Chrysler 300 Fuel Efficiency by 4 MPG

September 26, 2011, Braintree, MA -- The 2012 Chrysler 300 is ready to challenge the fuel-hungry image of the full-size American sedan, but instead of focusing on tires and wind resistance when designing the latest 300, Chrysler looked under the hood. Equipped with the first eight-speed automatic transmission manufactured in the United States, the full-size 2012 Chrysler 300 sedan sets a new bar for highway fuel efficiency in its class at 31 miles per gallon, up from 27 in the 2011 model.

The new transmission has additional smaller gearing at higher speeds to enable more efficient operation. In most other regards, the 2012 Chrysler 300 is familiar, with the same 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 from 2011 and a choice of standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The fuel-saving transmission will be a $1,000 upgrade on the base model 300 and a standard feature on higher-level trims. Chrysler dealerships will begin taking deliveries of the new 300 on October 1.

"Chrysler didn't just throw a spoiler on the back to help improve gas mileage" said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Chrysler dealer. "They improved the transmission so drivers wouldn't have to sacrifice performance or cabin space for fuel economy. Chrysler has proven that a full-size American sedan can compete on fuel efficiency at a time when some industry analysts thought the class was dead."

Chrysler licensed the design for its new eight-speed automatic transmission from German research and engineering group ZF Friedrichshafen AG, and it will also appear in the 2012 Dodge Charger. Like the 2012 Chrysler 300, the Dodge Charger will see its highway mileage improve to 31 miles per gallon. Although the new fuel economy estimates for the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger have yet to be verified by the EPA, it is rare for manufacturer estimates and EPA estimates to vary.

Improved fuel economy should add to the appeal of the Chrysler 300, which captured an Esquire Best Domestic Car of the Year award for the 2011 model, winning praise as "?a brand of four-wheeled American charm." Esquire singled out the 2011 Chrysler 300 as the perfect continuation of the American luxury sedan tradition, noting that new corporate partner Fiat had modernized the exterior design and greatly improved the quality of the 300's interior.

"The redesign of the 2011 Chrysler 300 was a turning point for Chrysler," Ao said. "For a long time, American sedans got stuck in neutral when it came to design, and younger car buyers started looking at them as land yachts for the elderly. Fiat helped Chrysler breathe new life into every aspect of the 300, and the result is a completely modern, relevant sedan that rewards its owners with endless pleasure on the road."

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Jeep Grand Cherokee Owners Love It Just the Way It Is

SUV Wins 2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Award for Meeting Owner Demands

August 24, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Every year, automotive research and consulting firm AutoPacific puts together its Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA), which shine light on vehicles that most live up to owner demands. This year, the redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee topped the Mid-Size Sport Utility category because its owners find little lacking in the SUV they left Jeep dealerships with.

To determine its 2011 IVA winners, AutoPacific surveyed 72,000 vehicle owners from the 2011 model year on 15 specific attributes they may want to change, ranging from exterior styling to driver visibility and handling. After the dust settled, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee had an Ideal Vehicle score of 1,207 out of 1,500, beating out the Nissan Xterra and Dodge Nitro, which rounded out the top three. The Grand Cherokee's top score means it is the vehicle that owners least want to change in the Mid-Size Sport Utility category, with drivers particularly pleased with its new styling, seat comfort, ride and exterior size.

"People who buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee are buying an icon that has evolved to meet today's driving needs," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Jeep dealer. "They know what the Grand Cherokee offers, and that's exactly what they want, so it's no surprise that they wouldn't want to change anything about their ride later on."

With a fresh design for 2011, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been racing up the sales charts, most recently posting a 76 percent increase in sales in July when compared with the same month last year. So far this year, the SUV's sales are up 107 percent, making Jeep's Grand Cherokee its second best-selling vehicle behind its other off-road icon, the Jeep Wrangler.

The most noticeable part of the 2011 Grand Cherokee's redesign is its sculpted exterior styling, which is both rugged and sophisticated, giving the vehicle a more luxurious air overall. That trend continues inside with high-quality materials used throughout the interior, including available two-tone leather, newly designed seats and best-in-class rear-seat legroom. A spacious interior means more cargo room as well, and the Grand Cherokee can fit anything from mountain bikes to camping gear thanks to its 68.7 cubic feet of space once the rear seats are folded. Even with the rear seats occupied, there is 35.1 cubic feet of space left for gear.

Jeep engineers did not neglect the Grand Cherokee's drivetrain during its refresh either. The vehicle includes a new standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 that twists out 290 horsepower and is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with new components that allow drivers to manually select the top transmission gear range. Even with its size and power, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee still returns a respectable 23-mpg on the highway, giving the SUV a driving range of up to 500 miles on a single tank of gas.

"With Jeep's redesign of the Grand Cherokee, capability has never been as comfortable," Ao noted. "The Grand Cherokee takes all the off-road technology that Jeeps are known for and wraps them in a sophisticated, refined package that is on par with any other luxury SUV. The only difference is that when the road ends, the Jeep can keep going where the others can't."

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Chrysler 300 Named NADAguides Car of the Month

Luxury Sedan to Get Power Boost with SRT8 Model

July 27, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Chrysler's 300 sedan has proven popular with consumers looking for accessible luxury, and now NADAguides.com has chosen the flagship model as its July Car of the Month. The selection coincided with the announced pricing of the formidable 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8, which will start at $47,995 and sport a powerful 6.4-liter HEMI engine when it arrives at Chrysler dealerships this fall.

NADAguides is a publisher of new and used car pricing, as well as vehicle information, and used numerous criteria to pick the 2011 Chrysler 300 as the July Car of the Month. Quality of engineering, fuel efficiency, safety, pricing and overall value were all considered before the 300 got the nod. Like other Car of the Month winners this year, the Chrysler 300 will now be eligible for the NADAguides Car of the Year award.

"Chrysler put a lot of effort into restyling the 300," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Chrysler dealer. "It includes a lot of the traits that made Chrysler products popular in the past, like innovative interior features and solid engineering at a great price, but it has really come of age when it comes to looking the part of a luxury car."

The Chrysler 300 received several updates for 2011, including revised LED headlights and interior ambient lighting, plus communications and entertainment technology like the Uconnect Touch System that make the sizeable sedan more sleek and sophisticated. Chrysler designers maintained the bold looks of the previous design but added in design cues from luxury makes like Bentley and Rolls-Royce for a more upscale exterior.

While its exterior may be refined, the latest Chrysler 300 model is not afraid to get a little rowdy. Powered by a 470-horsepower HEMI V8, the 2012 300 SRT8 is capable of sprinting to 60 mph in less than five seconds. For those that don't need quite as much speed as the SRT8, there are two other powerful yet efficient engines, including the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6, which is capable of energizing the luxury sedan with 292 horsepower while still netting 27 mpg on the highway.

Occupants of the Chrysler 300 can enjoy the optional heated front and rear seats and steering wheel, which make the luxury sedan a welcome winter chariot. Acoustic glass and a liberal application of silencing foam make the 300 a quiet place to enjoy the open road, while the new adaptive damping suspension will smooth out Boston's pot-holed streets.

"I can't think of a better car to drive across the countryside or under city lights," Ao noted. "Piloting the 300 is a serene experience, and its world-class interior, powerful engine and available technology is on-par with anything the Germans or Japanese can come up with. The Chrysler 300 is a true world-beater."

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Jeep Wrangler Rumored to Get Pentastar V6 Power

New Five-Speed Automatic Could Come as Part of New Drivetrain

June 21, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Signs are pointing toward a new engine and automatic transmission in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler coming to Jeep dealers later this year. Named one of the Ten Best Engines for 2010 by Ward's Automotive, The Toledo Blade is reporting that the new Chrysler Pentastar V6 engine found in the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee could soon find its way into the always-popular Jeep Wrangler

The 2011 Grand Cherokees equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 return 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, and the Jeep Wrangler could see similar gas mileage with the new powerplant. This would mean an improvement from the Wrangler's current fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Another drivetrain element that could find itself in the 2012 Wrangler is the five-speed automatic transmission that is now doing duty in the Grand Cherokee. The 2011 Jeep Wrangler currently comes with a four-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.

"The Pentastar V6 is already delivering outstanding performance in the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, so I don't see anything standing in the way of it getting into the Wrangler," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Jeep dealer. "It's a great engine ? it's smooth, refined and puts out a lot of power too, which is always a good thing for Jeep enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the trails and dunes around New England."

Jeep's Wrangler is currently powered by a 3.8-liter V6, which stepped into the role in 2007 as a replacement for the aging 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that had faithfully served Wrangler drivers since 1991. This older engine is expected to be replaced under the hood of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6, which despite its smaller displacement is significantly more powerful than its forbearer.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was the first vehicle to feature the Pentastar V6, which produces 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and is capable of running on gas or environmentally friendly E85 ethanol. In comparison, the 3.8-liter V6 found in the Wrangler produces 202 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque.

A revamped drivetrain will help Jeep improve its overall fuel efficiency as a new federal fuel economy mandate approaches requiring that an automaker's lineup average 35.5 mpg by 2016. Jeep has already started tweaking the Wrangler for better gas mileage in less obvious ways, spending extensive time in the wind tunnel to design the SUV to be more aerodynamic. Innovations like a curved windshield, a sloped front grill and new side mirrors retain the rugged looks of the Wrangler while reducing drag. The efforts had a secondary effect of reducing wind noise, which Jeep says has gone down 20 percent compared to the previous generation of Wranglers.

"The Chrysler Group is serious about saving customers at the pump, and they plan to improve fuel economy by 25 percent across the board, including the Jeep brand," Ao added. "The new Pentastar engine is a part of that equation, as are aerodynamic refinements in new models. They're treading very carefully to not hurt their off-road credentials though, which are a calling card of the Jeep brand."

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2012 Chrysler 300 Lineup Boasts Three New Models

300 SRT8, 300S Series and 300C Executive Series Diversify Luxury

May 31, 2011, Braintree, MA (READMEDIA) -- Since its debut in 2005, the affordable luxury and performance of the Chrysler 300 has attracted U.S. drivers of all ages and types, from senior executives to young, urban professionals. Now, three new Chrysler 300 models will soon give Chrysler drivers a chance to further specialize their rides. Sporting unique performance, styling and luxury features, the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8, 300S Series and 300C Executive Series will arrive at Chrysler dealers in the third quarter of this year.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is for the power junkies, featuring an estimated 465 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque coming from a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine. While the SRT8 maintains the look of the redesigned 2011 Chrysler 300C, the new engine designed by Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance engineering team adds 40 horsepower and 45 pound-feet of torque compared with the 6.1-liter HEMI V8 it replaces.

"The new Chrysler 300 SRT8 builds on a tradition of top-level performance; the 1955 Chrysler C-300 was the first modern-era American V8 engine to reach 300 horsepower and this 300 has evolved to reach new performance heights," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Chrysler dealer. "What the classic C-300 didn't have was the new SRT8's refined Adaptive Damping Suspension system, which means you get all that power in a much smoother, comfortable ride."

While the SRT8 maintains the design of the current Chrysler 300 model year, the 2012 Chrysler 300S Series builds upon the revamped 2011 Chrysler 300 by adding youthful exterior accessories. These include bigger 20-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black painted pockets, unique body-color fascia accents and mirrors, and black-accented headlamp bezels with matching sculpted horizontal black chrome blades that replace the usual standard bright chrome.

The interior of the 300S Series provides all the features that a young city-dweller could ask for, including 12-way heated power seats for the driver and front passenger, and its segment's largest touchscreen entertainment and communications system with the 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch. The vehicle's entertainment system powers a 522-watt 12-channel amplifier from Dr. Dre's Beats Audio line.

The new Chrysler 300C Executive Series also includes the Uconnect Touch system and is aimed at those that want complete automotive luxury after long hours at the office. Chrysler has added premium leather throughout the vehicle, with Nappa leather covering the seats, door armrest, bolster and center console armrest. On the outside, the Chrysler 300C features an exclusive platinum chrome finish on its fascia, mirror and door handle accents.

"The 300S and 300C are geared toward different ages and personalities, but each customer type would be impressed with the quality of features in both cars," Ao added. "Whether you're choosing the 300S for nights out in the city, or the 300C for escorting clients and co-workers to important sales meetings in supreme comfort, Chrysler has built on the strengths of its flagship sedan."

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Jeep Cherokee Wins Praise for... Interior Design?

Capable Overland Summit Model Praised by WardsAuto.com

May 3, 2011, Braintree, MA (READMEDIA) -- Jeep's designers created one of the top interiors of 2011, according to the Ward's 10 Best Interior list recently released by WardsAuto.com. The editors at Ward's turned their critical gaze toward 51 cars to compile their list, and Chrysler is the only automaker to capture two spots: one for the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit and one for the Dodge Charger Rallye Plus.

"The Grand Cherokee is common sight on Massachusetts roads for a reason," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Jeep dealer. "The all-wheel-drive and reliable engines make the Cherokee your best friend in bad weather, and the interior is on par with luxury vehicles. We're proud to see Jeep recognized for the workmanship they put into every detail of the Grand Cherokee."

The 2011Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit earned accolades for its rich leather surfaces, which Ward's says "conjure images of a highly crafted saddle from the wild west," and extend from the seats to the dash and doors. The two-tone interior features Nappa saddle leather seats with the Overland Summit logo embroidered into the headrests, while the perforated center of the seat is heated and ventilated for increased comfort. Piping around the seams adds a high-class feel, and the doors are graced with Black-Olive-Burl wood trim, which also splits the upper and lower portions of the dashboard.

The luxury SUV comes with either a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 290 horsepower or a 360-horsepower 5.7-liter V8. All models include electronic stability control and available 4x2 or 4x4 drive. Fuel economy ranges from 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway for the V6 to14 mpg city/20 mpg highway for the powerful V8.

Safety features include Jeep's Advanced Warning System and Adaptive Cruise Control package, which includes Blind Spot Monitoring, a system that flashes icons on the side view mirror and sounds a chime when vehicles enter the Grand Cherokee's path.

"The Grand Cherokee Overland Summit package is the best of the best," Ao said. "From the leather-wrapped heated steering wheel to the Berber floor mats, the Overland Summit offers a premium experience for Massachusetts Jeep buyers who want a refined refuge from New England's unpredictable weather. It's also a bargain when you compare it to other luxury SUVs that can't handle much more than dirt roads. Under all that luxury, the Grand Cherokee Overland Summit is a Jeep, which means it's rugged, reliable and ready to handle anything you throw at it."

Adding to the Grand Cherokee's history of rugged reliability, Fiat Auto CEO Sergio Marchionne recently confirmed that the 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel that has graced Jeeps overseas will be available in North America by the end of 2013. Buyers can look forward to a diesel that produces 237 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Much of that torque is available between 1,800 and 2,800 rpm, which should make the diesel-equipped Jeeps top performers in towing and off-road driving.

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Summer Arrives Early at Chrysler Dealers

New Chrysler 200 Convertible Fits All the Warm Weather Essentials

March 30, 2011, Braintree, MA -- For all their open-air fun, many convertibles inevitably leave someone or something behind, whether it is an extra passenger or an oversized beach bag that doesn't quite fit. The new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible stands apart from these drop tops as a true mid-size convertible that can easily accommodate four passengers and their belongings in style.

Arriving at Chrysler dealers this spring, the 200 Convertible features completely re-engineered suspension and better performance from a new powertrain option, making turns on winding country or coastal roads more fun than ever. The confidence and refinement of the 2011 200's inner workings are also present in its new exterior design, which emphasizes its low and wide street cruiser profile.

"New owners of the 200 Convertible will not have to decide between taking their friends or taking their convertible to the beach this summer," said Eric Ao, general manager of Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a Greater Boston Chrysler dealer. "This convertible is built for long, sunny drives, and Chrysler's engineers know that beautiful summer days are best spent with company."

The Chrysler 200 Convertible includes a number of additional design changes that reflect Chrysler's new "Imported from Detroit" theme. Symbolizing luxury acquired through hard work, these changes include a redesigned grille with the new winged Chrysler badge, redesigned front and rear fascias and fenders, a restyled hood and LED light pipe accents, tail lamps and brake lights.

The changes aren't just on the exterior, as the open-air 200 sports all-new "soft touch" armrests and a one-piece instrument panel, as well as a new steering wheel complete with controls for the radio, cruise control and cell phones. An available media center with voice control offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio with SIRIUS Travel Link for real-time traffic and travel information.

The powertrain lineup for the 200 Convertible includes Chrysler's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque while sipping gas at a rate of 19 mpg/city and 29 mpg/highway. In the base model, the returning 2.4-liter World Gas Engine has been coupled to a 6-speed transmission for an enhanced driving experience and fuel economy of 18 mpg/city and 29 mpg/highway.

Addressing stability and grip issues often associated with other convertibles, the latest Chrysler 200 features a completely re-engineered suspension geometry, a wider track and tire width and a lowered front and rear for a firmer stance on turns. As a result, customers experience less body roll and vehicle shake on uneven or rough roads, as well as better steering and increased grip in all conditions.

"Now that spring has officially arrived in New England, we're all looking forward to warmer weather, and this new Chrysler convertible is the perfect car to enjoy it in," Ao added. "No other convertible provides the 200's combination of looks, spaciousness and open-air performance for a similar value."

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Jeep Celebrates 70 Years of Off-Road Adventure

Automaker Releases Special 70th Anniversary Edition Models Along with New Compass

February, 24, 2011, Braintree, MA -- In 1941, the first Jeep left the assembly line to report for duty in World War II. Seven decades later, Jeep is celebrating its battle-tested off-road history with a five-model lineup and a driver community that ranges from off-road enthusiasts to families. To commemorate its rich tradition of producing capable and versatile vehicles, Jeep is releasing 70th Anniversary editions of each of its 2011 models.

Following the introduction of the new 2011 Jeep Compass at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit last month, the automaker unveiled its special-edition models. Available in black, silver and bronze with signature interior and exterior styling, the 70th Anniversary edition vehicles should reach Massachusetts Jeep dealer lots this month.

"These 70th Anniversary models allow customers to be a part of this significant moment in Jeep's storied history," said Eric Ao, general manager of greater Boston Jeep dealer Quirk Chrysler Jeep. "While staying true to its off-road roots, the unique styling of these new Jeep models shows how much the lineup has progressed over the last seven decades."

All special editions will feature a 70th Anniversary badge on the interior and exterior, but each will have its own unique accents. In the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the two-tone interior blends dark-olive seats with chestnut trim and stitching. Jeep's flagship model will also feature 20-inch aluminum wheels in the special-edition trim. The 70th Anniversary Jeep Wrangler follows the nuanced interior cues of the Cherokee, but also features chrome accents and Mopar brushed-aluminum sill plates.

"The versatility of Jeep vehicles has allowed them to take on everything from demanding military operations to extreme off-road adventures," said Ao. "In New England, that same rugged capability will help everyday drivers take on the formidable winter roadways as they travel to work or venture up north during ski season."

In keeping with Jeep's tradition of all-terrain performance, the newly unveiled 2011 Jeep Compass proves that sport utilities don't need to be bulky to be useful on the trail. The compact SUV received Jeep's Trail Rated Badge and features electronic stability control, roll mitigation and hill start assist that work in line with available four-wheel drive to tackle any driving challenge. The Compass also sports an updated design that resembles the sleek and muscular contours of the Grand Cherokee.

With gas prices in New England expected to head north of $3.50 a gallon, fuel economy is now just as important as looks and capabilities. The 2011 Compass 4x4 offers EPA-estimated highway mileage of 28 mpg, making it a standout in the Jeep lineup for both fuel efficiency and go-anywhere capability.

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Jeep Offers Most Expensive Video Game Accessory Ever

Call Of Duty: Black Ops Edition Wrangler Reports for Real-World Duty

November 17, 2010, Braintree, MA -- Call of Duty: Black Ops fans can now own the ultimate gaming accessory: The Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition. The limited-edition model is a near-exact replica of the Jeep featured in Activision/Treyarch's top-selling video game, but buyers will need gas to run it and some cash in the bank to cover its sticker price, which will top $30,000, or about the cost of 500 copies of the game.

Sporting an aggressive black clearcoat finish, black Mopar tail light guards, a Mopar fuel door and custom "Call of Duty: Black Ops" graphics, the new Wrangler heads for battle with potholes and off-road trails on 32-inch tires. Two-door and four-door models are available, both built on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon platform.

"If you want to show the world that you're a hard-core Call of Duty fan, this is the vehicle you need to own," said Eric Ao, general manager of Massachusetts Jeep dealer Quirk Chrysler Jeep. "We're taking orders for these models, but my advice would be to get in quickly if you want one. Jeep isn't making many of them, and we expect them to sell fast."

Although Jeep and other automakers have a long history of promoting their vehicles in video games, this is the first time that a game-themed car has been offered to the public as a production model. Jeep chose to get involved with the popular Call of Duty franchise due to the automaker's long history as a military vehicle and because it offers an opportunity to expose consumers to the Wrangler's capabilities.

Equally at home on the road or off, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon offers class-leading ground clearance, solid front and rear axles and electronically controlled front and rear differentials, as well as steel skid plates and full-length sill guards for added body strength and protection. Built to tackle hill climbs and rugged desert terrain, Greater Boston Jeep owners will find it more than a match for snow-covered roads.

While there's no PlayStation 3 bundled into the Wrangler Black Ops model, owners will find a leather-wrapped steering wheel and seven-speaker sound system that includes weatherproof speakers mounted in the center overhead bar. Jeep's Uconnect multimedia system with Sirius Satellite Radio is also available, providing some high-tech luxuries that true military models usually lack.

"Jeep has taken one of its most capable and fun models and dialed up the appeal for gamers," Ao said. "The Black Ops limited edition is sure to turn heads anywhere it goes, especially if you take it to your favorite game store to pick up new releases at midnight on a Tuesday."

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Jeep Enthusiasts Challenge New England Mountains

Locals Put Their Vehicles to the Test at Jeep Jamboree in Bethel, Maine

October 21, 2010, Braintree, MA -- Earlier this month, New England Jeep lovers and their families came together to celebrate the outdoors and Jeep 4x4 capabilities on the off-road trails near Bethel, Maine. The outing was one of many Jeep Jamborees happening throughout the country, a tradition that dates back to 1953.

The Jamboree in Bethel, which ran from September 30 to October 2, was the second event of its kind in New England this year. The first took place this summer in the Green Mountains of Vermont near Killington.

Participants in the Bethel event navigated their Jeeps through the "Chili" trail, a rough and rocky route with plenty of steep grades, mud, water and obstacles. Trail ratings ranged from three, a moderate challenge, to nine, an extremely demanding drive with a high risk of getting stuck. Tow hooks were mandatory for this tricky adventure, but drivers were rewarded with spectacular views of autumn foliage from the granite summit of the trail, as well as a lunchtime treat of homemade chili.

For Boston Jeep owners, the event provided an opportunity to experience the off-road adventures that exist just a short drive to the north, and to meet fellow Jeep drivers from throughout New England who share their enthusiasm.

"The Jamborees show that owning a Jeep is a unique experience. A Jeep is more than just transportation; it's a source of passion and a recreational outlet," said Eric Ao, general manager of Greater Boston Jeep dealer Quirk Chrysler Jeep. "Boston sits right on the edge of the outdoor playground that is Northern New England, but a lot of people don't know that. Events like the Jeep Jamboree highlight the off-road fun that's waiting just a few hours away."

The best-suited vehicle for Jeep Jamboree outings is the Jeep Wrangler, which continues its tradition as an off-road king with its 2011 models. The new Wrangler's approach, breakover and departure angles are best in class, as are its ground clearance and water-fording capability, which ranges up to 30 inches. These capabilities take the Wrangler to places beyond the reach of other off-road vehicles.

The 2011 Wrangler 4x4 Sport ships with Command-Trac shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive, traction control and electronic stability control. For the high-end Wrangler Rubicon, the features are beefed up with 4:1 Rock-Trac part-time four-wheel drive, and electronically locking front and rear differentials that maintain forward momentum and grip on dirt, mud, snow or pavement. Keeping with the Wrangler tradition, the top and doors are removable, providing an open-air cockpit when weather permits.

"Customers look to the Wrangler for its extreme versatility and on-road performance in the worst Massachusetts weather," said Ao. "But nothing beats driving one on a warm fall day in New England with the doors and roof off."

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Patriots Run Wild as New England Readies for Autumn

Compact Jeep SUV Doubles August Sales as 2011 Patriot Production Nears

September 23, 2010, Braintree, MA -- In August, no Jeep vehicle had a greater year-over-year sales increase than the Jeep Patriot, which saw sales jump 57%. With New England Patriot sales already on the rise, Jeep dealerships across the region are now anticipating even greater demand once the upgraded 2011 model hits showrooms later this year.

Given the Patriot's blend of versatility and fuel economy, Eric Ao, general manager of Boston Jeep dealer Quirk Chrysler Jeep, isn't surprised by the high sales.

"The seasons are changing and, as the mercury drops here in Massachusetts, customers are thinking about the winter snow and the need for a vehicle that can handle it," Ao said. "Unlike other SUVs and 4x4 vehicles, the Patriot won't force its owners to sacrifice fuel efficiency for a solid grip on the road."

Some subtle exterior changes enhance the 2011 Patriot's rugged appearance. At the front of the vehicle there is a new, more aggressive front fascia, headlights with embedded fog lamps and a body-color grille. The new model also has an updated rear fascia, 17-inch wheels and a 4x4 ride height that has grown by an inch.

Inside, the door panels offer new soft-touch materials and padded surfaces to complement new, higher-quality cloth upholstery. Together with a center armrest and new controls on the steering wheel to run everything from music to cruise control, these touches move the Patriot towards the luxury feel of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. To smooth out performance, suspension has been fine-tuned with firmer shock absorbers and springs, as well as a thicker rear sway bar. The calmer ride will appeal to those who want the Patriot for its on-road handling, but veteran Patriot fans may miss the looser, bouncy handling of older models.

However, the 2011 Patriot is far from a city cruiser. Although small for a Jeep, the Patriot is still capable of fording 19 inches of water, and it offers 4x4 features that build on its heritage of performance off the road and in challenging weather. These features include a 19:1 crawl ratio, brake traction control, hill descent control and the ability to shift to 4x4 on the fly. The new Patriot will also retain more than 30 safety features that earned the 2010 model a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.

Jeep has yet to announce any changes to the powertrain, making it likely that the 2.4-liter, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine with dual variable valve timing found in the 2010 model will remain under the hood. Customers can expect impressive fuel economy; the 2010 Patriot 4x4 earns a segment-leading 28 mpg highway with a manual transmission.

"For Massachusetts Jeep customers that like to get out and enjoy what this region has to offer across all seasons, the Patriot is the perfect vehicle," said Ao. "We're excited that the 2011 model, with all its upgrades, will be reaching our showroom just in time for winter. The Jeep Patriot means safe, fuel-efficient ski trips to Vermont and New Hampshire, no matter what kind of weather you face."

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Redesigned 2011 Grand Cherokee Spurs Chrysler Sales Growth

Automaker Leads Domestic Brands in Second-Quarter Sales

August 19, 2010, Braintree, MA -- Just as soldiers once trusted Jeep to provide safe transport from the battlefield, Chrysler is now looking to Jeep to lead a path to profitability. Jeep sales grew by 19% in July, thanks to strong consumer interest in the redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Chrysler posted a modest 5% sales gain for the month of July, but, with help from its high-selling Jeep models, finished well ahead of other automakers in domestic sales for the second quarter. Chrysler's U.S. sales in this period grew by 31%, compared with an industry average of 18%, according to Autodata Corp. Sales of pickups and SUVs led Chrysler's year-over-year gains in July, with Jeep Liberty sales up 70% and increases north of 50% for the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee.

Massachusetts Jeep enthusiasts have been visiting Quirk Chrysler Jeep in Braintree to get their first look at Jeep's redesigned Grand Cherokee... (Read more)

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More Moms Choose Chrysler

Town and Country Captures Biggest Share of Minivan Market

July 20, 2010, Braintree, MA -- For the first six months of 2010, Chrysler captured nearly half of all minivan sales in the United States, dominating the market it helped to create more than two decades ago. Chrysler's Town and Country and the Dodge-branded Grand Caravan combined to grab 49.1% of minivan sales, with the Town and Country selling the most models.

Massachusetts Chrysler sales were buoyed by Chrysler's Minivan Pledge, which launched in February. This incentive gave owners... (Read more)

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New Chrysler, Jeep Vehicles Recognized for Putting Safety First

Greater Boston Chrysler Jeep Dealer Proud to Represent Chrysler's Commitment to Safety

June 24, 2010, Braintree, MA -- In early June, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Top Safety Pick rating, continuing a trend of Chrysler and Jeep vehicles receiving this prestigious title. In 2010, the Jeep Patriot and Chrysler Sebring also earned Top Safety Pick ratings; Chrysler was responsible for producing 20% of the total IIHS Top Safety Pick award winners in the mid-size SUV class and 12% overall.

Quirk Chrysler Jeep, a leading Greater Boston Chrysler Jeep dealer, is proud to provide...(Read more)

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Chrysler Ready to Launch 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Highly Anticipated New Jeep to Arrive at Quirk Chrysler Jeep in June

June 8, 2010, Braintree, MA... Greater Boston Jeep enthusiasts will soon have a new Jeep to love. In what senior executives are calling "the beginning of the new Chrysler," the automaker's Jeep division is preparing for the June launch of its completely redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Reflecting Chrysler's partnerships with Mercedes-Benz and Fiat, the impressive new SUV offers new levels of craftsmanship and... (Read more)

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Jeep Goes So Far Off-Road, it Conquers Virtual Terrain

2011 Grand Cherokee Named Internet Truck of the Year, Four-Wheeler of the Year

December 21, 2010, Braintree, MA -- With nearly 20 years on the market and more than 4 million sales, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has received its share of praise, but the reverence has never been quite as widespread as it is for 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The SUV was named Internet Truck of the Year at the New England International Auto Show in December, and it received the Four Wheeler of the Year distinction from Four Wheeler magazine, a leading off-road enthusiast publication. All this took place as a Washington Times review called the 2011 Grand Cherokee Chrysler's "New Star."

The second annual Internet Truck of the Year award, given out by InternetCarandTruckoftheYear.com, was determined by a jury of 15 web journalists and thousands of consumers. While the journalists and consumers split when deciding on Internet Car of the Year, both groups unanimously chose the redesigned Grand Cherokee as Internet Truck of the Year over the Kia Sportage and Ford Super Duty.

With a variety of improvements to its design, a new Jeep Selec-Terrain system and a new Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was praised by Four Wheeler editors for its superb off-road capabilities and labeled "the most street-tuned, pavement-friendly version of this vehicle ever built." Each Four Wheeler of the Year entrant was tested extensively at a variety of elevations and across a variety of surfaces, including rocks, mud, gravel, pavement, sand and dirt.

"Our Jeep vehicles always live up to expectations when it comes to real-word capability on and off-road, but the craftsmanship and design of this year's Grand Cherokee has raised the bar," said Eric Ao, general manager of Massachusetts Jeep dealer Quirk Chrysler Jeep. "When our customers step into this year's Grand Cherokee, they quickly realize that there is no better mix of all-conditions performance, comfort, style and technology out there."

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee uses the Chrysler Group's all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which has improved fuel economy of 23 mpg on the highway and a longer driving range of more than 500 miles on a full tank of gas. The Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 received an award of its own this month when it was recognized by Ward's Automotive as one of the 10 Best Engines for 2010 for its excellent fuel efficiency, low emissions and available power.

The awards received by the Grand Cherokee this month cap a year that has seen strong praise from industry groups, publications and Boston Jeep customers, including Urban Truck of the Year from Decisive Media, Consumers Digest Best Buy, Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Award for Off-Road Ability and an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.

"The industry has spoken on the new Grand Cherokee, and our customers agree," Ao added. "As winter arrives in Massachusetts, you don't have to go off-road to find treacherous conditions, and the Cherokee has the unmatched on-road refinement to make snow and ice a non-issue."

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News and Events

Ward's Auto Rates Chrysler's Pentastar V6 Among the Elite: Popular Engine Named to Publication's 10 Best Engines List for Second-Straight YearDecember 27, 2011, ...
Jeep Seeks Epic Driving Stories for 2012 Wrangler Giveaway: Adventurous Jeep Fans Share Times of Their Lives for Facebook ContestOctober 24, 2011, Braintree, MA ...
Chrysler Unveils First U.S.-Made Eight-Speed Transmission: New Gearbox Boosts Chrysler 300 Fuel Efficiency by 4 MPGSeptember 26, 2011, Braintree, MA -- The 2012 ...
Jeep Grand Cherokee Owners Love It Just the Way It Is: SUV Wins 2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Award for Meeting Owner DemandsAugust 24, 2011, Braintree, MA ...
Chrysler 300 Named NADAguides Car of the Month: Luxury Sedan to Get Power Boost with SRT8 Model July 27, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Chrysler's 300 sedan ...
Jeep Wrangler Rumored to Get Pentastar V6 Power: New Five-Speed Automatic Could Come as Part of New Drivetrain June 21, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Signs ...
2012 Chrysler 300 Lineup Boasts Three New Models: 300 SRT8, 300S Series and 300C Executive Series Diversify Luxury May 31, 2011, Braintree, MA (READMEDIA) ...
Jeep Cherokee Wins Praise for... Interior Design?: Capable Overland Summit Model Praised by WardsAuto.comMay 3, 2011, Braintree, MA (READMEDIA) -- Jeep's ...
Summer Arrives Early at Chrysler Dealers: New Chrysler 200 Convertible Fits All the Warm Weather EssentialsMarch 30, 2011, Braintree, MA -- For ...
Jeep Celebrates 70 Years of Off-Road Adventure: Automaker Releases Special 70th Anniversary Edition Models Along with New CompassFebruary, 24, 2011, ...
Jeep Offers Most Expensive Video Game Accessory Ever: Call Of Duty: Black Ops Edition Wrangler Reports for Real-World DutyNovember 17, 2010, Braintree, MA ...
Jeep Enthusiasts Challenge New England Mountains: Locals Put Their Vehicles to the Test at Jeep Jamboree in Bethel, MaineOctober 21, 2010, Braintree, ...
Patriots Run Wild as New England Readies for Autumn: Compact Jeep SUV Doubles August Sales as 2011 Patriot Production NearsSeptember 23, 2010, Braintree, ...
Redesigned 2011 Grand Cherokee Spurs Chrysler Sales Growth: Automaker Leads Domestic Brands in Second-Quarter SalesAugust 19, 2010, Braintree, MA -- Just as soldiers ...
More Moms Choose Chrysler: Town and Country Captures Biggest Share of Minivan MarketJuly 20, 2010, Braintree, MA -- For the first ...
New Chrysler, Jeep Vehicles Recognized for Putting Safety First: Greater Boston Chrysler Jeep Dealer Proud to Represent Chrysler's Commitment to SafetyJune 24, 2010, ...
Chrysler Ready to Launch 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Highly Anticipated New Jeep to Arrive at Quirk Chrysler Jeep in JuneJune 8, 2010, Braintree, MA... Greater ...
Jeep Goes So Far Off-Road, it Conquers Virtual Terrain: 2011 Grand Cherokee Named Internet Truck of the Year, Four-Wheeler of the YearDecember 21, 2010, Braintree, ...

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