For 2009, Chrysler LLC has the retro-styled Dodge Challenger to remind us of the 1970s, when gasoline was less than a dollar a gallon. It will compete with the current Ford Mustang and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro.
Dodge also has a new version of the popular full-size Ram pickup with its Hemi V-8.
Here are details of new models from Chrysler's divisions:
Chrysler
Chrysler puts a gasoline-electric system into its biggest SUV, Aspen. The full-size Aspen Hybrid uses a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with Multi-Displacement System, which changes to four-cylinder mode when less power is needed. Horsepower peaks at 390, and towing capacity is a hefty 6,000 pounds.
The 300C large sedan can be had with a more powerful Hemi V-8 than before. The 5.7-liter V-8 provides 359 horses.
The Town & Country minivan adds features such as blind-spot monitoring and SmartBeam headlamps that automatically dim a bit in traffic and then brighten again when traffic lessens.
Several models, including Crossfire, Pacifica and PT Cruiser convertible, have been dropped.
Dodge
The rear-drive Challenger muscle car is back -- with old-style looks and modern technology.
The sizable coupe is offered in SRT8 form with an engine that has the highest output of any naturally aspirated V-8 at the automaker. It's a 425-horsepower 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 with 420 foot-pounds of torque.
Lesser engines are avail- able for Challenger, including a 250-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6.
The other big news is a revamped Ram pickup with sleeker styling and a 390-horsepower, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 producing an ample 407 foot-pounds of torque.
The truck's interior is refurbished with 42 storage spots. There are even file folder holders at the front-seat center console.
The Ram's top engine -- 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 -- goes into the Charger sedan, where horsepower is 368, and the Durango SUV, where horsepower is 365.
There's also a gasoline-hybrid Durango coming that works with the 5.7-liter V-8 to deliver improved fuel mileage.
Dodge already has debuted a "softer" SUV with its Journey, based on the platform of the Avenger sedan. Buyers have a choice of five- or seven-passenger seating and engines ranging from a 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder to a 235-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6.
The Grand Caravan, like its sibling Chrysler Town & Country minivan, adds features including a blind spot monitor.
The Magnum wagon has been dropped from the lineup.
Jeep
Both the Grand Cherokee and Commander SUVs add a 357-horsepower, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with 389 foot-pounds of torque to their offerings.






