Few changes in works at Chrysler

Compared with the rest of the Big Three, Chrysler has a calm year ahead. Now under the ownership of Italy's Fiat giant, Chrysler Group LLC has these changes planned for the 2010 model year:

Chrysler

The Chrysler brand is keeping its retro-styled, five-passenger PT Cruiser for a while longer.

The news this past summer reversed a January decision to stop production of the smallest car wearing a Chrysler badge. But note that the reversal does not affect the PT Cruiser Convertible, which was dropped in the 2008 model year.

Elsewhere for 2010, the exterior is freshened slightly on both the Sebring coupe and convertible, while the Chrysler 300C adds standard key-free ignition and rear park assist system.

And all models of the Town & Country minivan add anti-whiplash front head restraints.

The Aspen full-size SUV is no longer offered.

Dodge

While things get sorted out by the new owner regarding future product plans, Dodge has scheduled the introduction of new crew cab models of the Ram heavy-duty pickup truck.

Engine choices for the 2500/3500 Rams include a 350-horsepower 6.7-liter, Cummins Turbo Diesel six cylinder that meets air emission standards in all 50 states and delivers 650 foot-pound of torque.

The trucks' suspension also is retuned for a better ride and better load handling.

The gross combined weight rating for the light-duty Dodge Ram 1500 is boosted to 15,500 pounds this year when the truck is fitted with 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 and 3.92 rear axle ratio on the 140.5-inch wheelbase model.

The Dodge Caliber gets a new interior for 2010, and suspension is improved for better ride and handling in the Dakota pickup.

In addition, the Grand Caravan minivan, Nitro SUV and Journey crossover SUV add front-seat anti-whiplash head restraints for 2010.

The Durango SUV is discontinued.

Jeep

The rugged Jeep brand plans only modest updates for 2010, including the addition of standard anti-whiplash head restraints on the front seats of the Patriot, Compass and Liberty.

The Jeep Wrangler gets an improved Sunrider soft-top system that's easier to remove from the vehicle than its predecessor, and a fuel-saver indicator is standard on all models.

The Grand Cherokee Overland model is discontinued.