Automotive Trends

For 2019 Ram rolls out is first fully redesigned pickup truck since the brand became independent of Dodge in 2010. The oldest of the domestic full-size trucks, the Ram held its own against continually redesigned competition from Ford and General Motors with differentiating features such as the Ram Box, 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel, the highly marketable iron block Hemi, and big-rig styling. The 2019 Ram diverges from this formula by incorporating the fenders back under the hood. In fact, one can’t help but notice the alarming similarity between the big Ram’s styling and the resurrected 2019 Ford Ranger. Nevertheless, big RAM letters across the new grille make it hard to mistake the truck’s brand identity. The truck grows bigger in the cab with a remarkably flat floor in the rear cabin. The 3.6L Pentastar is the base engine and the 5.7L Hemi returns, but both now utilize a hybrid system dubbed eTorque that is standard on the V6 and optional with the Hemi V8. The 48 volt mild-hybrid  system adds a supplemental 130 lb.-ft. of torque to the 395 hp / 410 lb.-ft. Hemi V8 and 90 lb-ft to the smaller six. Expect improved fuel economy as a result. The Ram also differentiates itself with an available air suspension that automatically lowers the vehicle at highway speeds. Available LED headlights further update the look of the new Ram. Is the new Ram ready to defend the market share it has managed to scrape away from the competition? With all new competition from GM and an updated F-150 and new Ranger from Ford the options in the truck market have never been more competitive.

 The big news for the Challenger is the 2015 SRT Hellcat. The supercharged Hemi that lurks beneath the Hellcat’s hood is every bit as mind blowing as one would expect, producing 707 hp. Certainly Dodge has decided its too-big-to-be-a-ponycar needed to take the brute force approach since its size distances it from being the relatively agile cars that the Mustang and Camaro are. Fortunately for Challenger fans the dated interior has been ditched in favor of a newly sculpted dash and various color combinations that make the Challenger less of dreary chamber. Sadly, the pistol grip shifter has been returned to the parts bin. Other available engines include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (finally coupled to an 8-speed automatic), 5.7L Hemi V8, and 6.2L Hemi V8. Unlike the Chevy and Ford, a manual transmission is offered only with the V8’s. And, setting itself apart from stalemate Charger Hellcat, the Challenger actually lets you shift through the gears with a manual transmission as you attempt to make use of those 707 supercharged horses.

       For 2011 Chrysler wisely decided not to let it’s Jeep Grand Cherokee, the flagship of its legendary off-road brand, get stale.  This marks the fourth generation of the model, which took over the place of the ancient Grand Wagoneer after its departure in 1991.  Read more…