Chrysler bringing in Fiat, Alfa Romeo. Dropping several Jeep and Dodge models.

From Motor Authority:

“The Fiat-Chrysler partnership has been brewing since well before the economic meltdown and federal loan bonanza of late 2008, but it’s still taking shape as the automakers find ways to work to their mutual benefit. The combined companies’ new CEO Sergio Marchionne is set to reveal the future plans for both Fiat and Chrysler in just a week’s time but we already have much of the details on hand.

According to people briefed on the plans, Alfa Romeo is set to return as a volume player in 2012. Fiat will be here too, although the only model planned is the 500 minicar, which should in early 2011…

Don’t feel too bad Fiat isn’t coming here in full force. Chrysler will introduce several new models that rely on Fiat platforms and technology. The first of these will be a new mid-sized sedan from Chrysler based on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, followed by new hatchback and a compact Jeep. There will also be redesigned versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300 arriving as early as next year.

Several models will be dropped from Chrysler’s U.S. lineup as well. These will include a number of Dodge models, such as the Caliber, Nitro, Avenger, and several Jeep models, too, such as the Commander, Compass, and Patriot. Other vehicles getting the axe include Chrysler’s PT Cruiser and Sebring.”

Full article here.

Diesel Jeeps? Chrysler Group’s plan to be released on 11/4/09

From the Sacremento Bee:

“On Nov. 4, we’ll get our first look at Chrysler’s future.

That’s the day Fiat plans to reveal its 5-year plan for the Chrysler Group, which includes Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep. Fiat owns 20 percent of Chrysler and effectively controls the automaker…

Fiat has a strong motivation to get Americans to buy more diesels as an alternative to hybrids, in which it has little expertise. In addition, the diesel Jeep Grand Cherokee and Liberty SUVs Chrysler built during its alliance with Daimler have a loyal following.

Watch for Fiat to promote its diesels for Jeeps and Dodge and Chrysler passenger cars.”

To read the article in it’s entirety click here.

Featured Jeep: Wrangler 4-Door (JK)

From Peter in Newark, DE:

“Nothing is better than being above the rest.”

What an awesome pic! – JW

Winter is on the way.  Keep your Jeep’s interior protected with heavy duty Jeep Wrangler Floor Mats and Jeep Cargo Floor Liners.  Speaking of Winter, check out the Jeep Wrangler Ski Rack from Mopar.  It mounts to the spare tire and safely carries your skis up to the mountains.

Chrysler to suspend Jeep production.

From the Wall Street Journal;

“Chrysler Group LLC will suspend production of its popular Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited vehicles due to a shortage in parts from an unidentified supplier.

Chrysler will idle its Toledo Supplier Park facility in Ohio for one week starting Monday, the company said Friday without disclosing more details. The Wrangler has been one of Chrysler’s best-performing vehicles in terms of sales for the year.

This is the second time Chrysler has changed its production schedule because of a parts issue. The auto maker also delayed adding a second shift to an Illinois plant by more than a month citing “continued stresses” on its parts suppliers.

Friday’s announcement underscores previous reports that tension is growing between Chrysler and its suppliers. In addition to Chrysler’s problem with shortages, some of the smaller parts makers are hesitating to commit to new vehicle projects, according to people familiar with the matter.”

Full article here.