Forget the idle boasts of other car makers, it’s the Chrysler Group that has New Zealand’s largest range of fuel-efficient, diesel powered passenger vehicles available from one showroom.
To date, the Chrysler Jeep and Dodge brands have introduced nine models featuring high-tech diesel engines and within a couple of months they will be joined by two more, the all-new Dodge Journey crossover wagon and the diesel version of the recently released Chrysler Grand Voyager.
“There is a mistaken belief that America only builds gas guzzlers, but when you look at the passenger vehicles offered by our three brands you’ll see that most of the models are very economical, because we have invested heavily in diesel technology,” says David Smith, General Manager for Chrysler New Zealand.
“Perhaps we have not blown our own trumpet much in the past, but we’d like people to know that when it comes to modern, efficient diesel engines, we are the leaders, with more diesel-powered passenger models in our showrooms than anyone else.”
With the Jeep brand, buyers can find a diesel option with every model in the range. For Dodge, the Dodge Caliber and Dodge Nitro are available in a diesel option. On the Chrysler side, both the 300C Sedan and 300C Touring models are available in diesel.
“The 300C is a classic example of how Chrysler has been able to take a full-size vehicle and apply modern, fuel-saving technology to deliver a vehicle that answers today’s requirements – the result is a car that meets the needs of many New Zealanders without draining their wallets thanks to the V6 common rail diesel engine delivering 8.1L/100km.” adds Mr Smith.
Thanks to diesel technology, New Zealanders can continue to own larger vehicles that suit their business and lifestyle needs, especially towing, rather than having to downsize to a car that is too small for them.
The upcoming Dodge Journey crossover is ideally suited to the New Zealand way of life, featuring a station wagon-like exterior that boasts three rows of seats to take up to seven passengers and their luggage. With a 2-litre common rail diesel engine under the bonnet, it will return a combined fuel economy of 7.0L/100km in a mix of all types of driving. In addition to its seven-seat capacity, the Dodge Journey will also include unique storage facilities for hot and cold drinks. It goes on sale here in October.
The larger Chrysler Grand Voyager will also arrive with diesel power for the first time in October, but with a larger 2.8-litre common rail diesel engine. The torquey 2.8-CRD engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission for smooth driving and returns 9.3L/100km.
Below are the economy figures for the diesel models in the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge range:
• Chrysler 300C Sedan 3.0L CRD – 8.1L/100km $69,990 RRP
• Chrysler Grand Voyager 2.8L CRD – 9.3L/100km $79,990 RRP
• Jeep Commander 3.0L CRD – 10.6L/100km $75,990 RRP
• Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0L CRD – 10.6L/100km $74,990 RRP
• Jeep Cherokee 2.8L CRD – 9.4L/100km $56,990 RRP
• Jeep Wrangler 2.8L CRD – 9.9L/100km $51,990 RRP
• Jeep Compass 2.0L CRD – 6.5L/100km $40,990 RRP
• Jeep Patriot 2.0L CRD – 6.5L/100km $40,990 RRP
• Dodge Nitro 2.8L CRD – 9.4L/100km $54,490RRP
• Dodge Caliber 2.0L CRD – 6L/100km $39,990 RRP
• Dodge Journey 2.0L CRD – 9.3L/100km Arriving October
For further information contact:
Stephen Bowater or John Ellegard
Marketing Manager, Chrysler Stanford James PR
New Zealand Phone 0-9-8150589
Phone 0-9-573 7800 Mobile 021 975 452
