Press Kit: 2008 Geneva Motor Show

All-new Dodge Caliber SRT4® Launches in Markets Outside of North America

  • Performance and value in a bold sport-compact package
  • Best in class horsepower of 295 hp DIN (217 kW)
  • The most affordable car in the SRT® performance model line up
  • Caliber SRT4 joins the SRT line-up that includes Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT8, Chrysler 300C SRT8 Sedan, 300C SRT8 Touring and Dodge Viper SRT10
Geneva February 25, 2008 - The all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4® adds more fuel to the high-performance C segment with best-in-class horsepower of 295 hp DIN (217 kW) and more horsepower-per-Euro than its competitors. Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) organisation continues the SRT legacy with the introduction of the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 into markets outside North America.

The vehicle features the balanced performance approach that is a hallmark of all SRT products. These attributes are ride and handling characteristics that perform well on both the street and the track, outstanding acceleration and braking performance and styling that matches the performance attributes of the vehicles.

Exterior styling of the all-new Dodge SRT4 includes an aggressive SRT stance, a front fascia with functional brake cooling ducts and a larger grille opening. The unique bonnet features a functional air scoop and rear-facing air extractors that enhance cooling. A larger integrated spoiler above the rear glass is tuned for smooth air flow and lift reduction.

Inside, the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 boasts sport seating with deep, performance bolsters, an SRT race-inspired instrument design and Reconfigurable Display with exclusive “performance pages” that provide lateral and longitudinal G-force, 0-100 km/h acceleration time and distance as well as 100-0 km/h braking distance and time.

“The all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 combines all of the SRT attributes in a package that delivers the most horsepower per Euro among its competitors in typical Dodge style,” said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC. “The Dodge Caliber was our best selling vehicle in 2007, and SRT4 will keep that excitement rolling.”

The Dodge Caliber SRT4 suspension is lowered 28 millimetres in the front and 22 millimetres in the rear for a performance stance and lower centre of gravity. The suspension has also been tuned for optimum handling characteristics.

Braking is delivered via four-wheel disc brakes with 340 x 28 millimetre vented front rotors, 302 x 10 millimetre rear rotors and twin-piston, aluminium front callipers.

And finally, 295 hp DIN (217 kW) and 363 Nm of torque are delivered courtesy of the 2.4-litre DOHC I-4 turbocharged World Engine and a Getrag six-speed manual transaxle. An electronically tuned Brake Lock Differential maximises traction.

Powertrain
Capable of a 0-100 km/h time in the high 6-second range, the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 gets its motivation from a turbocharged version of the World Engine, produced at the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) facility in Dundee, Michigan, USA. The World Engine is a family of small fuel- and emissions-efficient aluminium four-cylinder gasoline engines co-developed by Chrysler LLC, Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

This engine is based on the 2.4-litre World Engine used in a variety of Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles. In addition to increasing the power output to 295 hp DIN (217 kW) and 363 Nm of torque, design changes also were made to improve engine cooling and durability at these higher power levels.

“With best-in-class horsepower combined with unique Dodge styling and the basic packaging of the Dodge Caliber, which has already proved popular in our markets, SRT4 is poised to be an image vehicle for Caliber and the Dodge brand,” said Judy Wheeler, Director – International Marketing.

The primary gain in power is achieved through the addition of a turbocharger specially configured for the engine’s inlet and outlet packaging requirements. The inlet charge is sent through a large 10-row intercooler to a 57-millimetre throttle body. Free-flow induction begins with an all-new air cleaner assembly that draws cool air through an opening in the front upper crossmember, ahead of the radiator. The revised intake has 40 per cent higher air flow capability.

The aluminium 2.4-litre World Engine block features inter-bore saw cuts, and the cylinder head is cross-drilled for uniform temperature around the cylinder bores and combustion chambers. The water pump pulley diameter is decreased to increase coolant flow. The thermostat and thermostat housing also have been redesigned for increased flow.

The pistons in the engine are also unique, made from an alloy specified for higher temperature strength, having thicker ring lands and featuring a floating piston pin for higher load capacity. The piston ring materials were selected for minimal wear and good oil control with the higher cylinder pressure. The top of the piston has a unique bowl shape to achieve a lower compression ratio, optimal for this turbocharged application.

An external cooler keeps oil temperatures within a safe range. A unique oil pump and balance shaft module keep the reciprocating assembly well-lubricated with a thicker geroter set for higher oil flow.

Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) uses computer mapping to open and close intake and exhaust valves at optimal points for efficient combustion and flow. The camshafts and micro-alloy forged steel crankshaft are shared with the non-turbocharged 2.4-litre World Engine.

On the exhaust side, spent gas exits through a free-flow system that features two catalytic converters – one immediately downstream from the turbo, and another further along the 76-millimetre (3-inch) single-pipe exhaust system. Using two catalytic converters in this way provides significantly better light-off of the catalysts for decreased emissions. The exhaust is tuned for maximum performance with a 42 per cent improvement in flow.

“While most of the competitive set has smaller engines, the SRT4 delivers the best fuel economy among competitors with engines larger than 2.0-litres, with consumption below 9 L/100km.” said Hausch. “The SRT4 also produces the least CO2 per horsepower, with 0.7 grams (per kilometre) per horsepower.”

To ensure durability with the higher cylinder pressure, several components were upgraded compared to the naturally-aspirated 2.4-litre World Engine. In the reciprocating assembly, stronger, forged rods and rod bolts were selected, in addition to tri-metal bearings to handle higher loads. The head gasket in the turbocharged 2.4-litre engine features three functional layers to seal high combustion pressures. The balance shaft chain-drive components were strengthened for higher durability under high torsional loads. In the aluminium cylinder head, high-temperature Inconel 751 exhaust valves are used to accommodate the higher operating temperatures. Finally, a stainless steel exhaust manifold is used, also for high-temperature durability.

Power is transferred through a dual-mass flywheel to a Getrag six-speed manual transaxle. The dual-mass flywheel consists of two flywheel sections sandwiching internal springs that are specially tuned to reduce noise and vibration. To maximise traction, a Brake Lock Differential manages the torque distribution.

Ride and Handling
Another hallmark of SRT balanced performance approach is ride and handling characteristics that perform well on both the street and the track.

The all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4’s front suspension is lowered 28 millimetres compared to the Caliber SXT. It includes an independent MacPherson strut system with ZF Sachs twin-tube dampers tuned by the SRT team, and 37 N/mm springs.

Ride height is lowered 22 millimetres in the rear. Rear suspension highlights include an independent, multilink system with upper and lower lateral links, SRT-tuned ZF Sachs twin-tube coilover dampers and 42 N/mm springs. An 18-millimetre rear sway bar reduces understeer and keeps body roll to a minimum during hard cornering.

The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) is uniquely calibrated for the Dodge Caliber SRT4 to provide excellent directional stability in all driving modes without being overly intrusive. Rack-and-pinion power steering is tuned by the SRT team to produce easier low-speed maneuvering without compromising performance at speed. The overall steering ratio is 16.4:1.

The all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 rides on SRT-unique 19-inch, cast-aluminium wheels with 225/45R19 Goodyear F1 Supercar tyres.

Braking
Yet another ingredient in the SRT performance recipe is performance braking – delivered in the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 courtesy of 340 x 28 millimetre vented front rotors with 57-millimetre twin-piston aluminium front calipers and 302 x 10 millimetres rear rotors with 35-millimetre, single-piston calipers. All calipers are painted in signature Dodge SRT red.

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) also was uniquely calibrated for the Dodge Caliber SRT4 to operate smoothly with the larger brake package as well as the larger wheels and tyres.

Exterior Styling
The all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 promises bold performance with its muscular exterior styling.

An all-new front fascia below the signature Dodge crosshair grille incorporates functional performance features including ducts that direct air to cool the brakes and a wide centre inlet that provides air flow to the radiator. Fog lamps are also set into the fascia, alongside the brake ducts. The Dodge Caliber SRT4 bonnet incorporates a functional scoop that brings cooling air into the engine compartment and a pair of extractors that release hot air from under the bonnet.

The lowest portion of the Dodge Caliber SRT4 fascia, which acts as an air dam to direct air around the front of the vehicle, wraps around to visually integrate with the radiused wheel wells and lower side-sill mouldings.

“From the very first sketches of the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4, we wanted an aggressive, SRT-signature look,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design. “For example, because the intercooler is positioned so high behind the grille, we moved the fascia slightly forward and extended the walls of the grille. The result is a much more aggressive look than the standard Dodge Caliber.”

The rear fascia continues the muscular, functional character the Dodge Caliber SRT4, with lower vertical strakes that direct underbody air flow out the back of the vehicle, contributing to more stability at speed. A single, 100-millimetre (4-inch) exhaust tip exits from the right side of the fascia.

Aerodynamic efficiency is also aided by an integrated spoiler above the rear glass. This spoiler, which is nearly 60 per cent larger than that on the standard Dodge Caliber, is tuned for smooth air flow and increased downforce.

Four exterior colours will be available on the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4: Brilliant Black, Sunburst Orange, Bright Silver and Inferno Red.

Race-inspired Interior
The interior of the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 is a new interpretation of traditional SRT themes.

Unique SRT touches include sport seating with aggressive bolstering to hold occupants during spirited driving, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a carbon-fibre pattern on the upper portion. The seats, steering wheel and leather shift boot feature contrasting stitching. Also unique to the Dodge Caliber SRT4 is an alloy-silver finish on the instrument panel and shift bezel, and bright aluminium pedal pads that feature rubber studs for enhanced grip.

The instrument panel features three gauge openings set into a deep recess. Gauges are performance-oriented and include a centre-mounted tachometer, 300 km/h speedometer, and coolant temperature and fuel gauge. Standard performance pages in the Reconfigurable Display can display lateral and longitudinal G-force, 0-100 km/h acceleration time and distance as well as 100-0 km/h braking distance and time. An electronic boost gauge that reads from 1.0 bar vacuum to 1.5 bar of pressure is located on the left side of the instrument panel.

For the enjoyment of audiophiles, the Dodge Caliber SRT4 is equipped with a standard AM-FM radio with CD and MP3 playback. A head unit with a built-in six-disc changer, as well as one with GPS navigation, is available. Also available is an SRT-engineered Kicker high-performance audio system that includes 13 speakers in nine locations, a 322-watt amplifier and a 200-watt subwoofer.

The interior of the all-new Dodge Caliber SRT4 is offered in Dark Slate Gray.

Dodge Caliber SRT4 Safety and Security
The following safety and security technologies are available on the Dodge Caliber SRT4:

  • Advanced Multi-stage Air Bags: Inflate with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact.
  • All-speed Traction Control: Senses drive-wheel slip and applies individual brakes to slipping wheels and can reduce excess engine power until traction is regained.
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Equipped with electronic sensors that help prevent wheel lockup, ABS offers improved steering control under extreme braking and slippery conditions.
  • Auto-reverse Sun Roof: An advanced sensing system that automatically engages when needed and reverses the sun roof (to the open position).
  • BeltAlert: Sounds a periodic chime to alert the driver to fasten their seat belts.
  • Brake Assist: The vehicle senses a panic brake condition and applies maximum braking power, providing the shortest possible stopping distance.
  • Constant Force Retractors (CFR): A mechanical device in each front seat belt is designed to mitigate the force of a seat belt according to the load or force exerted on it. CFRs are engineered to force-limit the belt system and gradually release seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner during a severe impact.
  • Crumple Zones: Areas of the vehicle that are designed to compress during an accident in order to absorb energy from an impact, preventing transfer of that energy to occupants.
  • Electronic Stability Programme (ESP): Aids the driver in maintaining vehicle directional stability, providing oversteer and understeer control.
  • Energy-absorbing Steering Column: Steering column contains two hydroformed coaxial tubes that move relative to each other, which allows the column to move forward and provide more energy absorption during an impact.
  • Enhanced Accident Response System: In the event of an impact, this system makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and access occupants by automatically turning on interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. The system also shuts off the flow of fuel to the engine.
  • Height-adjustable Seat-belts: Allows passengers to lift and lower the shoulder belt to a comfortable level. Encourages seat belt use by offering a more comfortable fit.
  • Knee Bolsters: The steering column, lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are reinforced to protect unbelted occupants during frontal impacts. They both restrain and position the occupant properly and enable air bags to work effectively.
  • Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (ISOFIX): This system helps ease the installation of compatible aftermarket child seats.
  • Remote Keyless Entry: The remote keyless entry locks and unlocks doors, and turns on interior lamps. The remote also arms and disarms the vehicle-theft security alarm.
  • Seat-belt Pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to immediately remove slack from seat belts, which reduces the forward movement of an occupant’s head and torso.
  • Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a pre-programmed security key code. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder. If the correct key is not used, the engine will shut off after only a few seconds.
  • Supplemental Side Air Bags: Provide enhanced protection to the driver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor to autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where the impact occurs. Supplemental side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat.
  • Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags: Side-curtain air bags extend protection to front- and rear-seat outboard occupants. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor in order to autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where the side impact occurs.
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM): Monitors tyre pressure and alerts the driver to improper tyre-pressure conditions. Low pressure on any tyre illuminates the amber warning indicator in the instrument cluster.

Dodge Brand
The first full year of sales for Dodge brand vehicles in all major international markets was 2007. With three vehicles -- Avenger, Caliber and Nitro -- available in volume, plus the brand icon, Viper, Dodge brand vehicle sales accounted for 25 per cent of sales outside North America for Chrysler LLC. Dodge Caliber outsold all other Chrysler products during its first full year of sales, providing the brand with a solid foundation for additional growth.

In 2008, Dodge brand vehicles offered for international markets are: Avenger, Caliber, Caliber SRT4, Journey, Nitro and Viper SRT10.




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