World's Rarest 1969 Dodge Daytona Is Poised to Break Auction Record

Johnny Hunkins Writer | Mecum Auctions Photographer | M


The Mecum Auctions roadshow rolls into Indianapolis on May 13-21 and Mopar fans will want to have their eyes glued to MotorTrend for this one, as one of the most significant Dodge muscle cars to ever assault the pavement is crossing the auction block, and when it does, this is the exclusive inside story they'll be talking about. We'll dive into that in a moment, but first some quick history. The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona was a one-year-only model designed specifically to dominate the high-banked super speedways of stock car racing. Its aerodynamic nosecone and raked rear wing made it a terror on the track but ungainly on ordinary roads. The Daytona's extremely limited production of just 503 examples makes it one of the rarest and most sought-after cars in the world of muscle car collecting...

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Bigger, Better, Faster, Greener Jeep® and Jeep Performance Parts by Mopar Concepts Heading to the 56th Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari


  • Five one-of-a-kind Jeep concept vehicles take four-wheeling to the next level and prove why there's nothing quite like legendary Jeep 4x4 capability
  • Two new Jeep concepts from JPP, plus three that debuted at the 2021 SEMA show, are also heading to Moab to showcase the latest prototype and production parts
  • Jeep brand's mission of Zero Emission Freedom takes charge with several electrified concepts, including new Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0
  • Learn more


    • The first 7-passenger Jeep Wrangler


    The Jeep Wrangler Overlook is a concept that adds 7-passenger seating for the first time!

    Starting this fall you can get a pink Jeep Wrangler!


    Jeep is adding color options like Gecko Green, Chief Blue, Nacho Orange, Hellayella, and a few others. This fall we get an even more eye-popping paint job to that palette: Tuscadero.



    Learn more about your 2021 Ram truck's towing and payload capacity with help from this guide: bit.ly/2PuxesB


    The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Revives a Legend


    Wesley Wren | Aug 18, 2021 | autoweek

    The Jeep Wagoneer lived a long and storied life under the banner of multiple owners. Kicking off in 1962 and ending production in 1991, it's easy to see how Jeep's long-running nameplate has become a force in the collector-car market and a beloved piece of automotive history. Now after nearly 30 years, Jeep has revived the Wagoneer and its more luxurious counterpart, the Grand Wagoneer. While the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer is well appointed and features a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 under its hood, the Grand Wagoneer leans into excess with an army of screens, leather, and a 6.4-liter V8 in place of the smaller V8.

    On this episode of Quick Spin, Patrick Carone climbs behind the wheel of the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer and puts it through its paces. Carone takes you along while he drives the new Grand Wagoneer on the pavement, and on a stint off-road. Carone also is given a tour of the 2022 Grand Wagoneer by Jeep's head of exterior design for the Wagoneer, Taylor Langhals. Carone also captures his initial experience of the new Jeep. Expanding on these segments, Carone talks with host Wesley Wren about the Grand Wagoneer, its place in the world, and his experiences with the new SUV. Closing the show, the pair discuss what makes the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer special. Tune in

    First-Ever Jeep EV Coming Very Soon, Followed By an Electrified Dodge


    Alexander Stoklosa Author, Manufacturer Photographer |

    During a recent marathon day outlining its future EV plans, Stellantis-that's the cross-Atlantic mashup of what formerly was known as Fiat Chrysler and the French PSA Group-promised that electrified Rams, Jeeps, Dodges, and others were on their way by 2024 to 2030. Some of the news was jaw-dropping, including the Dodge-branded electric muscle car seemingly capable of all-wheel-drive burnouts. An all-electric Jeep, widely expected to be a Wrangler, is on its way, too, as we've known for some time. But the burning question many of these announcements left was: When?

    Thanks to a Stellantis earnings presentation covered by The Detroit News, we now know when to expect at least some of these electrified products: The electric Jeep will arrive by 2023, while the rest of Jeep's lineup will begin to offer electric variants by 2025.

    On the Dodge end of the Stellantis house, look for a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model to arrive in 2022. We're not sure which product will get that PHEV powertrain, but a next-generation crossover or SUV is a good bet-likely the next-generation Durango, which like today's model, shares underpinnings with Jeep's (now-outgoing) Grand Cherokee. With a new Grand Cherokee here in three-row form (the first ever for the nameplate) and arriving soon in two-row and 4xe plug-in hybrid forms, surely the Durango is on the cusp of replacement and in line for the 4xe treatment, too. The electric muscle car previously announced won't arrive until 2024.

    Timelines for Chrysler and Ram going electric remain elusive, though we know there will be a Ram EV pickup in 2024. Stellantis's luxury brands, including Maserati and Alfa Romeo, are going to make the jump to fully electrified lineups by 2027 here in America.


    The New, Redesigned 2022 Compass Reveal


    Watch the full reveal to get your first look at the redesigned 2022 Compass. Coming Fall 2021.

    Watch HERE


    Dodge is Planning to Build the Fastest Muscle Car in Their History: Except It's Electric

    June 18, 2021 | PowerNation

    Demon, Hellcat, or Ghoul - take your pick - Dodge has a current lineup of muscle cars that have no problem pinning you in your seat. However, with the announcement of the new Tesla Plaid S taking over the headlines, Dodge came back and did what they do best - compete and make headlines of their own, which is why they dropped a bombshell about an electric muscle car that will be the fastest in their lineup.

    Nobody wants to be outdone, especially an automotive manufacturer with a fruitful history like Dodge and its Hemi. However, Tesla came onto the scene and created a market that otherwise didn't exist. They've stepped on some toes in the process with their recent "Quickest Production Car" crown and brought out the competitive juices of Dodge.

    The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, with its 840 horsepower and 770-pound-feet of torque (when using 100-octane), previously held the quarter-mile record with an astonishing 9.65-second run. That was until Tesla released their Model S Plaid, with 1,020 horsepower and 1,050-pound-feet of torque, and achieved it in 9.23 seconds. To stir the pot a little, Tesla has a 180 horsepower and and 280-pound-feet of torque advantage, so…

    Electric vehicles have come a long way, and despite their gaudy torque numbers and ability to go fast in a straight line, they still don't have the capabilities of an internal combustion engine, reliability being one of them. That doesn't mean they aren't improving drastically, which is why Dodge wants to jump in on the fun. This will be the first time Tesla has some real competition, not to say there haven't been others in the market to this point like the Mustang Mach-E.

    Unnamed sources revealed to The Detroit Bureau that Dodge is taking this opportunity to work on an electric muscle car, described as "the fastest car they've ever made." There are two ways to feel about this - the first is that it's awesome. We are witnessing the best horsepower wars in modern history and 1,000 horsepower is as common today as a Honda Civic.

    However, another way to look at this is also auto companies are not only acknowledging the shift to an electric world, but they're taking it seriously. Embracing the future isn't bad, but change is, admittedly, hard.

    Details at this stage are scarce, and CEO of Dodge, Tim Kuniskis, told Fox News Auto recently that "electrification is inevitable in this space. It will help internal combustion engines perform significantly better and in some cases electrification all by itself."

    His comments left us wondering what he meant - it will help internal combustion engines in this space? Could this mean an even faster internal gasoline-powered car could be in the works as well? Although we're not quite sure by what he meant, we are sure of our trust in Dodge and their ability to produce next-level cars and guide us into the next chapter of the horsepower wars.


    The 2021 Grand Cherokee L now comes with three rows that seat up to seven passengers! Learn more


    Here's What Everyone Forgot About The Dodge Challenger Hellcat

    by Lewis Mahoney | May 26, 2021 | HotCars

    Dodge has made some of the greatest cars in American history, they almost always have massive power and the Dodge Challenger Hellcat certainly lives up to all expectations. The Challenger picks up from where the original left off and just adds so much more. It's one of the most powerful cars ever produced in the US and is surprisingly cheap to buy.

    The Hellcat was developed by Dodge's SRT team and became an instant hit, below are some of the more interesting facts and features people may have forgotten about the Dodge Challenger Hellcat.

    • Power Per Dollar

    • Hellcat Engine Almost Never Happened

    • Diamonds For Strength

    • New Development Process

    • Huge Demand

    • First Model Sold For Charity

    • Drag Car

    • Surprising Fuel Efficiency

    • Good Value

    • Red & Black Key

    Read more

    2021 Jeep Wrangler 392 review: High-speed off-road high jinks

    We begged for a V8 Wrangler, and boy did Jeep deliver.
    By Emme Hall, May 24,2021, RoadShow

    "It's a very weird sensation: Here I am behind the wheel of a 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon SUV, and I've just chirped the tires and rocketed to 60 mph in less than five seconds. It's unnatural. And I love it.

    It's been 40 years since the 1981 Jeep CJ had a 5.0-liter V8 under the hood, producing a mere 125 horsepower. Times certainly have changed -- the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392 uses a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with a stonking 470 hp and 470 pound-feet of torque. It makes for heart-pounding, head-tossing, seat belt-locking and maniacal laugh-inducing fun. But there are still a few issues with this otherwise thrilling package.When I start the 392, it defaults to the wake-the-neighbors loud setting, so right away I know it means business. Around town, the V8 burbles and grumbles, the eight-speed automatic transmission quietly working in the background. When I reach a long straight on a back road, I switch to the paddle shifters (in a Jeep!) and floor it. The nose rises up, my head snaps back and the full-time four-wheel-drive system gets the power down to the 33-inch BF Goodrich KO2 tires. After around 4.5 seconds, I'm at 60 mph. Goodness." Read More


    2022 Jeep Compass: Is This the Coolest Shape of a Gadget-Era Jeep So Far?

    by: Alexandru Sincan | May 17, 2021 | autoevolution.com

    The first generation of the Jeep Compass series was something like a subcompact SUV of the early 2000s with an improvised traditional Jeep face added. It was using the Dodge Caliber technical platform as many other subcompact and compact family cars and SUVs of the American branch of the DaimlerChrysler group (1995-2007). Uninspiring start.

    In 2011, the front end of the Compass was radically redesigned to resemble the Grand Cherokee model series. Already much better! The second generation was launched in 2018 as a product of the FCA group (formed in 2014).

    The vision behind it was far more coherent than in the case of the previous generation. The second generation of the Jeep Compass had it all from the beginning: the modern technology of the SCCS (Small Common Components and Systems) platform, efficient engines, a 9-speed automatic transmission and a nicely integrated design. More than ever, it was clear that Compass aspired to the role of "mini-me" of the contemporary Grand Cherokee. A mini-me with a length of, however, 173 in (4,395 m). That's a quite serious car! Worthy to be mentioned: this was the first Jeep specially designed to hit global roads. Read More

    10 Sick Facts About The Ram TRX Pickup Truck

    by: Martin Peter | 04/27/21 | hotcars.com

    The popularity of pickup trucks in the US is at an all-time high, with the top three best-selling vehicles being pickup trucks. Pickup trucks are so popular that there are now categories within the market. For example, there are heavy-duty trucks designed to haul heavy items. Then there are the light-duty trucks, perfect for city dwellers interested in using them as daily drivers. The third and relatively new category is performance trucks. Performance pickup trucks are equipped with potent engines and premium components, allowing them to be quicker than some sports cars.

    The latest entrant to the performance pickup truck market is the Ram TRX. The TRX is a limited edition truck and one of the craziest production pickup trucks ever. Let's explore some quick facts about this incredible truck.
    1. The TRX Has An All-New Face
    2. A HEMI V-8 Powers The TRX
    3. The TRX Is The Most Powerful Mass-Produced Truck Ever
    4. The TRX Is Built For Off-Roading
    5. The TRX Has A Luxurious Interior
    6. The TRX Is The First-Ever Ram With Paddle Shifters
    7. Each TRX Will Have A Custom Plate Inside To Show How Special It Is
    8. The TRX Has Eight Drive Modes

    Accessorize your 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe with these new performance parts

    Jeep Performance Parts now offers a range of cool new components for its electrified Wrangler 4xe.

    Craig Cole | May 3, 2021 | Roadshow

    "The 2021 Wrangler 4xe is the new hotness from Jeep. This hard-core off-roader melds the go-nearly-anywhere prowess of a standard Wrangler with the added efficiency and near-silent operation of a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. But for customers who want a little bit more capability or an extra dash of style, last week Jeep announced a range of new performance parts and accessories for the 4xe.

    Available through the Mopar online store, these components include everything from all-weather floor mats and a molded cargo tray to off-road lights, a reinforced swing gate and even an awesome new front bumper. Arguably, the most important item on offer is a 2-inch suspension lift kit, supposedly an industry first for a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Priced at a not-unreasonable $1,495, this components set includes four springs, Fox shock absorbers, new stabilizer bar links, a bucket of fasteners and more."

    Read more



    🏁Watch the Dodge Durango SRT leave a Mustang Shelby GT500 in the dust! 🚙💨


    By DodgeGarage | April 20, 2021 | Read More


    See the 2020 Jeep Wagoneer at the 2021 Atlanta Auto Show


    Viknesh V. | April 9, 2021 | motorauthority
    The Atlanta International Auto Show, now into its 39th year, kicks off on April 14 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and Jeep will be present with its 2022 Wagoneer.

    Jeep unveiled the reborn Wagoneer in March, in both regular and extra-plush Grand Wagoneer guises. The Wagoneer is more your Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition alternative while the Grand Wagoneer has enough luxury to challenge the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, as well as some of the full-size SUVs from the German brands. Unlike some of those rivals, the Wagoneer comes in only one length for now.

    Underpinning the vehicle is a modified version of the body-on-frame platform from the latest Ram 1500 pickup. An independent multi-link rear suspension should contribute to a smooth ride and air suspension will be available (standard on the Grand Wagoneer) for those that desire extra comfort.

    Power in the Wagoneer comes from a 5.7-liter V-8 that makes 392 hp and 404 lb-ft of torque with the assistance of a mild-hybrid system. An 8-speed automatic is standard and buyers will be able to choose from three distinct four-wheel-drive systems. The Grand Wagoneer gets a 6.4-liter V-8 with 471 hp and 455 lb-ft, as well as the top-of-the-range Quadra Drive II 4WD system as standard.

    As the official photos show, the interior of the Wagoneer is a very nice place to be, especially in Grand Wagoneer guise. A digital instrument cluster is standard and is joined by a second screen for the infotainment and an available third screen for the climate settings. Grand Wagoneer buyers can opt for a fourth screen for the front passenger.

    Read More


    Drag Race: Lamborghini Urus Vs. Dodge Durango Hellcat Vs. Jeep Trackhawk


    Martin Bigg | April 9, 2021 | CARBUZZ

    The Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk are both powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 rated at 710 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque in the Durango SRT Hellcat and 707 hp/645 lb-ft in the Trackhawk. The Urus, on the other hand, packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 pumping out 641 hp and 626 lb-ft of torque.

    While the Durango SRT Hellcat has the most power, it's also the heaviest out of the three SUVs, tipping the scales at 5,710 pounds. By contrast, the Urus has the least power but is the lightest out of the trio, making for an interesting race.

    In the first drag race, all three SUVs race off the line using launch control. Despite its huge heft, the Durango SRT Hellcat immediately pulls ahead of its competitors and crosses the line first, followed closely by the Trackhawk and Urus. For round two, launch control is switched off but the Durango still takes the victory, with the Trackhawk and Urus finishing in second and third place respectively, but the Trackhawk closed the gap towards the end for a close finish. In the third and final round, all three SUVs duke it out in a rolling drag race.

    This time, the results are reversed: the lighter Urus finishes first, followed by the Trackhawk and Durango. Considering the significant price difference between the Durango SRT Hellcat ($80,995), and the Urus ($207,326), the fact the American heavyweight only lost one race is seriously impressive.


    5 things to know about the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

    Robert Duffer | 10/6/2020 | thecarconnection

    5 things to know about the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX
    1. It's wider
    2. It has Hellcat breath
    3. Same bed, new bones
    4. It has Hellcat power, too
    5. It wears TRX branding

    Jeep Magneto: Electrifying the Easter Jeep Safari with a Wrangler EV

     

    The Easter Jeep Safari has become synonymous with factory-backed concepts and customs, and this year is no different. The headline grabber of 2021 is called the Jeep Magneto, and it's truly unlike anything the off-road brand has ever assembled. As its name hints, the Magneto is fully electric, with an electric motor under the hood that hooks up to a standard six-speed manual transmission that sends power to solid front and rear axles through a two-speed transfer case.

    To be sure, this is not a typical electric car concept. Electrification usually equals a chance to completely rethink traditional car-building and designing techniques. In the case of the Magneto, however, all of the powertrain bits - which includes the motor and several battery packs - has been hidden inside a stock steel Wrangler Rubicon chassis and bodywork. It's unconventional in that it's all rather conventional. Read More

    Ram Truck Brand Launches New Advertising Campaign 'I'm A Ram,' Featuring Music From Five-Time Grammy-winning Artist Chris Stapleton

    WATCH NOW

    THE ALL-NEW 2022 WAGONEER AND GRAND WAGONEER
    Anticipate Greatness


    Built for those who want to share a lifetime of success with the people they hold dear. The All-New Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer reinterpret their own legacies and take the premium SUV into uncharted territories of style, comfort and adventure. These are more than sport utility vehicles. They're the means to make exceptional memories and create your own legend.

    Learn more

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    Jeep's Upcoming Wagoneer Will Play Amazon Fire TV

    By Wesley Wren

     
    • Jeep's Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will see Amazon Fire TV hit its media screens.
    • The service will work exactly like your standard Amazon Fire TV account and relay all of your associated media.
    • The system will only feed the Wagoneer's center screen while the vehicle is in park, and will feature a privacy filter for the front passenger screen.

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    Big news: 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L revealed with seating for 7 and spy cam

    By Gary Gastelu, 1/7/2021, foxnews
    Along with the rebooted Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer full-size SUVs, the brand is introducing the 2022 Grand Cherokee L to its lineup, which is the first three-row version of its top-selling model and will compete with the likes of the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.

    The all-new vehicle is scheduled to go on sale this spring, and will be followed by a two-row version without the L later in the year that will include a plug-in hybrid powertrain option.

    The Grand Cherokee L features styling inspired by the original Wagoneer, with a longer hood and boxier cabin than the outgoing Grand Cherokee, which first went on sale in 2011, along with a slightly forward-slanted grille.

    Three different all-wheel-drivetrains with increasing levels of off-road capability will be offered, along with the choice of a 290 hp 3.6-liter V6 engine or 357hp 5.7-liter V8 that can tow up to 7,200 pounds.

    The Grand Cherokee L will also be available with a Quadra-Lift air suspension system that's equipped with computer-controlled shocks and can increase the ground clearance from 8.3 inches to 10.9 inches for off-road driving or lower it to 6.5 inches to make it easier to get into.

    High tech driving aids include a head-up display, night vision camera and a hands-on lane-centering and adaptive cruise control system that will be followed in the 2022 model year by a hands-free one similar to Cadillac's Super Cruise.

    The cabin will be offered in seven-passenger and six-passenger configurations with a camera that the driver can use to monitor the third row and rear-facing child seats installed in the second row using the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system display. A digital gauge cluster and rearview camera-equipped mirror are additional improvements over the current Grand Cherokee's interior, as are the Palermo leather and open-pore oak and walnut trim that comes in high-end models.

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    2021 Dodge Challenger Adds Gold Rush Color From 50th Anniversary Edition