2016 Dodge Viper SRT GT Track Review

By Mathieu St-Pierre

A Viper is an elusive thing, and I am taking about the car. The snake is found pretty much the world over. For a car that retails for only $93,000, there should be more on the road. I know what I just wrote reads kind of dumb, but in today’s world a $100,000 BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Porsche or Corvette are nearly commonplace.

In my semi-long-ish career, I’ve only encountered a Viper on two occasions: The first was 10 years ago; the second, just recently. The SRT-10 and I spent a few hours together getting acquainted, and I was left in awe of the car’s absolutely raw nature. This time round, a GT and I went through two rounds of speed dating.

Every summer, FCA puts together a full-line party at their Chelsea MI proving grounds. It was at this gathering that I blasted through a series of cones with one 645-horsepower untamed Snake.

Cones, not really a track
One of the activities was a slalom where various performance FCA cars could be put through their paces. I started off in a Fiat 500 Abarth, moved on to a Charger Hellcat then a Challenger of the same origin, until I finally graduated to the Viper. I thought I was going to be ready, but I wasn’t quite warmed up enough.

Like trying to chew on a giant gobstopper, you know it’s impossible but you also know that it’ll be worth it. I dropped in the Viper, whacked my head on the roof on my way down, and attempted to settle in as best I could. I’d wrongly imagined that the transition from the Challenger to the Viper was going to be seamless or at least close.

I like tight places
The Viper’s cockpit is miniscule, cramped even, but this is after all as near a street-legal racecar as can be. There are many amenities to speak of such as a 12-speaker audio system, Uconnect with 8.4” screen with navigation, and the race-inspired bucket seats are covered in Nappa leather with alcantara inserts. One could say that the interior is semi-luxurious. But all of this is fluff.

Once in the car, I was rushed to adjust my bearings. There is no telescoping wheel, the pedals are power adjustable as are the seat settings, but no matter what I tried to do, I couldn’t get comfy. Perhaps that’s not the point but I’m certain that in better circumstances, I could have at least settled in.

Being the male-monkey that I am, I immediately began searching for the ESC button. It is located on the steering wheel for easy access, so I couldn’t find it in time… The Viper GT has a 5-mode Electronic Stability Control system so I was hoping to take advantage of some flexibility in the available grip.

Not good
My first run was something of a disaster. I stupidly upshifted into 2nd and left it there, which turned out to be pointless and time sapping. The mighty V10 snored and snorted its disapproval. As an FYI, you can near reach 60 mph (!) in 1st gear and 90 in 2nd…

Even so, I found myself navigating the cones with insane speed. I expected (but didn’t expect) the good old hydraulic power steering to be so sharp and respond so quickly. The massive Brembo brakes crushed whatever speed the V10 mustered, even at the end of the entry straight where I managed about 80mph in mere moments.

BTW, the Viper GT will mangle your brain on its way to 60mph as it covers it in 3.3 seconds. In metric numbers, that’s 130 (80mph) and 96km/h. Top speed is over 200mph or 320km/h.

Better
The second run was better as I upshifted into 2nd at first to tap max velocity through the entry straight. I immediately heel-toed into 1st once off the brakes to tackle the autocross. With engine revs near the 5,000-rpm mark, all 600 torques were always in play, making for violent shots forward as the steering wheel unwound. Also, this time, I managed to set the ESP to Track mode. In said mode, the Viper will allow loads of sliding, almost too much for the speed at which I was travelling, as the rear would step out hard if the front wheels were not fully straightened.

I wish I’d had more time with the Viper. The visceral, untamed beast demands respect and attention, and I wanted nothing more than to give it what it deserved. Sadly, Dodge Vipers are a very rare sight on Canadian press car fleets; much like seeing a viper north of the Arctic Circle.

Other fish in the sea
I did come across an unexpected competitor to the Viper: the Mercedes-AMG GT S. Both are as unpolished as any high-end luxurious high-performance car can be without cutting on luxury features. Both are brash and loud. Oddly, I was allowed to keep the $149,900 ($165,000 as tested) GT for an entire week, while the Viper GT ($102,995) is not available.

I suspected that few would cross-shop the AMG and the Viper; they’d more likely swing by a Chevrolet dealer and take a look at the Corvette. At just under $91, the Z06 is right up the Snake’s alley.

I’m game for a second date
My first date with the 2016 Dodge Viper GT was brief, and although my first impressions weren’t as favourable as they could have been, the car’s curves are incentive enough to give the cold-blooded reptile a second chance.

2016 Ram 1500 diesel: more towing

by David Zatz on 2015-10-09

Thanks to an upgraded cooling system — optional in 2015 — some  2016 Ram 1500 diesels have increased their ability to tow.

The rating was quietly changed on the Ram web site and noticed by reader Sean Marzola, then confirmed by  a Ram spokesman, along with the explanation. The 2016 Ram diesel 4×4, Crew Cab, with a five foot, seven inch bed is rated at towing up to 8,400 pounds with 3.92:1 gearing, substantially higher than in the 2015s.

The maximum towing capacity of the Ram 1500 diesel, in its optimal towing configuration, remains at 9,200 pounds.

Few Changes for the 2016 Dodge Challenger and Charger

There are a great many rumors floating around the internet insisting that there are some changes coming for the 2016 Dodge Challenger and 2016 Dodge Charger, but there are actually very few changes for the new model year – shy of some new option packages, the return of Plum Crazy purple and increased production of the Hellcat Hemi-powered models.

Although we already have official pricing information on the 2016 Dodge Challenger and Charger in SRT form, there are some foolish rumors being spread around the internet about the 2016 model year. Some of these phony reports and erroneous internet rumors claim that the Charger will receive yet another facelift and that the Hellcat engines will receive a power increase. Having already driven the 2016 Charger, I can tell you that it most certainly did not go away from the stylish, ultra-modern face that was introduced for 2015 and if the Hellcat was going to get an official power increase for 2016 – the company most certainly would have announced that when they announced the pricing increase for the new model year.

In fact, at this point, any rumors for the 2016 Challenger or Charger are almost surely nonsense, as both cars are only a single model year old and they are both selling very well. However, to help keep the sales momentum going, there are some small changes to both the Challenger and the Charger for 2016, and they are all detailed below.

The 2016 Dodge Challenger
The 2016 Dodge Challenger lineup is identical to the 2015 model year, with the SXT, SXT+, R/T, R/T+, R/T Scat Package, the Shaker packages with the R/T or R/T Scat Pack, the SRT 392 and the SRT Hellcat. The power outputs are officially the same as 2015, as are the transmission options.

However, there are a few changes for the 2016 model year Challenger, beginning with the revival of Plum Crazy purple. This new hue will join B5 Blue and TorRed to create a trio of “high impact colors”. The Blacktop Appearance Group also returns for the 2016 Challenger in SXT and R/T trim, adding black 20 inch wheels, a black grille, a black rear spoiler, a black fuel door, a black strobe stripe, black seats in cloth or leather (depending on the package chosen), black bezels and black trim throughout the cockpit.

Those folks who buy the 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat will pay a bit more than 2015 buyers, but they will get the premium Laguna leather and the premium UConnect infotainment package as standard equipment.

Finally, the 2016 Dodge Challenger will have 12 different wheel options, including the standard wheel options for each of the trimlines and optional rim designs available across a variety of packages.

The 2016 Dodge Charger
Like the 2016 Dodge Challenger, the 2016 model year Dodge Charger lineup is pretty much identical to the 2015 lineup, with the SXT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat trimlines all coming with the same engines, the same power levels and the same 8-speed automatic transmission – but that isn’t a bad thing by any stretch.

There are a few changes that are similar to those in the Challenger lineup, including the addition of Plum Crazy purple, standard UConnect and Laguna leather for the SRT Hellcat Charger and the return of the Blacktop Appearance Group for the SXT and R/T sedans.

Unique to the 2016 Charger is the Super Track Pak for the V6-powered SXT package that add Bilstein shocks and unique springs for improved handling and a half inch lower ride height. There is also a set of 3.07 gears and a shortcut button for the dedicated Dodge Performance Pages app, with acceleration timers, a g-force meter and more.

The pricing has not been announced for the full 2016 Dodge Challenger or Charger lineups, but with the Hellcat models getting a massive price increase for the new model year, we could see some smaller increases from the other packages. Once the full pricing is announced, you will find it here on TorqueNews.com.

2016 Jeep Patriot: Fun And Affordable

By Denise Freese

For many buyers, a new car needs to be just right; the size, the power, the look and the price are all important considerations.  While Jeep has many models to fit your needs, the 2016 Patriot offers a good mix of cargo space, styling, and off-roading capability at a very affordable price point.

The Patriot is a sensible size, with strong Jeep styling and interior softness that makes it a great option for families.  The interior offers plentiful cargo space, and the rear seatbacks fold forward to create even more room.  The tall roofline allows for easy entry and exit, along with plenty of front and back headroom.  It’s a terrific vehicle for maneuvering around the city, with great handling and visibility, allowing for easy parking.

The Patriot comes in two models, Sport and Latitude.  The basic Sport version includes fog lamps, illuminated cupholders, tilt steering, and cruise control.  Roof side rails, tinted glass, Sirius XM radio, and the UConnect handsfree system are also standard.  The Latitude model adds air conditioning, power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, and keyless entry.  Front heated cloth seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat are also standard.

Options and packages are available; buyers can choose the available Freedom Drive I system, automatic or manual, offering great navigation through snowy winters or light off-roading adventures.  Another choice is the Freedom Drive II, a hardier system for real off-road conditions.  It’s the only Patriot that earns the “Trail Rated” badge.

Safety features include electronic stability control with roll mitigation, front side and side-curtain airbags, and an available rearview camera.  Additional options include a remote start system, navigation system, and an all-weather package with 17-inch all-terrain tires, tow hooks, and an engine block heater.

REVIEW: 2015 Dodge Charger RT Scat Pack – The Sedan With Muscle Car Chops

Nicole Wakelin September 29, 201

The 2015 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack hits every muscle car button. It looks aggressive and ready to chew up the road. It sounds incredible when you turn on the engine, even though it will likely wake your neighbors. It also has more horsepower than any sedan should rightly possess. The one thing it has that is decidedly unlike a typical muscle car is enough room to take the family around town, along with all their cargo.

Muscle cars are not typically known for being family friendly. They have backseats that no human can sit in unless they’re also a contortionist. Trunk space is typically meager and comfort is eschewed in favor of sportiness. The Charger somehow manages to pull of being a family sedan with lots of performance. It’s the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of cars, but without any evil tendencies of which we are aware.

Let’s start with the practical side of the Dodge Charger, because it’s bonkers that you can even say that about a muscle car. We took the Charger RT Scat Pack on a weekend camping trip. Two adults, two kids, sleeping bags, a cooler full of hot dogs and beverages, camp chairs, the whole kit and caboodle. We fit and so did our stuff. We didn’t have to sit on the trunk to close it and the kids didn’t have to deal with bags stuffed into the backseat. Everything simply fit thanks to 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space. If you’ve got more stuff and fewer passengers, the rear seats even split 60/40 to accommodate longer cargo.

The drive to the campsite was two hours and, despite being a car that’s all about the horsepower, it was a comfortable trip. The kids had plenty of room in back to spread out without getting in each other’s spaces. Up front both passenger and driver get 8-way power adjustable seats with 4-way power adjustable lumbar support. The Nappa Leather/Alcantara Suede Seats w/Logo ($1,595) package adds ventilation to the front seats and heated seats all around.

The front seats are heavily bolstered, but wide enough that even those with broad shoulders won’t feel squished and uncomfortable. It’s a reminder that this car would like to take a ride or two on the track and that you’re going to need that bolstering to stay firmly in place on the corners.

That’s the practical. Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff.

This monster has a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Press the gas pedal and you will be rewarded with a roaring engine as the car rockets forward. Getting up to speed on the highway takes no time at all. You’ll find you have to ease up because you’re suddenly at the speed limit without even realizing how you got there so quickly. There’s your muscle.

Despite being large and having a hood that is nothing short of imposing from behind the steering wheel, handling is easy. It’s responsive with no sloppiness. Sharp maneuvers through heavy traffic are easy thanks to quick acceleration and solid braking which provide plenty of control and confidence.

The Dodge Charger RT Scat Pack does a fantastic job of combining the key features of a sedan with all the performance of a muscle car. It is spacious, comfortable, and attractive with quality finishes throughout the interior. It’s also an aggressive beast of a car that is intimidated by nothing and leaves you feeling in complete control. The drawback to all that power in a car this size with such a well-appointed interior is fuel economy. It’s rated 15/25/18 city/highway/combined which will have you stopping at the pump more often.

The infotainment system is Chrysler’s Uconnect which is one of the most intuitive systems available. The touchscreen rarely requires more than one tap to respond and the menus are organized in a way that makes sense. The Beats Audio Group ($995) adds 10 Beats premium speaker with subwoofer and a 552-watt amplifier. Roll down the windows, hit the highway, and crank up the sound and it is worth every last penny.

The Dodge Charger made an impression on everyone this year with the Hellcat, but that isn’t the car for everyone. You can get plenty of performance from other cars in the Charger line-up like the RT Scat Pack. It’s slightly less crazy than the Hellcat, still has loads of power and style, and gives you a chance to drive a family sedan that will make all those minivan drivers weep over their multiple cupholders.

2015 Dodge Charger RT Scat Pack

Base Price: $39,995
Price As Tested: $44,275 (not including destination charge)

Likes

• Style
• Powerful Performance
• Family Sedan Comfort in a Muscle Car

Dislikes

• No Manual Transmission Option
• Fuel Economy

Chrysler Offers Style and Substance With the Newest 200

By Paul Sisolak on September 29, 2015 at 10:54 AM

If there’s one thing that tends to raise anticipation more than unveiling a new car on the market, it’s announcing a redesign of an existing one, since consumer criticisms are often the catalyst for making changes in the first place.

So when Chrysler repositioned its 200 sedan last year with the slogan “America’s Import,” it infused new, European-inspired styling and sportier enhancements inside and out. The automaker aimed to jazz up the car, distancing it from the tired midsize family market.

It’s no doubt helped—according to Automotive News, the strength of the current 200 helped Chrysler boost its sales 28 percent this summer.

Does the Chrysler 200 truly live up to these numbers? Will 2016 be another banner year for the redesigned four-door, or will it go through the dreaded sophomore slump? AxleGeeks took the opportunity to break down the specifics on fuel economy, performance, cargo space and other features to help shoppers decide if Detroit’s self-proclaimed exotic is the right buy.

2016 Chrysler 200 Price

The Chrysler 200 has some stiff competition in the likes of the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Mazda 6 and Toyota Camry, yet impresses with an MSRP of $21,995 that’s 18 percent cheaper than other midsize sedans. Its segment peers notwithstanding, the 200 is also $12,402 cheaper (a 36-percent margin) than all four-doors on the market, both compact and large.

2016 Chrysler 200 Fuel Economy

From point A to point B, the 2016 Chrysler 200 gets just one mile per gallon less in fuel economy (23 mpg) than its class. At 36 mpg, two fewer on the highway than the average, its combined economy is 29 mpg. Despite these numbers, the 200’s city range is 20 percent less than other midsize cars. On the highway, it offers 8.7 percent less.

2016 Chrysler 200 Horsepower and Torque

The 2016 200 packs a 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir engine, sending 184 horsepower to the front wheels. At a higher-output, 3.6-liter, its V6 Pentastar produces 295 HP. Both versions are powered by a 9-speed automatic transmission. Opt for the higher S sport model or C trim level and a sport mode allows manual shifting via steering wheel-mounted paddles.

The base 4-cylinder 200 is about average when put side by side against its contemporaries; 184 HP is only about 1 HP less than other midsize sedans, not uncommon for its class.

2016 Chrysler 200 Power-to-Weight Ratio

At 3,473 pounds, the 2016 200 is about 42 pounds heavier than other midsize sedans and 54 pounds lighter than bigger sedans. This translates into an average, if only decent, power-to-weight ratio—the car’s power output in relation to its weight.

The 200’s ultimate ratio is 18.9 pounds per HP, a small, 4.4-percent deficit against comparably sized cars, where the Chrysler must pull 0.8 more pounds per every 1 HP.

2016 Chrysler 200 Front-Row Dimensions

We took the measuring tape inside the new 200 and discovered that this second iteration of Chrysler’s redesign offers less headroom and legroom —in the front and back seats—than other midsize sedans, but slightly edges out other four-doors across the spectrum.

The driver and front-seat passenger are accommodated 38.7 inches of headroom, 0.4 of an inch less in its segment overall, and 42.2 inches of legroom, 0.7 of an inch less.

2016 Chrysler 200 Back-Row Dimensions

Back seat dimensions are almost identical down to the inch. Rear seat passengers can enjoy 37.4 inches of headroom, 37.6 inches of legroom—still less than other midsize sedans (0.4 and 0.5 of an inch, respectively), but hopefully not enough to dissuade shoppers.

What might persuade buyers to go for the 200, however, is its slightly more ample legroom compared to other sedans, at 1.8 inches above the average.

2016 Chrysler 200 Cargo Space

What’s the point of a family sedan that can’t fit the entire family and your stuff? When shopping for a midsize, it’s important that there’s enough trunk space to fit luggage, camping and sports gear, baby strollers, or even a set of golf clubs. The 200’s 16 cubic feet of rear cargo room thankfully measures up. It’s 0.2 cubic feet more than other sedans in its class, 1.8 cubic feet more compared to vehicles outside its class.

2016 Chrysler 200 Overview

Form and function is a balance that the 2016 Chrysler 200—like the 2015 version—appears to get right. Gone are the bland stylings of the car’s first generation, replaced with Fiat-derived exteriors, headlamps, and near-luxury-level interior materials.

Though some of its numbers are average when it comes to fuel economy and interior room, shoppers will be impressed with the 200’s cargo capacity and its modest pricing, affordable enough for budget-minded motorists, and for those looking to upgrade to higher trim levels without breaking the bank.