Mopar Insiders Articles

The automotive interwebs are abuzz with rumors of a potential return of General Motors’ (GM’s) Pontiac brand. A recent ad in the May/June issue of Car and Driver has reignited speculation about Pontiac’s comeback and its potential to challenge Dodge in the muscle car arena. The ad, albeit fictional, paints a compelling picture of Pontiac’s return to glory. It boldly claims a supercharged V8 engine with a monstrous 667 horsepower. But what does this mean for Stellantis’ Dodge brand? Dodge, known for its V8 engines, recently faced criticism for discontinuing its iconic Gen3 HEMI® V8 engines in favor of electrified … (read full article...)

Opel has pulled back the covers on its new Frontera crossover, leading to speculation about whether it could pave the way for a future replacement of the Jeep® Renegade. Built on the Stellantis Common Modular Platform (CMP), the Frontera falls into the subcompact crossover category in the B-segment, much like the Renegade. However, what sets it apart is its potential for seven-passenger seating, a feature not currently offered by the Renegade. While this may sound promising, it’s essential to note that the Frontera’s compact size may limit the comfort of additional passengers, making it ideal for two adults and up … (read full article...)

Dodge Europe’s web series, IN//OUT, is back with a second season that promises to elevate emotions and inspire European Dodge enthusiasts to embrace extraordinary experiences. The new season, continuing the brand’s editorial project aims to amplify Dodge’s iconic values and fearless challenges. The first episode is now available to watch, featuring NHRA Top Fuel Racer and European Top Fuel Champion 2023, Ida Zetterström, as the host. The season opener takes place in the Netherlands at the renowned Assen TT Circuit, often called the “Cathedral of Speed.” Ida Zetterström, who fans recognize from the first season, guides viewers through an exclusive … (read full article...)

Stellantis (FCA US) has recently taken a step that has many people buzzing on social media. The automaker has refiled a trademark for the Cuda nameplate with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This trademark covers “motor vehicles, namely concept motor vehicles,” which has led to widespread speculation about the possible return of the legendary Barracuda, commonly known as the ‘Cuda. ‘Cuda is a name that resonates deeply with muscle car aficionados. Initially produced by Plymouth, a now-defunct brand, the Barracuda was a beloved muscle car during its heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. Known for its powerful … (read full article...)

Ram Trucks solidifies its position as the leader in Brazil’s premium pickup market with an exciting new partnership. Teaming up with Duotone Kiteboarding Brazil, a renowned name in kitesurfing equipment manufacturing, Ram aims to spotlight the synergy between pickup trucks and watersports, showcasing their versatility and adventure potential. Since the launch of the Brazilian-built unibody compact pickup, the Rampage, Ram has been breaking new ground in the market. Expanding beyond traditional applications like agribusiness, the brand is venturing into lifestyle territories and embracing new sports. This collaboration with Duotone Kiteboarding underscores Ram’s commitment to innovation and adventure, bridging the gap … (read full...

Ram’s compact Rampage pickup has been a roaring success in South America, particularly in Brazil, where it has propelled the brand to the top of the premium pickup market, breaking all sales records along the way. Built on the Stellantis Small-Wide 4×4 LWB architecture (shared with the Jeep® Compass), the Rampage competes directly with the likes of the Ford Maverick, a popular choice in the North American market. Despite its triumphs in South America, the Rampage remains conspicuously absent from North American roads, leaving Ram enthusiasts puzzled about the brand’s decision. Recently, Ram unveiled the new Rampage Laramie Night Edition … (read full article...)

Stellantis (FCA US) has initiated a recall for two 2021 Ram ProMaster vans due to an insecure ground connection that may cause the electric stability control (ESC) to become inoperative. As such, these vans fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 126, “Electronic Stability Control Systems.” These vans may have a loose ground securement for the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module, which may result in the loss of communication with the ABS module, leading to a loss of ESC. A vehicle with a non-functioning ESC system may increase the risk of a crash … (read full article...)

As the sun sets on an era, Dodge enthusiasts are gearing up to bid farewell to an automotive legend. The 2024 Dodge Durango SRT392 AlcHEMI® “Last Call” edition has hit dealership lots, marking the culmination of an iconic chapter in the brand’s automotive history. With its powerful 6.4-liter (392 cubic-inch) HEMI® SRT V8 engine roaring beneath the hood, this limited-edition model pays homage to the beloved Gen3 HEMI in the current Dodge Durango lineup. Celebrating A Legacy – Production of all HEMI-powered Dodge Durango models, including the mighty 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT HELLCAT, is set to conclude at the … (read full article...)

Matt Hagan shook his head in disbelief after stepping out of his 11,000-horsepower, nitro-burning Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Direct Connection Dodge//SRT HELLCAT Funny Car. Sitting in victory lane at the NHRA Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 Nationals near Chicago, Hagan had just clinched his second consecutive NHRA Funny Car national event win, which he hadn’t considered possible after battling challenging racing conditions all weekend. A four-time NHRA Mission World Champion, Hagan overcame tricky track conditions during the Friday and Saturday qualifying rounds to secure his 51st career NHRA national win. The Virginia racer, who recently won the NHRA Four-Wide … (read full article...)

Set to grace the auction block at Mecum Indy 2024 tomorrow is a true muscle car spectacle: a 1970 Dodge Charger like no other. Crafted by the skilled hands at Finale Speed, this Charger is a blend of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge engineering, boasting a jaw-dropping carbon fiber body that’s both lightweight and incredibly strong. Underneath its stealthy exterior lies a powerhouse – a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® HELLCAT V8 delivering 707 horsepower. Paired with a Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission, this Charger offers an exhilarating driving experience, with power on demand and precise gear shifts. But it’s not just … (read full article...)

The United Auto Workers (UAW) and Stellantis find themselves at loggerheads over recent layoffs following the negotiation of a new contract. In November, the UAW celebrated its agreement as a “landmark” achievement, boasting significant gains, including hefty investments in the U.S. market, substantial wage hikes, and the promise of full-time positions for almost 3,000 temporary … (read full article...)

Buckle up, car enthusiasts, because something truly extraordinary is revving its engine and at the Mecum Indy 2024 today. Prepare to feast your eyes on the world’s only four-door Plymouth Barracuda Sedan—a bespoke creation that defies convention and sparks awe at every turn. Crafted by the late owner of restoration products supplier ECS, Dave Walden, this remarkable vehicle is more than just a car; it’s a testament to imagination and ingenuity. Inspired by a theorized idea of what the new-for-1970 E-body would look like as a four-door sedan, Walden embarked on a journey of automotive innovation. The journey began with … (read full article...)

In a decisive move aligning with its Dare Forward 2030 agenda, Stellantis, in collaboration with Chinese electric vehicle (EV) startup Leapmotor, is set to introduce the first two EVs of their joint venture into the European market. The announcement, made during a joint press conference in Hangzhou, China, signifies a significant step forward in Stellantis’ … (read full article...)

On August 17th, 2022, the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee Concept debuted at the brand’s Speed Week event during the week of the Woodward Dream Cruise. Dodge’s concept featured a polarizing design that broke from the brand’s current styling language. The R-wing A notable and very innovative feature of the design is the front R-wing, which not only pays tribute to the original Charger Daytona’s design but cleverly channels air through its front opening to significantly enhance downforce while retaining an aerodynamic profile. The term R-wing was coined for Stellantis Chief Of Design Ralph Gilles and has made it through to … (read full article...)

Prepare to be dazzled as one of the rarest and most vibrant muscle cars of the 1970s takes center stage at the Mecum Indy 2024 auction later this month. The 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda, resplendent in its eye-catching Moulin Rouge (FM3) paint, is set to captivate enthusiasts with its unique combination of rarity, performance, and … (read full article...)

The Stellantis (FCA US) Product Design Office (PDO) is bringing back its popular Cars + Coffee events for 2024. These events will again occur on the grounds of the former Walter P. Chrysler Museum, located on the grounds of the Chrysler Technology Center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. These events are held a few times a … (read full article...)

Prepare to be amazed as a true automotive unicorn graces the stage at the Mecum Indy auction on Friday, May 17th, 2024. This 1971 Plymouth Cuda Convertible boasts a stunning Sassygrass Green (FJ5) exterior complemented by a pristine white interior and top, a combination that’s as rare as it is breathtaking. With an estimated price … (read full article...)

Alfa Romeo, renowned for its rich heritage of performance and style, has revealed its new 2024 Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Super Sport limited special series. This marks a poignant finale for the twin-turbo V6 Quadrifoglio models in the United States, celebrated through an exclusive, commemorative chapter. Limited globally to 275 units for Giulia and 175 for Stelvio, with only 72 Giulia and 52 Stelvio units allocated for the U.S. market, the Quadrifoglio Super Sport models epitomize the pinnacle of Alfa Romeo’s sportiness, technical prowess, and advanced technology. These special editions serve as ambassadors of the iconic Quadrifoglio legacy, renowned for … (read full article...)

The Dodge Viper was undoubtedly one of America’s greatest performance cars. Going through five generations of the V-10 powered snake, Dodge hand-built Vipers for 25 model years, before calling it quits in 2017. To help close out the Viper’s historic life, Dodge//SRT released five exclusive limited-edition models for collectors. Among them was GTS-R Commemorative Edition … (read full article...)

Is Stellantis Quietly Cutting Options On Certain Vehicles? We Keep Finding Vehicles That Keep Getting Options Cut... In today’s automotive industry, consumers expect innovation and value for their hard-earned dollars. However, Stellantis has left many scratching their heads and feeling shortchanged. Despite recording profits in the past two years, Stellantis has been cutting features from several of its vehicles while still commanding premium prices. https://moparinsiders.com/is-stellantis-quietly-cutting-options-on-certain-vehicles/