Mopar Insiders Articles

Jeep is expanding its electric vehicle lineup. Recently, it teased the Jeep Wagoneer S, which will be fully revealed on May 30th. Antonio Filosa, Jeep’s CEO, also confirmed that the Gladiator 4XE will be released in 2025. Now, sources within Stellantis have disclosed to us that the next electrified models will be the full-sized body-on-frame Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. Initially teased in a Jeep 4XE day video back in September of 2022, Jim Morrison (Then head of Jeep, Now Head of Jeep Performance Parts) mentions that the Grand Wagoneer 4XE has an estimated driving range of over 500 miles with … (read full article...)

The Stellantis (FCA US) Product Design Officer (PDO) team hosted its first cars and coffee event of 2024, this past weekend. Car enthusiasts from all walks of life, regardless of their favorite brand, descended upon the former site of the Walter P. Chrysler Museum for a morning filled with automotive splendor. The turnout was nothing short of impressive, with a few hundred Mopar and non-Mopar vehicles filing the lot at the former museum to be part of the action. So much so, that some visitors had to utilize overfill lots across the street to accommodate the influx of cars. These events, which … (read full article...)

A unique 1990 Jeep® Grand Wagoneer (SJ) is turning heads on the popular automotive auction site BringATrailer.com. This vintage SUV, refurbished between 2020 and 2021, boasts a powerful Gen3 HEMI® V8 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing a modern twist to a classic ride. Originally repainted in Metallic Blue and adorned with woodgrain trim, this Grand Wagoneer exudes retro charm. It features aftermarket LED lighting, Hella driving lights, and a receiver hitch for added functionality. The interior showcases tan leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and Vintage Air climate control for comfort on the road. Underneath the stylish exterior … (read full article...)

In a historic meeting at the Stellantis Automotive Pole in Minas Gerais, the President of Stellantis for South America, Emanuele Cappellano, and the Governor of Minas Gerais, Romeu Zema, announced a significant investment plan. Stellantis will contribute R$14 billion (approximately $2.8 billion) from 2025 to 2030, marking the largest investment in the Betim Automotive Pole’s history. Expansion and Future Technology – The investment will primarily support the expansion of the engine production line at the Betim facility. This expansion will produce the next generation of engines, including those equipped with bio-hybrid technology. The first vehicles featuring this innovative technology are … (read full article...)

The Cherokee nameplate holds a special place in the Jeep® brand’s legacy, and enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn of its imminent return to the lineup. Since its absence from the market in 2023 due to the idling of the Brampton Assembly Plant, anticipation has been steadily mounting for its revival. In a recent interview with Italian publication Il Sole 24 Ore, Jeep® CEO Antonio Filosa confirmed that the Cherokee is slated to make its comeback in 2025. However, there’s more to the story than just its return. The next-generation Cherokee (KM) is set to make waves with its electrified … (read full article...)

Jeep® has had a busy day. First, the European-focused Avenger 4xe was revealed. Then, we got a teaser for the upcoming 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S, the brand’s first all-electric vehicle for the North American market. Recently teased on Jeep’s social media platforms with a captivating video titled “Surpass Yourself,” this sleek and powerful crossover is poised to make waves when it hits dealer showrooms this summer. What sets the Wagoneer S apart? Under its hood—or rather, powering its wheels—is a dual electric motor setup boasting an impressive 600 horsepower and 617 lb.-ft. of. torque. Translation? This electric Wagoneer S can … (read full article...)

Ram continues to expand its global footprint and is set to launch a new midsize pickup, the Ram 1200. Based on the Peugeot Landtrek, this model will be produced in China, targeting the growing demand for versatile and affordable pickups in lower-income markets across Latin America and South America. The Peugeot Landtrek, the foundation for the Ram 1200, was initially developed in partnership with Changan Automobiles and is manufactured at the Shenzhen Baoneng Motor Company in China. This collaboration has enabled Ram to swiftly adapt the Landtrek for its lineup, introducing a competitive option to customers beyond North America. The … (read full article...)

Alfa Romeo and Chrysler have achieved significant recognition at the 2024 Texas Auto Roundup, hosted by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA). After intense driving at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas, automotive journalists cast their votes, and the results saw Alfa Romeo and Chrysler atop their categories. The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia was awarded the prestigious “Performance Vehicle of Texas” title, while the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid won the “Minivan of Texas” award for the eighth consecutive year. Founded in 1987, TAWA has become one of the industry’s most recognized and reputable automotive media organizations. TAWA’s mission is to … (read full article...)

The Stellantis Cassino Assembly Plant, located in Italy, has been the center of a significant workers’ strike, reflecting growing tensions over unsustainable working conditions. The strike, which began on Monday, saw over 80% participation from employees in key departments such as assembly, plastics, and plating, and continued into Tuesday and Wednesday. The strike was organized by the unions Uilm, Fiom, and Flmu-Cub in response to increasing workloads and production paces deemed excessive by the workers. Union representatives explained that the company’s unilateral decision to increase production rates and workloads was the tipping point. “We have responded to yet another unilateral … (read full article...)

Since the end of the pandemic, the auto industry has experienced record profits, driven by high sales and unprecedented monthly payment rates due to low inventories. However, the market dynamics are shifting rapidly, and Stellantis finds itself facing an overabundance of inventory, a stark contrast to its previous situation. Market Dynamics Shift – In the immediate aftermath of the pandemic, auto companies thrived on high transaction prices and minimal incentives. The market has since taken a turn, fueled by even higher interest rates, inflation, and climbing vehicle prices. Now, Stellantis is struggling with excess inventory that would have been easily … (read full article...)

Jeep® has long been synonymous with ruggedness and adventure, and their latest model, the Jeep Avenger 4xe, is no exception. Unveiled to a group of European journalists, the Avenger 4xe builds on the success of the original Avenger (JJ), offering a modern twist with its hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive (AWD) capabilities. Eric Laforge, Head of Jeep Brand in Enlarged Europe, stated, “Avenger is one of Jeep’s biggest success stories, with over 90,000 orders from final customers, of which almost 30% are fully electric. In the wake of this success, Avenger 4xe will be the new benchmark in the B-SUV segment, … (read full article...)

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...)