Chrysler Dressing Up Diesels

Special Coverage

Geneva
Auto Show

Chrysler LLC is adding some sparkle to two of its spark-less international-market models.

Sporting a fresh appearance package, the Jeep Grand Cherokee S Limited debuts today at the Geneva auto show. It features a 3.0L V-6 CRD engine.

Chrysler 300C SRT Design Group features performance-style seats with raised bolsters.

Also bowing is a diesel-powered Chrysler 300C fullsize sedan that features an appearance package inspired by the auto maker’s Street and Racing Technology division.

Both vehicles are set to go on sale before the second quarter.

The S Limited’s exterior boasts a unique front fascia with body-color air dam and chrome applique; unique side sill moldings; all-new 18-in. aluminum Arrowhead wheels with mineral-gray accents; body-color mirrors; rear spoiler; unique badging; and deep-tinted windows – where the law allows.

Notably, its roof rack has been removed in favor of molding covers and a smoother, more aerodynamic experience.

The SUV’s interior features an SRT8 steering wheel, shifter knob and aluminum-finished bezels for the center stack, floor console and front-door switches.

The engine, with its 4 valves-per-cylinder design, gets boost from a variable geometry turchocharger and a high-pressure fuel-injection system rated at 23,206 psi (1,600 bar). It generates 215 hp with a peak torque rating of 376 lb.-ft. (510 Nm).

The S Limited also is available with a gasoline-powered V-8. The 4.7L mill, which got a 25% horsepower boost for the North-American-market ’08 Dodge Dakota small pickup, gets another 5% upgrade for the S Limited.

The engine’s output is rated at 302 hp. It generates peak torque of 328 lb.-ft. (445 Nm).

The 300C SRT Design Group, which is powered by the same 3.0L V-6 CRD as the S Limited, features burnished aluminum 20-in. wheels, a unique exhaust sytem with a performance muffler, performance-styled front bucket seats with raised bolsters and an SRT8 steering wheel.

Other Chrysler production models set for debut at Geneva are the Dodge Journey cross/utility vehicle, which debuted as a concept last September at the Frankfurt motor show, the Dodge Caliber SRT4 high-performance hatchback and the Jeep Cherokee, known as the Liberty in North America.

The auto maker also reprises three Detroit auto show offerings by displaying the Dodge Zeo concept sport wagon, Jeep Renegade SUV and Chrysler ecoVoyager people mover. All three models feature advanced alternative powertrains.

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