CHRYSLER GROUP Dodge Packages a Powerful Punch with HEMI® Power and Rear-Wheel-Drive Performance

Dodge Launches All-New Boldly-Styled 2005 Dodge Magnum Auburn Hills, Mich. - It has been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI® power and rear-wheel-drive performance. For 2004, Dodge unleashes power in an all-new proportion with the launch of its 2005 Dodge Magnum. "Dodge Magnum is just one of the first new and exciting vehicles in our fast-paced launch plan," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "All told, we’ll bring twenty-five new vehicles to market in the next thirty-six months. The legendary engine that powered Dodge's muscle cars of the 1960s has been re-engineered and reborn as a modern, high-performance, fuel-efficient and durable powerplant known as the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. With 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dodge Magnum RT can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. The HEMI-powered 2005 Dodge Magnum RT will be the first modern production vehicle in North America to feature cylinder deactivation when it goes on sale in the spring of 2004. The Chrysler Group Multi Displacement System (MDS) seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI engine when V-8 power is not needed. This provides a world class combination of performance and fuel economy.  Dodge brings back rear-wheel drive to transfer all this power to the pavement through an all-new independent five-bar rear-drive layout. The Magnum powertrain and suspension systems work together for a precise balance of performance and handling, making optimum use of all four tire contact patches. For ultimate power distribution, an all-wheel drive version of the Dodge Magnum also will be available. "High performance vehicles like the Dodge Magnum demand rear-wheel drive," said Zetsche. "Advances in stability systems and tire technology make this the right time to launch our rear-wheel drive, HEMI-powered Dodge Magnum." Dodge Magnum delivers on the benefits of a sport-utility vehicle, with available all-wheel drive and up to 3,800 pounds of towing capacity, along with the ride and handling of a sports sedan. Magnum’s unique package features an "extreme access" liftgate hinged forward off the d-pillar to open straight up instead of swinging out. The large 11.3 square foot opening can swallow a 27-inch TV. "The only way a car company can win, is by building great products with innovative features," said Zetche. " Dodge Magnum is the latest evidence that we are working hard to do just that." DODGE MAGNUM STANDARD FEATURES 2.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission Rear-wheel drive configuration Short- and long-arm front suspension Independent five-bar multilink rear suspension 17-inch wheels and tires Rack and pinion steering Driver and front passenger adjustable lumbar support Tilt and telescoping steering column Outside temperature display 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest Sentry Key® engine immobilizer system Advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags Occupant Classification System Enhanced battery saver Solar control window glass 27.0 cu. ft. cargo volume Under-floor cargo storage compartment "Extreme access" liftgate DODGE MAGNUM SXT FEATURES In addition to Dodge Magnum standard features (listed above), the Magnum SXT model adds: 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission Available all-wheel drive with five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels Four-wheel antilock brakes All-speed traction control Electronic Stability Program Emergency brake assist Eight-way power driver’s seat Sunscreen privacy glass Cargo cover and storage net DODGE MAGNUM RT FEATURES In addition to Dodge Magnum SXT standard features (listed above), the Magnum RT model adds: 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick® Multi-displacement System (MDS) 6.3-second 0-60 mph 18-inch polished aluminum wheels Dual exhaust Performance brakes Leather interior trim Boston Acoustics six-speaker premium sound system with 288-watt digital amplifier 160 mph speedometerOPTIONAL FEATURES: Power passenger seat Heated driver and front passenger seats Dual zone automatic temperature control with infrared sensing Electronic vehicle information center with compass, Homelink® universal transceiver, and trip computer Electrochromic interior rear view mirror Security alarm with panic button on key fob Front and rear side curtain air bags Air filtration Self-sealing tires UConnectTM hands free communication Power adjustable pedals GPS Navigation radio with integrated six-disc CD/MP3 player SIRIUS Satellite RadioTM Sunroof with express open and close feature Trailer tow capability up to 3,800 pounds Load-leveling shocks CHRYSLER GROUP   DaimlerChrysler Communications, March 2004 Top