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January 03, 2003
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This Week:

• Michelin Challenge Design(TM) Brings World Debut of Matra P75 to Detroit

• Ford Introduces The Faction at the 2003 Los Angeles Auto Show

• Dodge Reveals New Shape of American Muscle with 2003 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 Sports Tourer Concept 

• The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate - Dynamic, intelligent and captivating in every respect

• Subaru Introduces Second Version of Baja(TM) Crossover Vehicle

• GM's Global Manufacturing System - A System To Build Great Cars and Trucks

• Global Engine Alliance Announces Plans to Jointly Develop and Operate Production Facility in the U.S.

• Scion To Launch First Two Products - xA and xB - At The 2003 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show

• Mitsubishi Motors Opens 2003 as Consolidated North American Company

• Thierry Peugeot appointed Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Peugeot SA.

• Peter Butterfield Promoted to President and CEO at Kia Motors America

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Dodge Reveals New Shape of American Muscle with 2003 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 Sports Tourer Concept

Photo: GM

Dodge Packages a Powerful Punch in Bold New Proportion All-new Dodge Magnum Sports Tourer Showcases Company's HEMI® Power and Rear-Wheel Drive Performance Production Version of Dodge Magnum Concept Vehicle To Arrive in Dodge Showrooms in 2004 It's been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI® power and rear-wheel-drive performance. Today Dodge unleashed power in an all-new proportion at the 2003 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show with the introduction of its 2003 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle.

Los Angeles, CA - "Dodge Magnum is the new shape of American muscle," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "With its innovative packaging, performance and utility, there's nothing else like it. While Chrysler Pacifica is the premium sports tourer, Dodge Magnum is the performance sports tourer that packs a powerful punch and the functionality of an all-wheel drive sport utility. Armed with HEMI Inside and rear-wheel drive, Dodge Magnum delivers power in a package that offers unmatched flexibility and versatility."

While the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 is a concept vehicle, it provides a strong hint at the first version of Chrysler Group's much-anticipated next-generation of rear-wheel drive "LX" vehicles. A production version similar to the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle will go on sale in 2004 under the Magnum name.

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. The Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle features a supercharged version of the 5.7-liter HEMI, churning out an estimated 430 horsepower and 480 lb.-ft. of torque.

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 system 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 production Dodge Magnum also will be available.

"In terms of performance, design and function, the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept will leave its mark as one of the coolest vehicles on the road," said Zetsche. "It is aimed squarely at the next wave of automotive enthusiasts looking for passionate performance, an all-new proportion and a vehicle you can use for just about anything."

(Jan 02, 2003)