Dodge Launches All-New Boldly-Styled 2005 Dodge Magnum

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 Pumps American Iron with All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum

Dodge is on a mission to design and deliver aspirational vehicles that provide differentiation from the competition and compete in the heart of the market. The Dodge Magnum is the new shape of American muscle, celebrating what American muscle cars were in the past, but with a design and packaging configuration that charges into the future. With its unique profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI® power and rear-wheel drive performance, there is nothing else like it in the marketplace.

“Dodge Magnum delivers capability combined with the ride and handling of a sports car,” said Darryl Jackson, Vice President, Dodge, DaimlerChrysler. “It's everything you want to do - haul stuff, tow a boat, and go fast.”

The Dodge Magnum represents Dodge's entry into a new category of vehicle transportation called sports tourer. Like the Chrysler Pacifica, this category of vehicles offers the right formula of proportions, packaging, performance and appearance that set them far apart from the competition.

“Dodge is connected across its product lines to driving enthusiasts, offering the most functional and fastest vehicles on the planet,” continued Jackson. “In this ultimate performance form, the Dodge Magnum joins the lineup.”

All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum Gives American Muscle All-New Proportion

When the sports car market got boring, Dodge introduced Viper.

When the passenger car market was cramped and crowded, Dodge introduced Intrepid.

When the truck market was a sea of sameness, Dodge introduced Ram.

Now, Dodge unveils the all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum, with an all-new unique profile that will add yet another dimension to the company's new ‘sports tourer' segment.

Whether it's cars, trucks, minivans or sport-utility vehicles, Dodge has a well-earned reputation for putting head-turning vehicles on the road.

“Consistent with the bold, in-your-face philosophy of the Dodge brand, our design objective with Dodge Magnum was to break away from the pack,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President, Design, DaimlerChrysler. “With a rear-wheel-drive architecture and a HEMI® engine inside, we created yet another package with proportions unlike any other in the marketplace.”

A CHISELED, CUT EXTERIOR:
Dodge Magnum charts a brave new direction for Dodge. Combining the functional characteristics of a sport-utility along with the performance and road manners of a sport sedan, Dodge has created a unique vehicle in its segment. Its architecture and proportions convey a bold, powerful image that is youthful, masculine, and aggressive.

“This noble, powerful design appears as if chiseled from a metal ingot, building on the powerful presence of the new Dodge Ram truck,” said Creed. “Magnum is pure Dodge. It is substantial, with every element having a purpose.”

Magnum is the first rear-wheel drive car for the Dodge brand in nearly 20 years, and designers used this opportunity to create a different vehicle image from what is currently offered in the marketplace today. The profile of the vehicle represents the greatest departure from today and takes on the image of a “shooting brake.” With a bold hood and long tapered roof line, the look is dramatic. The front and rear overhangs have been minimized which emphasizes the wheels at the corners and conveys a message of design efficiency.

The beltline on the body has been raised, while the roofline has been pulled down tautly around the windows to create a new proportion of body to glass which is usually only found on hot rods and concept vehicles. The tall bodyside is substantial and offers the driver a feeling of safety. This clean, ingot-like body is interrupted up by a set of pronounced wheel flares which contain a set of available massive 18” tires and wheels.

The front-end design is very bold and features a prominent grille with the familiar Dodge cross hair center theme, which contains a Ram's head badge. Taking a cue from the Ram truck, the grille employs a texture of horizontal grille bars. The shape of the grille itself is new and signals a new signature for the face of the Dodge brand. The headlamps are large for improved functional requirements and figure prominently into the front-end design.

Exterior ornamentation is minimal and supports the philosophy of visual strength and design efficiency. The interior components of the headlamps have been given a unique finish to provide optimum performance, and are executed in a fashion to create visual entertainment as well. The body side molding is a body-colored part highlighted with an elegant bright accent. The nameplates themselves reside on the liftgate with the exception of those vehicles equipped with a V-8 “HEMI” engine. In those special cases, a discreet nameplate is added to the fender above the molding punctuating the fact that there is something special under the hood.

Special attention was also given to the design of the exterior mirrors and door handles. The mirrors were shaped in the wind tunnel to maximize aerodynamic efficiencies and minimize the structural mass to achieve a light and unobtrusive appearance. The use of body color mirror heads help contribute to the vehicle's upscale appearance. The door handles as well are a new “pull style” design which look substantial, feel good in the hand, and add to the overall solid appearance of the car.

The large 18” aluminum, five spoke wheels along with the large disc brakes, and 18” tires work together to convey the message that this is a driver's car. Magnum blends the functional attributes of a sport-utility, the character of sport sedan, and the soul of a Viper to create a unique vehicle for Dodge.

An unusually large cargo opening is created by hinging the top of the rear gate midway between the C- and D-pillar. Surrounding the cargo gate, the rear taillamps are pushed to the corners to maximize functionality while accentuating the vehicle's wide stance. A large, protective rear bumper tops dual exhaust pipes, emphasizing Dodge Magnum RT's HEMI V-8 performance.

BOLD, FLEXIBLE INTERIOR:
“Dodge Magnum's interior delivers on the promise of the exterior making a strong business like statement with, silver accented gauges, door pulls and two- tone color scheme, which complement the spacious, leather interior,” said Creed. “And in a time when people are used to the flexibility and taller seating packages of sport-utility vehicles, Dodge Magnum combines both by raising the seating position two-and-a-half inches from our current passenger cars and adding a spacious and flexible cargo area.”

Dodge Magnum's interior is richly finished in a two-tone treatment which work together to give Magnum a luxurious but serious driver environment.

Placed behind the sporty four spoke steering wheel with silver accents, are four competition-style instrument gauges with white faces and silver colored accent rings tunneled-in to the instrument panel similar to those found on Dodge Viper. The center stack components are new and feature a new HVAC control unit, along with a variety of radios. A premium radio with an integrated navigation system is also available. Secondary controls for heated seats are located low on either side of the central ash receiver. Special attention was paid to the execution of these components to minimize gaps, and touch efforts as well as highlight flushness to adjacent components to achieve world class fit and finish. The centerpiece of the center console is the silver accented leather shift knob which highlights the gated shifter and new five speed automatic transmission for greater driving enjoyment.

The 60/40 split rear seats fold flat and feature a fold-out armrest. The flexible rear cargo area features an upper flat-load floor that expands the usable cargo area when the rear seats are folded forward. Additional storage is provided below this load floor for smaller items and in deep pockets on either side of the floor rearward of the wheels.

Quality Designed Into All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum

The Dodge Magnum exemplifies Chrysler Group's commitment to quality in the design and engineering of exciting new products.

The full range of design and engineering capabilities of DaimlerChrysler were applied to the development of the new rear-wheel drive sports tourer with the eye-catching high-beltline design. Magnum will continue the dramatic improvements in quality produced by the Chrysler Group over the past decade.

Magnum is the first vehicle completely designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that improves quality and speed to market while reducing costs and encouraging innovation in new products. CDS emphasizes systems engineering and up-front planning and design to avoid time-consuming and costly changes during the later phases of the product development cycle. With CDS, all product and process planning is completed and fully integrated before production tooling begins.

“Our quality efforts begin with CDS. That is where we build quality in to each new product that we bring to market,” said Stephen Walukas, Vice President, Corporate Quality, DaimlerChrysler.

Implementation of the CDS process has contributed to steady improvement in quality in Chrysler Group products over the past decade. Warranty costs have dropped 50 percent since 1996, including a 30 percent decline in costs in just the past three years.

Continuous improvements in quality have also been reflected in independent assessments: Chrysler Group has led domestic automakers for four years running in Consumer Reports magazine Product Reliability ratings and the company has posted 13 consecutive years of continuous improvement in the J.D. Power & Associates Initial Quality Survey of new car customers.

“Our goal is to bring our quality to the level of the best in class manufacturers by 2007,” said Walukas.

These improvements in quality are demonstrated in the 7-Year/70,000 Mile Powertrain Warranty on the Magnum and other Chrysler Group products.

Development of the Magnum involved the work of 700 engineers and the world-class testing facilities at the Chrysler Technology Center (CTC) in Auburn Hills , Michigan.

Engineers logged nearly 6 million miles of customer equivalent driving and experience on the vehicle, including trailer-towing tests in the Rocky Mountains, air conditioning validation in the summer heat of the Florida Keys, punishing drives through Death Valley at more than 120 degrees F. and a -43 degrees F. stint in Manitoba, Canada.

“We logged miles through every extreme condition on the globe to make sure we could deliver on our promise of the highest quality,” said Burke Brown, Chief Engineer, Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum.

Magnum was one of the first vehicles to benefit from the new $36 million Aero-Acoustic Wind Tunnel at CTC, completed in the summer of 2002. Engineers could test full-size clay models in half a day, enabling them to analyze many different designs.

The wind tunnel  enables engineers to test not only the aerodynamics of the vehicle design, but also the internal and external wind noise.

All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum the Heart and Soul of a Performance Car

Dodge Magnum was engineered to provide style, comfort, performance and utility in a sports wagon. The powertrain systems were optimized to deliver the best combination of these attributes.

Three engines and two transmissions were developed to provide the optimum powertrain options for Dodge Magnum SE , Magnum SXT and Magnum RT. The 2.7-liter DOHC V-6 provides the Magnum SE with outstanding combination of performance, fuel economy, quietness and durability. The Magnum SXT utilizes the 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 engine with improved performance, fitting a mid-level sports wagon. For the ultimate in performance, the Magnum RT comes standard with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8.

Transmissions were matched to the engines to provide the best combination of performance, smoothness and fuel economy. Two transmissions will be available in the Magnum vehicles. A passenger car Chrysler Group five-speed automatic will be offered for the first time ever in the Dodge Magnum. The five-speed automatic transmission will be controlled by Chrysler Group's AutoStick Driver-Selectable Range Control. This shifter accommodates fully-automatic shifting, or the driver can manually select a gear range. The rear-wheel drive Dodge Magnum SE and Magnum SXT will be equipped with a revised version of a proven Chrysler Group four-speed automatic transmission.

5.7-LITER HEMI® V-8

The modern HEMI engine offers more power and torque than any Chrysler Group vehicle passenger car engine since the legendary 426 HEMI of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Today's engine produces 340 hp @ 5000 rpm and 390 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm.

The new HEMI has been engineered to deliver outstanding performance, and also provide minimal noise, vibration, and harshness, smoothness and low emissions. Fuel economy has also been improved, but not at the expense of performance. Chrysler Group has developed and will be the first to offer to offer Multi-Displacement System (MDS) on a modern, large volume vehicle in North America.

“The Chrysler Group MDS seamlessly alternates between smooth, high fuel economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the 5.7L HEMI engine is in demand,” said Eric Ridenour, Executive Vice President Product Development Chrysler Group. “This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not needed, without sacrificing vehicle performance—2005 Chrysler 300C and Dodge Magnum RT owners will get the maximum benefit without any compromises.”

Owners of the Dodge Magnum RT will receive the powerful benefit of the HEMI engine with the fuel economy that they would only expect from a smaller, less powerful engine.

“The MDS was part of the engine's original design,” said Bob Lee, Vice President Powertrain Product Team Chrysler Group. “This resulted in a cylinder-deactivation system that is elegantly simple and completely integrated into the engine design. The benefits are fewer parts, maximum reliability and lower cost.”

Some of the significant technologies enabling the Chrysler Group MDS are the speed of electronic controls, the sophistication of the algorithms controlling the systems and the use of Electronic Throttle Control ETC. The HEMI will be able to transition from eight cylinders to four in 40 milliseconds (0.040 seconds).

The HEMI engine with MDS has completed over 6.5 million customer-equivalent miles through Chrysler Group's development and durability testing. It is covered by the 7-Year/70,000-mile Limited Powertrain warranty.

The HEMI engine that powers the Dodge Magnum RT uses aluminum cylinder heads with hemispherical combustion chambers for outstanding airflow leading to high power and torque. Dual ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder) increases peak power and torque, reduces exhaust emissions, increases fuel economy and provides a smooth idle. The combustion system has been refined and the engine uses direct-mount accessories for quiet operation.

The engine is equipped with ETC which enables several of the technologies used to maximize vehicle smoothness, performance, safety and fuel economy.

3.5-LITER SOHC V-6 ENGINE:
The 3.5-liter V-6 engine used to power the Magnum SXT is derived from versions of this engine used in prior Chrysler Group vehicles. An all-new active three-plenum intake manifold provides high power and torque over the entire operating band, with 250 hp at 6400 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000rpm. This engine provides the perfect blend of performance economy.

A new active three-plenum intake manifold with electronically controlled manifold tuning valve and short-runner valves provides more power to the 3.5-liter. Additionally, ETC is used on this engine in the Dodge Magnum SXT.

2.7-LITER DOHC V-6 ENGINE:
The 2.7L-liter V-6 has proven durable in a variety of Chrysler Group applications, and has been revised to power the Dodge Magnum SE. The engine has been improved to produce more low-speed torque at launch and during mid-range operation for strong performance in every-day driving. The engine produces 190 hp at 6400 rpm, and 190 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm, and it offers good fuel economy in a vehicle of this size.

Revisions on the 2.7-liter V-6 include an all-new active three-plenum intake manifold that is tuned for improved low-speed torque. In addition, the manifold includes a manifold tuning valve that further adds to low-speed torque during both part-throttle and wide-open throttle operation. This valve increases part-throttle torque eight to 10 percent in the primary driving range of 2100 to 3400 rpm, giving better performance in normal driving.

Another addition to the 2.7-liter for 2005 is the use of ETC. This maintains a more consistent vehicle speed on rolling grades when cruise control is active and interacts with the transmission control system to further minimize gear hunting under these conditions. It also tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions. For example, a large pedal motion at a standing start may open the throttle less than the same pedal movement at highway speeds.

FIVE-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:
The Chrysler Group's first five-speed automatic transmission for passenger cars provides a full range of transmission performance to match a great variety of driving styles, situations and road conditions.

“This transmission offers Chrysler Group customers many benefits. The five-speed gear range provides a better balance of performance and fuel economy than a four-speed automatic transmission,” said Ridenour. “Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain feel responsive without harshness.”

The transmission's physical attributes include compact size, robust design for high-torque rating and multiple features providing high efficiency. It also utilizes highly advanced electronic controls such as fully adaptive electronic control and Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (EMCC).

This five-speed automatic transmission and with all-wheel drive applications is standard equipment with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine on the 2005 Dodge Magnum RT and with all-wheel drive applications. It is a DaimlerChrysler transmission built at the Indiana Transmission Plant II in Kokomo, Indiana.

The ratio spread from first to the fifth was selected to minimize fuel consumption and reduce powertrain noise during cruising. An aggressive first-gear ratio provides excellent launch performance, and evenly spaced gear ratios provide smooth acceleration through the gears.

World-class efficiency is achieved through physical and electronic means. This transmission uses bearings to reduce friction in many locations where other transmissions may utilize bushings. The transmission also uses a unique scavenging system that removes oil spun off of the rotating parts by centrifugal force through strategically placed slots in the outside of the case. This saves energy that would be consumed by internal parts rotating in oil. Lubricating holes in the clutches are also positioned to promote quick passage of the transmission fluid through the discs, minimizing viscous losses due to trapped oil.

Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes shifts very smooth. The system monitors the transmission as shifts occur and adjusts hydraulic pressure as needed. In so doing, the controls make the powertrain feel responsive without harshness. Driver recognition software alters shift points based on accelerator pedal usage, brake usage and lateral acceleration. This does not require a compromise between sporty and economical operation, nor is it a question of choosing one or the other.

The Torque Management System uses engine-torque modeling to facilitate smooth transmission shifting. Because of ETC, torque management is more sophisticated and covers a broad torque range.

The shift schedule adapts to individual driving style, driving situation and road conditions, altering shift points based on an accelerator pedal usage, brake usage, lateral acceleration, altitude and load on the car as a result of grades. Electronically controlled engine Torque Management System provides quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and quick two-step (4-2 or 3-1) kick-down shifts that are smoother than would be otherwise possible without this feature.

The transmission ratios are:

1st - 3.58
2nd - 2.19
3rd - 1.41
4th - 1.00
5th - 0.83
Reverse - 3.17

Through EMCC, torque converter clutch slippage is electronically modulated and provides for partial engagement in third, fourth or fifth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling. It can be used at lower speeds to provide benefits over a broad speed range. The system disengages as required to provide optimal performance.

FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:
The 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission is a variant of the 42LE automatic transmission used on previous Chrysler Group vehicles. It was developed for the Dodge Magnum and is included with both V-6 engines on rear-wheel drive models.

This four-speed automatic features fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting for smooth operation. Similar to the five-speed, it uses the Torque Management System to smoothly execute quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and down shifts. It also uses EMCC to electronically modulate torque converter lockup and provide for partial engagement in third or fourth gears. This results in improved shift feel, fuel economy, driveability and cooling.

The transmission ratios are:

1st - 2.84
2nd - 1.57
3rd - 1.00
4th - 0.69
Reverse - 2.21

Modern Architecture Creates a Versatile and Fun Sports Wagon

REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE SYSTEM:
Rear-wheel drive is standard on all 2005 Dodge Magnum vehicles. Using rear-wheel drive as architecture allowed designers to create a taller vehicle with more utility. It also made it possible to have a longer wheelbase, giving the Dodge Magnum a more balanced ride and greater interior room.

“Rear-wheel drive offers the best vehicle balance and handling, and a performance-car experience without any compromises in performance or luxury,” said Eric Ridenour, Executive Vice President Product Development Chrysler Group. “It separates the steering and acceleration duties. This eliminates compromises and enables enhanced performance and handling.”

Advancements in technology in the last five years enables a rear-wheel drive large car to perform with all-season capability. Electronic Stability Program (ESP), All-Speed Traction Control, and advanced anti-lock brake systems and tire technologies have reached new levels of performance.

The rear-wheel drive system mounts the engine and transmission in a North/South configuration in the vehicle. It includes a two-piece drive shaft that incorporates a unique Chrysler Group collapsing feature to enhance passenger protection during frontal and offset frontal impacts. The remainder of the system consists of a cradle-mounted rear differential and two half shafts. The rear differential is double isolated and precision machining ensures exceptional NVH.

ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE SYSTEM:
All-wheel drive provides the solution to those who require the best in passenger-car four-season traction. It is available on Dodge Magnum SXT and Magnum RT.

The all-wheel-drive system adds a front differential and a transfer case compared to the rear-wheel drive configuration. The power is divided between the front and rear differentials and is transmitted to both axles at all times. The transfer case is a planetary center differential that delivers 62 percent of the engine torque to the rear axle and 38 percent to the front.

By driving continuously through all four wheels, the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent cornering balance under all driving conditions, and better traction in snow and wet-weather conditions. Combined with All-Speed Traction Control and ESP, performance and stability are outstanding under all traction conditions.

All-New 2005 Dodge Magnum Designed for World-Class Ride and Handling

Dodge Magnum will offer customers world class ride and handling with outstanding utility. The Magnum SX and SXT models are tuned to offer a smooth ride while maintaining a feeling of control and confidence. Effort was focused on minimizing noise, vibration and harshness, resulting in a driving experience that is smooth and quiet.

The Dodge Magnum RT offers athletic and nimble suspension characteristics tuned for greater handling performance. A well damped ride, with reduced body roll gives the customer a precise and responsive driving experience.

“We designed the suspension to be very responsive while delivering superb ride and comfort,” said Eric Ridenour, Executive Vice President Product Development Chrysler Group. “The front and rear suspension are all-new. We used short and long arm design in the front and a sophisticated five-bar link, independent rear suspension. The suspension will delight performance drivers with excellent handling and improved responsiveness while also providing impressively smooth ride characteristics.”

ALL-NEW FRONT SUSPENSION:
An all-new short and long arm (SLA) front suspension provides excellent handling and ride characteristics.

High upper control arms, which place the upper ball joints above the tires, provide suspension articulation that helps keep the tires perpendicular to the road during cornering for high adhesion. Lateral links and tension struts, rather than one-piece lower control arms, position the lower ends of the steering knuckles. These links attach to the steering knuckle via separate ball joints. Multiple bushings offer flexibility to tune for ride and comfort. This architecture creates a virtual pivot point for the tire to reduce reaction to bumps that would otherwise be perceptible at the steering wheel.

ALL-NEW REAR SUSPENSION:
The five-link independent rear suspension system allows independent tuning of handling and ride comfort so that each can be maximized. This leads to a no-compromise situation, and the rear suspension has been developed to complement the performance of the front suspension for a very balanced vehicle.

Multiple aluminum links maintain independent control of camber and toe during suspension movement for excellent handling. Multiple bushings offer flexibility to tune for ride and comfort. Stabilizer bar attachments to the knuckles provide maximum response to vehicle lean on the Dodge Magnum RT.

The rear suspension is isolated from the passenger compartment to provide a quiet and smooth ride. All rear suspension components, except the coil springs and shock absorbers, mount on a steel cradle that attaches to the body structure through four large rubber mounts. Premium urethane jounce bumpers provide smooth progressive engagement over sharp bumps to minimize harshness.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SUSPENSION:
All-wheel drive models use an SLA front suspension that is slightly different compared to the rear-wheel drive models to accommodate the front drive axle and related components. The SLA suspension uses a forged upper control arm and single-piece cast-iron lower control arm, efficiently packaged around the front-axle drive system.

The steering gear effort and response, and the suspension characteristics, are tuned to the all-wheel drive vehicle's handling characteristics.

POWER RACK AND PINION STEERING:
Power rack-and-pinion steering has an overall ratio of 16.1:1 on all models. The steering effort is varied to balance comfort and ease of operation with feel and responsiveness requirements. The steering gear mounts to the suspension cradle through two spool isolators that are tuned to minimize road noise while delivering steering responsiveness. Friction is minimized to enhance steering precision.

The steering systems deliver light parking efforts, without compromising steering performance at speed. In addition, the systems are also tuned to match the handling capabilities of the vehicles.

FOUR-WHEEL DISC BRAKES:
Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on Dodge Magnum model. Ducts in the front fascia direct cooling airflow to the front brakes, reducing front-brake temperatures by up to 15 percent in heavy use for enhanced performance and longer lining life.

High caliper stiffness facilitates firm pedal feel and linear response with increasing demand for braking effort.

To reduce rolling resistance for better fuel economy, all models use low-drag calipers. New-technology caliper construction allows minimal drag of the pads on the discs. Tight pad clearance to the rotors maintains maximum pedal feel and responsiveness.

The Dodge Magnum RT features twin-piston aluminum calipers and 13.6-inch vented rotors in the front and single-piston aluminum calipers with 12.6-inch vented rotors in the rear.

The calipers are readily visible through the aluminum wheels, and they have a gray anodized coating for corrosion protection and long-term appearance.

Even the base brake system offered on V-6 rear-wheel drive models offers substantial braking performance and safety. They feature single-piston aluminum calipers and 12.6-inch vented rotors in the front and single-piston aluminum calipers with solid 12.6-inch rotors in the rear.

ABS (ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM) AND ALL-SPEED TRACTION CONTROL:
A combined ABS and Traction Control system is standard with the 3.5- and 5.7-liter engines; it is optional with the 2.7-liter V-6. Dodge Magnum SX and Dodge Magnum SXT are the first Chrysler Group vehicles to offer All-Speed Traction Control.

ABS keeps the vehicle straight while retaining steering capability while braking on slippery surfaces by preventing wheel lock-up. It benefits from state-of-the-art electronics that provide faster system response than in the past.

All-Speed Traction Control enhances mobility and prevents wheel slip when accelerating on slippery surfaces. Depending on how slippery, an automatically activated Winter Mode feature will select lower transmission up-shift speeds on the five-speed automatic transmission. It also provides a measure of directional stability control – an advancement beyond prior traction control systems. Using the wheel-speed sensors, it can detect excessive yaw and help keep the car on the intended course, as for instance, when accelerating around a curve.

In addition to braking the slipping wheel in low traction situations, All Speed Traction Control on the Dodge Magnum models can use throttle control as well. This makes the vehicle less reliant on brake application alone to maintain traction, increasing the operating speed range and more closely modulates speed, resulting in smoother operation. With All-Speed Traction Control reducing engine torque as well as applying the brakes, it is possible to achieve almost seamless torque application at the wheels. All-Speed Traction Control also benefits from state-of-the-art electronics that provides much faster system response than in the past.

ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM:
Electronic Stability Program, which includes a Brake Assist feature, is standard on Dodge Magnum SXT and RT. It is optional on the Dodge Magnum SE. It is offered for the first time on a North American-built Chrysler Group vehicle.

The system enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability in turns, including uneven surface conditions and patchy snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between what the driver asks through the steering and the vehicles path, ESP applies selective braking and throttle input to put the car back onto the driver's intended path.

The system is calibrated to offer safe control of the vehicle under a variety of conditions, and to operate in a manner that is not intrusive in normal or spirited driving.

2005 Dodge Magnum Technology Press Releases

Hard to fold paper maps may become a thing of the past with the new navigation radio option in the all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum. Designed with a large, easy-to-read screen, voice guidance and a number of unique options, the DVD-based navigation system has features that will appeal to both road travelers and music enthusiasts alike.

The navigation radio system is housed in the center of the vehicle's dashboard, which is convenient to both the driver and passenger. This system features a large 5.8-inch full-color display, MP3 player, AM/FM stereo, 6-disc CD system and navigation system in one unit. An eight-way joystick allows the user to scroll through the navigation menus and icons quickly and effortlessly.

The system guides the user through the drive route providing voice commands, mile by mile, turn-by-turn until the final destination is reached. Destinations can be entered into the system ten different ways and the screen can be viewed as a detailed map or enlarged to be viewed turn-by-turn.

"With MP3 capability and the option to add various entertainment and communication features, the navigation system is clearly in the forefront of information and entertainment technology," said Jack Withrow, Director, Vehicle Entertainment and Communications, Daimler Chrysler. "The system effectively calculates the quickest and most accurate route and immediately redirects the driver should you veer off your path - you may never have to stop and ask for directions again."

Audiophiles will enjoy the MP3 player, a navigation first, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio availability. The MP3 feature enables the user to view and play files and folders contained within MP3 discs. Coupled with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, the stream listing, stream category, song title and artist, can be viewed on the system's display screen.

When equipped with UConnect™, the REC navigation radio becomes compatible with the hands-free module within the system. This feature enables the user to place voice-activated, hands-free calls to "Points of Interests" such as restaurants, banks or other public addresses located within the navigation system's information database. Phone numbers and call times appear on the system's screen upon incoming calls.

The navigation system features a single DVD solution which contains mapping, points of interest and business phone numbers across the U.S. (where digitized mapping data and information are available). The single DVD solution eliminates the need to handle and store multiple discs required in CD-based solutions. In addition, route calculations can be made quickly with Alpine's proprietary software algorithms which provide routing information within 10 seconds. This is crucial when a driver misses a turn and needs an immediate re-route.

The navigation system receives its GPS, or global positioning system signals, from up to eight satellites to display the position and direction of the vehicle. A gyroscope and the vehicle's speed sensor enable the system to display the present vehicle position even in locations where a GPS signal may not be available. When a destination is entered, the navigation system uses data from the DVD to quickly calculate a route.

With UConnect™ and SIRIUS Satellite Radio™ availability, the all-new 2005 Dodge Magnum keeps you connected and informed around-the-clock. Both UConnect and SIRIUS Satellite Radio offer Dodge Magnum consumers best-in-class communication and entertainment system options to choose from.

UCONNECT HANDS-FREE COMMUNICATION :
Utilizing Bluetooth® technology, UConnect enables customers to receive and place cellular calls virtually hands-free. UConnect is driven through a user's personal mobile phone, and works inside and outside of the vehicle. This promotes a flexible, take-it-anywhere," sense of freedom so customers are not tied to their vehicles.
The UConnect system is integrated into the vehicle's electrical architecture, which allows the audio to be heard through the radio speakers. A microphone housed in the 2005 Dodge Magnum's rearview mirror serves as the driver interface. The user's mobile phone can then be placed where the driver chooses inside the vehicle. As a result, conversations can be continued upon entering or exiting the vehicle, without interruption. Calls can be linked to UConnect within 30 feet of the vehicle.

"UConnect focuses on what our customers want, the freedom to use their own cellular phone and the flexibility to keep their own cellular service," said Jack Withrow, Director Vehicle Entertainment and Communications for the Chrysler Group. "UConnect is not only affordable; it is adaptable to individuals on the go and can meet the ever-changing needs of a family."

UConnect adapts to the users' specific needs and lifestyles. Consumers are able to sign-up for wireless and enhanced services with DaimlerChrysler's preferred carrier, AT&T Wireless, or keep their current wireless carrier and telephone number. (It's hassle-free, using one phone and one phone number.) UConnect allows multiple phones (up to seven) to be used within the vehicle's system, adapting to an individual or a family.

UConnect is the first generation in a family of hands-free, voice-activated, Bluetooth-powered offerings. UConnect is available as a factory and dealer-installed option on the new 2005 Dodge Magnum. Factory-installation is $275. The cost for the dealer-installed version of UConnect is $299 (suggested retail price) plus labor.

SIRIUS SATELLITE RADIO:
The 2005 Dodge Magnum features programming by SIRIUS Satellite Radio. SIRIUS provides coast-to-coast coverage in the United States with 60 streams of commercial-free music and 40 streams of news, talk, sports and entertainment.

Organized into thirteen categories of music, sports, news and entertainment channels, SIRIUS employs S>PLEX technology (statistical multiplexing), which optimizes the fidelity on each channel for superior sound resolution.

"Like cable did for television programming, satellite radio has the power to be the next 'must-have technology' because it substantially expands the range of entertainment choices for consumers," said Withrow. "SIRIUS Satellite Radio makes driving the new 2005 Dodge Magnum an experience that's multi-generational, multi-cultural, educational and entertaining."

Looking for some "in-your-face music" that's guaranteed to kick-start your day? Try Octane, the home of high-powered rock, or The Border, a "rough-around-the edges" sound from just this side of Nashville.

Need to know up-to-the-minute information on your favorite hockey team? SIRIUS is the official satellite radio provider of the National Hockey League. And, starting in the 2004 football season, SIRIUS will begin to carry National Football League play-by-play broadcasts. From live basketball games to Motorsports, SIRIUS has eight sports streams to keep you on top of the heart-pounding action.

Consumers selecting the SIRIUS Satellite Radio option in their 2005 Dodge Magnum will receive a small, mouse-shaped antenna mounted to the roof of the vehicle. Station selection with the radio is easy, using the same familiar method as selecting an AM or FM station. Consumers will be able to scan channels or select pre-set buttons for their favorite channels. Consumers also will be able to search both by music category and channel, which will be displayed on the radio screen.

SIRIUS Satellite Radio will be offered as a factory- and dealer-installed option on the new 2005 Dodge Magnum. Factory installation is $325 and the suggested retail price for the dealer-installation is $299 plus labor; and a SIRIUS Satellite Radio subscription is $12.95 per month.

Story by DaimlerChrylser Edited by Maximum-Cars.com