Published May 2, 2012
By Philippe Crowe
Chrysler is currently in the mist of launching its all new Dodge Dart. Partially based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Dart is coming to North America in both performance-oriented and fuel saving-oriented models.
Of particular interest to us is the Aero model. This version will be powered by a 160-horsepower 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine. Available 3rd quarter of 2012, the Dart Aero will achieve at least 41 mpg on the highway.
For comparison, the regular Dodge Dart equipped with the 1.4-liter MulitAir Turbo engine mated to the six-speed manual transmission has an EPA fuel economy rating of 27 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined.
According to Dodge, the MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The result is up to a 15-percent increase in low engine rpm torque and a 7.5-percent improvement in fuel efficiency.
No news yet as to the fact the Aero will have or not start/stop technology.
Exact trim level and pricing is not yet known for the Aero model, but it is expected to be based on the Dart SE ($15,995), which, once the premium for the Aero package and 1.4-liter MulitAir Turbo engine are accounted for, allows us to believe this 41 mpg Dart will likely be offered under the $20,000 mark.