Rides : 2013 Dodge Dart revealed ahead of Detroit debut

Dodge has just unveiled the new 2013 Dodge Dart ahead of its public debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show [NAIAS]. It’s the first vehicle to truly be developed from square one by both Fiat and Chrysler teams.

The Dart effectively replaces the Caliber in Dodge’s lineup offering the Chrysler Group a direct rival to the Ford Focus and Chevrolet saloons.
The 2013 Dart is based on the current Alfa Romeo Giulietta will combine the structural workings of the popular Alfa model which has been adapted (read: enlarged) for the US market with a lineup of highly efficient 4-cylinder engines. The basic suspension architecture remains unchanged from the Giulietta, with MacPherson struts tucked in front and a multi-link independent arrangement placed in back.
The engines are a “Tigershark” 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine (similar to what’s found in the Fiat 500), and the “Tigershark” 2.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder. The three transmissions will include two automatics (a 9-speed automatic could be available later) and one six-speed manual.
It borrows the Charger’s “racetrack” taillamps, so it’ll be easy to spot from behind at night. A laser-brazed roof joint, as used on the Giulietta, eliminates the need for a roof-ditch molding
We’ll have all the details from the Detroit Motor Show but for now – but for now this is all we have.