In an interview with Reuters, Fiat and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne revealed more info about the upcoming Dodge Dart, the new model developed on the same platform that gave birth to Alfa Romeo Giulietta and that will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show in early 2012.

Mr.Marchionne revealed that the Dart line will have a very low average fuel consumption thanks to brand new engines and transmissions, and indicated 40 mpg (5.88 l/100km) as the reference figure for the range. As previously reported, the Dart will enter the market with an engine range made of a 16-valve 2.0-litre unit, a supercharged 16-valve 1.4-litre MultiAir Intercooled engine (same as Fiat 500 Abarth) and a new 16-valve 2.4-litre MultiAir 4-cylinder engine.

Initially, a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission will be in charge of delivering the power to the front axle, but Marchionne also revealed that later in 2013 Dodge will also offer a 9-speed automatic gearbox supplied by Germany’s ZF Group but manufactured in South Carolina. This move alone should provide the Dart with a 10-15% improvement in terms of fuel consumption over the dual clutch configuration, putting its fuel economy firmly in the 40 mpg area. This data is particularly relevant as Fiat will obtain its final 5% share of Chrysler when they’ll produce a vehicle with a 40-mpg rating.

via | Autoblog.com

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