AUTOMOTIVE - AUTOS: SRT Eying New Dodge Dart

AUTOS: SRT Heat For New Dodge Dart?

Chrysler performance division sees opportunity to build hot compact SRT4 version of Alfa Romeo-based Dart.

The launch of the new 2013 Dodge Dart leaves the SRT performance division with a credible option to finally build a successor to the Dodge Neon SRT4, a cult classic from the early 2000s.

Ralph Gilles, the boss of SRT, has already hinted at such a car, and this one isn?t expected to be like SRT?s previous lame attempt at building a Neon SRT4 successor with the Dodge Caliber SRT4.

The Dodge Neon SRT4 reached minor cult status among hot-compact enthusiasts. (Photo: Dodge) That?s because the Dart brings with it Alfa Romeo DNA. Specifically, the Italian automaker?s C-Evo platform, which was stretched slightly to form the Compact U.S. Wide (CUS-wide) design underpinning the Dart.

This platform is not only light and agile, thanks to its Italian engineering, but it?s also compatible with the sporty six-speed dual-clutch transmission found in the Alfa Romeo Giulietta ?Cloverleaf? model. Motor Trend points out that the Dart SRT4 is likely to get this transmission as an option (a six-speed manual should remain standard), along with a turbocharged engine matching ? or even outperforming ? the output of the 247-horsepower Ford Focus ST.

You may recall that the Caliber SRT4 developed upwards of 285 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, so the Dart SRT4 should deliver about the same. The most likely option would be a turbocharged version of the Dart's Tigershark 2-liter engine.

To go along with the potent powerplant, SRT will almost certainly add a host of chassis upgrades including stiffened suspension, custom sway bars front and rear, possibly some modifications to the steering to make it faster and more accurate, and uprated wheels, tires and brakes. The latter could even be Brembo units.

This story originally appeared at Motor Authority.

Source: http://automotive.speedtv.com/article/autos-srt-eying-new-dodge-dart/

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