AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2012 RAM CARGO VAN

On The Cover Review: 2012 Ram Cargo Van

Last year, Dodge declared that their trucks were not Dodges anymore, but now part of a new brand known as “Ram.” One of the newest members of the Ram lineup is the Ram Cargo Van, which is not to be confused with the Dodge Grand Caravan. Never mind that this is a Caravan with no rear seats or windows (OK, rear windows are optional). It is completely different. Through thick and thin, if Chrysler ever had a handle on any of their products over the years, their minivans were it. And that continues to be the case here. Under the dashboard is Chrysler’s new 283-hp “Pentastar” V6. Technological options abound, including Bluetooth, a Garmin navigation system, backup cameras, and more. This van might not compete directly with the mammoth Mercedes Sprinter, but it could be a middle-of-the-road choice for someone who can’t decide between a Ford E-150 or a Transit Connect. Look for the Ram Cargo Van at a plumber’s shop near you.

AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2012 DODGE CHARGER SRT-8

On The Cover Review: 2012 Dodge Charger SRT-8

The 2012 Dodge Charger was treated to a new retro-inspired appearance, and the SRT-8 is the Big Kahuna of the lineup. 6.4-liters of Hemi V8 burble out 465-hp, resulting in a blocky, full-sized sedan that can top out at about 175-mph. The crosshair grill that Dodge has been using for the past decade or so is still there in an updated form, while the taillights and side contours are taken from the 1969 design plan. The SRT-8 stands out from lesser Chargers with intricate, 20-inch forged wheels, a more aggressive front fascia, body side skirts, and different rear bumper, exhaust outlets, and spoiler. Inside, fancy suede seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and unique trim materials remind you that this Charger is something special. There is also a 19 speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system available, but who needs that when you have a 465-hp Hemi under the hood?

AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2010 DODGE CHALLENGER R/T

On The Cover Review: 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T

The Dodge Challenger hasn’t been around all that long, but in the world of Pony Cars, it’s the old kid on the block.  The Camaro is brand new in 2010, and the Mustang received a major refresh.  So to combat all this newness, Dodge updated the Challenger by adding a very old color.  Huh?  Well, look at the picture, and you’ll see the vibrant Plum Crazy Pearl Coat hue, inspired by the popular Challengers and Plymouth ’Cudas of the early ’70s.  The R/T is the mid-level of the Challenger line, and comes equipped with a 370-hp, 5.7-liter “Hemi” V8, and it’s good for zero-to-60 times in the sub-six-second range.  Plum Crazy R/Ts are available with special white or black stripes down the side that really give the car a retro vibe.  The Challenger is often criticized for its size and weight, and since it is based off of the same platform as a Chrysler 300, there is some validity to that.  On the other hand, the Challenger feels strong, and it really is pretty fast.  Plus, all that weight makes it a nice highway cruiser.  And anyway, how fast do you need to go?  With that bright Plum Crazy paint job, you’ll have a hard enough time avoiding tickets!