dodge dart tft display manufacturer

The Dodge Dart is a front-engine, front-wheel drive, four-door compact sedan that was manufactured and marketed by then FCA US LLC, a subsidiary of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. The automobile made its debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. In some non-US markets, the Dodge Dart is sold as the Fiat Viaggio.

Resurrecting a nameplate used by Dodge for model years 1960-1976 for a succession of full-size, mid-size and finally compact models, the Dart (PF) was the brand"s first compact sedan since 2005, when the Neon was discontinued.

A mini MPV concept car was designed and developed by Chrysler and revealed in 2006 as the Dodge Hornet.2009 financial crisis and the restructuring of the Chrysler Group.Fiat in late 2010, the small Dodge Hornet concept took on a new form to share a Fiat platform.

The Dart has three transmission options,TFT display, a "floating island bezel" placed between traditional round gauges, which graphically shows trip computer and navigation system information; it is integrated to make it appear to be part of the gauge cluster itself, rather than a separate screen. Storage includes a glove box, center console with auxiliary electronics jacks, and console map pockets.

In 2014, all Darts aside from the SE got standard U Connect Bluetooth telephone for 2014. A Blacktop Package, featuring black alloy wheels and black accents, for all models except SE and Limited, as well as a California Appearance Package for the SXT and Limited, both became available for 2014.

The Dart was the first compact sedan to feature a rear obstacle detection system and blind spot monitoring.‑imp) (16.94 km/L) made it possible for Fiat to acquire an additional 5% share of Chrysler Group.

The Dart uses a similar suspension system to that of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta: in front it has independent MacPherson struts, coil springs, twin-tube dampers, and stabilizer bar while in the rear it has independent multilink suspension.

The Dodge Dart came in several different trim levels during its four-year production run, each model having its own distinct level of standard and optional equipment:

The SE was the base Dodge Dart model between 2013 and 2016. It offered the following standard equipment: 160-horsepower 2.0L Tigershark I4 engine, six-speed manual transmission, AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD/MP3 player with auxiliary and USB inputs, four-speaker audio system, heater (no air conditioning), power windows and door locks, cloth seating surfaces, dual manually-adjustable front bucket seats, split-folding rear bench seat, full instrumentation, fifteen-inch black-painted steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, and black door handles and side mirrors. Additional options available for this model included a SE Popular Equipment Group that added equipment such as air conditioning, U Connect Bluetooth with streaming audio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a six-speaker audio system, keyless entry, and exterior color-keyed side mirrors. A six-speed automatic transmission was also available for this trim level. In mid-2016, the SE trim level of the Dodge Dart was discontinued.

The SXT was the "mid-level" trim level of the Dodge Dart between 2013 and 2016. It added the following equipment to the base SE trim level: sixteen-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (2014 and newer models), U Connect Bluetooth with streaming audio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a six-speaker audio system (four-speaker audio system after mid-2016), air conditioning, keyless entry, and exterior color-keyed door handles and side mirrors. Additional options for this trim level included sixteen-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (standard on 2014 and newer models), the U Connect 8.4-inch touch-screen infotainment system, a nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine premium amplified surround-sound audio system, remote start, a six-speed automatic transmission, a 160-horsepower 1.4 L MultiAir Turbocharged I4 engine, the Rallye Package, a seven-inch TFT instrument cluster display, and a power-adjustable front driver"s bucket seat. During the final few months of Dodge Dart production, this model was known as the SXT Sport, and with the discontinuation of the previously base-model SE trim level, became the base trim level of the Dodge Dart.

The Limited was the "up-level" Dodge Dart trim level between 2013 and 2016. It added the following equipment to the "mid-level" SXT trim level: seventeen-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, the U Connect 8.4-inch infotainment system, a power-adjustable front driver"s bucket seat, Nappa luxury leather-trimmed seating surfaces (2014 and later models), dual heated front seats, a seven-inch TFT instrument cluster display, a six-speed automatic transmission, a 160-horsepower 1.4 L MultiAir Turbocharged I4 engine, a 184-horsepower 2.4 L Tigershark Inline Four-Cylinder engine (standard on later models), seventeen-inch polished aluminum-alloy wheels, GPS navigation, Keyless Enter-"n"-Go with push-button start, a nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine premium amplified surround-sound audio system, and Nappa luxury leather-trimmed seating surfaces (optional on 2013 models only). In mid-2016, the Limited trim level of the Dodge Dart was discontinued.

The Aero trim level of the Dodge Dart, available from 2013 until 2016 and based on the "mid-level" SXT trim level, was focused on fuel economy, and added the following features to that model: U Connect 8.4-inch touch screen infotainment system and 160-horsepower 1.4 L MultiAir I4 engine. Additional features on this trim level included aluminum-alloy wheels, a six-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission, and remote start. The Aero trim level of the Dodge Dart achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 41 MPG Highway. In mid-2016, the Aero trim level of the Dodge Dart was discontinued.

The GT was the top-of-the-line Dodge Dart trim level between 2013 and 2016. It added the following equipment to the Limited trim level: Nappa luxury leather-trimmed seating surfaces, Keyless Enter-"n"-Go with push-button start, eighteen-inch Granite Crystal-finished aluminum-alloy wheels, a nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine premium amplified surround-sound audio system and a 184-horsepower 2.4 L Tigershark I4 engine. Additional options on this trim level included eighteen-inch Hyper Black-finished aluminum-alloy wheels, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a remote start. During the final few months of Dodge Dart production, this model was known as the GT Sport.

The Dart has three engine options: a Tigershark 16-valve 2 L engine, a "Tigershark" 16-valve 2.4 L MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine, and a 16-valve 1.4 L MultiAir Intercooled turbo engine used also in Alfa Romeo Giulietta.manual transmission is available with all engine options, a six-speed automatic is optional on the 2.0 L and 2.4 L engines while a six-speed dual-clutch transmission is available on the 1.4 L turbo version. Marchionne has stated that a 9-speed automatic will not be available until sometime later.Dundee, Michigan.

In 2014, the Dart SXT and Limited included a 2.4 L I4 engine with increased horsepower ratings, while making the 2.0 L Tigershark I4 engine only available in the base SE model. The 2.4 L I4 engine was offered in late 2013 with the introduction of the Dart GT model. The Dart Aero, Rallye, SXT, and Limited models are the only models available with the 1.4 L MultiAir turbocharged I4 engine.

The Dart is equipped with numerous safety features, such as: brake assist, brake-lock differential, rainy brake support, hydraulic boost compensation, electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking system, electronic roll mitigation, hill-start assist, trailer-sway control, rear backup camera and rear park assist. The Dart has 10 airbags standard; it also has a reactive head-restraint system for the front seats, and other available systems are blind-spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.Euro NCAP tests.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2013 Dart a five-star safety rating in the frontal offset barrier, rollover, and side impact crash tests. The Dart also earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012.

At the New York International Auto Show in 2012, a Dodge Dart turbo four-wheel drive rally car was shown. The blue-and-white SRT-badged car entered the 2012 Global RallyCross Championship, driven by four-time Rally America champion Travis Pastrana and his teammates.

Based on the 2013 Dodge Dart, it included a 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbo-charged engine rated at 600 hp (447 kW) and over 550 lb⋅ft (746 N⋅m) of torque, and Sadev 4-wheel drive transmission.2013 Global RallyCross Championship season, but after Pastrana placed 10th in the driver"s standings for both years, Dodge pulled out of the series and he returned to Subaru Rally Team USA in 2014.

The Dart SRT 4 was originally planned for production starting in December 2016, based on the 2014 five-year plan of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) group. However, due to the decision to end production of the Dart, the SRT 4 version was canceled.

The Fiat Viaggio ("journey", "voyage" in English), also called fēi xíang (菲翔), is a sedan version of the Dodge Dart for the Chinese market, designed by the Fiat Group Style Centre in Turin, Italy. A 1.4 L T-Jet engine producing 120 PS (88 kW) or 150 PS (110 kW), was available paired to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed dual clutch gearbox for 2012 and 2013. A 7-speed Dual Dry Clutch gearbox was standard from 2015 to 2017.

The Dart was manufactured at Chrysler"s Belvidere Assembly Plant,Dodge Caliber (2006-2011), Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, the first & second generation Dodge Neon (1995-2005) and Dodge Neon SRT4 (2003-2005) were all manufactured.

The Dart used a modified variant of the Fiat Compact Platform,Alfa Romeo Giulietta, widened by 1.5 in (38 mm) and lengthened by 3.7 in (94 mm) to its wheelbase — creating the Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) platform. The modified platform, adapted to U.S. requirements and subsequently redesignated the PF platform, was designed over approximately 18 months at a cost of US$1 billion.

In July 2012, the first television advertisement for the Dodge Dart aired during the broadcast of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, featuring the bassline from Kanye West"s "No Church in the Wild", a spoof on the Reliant Robin and a cameo by NFL"s Tom Brady.

On January 27, 2016, Fiat Chrysler announced the end of Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 production to redirect its focus towards crossover vehicles. A plan to move production from its Belvidere Assembly Plant to Mexico was in the works but later scrapped.

The Dart ended production on September 2, 2016 after failing to meet sales expectations,Dodge Neon based on the Fiat Tipo replacing it in the Mexican market.

During a press conference held at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, FCA President Sergio Marchionne said: "I can tell you right now that both the Chrysler 200 and the Dodge Dart, as great products as they were, were the least financially rewarding enterprises that we"ve carried out inside FCA in the last eight years," adding "I don"t know one investment that was as bad as these two were."

The 2013 Dodge Dart was loaded with technologies and features, some standard, and some new to the segment. The biggest-in-class 8.4 inch touch screen stereo, for example, could come with Garmin navigation, iPod and climate controls, voice activated Bluetooth®, SiriusXM Travel Link, and weather updates.

The class-exclusive 7-inch gauge cluster display, derived from the 200C concepts, can show digital or analog gauges, the navigation turn-by-turn display, an eco-meter, audio or phone information, or compass and temperature readouts.

The Dart’s instrument cluster display could be set up as a basic analog read-out, or a full digital display that clearly communicates car information. The driver can configure the screens to display the information they desire, mixing and matching information. The virtual gauges enhance communication between the car and driver in a simple, pleasing format.

With the push of a button on the steering wheel, drivers can select from two analog or two digital displays for the gauges, then customize further through the nine main menus. The system can be reconfigured as much as the driver wants, or not at all. Four small icons in the corners of the center display can be set to show information at-a-glance, including current fuel economy, outside temperature and compass direction. The nine main screens are speed, miles per hour or kilometers per hour, fuel economy, trip A odometer, trip B odometer, audio, stored messages, car information, and navigation.

Warning messages are displayed with an animated message, as well as text highlighted by a color change of the information bar. Warning messages are automatically sent into stored messages so a driver can review the message when parked.

The TFT cluster appears dark or blank until the driver starts the car. That’s when the floating island bezel begins to glow and the animated analog or digital instrumentation comes to life. Gauge numbers are around 14% larger than a traditional 3.5-inch cluster display, and in a performance font, which makes them easy to read. The gauges are backlit with LEDs, which makes them crisper.

The 2013 Dodge Dart features the largest touchscreen radio in its class. It integrates voice command, real-time information, multimedia, portable mobile devices and car settings.

The Uconnect Touch 8.4N now has Garmin® navigation (with lane guidance) and SiriusXM Travel Link with real-time fuel prices, movie listings, sports updates and weather. SiriusXM Travel Link is free for the first 12 months, the longest trial period of any automaker. It includes a USB port with iPod control, an SD card reader (MP3/WMA only), an integrated Gracenote® database to identify music on portable devices abd display album artwork (and improve accuracy of voice recognition of artist names and song titles). It also has SiriusXM Satellite Radio with song alert/game alert for automatic prompts of favorite songs/artists/games, and a CD player in the center console, along with the usual AM and FM.

The 2013 Dodge Dart returns to Chrysler’s traditional high-end audiophile maker — Alpine. The nine-speaker premium audio system with additional subwoofer includes a 12-channel, 506 watt amplifier and digital signal processing with 7.1-adapted surround-sound. Speakers are:

The 2013 Dodge Dart is the first compact car to offer drivers a heated steering wheel, used when temperatures are below 40 degrees. The steering wheel will continue to heat for 58-70 minutes before shutting off.

Dodge’s Compact U.S. Wide (CUS-wide) electrical architecture is adapted from the Fiat-based Compact Electrical Architecture. It is the backbone of the electrical system, delivering connectivity between advanced technologies and in-vehicle personalization, for enhanced driver awareness. This will be the first Dodge car to have both high- and low-speed data networks, equipped with as many as 40 individual modules.

This 2013-2016 Dodge Dart site was established in 2011. Copyright © VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved. except as noted and Chrysler press materials.

There has been a lot of rumors about the 2013 Dodge Dart being best-in-class. It is Alfa Romeo based, and it is the first global product developed after the Fiat-Chrysler partnership began. Dodge had the advantage of using an international parts bin to create an all-new entry into this segment.

Previous entries from Dodge haven’t ranked very well – Neon and Caliber come to mind. With a drastically more competitive all-around package than ever before, the Dart should escape that fate.

The awkward designs of both cars have been replaced by a much cleaner but still distinctly Dodge look, which offers up no hints of the Alfa Romeo basis underneath. The Dart is based on the Giulietta, but is bigger in a few key dimensions. Unfortunately for Dodge, we have to give the styling win to the Giulietta.

There are some awkward angles on the Dart – the direct front and rear are fine but the profile is not our cup of tea. The R/T, with its darkened headlights, looks the best, but it is the top-shelf trim level. Most of the Darts you see running around won’t be of the R/T variety. It’s just a bit underwhelming.

Inside, the Dart’s trump card is its lighting and technology. If you so choose the Dart can have customizable lighting in the cup holders, center console storage, foot wells, door handles, map pockets and glove box. The main element is the red lighting that surrounds the upper instrument panel. It is designed to look like a racetrack at night.

The gauges are customizable if you opt for a 7-inch TFT screen in place of traditional instruments. Moving to the center stack, the Dart offers the largest screen in its class – an 8.7-inch unit with a UConnect infotainment system. The glovebox is big enough to hold an iPad, and the interior can be configured in 13 different ways. Other features unique to the segment include blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection. While it starts at $15,995, the lighting, TFT screen and center stack screen are options. It’s going to be interesting to see where the Dart comes in when you tick those options boxes.

Dodge is aiming to offer the most customization opportunities with the Dart: there are 12 exterior colors, three engine options, three transmissions and three different wheel designs to choose from. Other manufacturers would do well to follow Dodge’s lead in this area.

Transmissions will include a six-speed manual, automatic or a dual dry clutch transmission. The amount of standard safety and technology features on the Dart is very impressive. Add in class-exclusive features like under-seat storage, a heated steering wheel and safety features like blind sport warning and the Dart is definitely a leader. We just wish the exterior didn’t let it down. The 2013 Dodge Dart goes on sale this June, starting at $15,995.

Ever wonder how the 2013 Dodge Dart"s huge TFT instrument panel screen was developed?Well, according to Dodge"s latest ad, developing the high-tech feature required the use of a time machine.

In the 30-second ad dubbed "How to Make the Most Hi-Tech Car," Dodge shows how the Dart instrument panel"s TFT screen was made. First, Dodge claims, you start with nothing and then build a car from scratch. Next comes a time machine that pulls "Future Guy" from the year 3000, who travels back to 2012 to create the TFT screens. Finally, you send him back and destroy the time machine.

We"re pretty much in agreement with all the steps expect the first step, since the Dart wasn"t built from scratch but based on a modified Alfa Romeo Giulietta chassis.

The commercial spot will first air on September 5, just in time for the NFL season. It"s based on a longer ad that aired a couple months ago titled, "How To Change Cars Forever." That spot explains how the birth of the Dodge Dart and includes an appearance by NFL quarterback Tom Brady, who also makes a cameo in the second ad.

Class-exclusive 7-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster display that is easily customizable to the driver’s taste. Choices include: digital and analog gauges, navigation turn-by-turn display, eco-meter, fuel economy, audio, phone, compass and temperature read outs

BENNINGTON -- The original 1960-1976 Dart was a shorter wheelbase sedan introduced after a 1960 restructuring that separated the Plymouth marquee from Dodge (the former had previously been sold on the latter’s dealer lots). Situated as the smallest of the full-sized Dodges, the Dart enjoyed popularity and was restyled several times over the course of its production run, which included a variety of trims and powerplants, from a dependable "slant-6" up to a drag race-worthy 413 cubic inch V8.

Introduced earlier this year, the 2013 Dart resulted out of similar restructuring and the need to compete in a smaller class; although there are notable distinctions between it and the original namesake. Taking advantage of Italian manufacturer Fiat’s majority stake in the Chrysler Group, a result of Chapter 11 reorganization in 2009, the new Dart targets leading competitors in the compact segment.

The four-door, front wheel drive sedan succeeds the outgoing Caliber as the smallest Dodge, but it truthfully replaces the Neon, a sedan that ceased production in 2005. Based on Fiat’s Compact platform, the Dart shares its underpinnings with Europe’s Alfa Romeo Giulietta -- a promising lineage the American automaker touts as "Alfa Romeo DNA with Dodge passion and design."

The Dart and Giulietta share certain powerplants -- in this case, the as-tested 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged engine mated to a slick six-speed manual transmission (as also seen in the new Fiat 500 Abarth) -- but the similarities end there with the Dodge receiving dramatically different exterior styling cues more fitting to Detroit than Milan.

The Dart reflects common design elements from Dodge’s retro-inspired Charger, including the "racetrack" tail light treatment and brand signature crosshair grille -- all adding up to a rakish appearance distinguishing an otherwise ordinary silhouette (maybe it’s the Tungsten metallic gray paint).

Need variety? There are 14 interior color combinations, 12 exterior colors, seven wheel options, three engine choices and three transmissions. With Chrysler’s Mopar performance arm offering a veritable grab bag of optional parts, wheels and accessories, thousands of unique combinations are possible. From the showroom floor, the Dart falls into five basic trims.

Toward the upper end, the as-tested Dart Limited includes Dodge’s Unconnect voice command and a large touch-screen display above the center console. The test vehicle came optioned with the turbo 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder with greater torque and economy over the standard 2.0-liter naturally aspirated "Tigershark" powerplant.

It’s easy to snick through the gears with the very light clutch and transmission, but both gearing and clutch pedal travel seem almost excessively long. In sixth gear at 60 mph, the Dart hums along only a fraction above 2,000 rpm. That’s fine for cruising and great for economy, but inclines will require a downshift. No biggie. (Just to note, on the automatic side of things, Dodge offers both a six-speed traditional automatic and a Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT), which is properly an automated manual -- meaning no clutch pedal).

For more performance, there’s a yet-to-be-released R/T trim with a 2.4-liter engine and sport-tuned suspension. In its more pedestrian garb, the Dart is still ostensibly sporty, displaying good handling characteristics and staying mostly flat through corners. The Dart’s steering offers good feel and weight, while remaining equally poised over slight road irregularities or seismic railroad tracks.

The interior cabin delivers legroom and comfortable seating, and indicative of today’s smarter packaging, just to compare -- the original 1960 Dart was a full 26-inches longer but had less interior room. (It also had tail fins.) Various cubbies in the 2013 are located around the middle console, dash and doors, and there’s also a secret compartment built into the passenger’s seat perfect for stashing, well, whatever.

The standout interior feature in the Limited proves to be the all-digital instrument panel facing the driver front and center behind the steering wheel, eschewing a traditional speedometer. Using Thin Film Transistor technology and LED backlighting, the colorful 7-inch display is bright and crisp and legible in all light, and can depict any amount of useful information from coolant temperature to tire pressures, fuel economy and trip information, turn-by-turn directions, and your choice of digital or analog speedo.

In one screen, a sunflower looses or gains petals based on your average fuel economy (I’m not sure the lads driving Rams will be impressed with that one). Chrysler Group’s head of interior design, Klaus Busse, called the Dart a "showpiece" for Dodge’s next generation philosophy of interior design. The interior accents are appreciated, like red LED lighting bezeled around the instrument panel that mirrors the rear tail lights and adds atmosphere at night. As a result, the editors of WardsAuto World picked the Dart’s cabin as one of Ward’s 10 Best Interiors for 2012.

The TFT display is a great complement to the 8.4-inch touch-screen located atop the center stack, which comes off ho-hum in comparison despite its huge size. The center display can be used for controlling most functions including the stereo, heating and air conditioning, and navigation. But at certain times of the day with the sunroof open, the big display can be hard to read under direct sunlight -- while at night viewing maps, it’s blindingly bright even on the default automatic brightness setting.

Given added voice commands, you might never have to fuss with the big display anyway. There’s no Siri-like personality here, fortunately, but the Dart does pick up and understand commands, as I was able to check the five-day weather forecast on my first attempt after breezing through the intuitive audio tutorial.

Dodge employed a few neat tricks to the outside of the upper trim Darts as well. On the Limited, active grille shutters open and close allowing the car to reach operating temperature more quickly and produce better aerodynamics at highway speeds. The Limited also gets the underbody aerodynamic treatment.

Safety-wise, the Dart earns five star ratings and a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety courtesy 10 standard airbags and active and passive safety features including optional blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and a rear-view backup camera.

Neat technology, handsome looks, solid performance -- but choose your level of trim carefully. Perusing the other Darts on the lot, I preferred the looks of the Rallye’s bucket seats, as well as its black grille surround and black headlight bezels. Personally, the TFT display is too catching to pass up, and the 1.4-liter is preferable if you’re not eyeing the performance option R/T.

The reintroduced Fiat was a big driver of that success, but the Dart sold well too: From its first full month of sales in August,September saw 5,235 units sold, a 72 percent uptick. The compact segment is certainly crowded with options, but Dodge now has a bull’s eye competitor thanks in part to the Italians.

Dart GT model hits the mark with 184 horsepower, premium Nappa leather and a sport-tuned suspension that caters to the driving enthusiast for a U.S. Manufacturer"s Suggested Retail Price of only $20,995

- Dart GT is powered by the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four-cylinder engine, which produces 184 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, providing just the right balance of power and fuel efficiency

- New 2013 Dart GT model features a sport suspension with frequency-sensing damping shocks that delivers ride and handling attributes designed to cater to driving enthusiasts

- Unique exterior and interior design elements, including standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and premium perforated Nappa heated leather seats, differentiate the GT model from the rest of the Dart lineup

- Standard class-exclusive features include racetrack LED taillamps, integrated dual exhaust, 8.4- inch touchscreen, 7-inch TFT display, in-seat storage and much more

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 8, 2013 - The Dodge brand dug deep into its rich, nearly 100-year history to name its all-new compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart, and is again drawing on the storied history for the newest Dodge Dart model.

The sporty Dart GT model originally made its debut in 1963 and offered drivers enhanced performance and style, including a heavy-duty suspension that delivered improved ride and handling characteristics.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart GT model delivers sport-tuned suspension attributes that cater to the driving enthusiast, distinctive styling, including standard class-exclusive racetrack LED taillamps and integrated dual exhaust, and it"s loaded with premium standard features, including perforated heated Nappa Leather seats, 8.4-inch touchscreen and 7-inch TFT for an outstanding value, with a starting U.S. Manufacturer"s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of only $20,995 (excluding destination).

"The new Dart GT embodies the best attributes that compact car buyers are looking for, including outstanding style, performance, technology and value," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO Dodge Brand. "With 184 horsepower, 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension, premium leather interior and several class-exclusive features, the Dart GT represents the sweet spot in the compact car market, offering mid-size roominess combined with premium amenities for only $20,995 MSRP."

The Dart GT model is the latest addition to the 2013 Dodge Dart lineup, which currently includes the Dart SE, SXT, Rallye, Aero and Limited models. Dodge continues to investigate a high-performance R/T model.

Building off the exceptionally well-equipped Dart Limited, the GT adds: 184 horsepower 2.4-iter Tigershark with MultiAir 2 with six-speed manual or available six-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick; 18-inch aluminum wheels; sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks; unique performance front fascia with black accents and Hyper Black grille; black projector headlamp bezels; body-color door handles; class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust with bright exhaust tips; class- exclusive racetrack LED taillamps; unique premium Nappa perforated leather seats in Black with Ruby Red stitching or two-tone Black/Ruby Red; class-exclusive heated steering wheel; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic temperature control; remote start (with automatic transmission); universal garage door opener and GT badge.

Additional standard equipment on the 2013 Dart GT model includes: projector fog lamps; power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps; class-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen; class-exclusive floating island bezel; ParkView rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces; leather steering wheel with audio controls and speed control; accent stitching on the instrument panel; power 10-way driver seat, including power lumbar support; driver and front passenger seatback pockets; overhead console with sunglass holder; front passenger in-seat storage; illuminated front cup holders; illuminated vanity mirrors; temperature and compass gauge; 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console; speed-sensitive power locks; power windows with express one-touch up/down front windows; ambient LED interior lighting; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; underbody aerodynamic treatment; tire pressure monitoring display; air conditioning with micron filter; power mirrors; remote keyless entry; front center console with fore and aft sliding armrest; 60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest with storage/cup holders and trunk pass-through; six-speakers; security alarm; front and rear floor mats and 600-amp maintenance-free battery.

A variety of options are available to allow the GT customer the ability to personalize their Dart to their exact specifications. It starts with a choice of 12 exterior colors – all available at no extra charge – including Redline Red, Header Orange, Blue Streak, Citrus Peel, Laguna Blue, Pitch Black, Tungsten, Bright Silver, Bright White, True Blue, Maximum Steel and Winter Chill.

The 2013 Dodge Dart compact car redefined performance with an agile, fun-to-drive experience, compliments of its Alfa Romeo roots; the interior comforts of larger, more expensive cars and the value and fuel efficiency of a compact car with three fuel-efficient powertrains. The all-new Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that"s beautifully designed and crafted, is loaded with state-of-the-art technology and all the safety features drivers and passengers desire including, 10 standard air bags, available ParkView rear back up camera, blind spot monitoring and rear crosspath detection. The new Dart GT model builds on that foundation and offers attributes the heart of the compact car market appreciates such as the 8.4-inch Uconnect Touchscreen media center, in-seat storage in the front passenger seat and LED racetrack taillamps as well as a unique style that allow consumers to further customize their ride while enjoying the drive.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is built in America at Chrysler Group"s Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill. Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart GT will begin in the second quarter 2013.

The GT receives the most powerful engine in the Dart line – a 2.4-liter four-cylinder complete with 184 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. Mated to the buyer"s choice of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, it"s easy to imagine that the Dart"s on-paper performance is more than adequate.

That said, this is a thrashy, buzzy and generally unlovable engine. Peak torque arrives at 4,800 rpm, or about 1,700 rpm south of redline, meaning it needs to be pushed to really deliver its grunt. This wouldn"t be a problem were it not for the largely unpleasant noises coming from under the hood and out the back. It sounds like Dodge attempted to engineer a sporty soundtrack for the 2.4, but the resulting audio comes across as too rough.

The other issue with the Dart"s powertrain was my tester"s six-speed manual. For starters, the shift knob"s size sits somewhere between a tennis ball and a softball, meaning that even for someone with large hands like me, it"s difficult to get the right kind of grip on it. Follow that up with overly long, almost Jeep-like throws for the shifter, and a clutch with too much travel and a vague, difficult-to-find catch point, and the 2.4/6MT combo is shaping up to be one we"d avoid.

The ride/handling of this sportiest Dart are somewhat unimpressive with regard to the general compact class. If you happen to value handling and feedback, we can"t help but think you"d be better served by the Mazda3, as the Dodge feels rather disconnected both in terms of the chassis and steering. It isn"t uncomfortable, though. The ride feels reasonably composed over rough sections of road and doesn"t porpoise about if things do get bumpy.

If you"re just looking for the class-exclusive or class-leading features, the Dart GT is a solid choice. We mentioned a few of them already, but they bear mentioning again: Chrysler"s UConnect system is really one of the best touchscreen setup in the game (if not the best), both in terms of responsiveness and sheer size and clarity. The 8.4-inch display is, simply put, a must-have if you"re considering not just the Dart, but any Chrysler Group product. The other options, like a heated steering wheel and the reconfigurable dash are just plain cool at this price point. That TFT display in the instrument cluster is a ridiculously pretty way of displaying normally boring stuff like trip and fuel economy data.

Pricing for the Dart GT starts at a reasonable $20,995 and will automatically net owners a set of stylish 18-inch, five-spoke wheels, the more potent engine, push-button start, a power driver"s seat, the 8.4-inch display (sans navigation), heated seats and steering wheel, the reconfigurable dash, sport suspension and satellite radio. From there, the options list is relatively slim. Owners can add navigation to their touchscreen display for a very reasonable $495, swap the silver wheels for hyper black wheels for an extra $395, or fit a $995 Sun/Sound package that adds a nine-speaker Alpine stereo and a sunroof. All in, my car totaled a tidy $23,875, including $995 for destination.

There is much to recommend about the Dart, particularly if you"re clamoring for the latest batch of automotive tech. Its huge central display and gorgeous TFT screen in the instrument cluster are markedly better than what"s in the rest of the class, making the Dart the obvious choice for the tech savvy. Those who prioritize ride and handling, however, are likely to be better served elsewhere. The Dart"s middling driving character is overshadowed by newer enthusiastic offerings like the Mazda3, while those who value a bit more comfort and refinement will be better served with a Ford Focus or Chevrolet Cruze.

Pricing for the 2013 Dodge Dart was released on Monday via a status update on the Chrysler Communications Facebook page. Below we"ve listed prices for five Dart trim levels, but so far, Dodge is keeping quiet about rumors of a high-performance SRT version:

The Dodge Dart is expected to be in dealer showrooms in June, but you"ll have to wait until the third quarter if you have your heart set on the R/T version. If we hear anything regarding the SRT, we"ll let you know.

Built on a world-class architecture, Dodge Dart offers three technologically advanced, fuel-efficient and powerful engines including the 1.4L MultiAir® Turbo

The 2013 Dodge Dart competes in the largest retail automotive segment in the United States, the compact car segment, which represents approximately 15 percent of the new car market

April 16, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart leverages the world-class architecture and DNA of Alfa Romeo and then infuses it with Dodge passion and design, creating an agile, fun-to-drive compact car with mid-size levels of interior roominess and unmatched style, technology, safety and customization. The Dodge Dart brings this style and technology to market starting at a U.S. Manufacturer"s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $15,995 (excluding destination), delivering a thoroughly modern vehicle that"s beautifully designed and crafted with high-quality materials, attention to detail and precision craftsmanship.

“The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car, offering features and benefits never before found in a compact car,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “With class-leading style, customization, safety, technology, and interior levels of roominess, the all-new Dart perfectly blends Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge passion and style into one all-new car that customers will be proud to own and look forward to driving.”

Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics.

The Dodge Dart SE offers customers a stylish new car that breaks the mold of the typical compact car, while delivering great value. It"s powered by the new 2.0-liter 16-valve Tigershark I-4 engine, which produces a best-in-class standard 160 horsepower (hp) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or available six-speed automatic.

Select standard equipment includes class-leading safety features, such as 10 standard air bags, four wheel disc anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. Dart separates itself from the competition with world-class aerodynamics and distinctive style with standard projector headlamps, LED taillamps, body-color crosshair grille and laminated windshield. The interior features a premium soft-touch instrument panel with bright accents, six-way manual driver seat with height adjuster, unique ‘Denim" cloth seats, power windows, AM/FM CD with MP3 and much more. All 2013 Dodge Dart models feature the security of a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2013 Dodge Dart SXT model includes the standard equipment of the SE model, as well as 17-inch aluminum wheels; power body-color mirrors and door locks; remote keyless entry; six-speakers; security alarm, 60/40 split folding rear seat, sliding armrest; air conditioning with micron filter and more.

The Dodge Dart Rallye adds a customized look to the Dodge Dart with distinctive performance front and rear fascias and a choice of four interior colors – Black with Light Diesel Grey, Diesel with Light Diesel Grey, Black with Ruby Red or Diesel Grey with Citrus Peel.

The all-new Dodge Dart Limited represents the ultimate in luxury with mid-size levels of interior roominess, class-leading safety and technology, all for less than $20,000 MSRP.

The Dodge Dart Limited includes the standard equipment of the Dart SXT and adds the following impressive list of equipment, including unique bright grille and door handles; 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen with rear backup camera; class-exclusive 7-inch TFT (Thin Film Transistor) reconfigurable instrument cluster display; floating island bezel; projector fog lamps; 10-way power driver seat; automatic headlamps; active grille shutters; premium accent stitching on the instrument panel; and much more.

The Dodge Dart R/T pays homage to the heritage of the R/T badge with distinctive styling and performance attributes that cater to the performance enthusiast with discriminating taste.

The Dodge Dart R/T is powered by the new 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 4-cylinder that produces an impressive 184 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or available six-speed automatic with AutoStick.

Production of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart begins at Chrysler Group"s Belvidere (Ill.) Assembly Plant in the second quarter 2012 and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in June 2012.