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Eddie Harris spent $250 on a carburetor that he didn’t need.  Stranded at about 2:00 AM just outside of Boston, he was at the mercy of a not-so-honest auto mechanic, or at the very least, an inexperienced service dealer.  The true cause of his issue was a $4 dollar gas filter issue.  If Eddie had just kept up with his regular service the cost of replacing the gas filter would have been $0! It’s a hard lesson to learn.  For those of us who have been stranded on the side of the road, embarrassed because we could not get to work on time, or inconvenienced at the wrong time in our day, we know the value of regular service.  For those of you who have not endured one of these incidents, we encourage you to GET YOUR CAR SERVICED! Service Is Easy! We, at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, know that some of our customers delay because they think service will take to long, or be inconvenient to schedule. Try our easy ONLINE SERVICE SCHEDULER!  We will have you in and out before you can get comfortable in our lobby.  We can also save your family some money if you print out a few of the regular service coupons on our website before you arrive. Regular Service Saves You Money! Speaking of saving money, did you know that regular auto service lengthens the life of your car’s parts.  It also improves the resale of your auto if you have a proven track record of maintaining your vehicle. Know the Basics - Low-Cost Service Checklist There are many items covered in a routine check-up and dozens of items included for free if your car is under warranty.  Here is a list of the basics that we check each time you service at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat! Oil Change The most basic, but probably the most important on our checklist is your oil change. It is recommended that you change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Oil has different detergents and additives that help lubricate and protect engines. It ensures that seals, gaskets, and O-rings are lubricated and conditioned and it also makes sure that moisture does not get into the engine. Something as simple as a blown head gasket can be the death of an engine. Over time, the oil can become dirty because the oil filter cannot do its job. The dirt makes the oil thicker and makes it more likely that the engine breaks down. Sludge can build up in the engine, which can bog it down and keep it from performing at its best. Oil also absorbs heat, which keeps the car from overheating. Heat and friction can be an engine’s worst enemy. When an engine overheats and there is friction in its moving parts, it can cause a great deal of costly damage to your vehicle. The loss of viscosity, or thickness of the oil, can cause friction in the moving parts because moving parts aren’t coated by oil. This, in turn, can cause significant damage to the engine. Tire Rotation & Checks When tires do not get rotated, the front tires wear quicker than the back tires, which can account for an uneven ride and an unexpected trip to the tire shop. Checking the wear of your tires can take a few seconds. The easiest way is to put a penny into the treads of your tire. If you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head, it’s time for tires. Checking the air in your tires can save a lot of money at the gas pump, as well. Your vehicle will not have to work as hard when your tires are properly inflated. Battery Checks Batteries tend to last around 3 to 5 years, but extreme climate and other factors can hasten the lifespan of a battery. Ensure that battery posts are clean and without corrosion or any other obstructions. The corrosion that builds up on a dying battery can do damage to electrical components, bringing about a sizable mechanic’s bill. Hose Checks As your vehicle gets older, the likelihood of a hose bursting rises due to the amount of heat and liquid that they encounter. A burst hose that may cost a few dollars can cause significant damage to the inside of your hood, which can cost you a lot more money in repairs and in resale value. Brake System To keep you and your family safe, it is a necessity to make sure your braking system is fully functional. The first thing to check is the level of the vehicle’s brake fluid. The lack of brake fluid in your vehicle causes your brakes to work harder. Key components aren’t lubricated, air can get into the lines, and uneven wear on your brakes is the result. Lights Testing the lights on your vehicle (headlights, taillights, brake lights, etc.) can keep you and your family safe. When you frequently check these, it will save a great deal of inconvenience and time. Many traffic tickets have been written to motorists due to the malfunction of vehicle lighting. Malfunctioning lights can also cause accidents on the roadway. Other fluid checks There are many other fluids that need to be checked on a regular basis, like power steering, antifreeze, and transmission fluid. When fluids are low, the best thing to do before topping off is to check for any leaks. Throwing more fluids in a leaky system is throwing money out the window. Stop-leak additives can be risky, and more often than not, it is a temporary fix. So, the best thing to do when leaks are present is to bring your vehicle in for a closer look. Why Choose Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat Service Professional? Chrysler Service Technicians start their careers in our Chrysler Apprenticeship Programs.  From there they move into our advanced training while getting experience on the job! Our technicians go through FCA US LLC Certified Technical Programs where they receive the latest training on: Brake Systems Service Fundamentals Electrical Components Starting & Charging Systems Suspension, Steering & Alignment Engine Technology Ignition Systems Fuel Systems A/C & Heating Systems Fundamentals of Welding Emissions Systems Tune-Up Fundamentals Many of our mechanics go on to receive higher degrees and finally, our top technicians earn their Master Mechanic’s Certifications. Call 336-673-3471 or Click here to Schedule your next service. Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat's Service Center and schedule an appointment today!

Now is the absolute best time to buy a new truck, but which one (of the seemingly endless makes and models available) should you get? The Ram 1500 has been leading the market for some time now, but is that a good enough reason to go Ram? Let’s have a closer, more detailed look at two of the most sought-after pickups today, the Ram 1500 and the Nissan Titan, to find out which one actually offers the most in terms of bang for your buck. Today’s truck market is pulsating with new features and drivetrains and technological capabilities never seen before. The modern truck is luxurious, cool, smooth, and tougher than ever, making it the perfect vehicle for family, fun, and work. But before we look into the reasons why a hardy truck is a perfect vehicle year-round, especially in those frosty winter months, let’s see which one has the most to offer, the Ram or the Titan. Ram vs. Titan Both trucks have high rankings and a large fan base—the Ram 1500 being the most popular—but when it comes to finding which truck is objectively best in terms of quality and performance, it’s a good idea to look at the cold, hard facts. Here is a detailed breakdown of what we found after researching the specs for both vehicles (all information is based on 2019 models): Price— • The invoice price for the standard Ram 1500 is $36,610 while the most similar and comparable (by way of performance and size) Titan goes for $51,290. • The manufacturer suggested retail price is $38,740 for the Ram and $54,630 for the Titan. • Monthly payment estimates (without current holiday sales) are $646 a month for Ram and $911 a month for Titan. Fuel Economy— • The Ram 1500 has 20 mpg in the city while the Titan offers 15 mpg. • For highway mpg, the Ram goes for 25 mpg and the Titan falls slightly under with 21 mpg. Interior Dimensions— • The Ram has 40.9 inches and the Titan has 41.8 inches in terms of front legroom. • The second-row legroom is 45.2 inches (Ram) versus 38.5 inches (Titan). • Looking at head clearance (for those taller individuals), we have 40.9 inches in the front and 39.8 inches in the back of the Ram. The Titan allows for 41 inches in the front and 40.4 inches in the back. *At this point in our research, it is important to note that legroom and head clearance are the only instances, so far, where the Titan does slightly better than the Ram. • Overall exterior height is another win for the Ram with 77.5 inches versus the Titan’s 75.6 inches. A slight difference, but every little bit adds up when aggregating for the most comfort. Trailering (indicated in pounds)— • The maximum trailering capacity is 6550 for Ram and 9380 for Titan. • Dead-weight hitch max for Ram is 6550 while the Titan does a bit better with 9380. *Clearly, the Titan can pull more weight and this can be a critical piece of information for those truck drivers looking to tow something extremely heavy. For most people though, owning a truck that can pull up to 6,550 pounds is more than enough. But let’s not rule out those of us who need a truck that can pull a house off its foundation. Engine Power— • The Ram offers 305-horsepower at 6400 RPMs. The Titan, 390 horsepower at 5800 RPMs. • Ram comes as either electric or gas at a V-6 while the Titan only comes as a regular unleaded V-8. So what do we end up with after looking at all this? Well, hopefully, this narrows the search by placing these trucks into two categories: one that hauls better and offers a bit more room, and one that does just about everything else. The Titan is tough and roomy and it makes sense that it has such a devoted following, but it still can't compete with the Ram's low price and better gas mileage—and we haven't even looked at the added features and technology where the Ram steps out even more. Sure, the Titan may have a bit more legroom, but when riding in the Ram you can't tell. And if you could, you wouldn't care. The Ram 1500 is too smooth and just too reliable to be competed with. A Closer Look at the Ram 1500 A big reason for the success of the RAM truck is its adaptive nature, which is the reason we think it is the safest and most fun vehicle to drive during winter. The RAM 1500 is so much more than just a truck. It's simply the best option to combat the snow, ice, and mud experienced during winter. Let's have a look at a few things the Ram 1500 can do:   • Hauling Capabilities. Though it doesn’t do as well as the Titan, the 2019 Ram makes big moves in way of hauling and towing. Its powerful V-6, V-8, or electric engine can handle heavy-duty loads with ease and smoothness that you’ll find is just not offered by the Titan. Overall power is one thing, but let’s be honest: we will most likely not need to tow something that weighs 9,380 pounds. Moreover, most other trucks are not powered by a revolutionary eTorque, hybrid engine that combines fuel and electricity. And what keeps the Ram from swaying or vibrating while hauling or towing big loads is its high-strength steel frame. For those drivers looking to pull neighbors out of snowdrifts or mud pits, this is your truck. The 2019 RAM’s rugged luxury lets you get hard work done with style and comfort.   • No excuse not to make it into the office. The thought of using your RAM truck as an office may sound a bit strange, but Ram understands truck enthusiasts often need to work while on the move, and sometimes the weather tries to keep us down. So why not have a luxurious, roomy cabin to use as a mobile office; an office that can offer plenty of room and soft light and comfort while simultaneously gliding through slush and rain and ice. Once you open the door to the 2019 Ram 1500, soft leather, dark mood lights, and extra space to sit and spread out welcomes you. This is the perfect office. The Harmon Kardon premium speakers offer clear, crisp conversations with clients, while the dual-pane panoramic sunroof offers plenty of natural light. The middle armrest is a perfect mini-desktop, and the dash and surrounding area serve as a perfect space to hold paperwork and materials. Don't be surprised if you end up spending more time in here than in your actual office.   • Taking the family for a ride. It’s freezing outside; it’s icy and gray and everyone is starting to get cabin fever. Let’s go for a ride! The first rule of transporting the most precious cargo (family) is safety and comfort. And though a truck has never been the first vehicle pictured for luxury rides, this has changed with the Ram. Once you and your family are inside the Ram 1500 with the doors shut and that engine purring, you realize you are no longer in a truck—at least in the traditional sense. The thick, plush seating that easily seats five makes the already-smooth drive even smoother. As you float on down the road, exterior sounds are muted while the interior atmosphere is enhanced. The tinted windows, mood lighting, and ample legroom place everyone at ease as all begin to understand they are in something new: a luxuriously tough and roomy cabin made to make everyone happy. It makes sense why so many people are going for the new Ram. It’s the perfect combination of an SUV, truck, and luxury sedan, which creates the most advanced crossover—that’s not actually a crossover—ever created. The Time is Now With end-of-year sales on top of holiday sales, right now is the time to buy a new Ram 1500. At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, we have some of the lowest prices you can find on the Ram, and with incredible deals like these our stock of Ram trucks is sure not to last long. For instance, if you want the top-of-the-line (and with all the extra features you can imagine) Ram, we still have a few Limited Edition 2019 Ram 1500s left—and at a really low price: • The new 2019 Ram 1500 Limited Crew Cab 4X4 with a 5'7 box has an MSRP of $63,470; however, after the employee discount (which is being offered to all customers this holiday season), retail customer cash, and other discounts equaling up to $10,577 of savings, our price ends up at $52,893.   Or maybe you don’t need a Ram with all the bells and whistles and you would like to cut down that price tag even more. Check out the Tradesman Quad Cab: • Though it comes with an MSRP of $42,375 we have it for much less. After the $3,700 employee discount, $1,000 retail consumer cash, $500 bonus cash, and $1,000 Southeast BC Fast Start Bonus, you end up with a price of $36,175. That is over $6,000 of savings! And with our 110% price guarantee, this offer simply can’t be topped.   Here are a few more examples of our big holiday savings on the Ram 1500: • A new 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn Quad Cab 4X4 with a 6’4 Box at only $40,386—this is after subtracting over $6,700 in savings, and we offer financing for as low as $504 a month.   • New 2019 Ram 1500 Big Horn/Lone Star Quad Cab 4X4 with a 6'4 box for $37,595. With a suggested MSRP of $46,190, our price saves you $8,595.   At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat there are no gimmicks, no high-pressure sales. We simply have the best prices on Ram trucks with the best personnel to sell them, and that is all we need to keep customers coming back. But you better hurry! Come get your new Ram today and show your family just how fun winter can be with a new Ram truck.

You’ve made the big purchase and finally have your Jeep Wrangler from Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat. Whether you went with a pre-owned 2-door 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4x4 or a brand new 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 4x4, there are so many ways to customize and personalize your Jeep to make it stand out. From YouTube videos to Jeep forums online, you’ll be faced with a range of preferences: Jeep owners content with the vehicle as is, to those adding the minimum parts to hit the trails off-road, and the Jeep lovers going hardcore with 4" suspension lifts, off-road tires, and steel wheels. At Mount Airy CDJRF, we recommend starting by learning what your vehicle can do, decide what you want to do with your Jeep, and determine how often and where you want to take it. Basically, build and modify your Jeep to fit your needs.   Make your Wrangler stand out and improve your off-road performance with these 10 ways to upgrade your Jeep game. Wheels If you’re an experienced Jeep owner, it doesn’t have to be said, but for new owners: bigger does not necessarily mean better. The type of tire chosen for your Jeep will impact gas mileage, wear and tear, and your wallet. From 35” to 40” tires, you’ll need to know what effect you want your wheels to have on your drivability, clearance, and climbing. Lift Kit Lift kits increase your Jeep’s ground clearance, suspension travel, ease of access, and enables you to add larger tires that are more suited for off-roading. Just like with wheels, choosing your lift kit should be based on what you want to use the Wrangler for. Winch If you’ve been off-roading, there’s a good chance your Jeep has gotten stuck. A winch is a lifesaver for you and your friends, and a must-have for off-roading adventures. Depending on the weight and horsepower of your Jeep and what you plan on towing, choose a winch with appropriate load capacity. Bumpers A new bumper can provide more than an off-road aesthetic, but add impressive towing and power capacity, and metal D-ring mounts. Most bumper installations use factory-mounting locations already included in your Jeep, which means no additional drilling and a rather simple installation. LED Lights Strong LED lumen headlights and fog lights are a worthy investment to improve visibility nearly double what the factory headlights on low and high beam can output. They’re also not bad to have when you need to light up a space as you’re setting up camp, fixing a car, or throwing a party. Differential Lockers If you want better traction, a locking differential is a necessity. With a locking differential, both wheels are then locked together to provide additional traction in off-road, low friction situations. Without a locking differential, both wheels will spin. Hi-Lift Jack Once your Jeep is fitted with a lift kit and oversized tires, you risk becoming truly stuck on the trails. A Hi-Lift jack is made of cast and steel components, which makes it capable of raising your jeep without any hydraulics. The hi-lift jack can also be used as a winch, spreader, or clamper. The next time you need to change a broken axle or lift a corner of your rig, the hi-lift jack will come to the rescue. Safari Top A safari top, or soft-top, is an integral part of the feeling of freedom that comes with Jeep ownership. A safari top, unlike a hardtop, gives you the ability to zip out the windows and enjoy the open air whenever you want. Safari tops come in many shapes, sizes, and options, such as a summer top windbreaker that opens up the interior without exposing you to all of the open air, or a total soft replacement that enables you to pull the entire top up or down on a whim. All-Weather Floor Mat Set Regardless of what whether you use your Jeep for outdoor adventures or daily use, you'll want to ensure that you have heavy-duty floor mats and liners that keep mud, snow, water, and more from damaging your floors, and make cleaning your interior so much easier. Lock Box In our opinion, one of the most essential Jeep Wrangler items you can own is a lockbox. When the weather gets nice and you park your Jeep without the doors on, chances are that you have a couple of valuables you may want to leave in your vehicle. A good lockbox can be relatively inexpensive, should be completely pick-resistant, and bolts down to the floor of your Wrangler.   At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, we are thrilled to help you determine what mods and accessories are right for your Wrangler. For more ideas or to chat with a Jeep expert, stop by today or give us a call at (336) 429-5462.

The minivan market is set apart in many ways from the rest of the automotive market. Where sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and other types of vehicles tend to appeal to consumers primarily through exterior styling, performance and fuel economy, people who buy minivans are typically more concerned with characteristics like safety, roominess, and comfort. That leads us to what may be most impressive about the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica. Yes, it’s safe; actually, it’s among the safest in its class. And yes, it’s roomy and comfortable. However, the Pacifica also stands out for its exterior and interior appearance, as well as its performance and fuel efficiency, among other things. The truth is, the Pacifica delivers a remarkable blend of style and function, and you would be hard-pressed to find a better all-around family vehicle. Maybe that’s why it has been the most-rewarded minivan for three straight years, including “2019 Family Car of the Year” by Cars.com and a Consumer Guide “Best Buy” for the last four years. Here are eight reasons why families should consider the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica: It’s really safe The safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Pacifica are nearly perfect. The tests resulted in a five-star overall rating (highest possible), five stars in the frontal and side crashes, and four stars for the rollover. These ratings tie the Pacifica with the Honda Odyssey for safest minivan on the market. Aside from the crash tests, the Pacifica boasts a plethora of standard and available safety features. For instance, buyers can expect these features to come standard: ABS brakes Stability control Seatbelt pretensioners Security system Child safety locks Rear-view camera Rear parking sensors Rear cross-traffic alert Blindspot monitoring Buyers also have the option for many upgrades, such as automatic emergency braking, surround-view parking assistance, automatic high-beam lights, front crash prevention, lane departure monitoring, parallel parking assist, and adaptive cruise control. It’s also worth mentioning that, when equipped with front crash prevention and automatic high-beam lights, the Pacifica was named by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) a “Top Safety Pick.”   In other words, Pacifica's safety ratings and features can provide you with peace of mind and confidence as you drive your little ones around. It can seat eight The standard configurations of most of the Pacifica trim levels seat seven passengers. However, all trims can be upgraded to seat eight passengers for $595. A $495 bundle including eight-passenger seating and a dual-pane sunroof is available for the Limited trim. Also available as an upgrade is the Stow ‘n Go Seating and Storage System, which is the only system of its kind. Rather than having to completely remove the seats from the second and third rows, as is required with other minivans in its class, the Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seats easily fold into the floor. This allows you to quickly add tons of storage space, and you don’t have to store your seats anywhere! Furthermore, you can slide the Stow ‘n Go seats forward to access in-floor bins for even more storage. It’s easier to keep clean While the Stow ’n Go seats bring an SUV-like quality to the Pacifica, there’s another feature that sets the minivan apart from others in its class: the “Stow ‘n Vac.” This built-in vacuum, manufactured by Ridgid, is discreetly tucked into the side panel of the second-row and can extend to every corner of the cabin. It’s really easy to use, and it quickly picks up light and medium-sized debris. The Stow ‘n Vac is standard on the Limited trim. It’s comfortable When it comes to comfort, the Pacifica does not disappoint. The front seats provide plenty of legroom and headroom, with 41.1” and 40.1,” respectively. The second row is also sufficient, with 39” of legroom and 39.6” of headroom. The third row provides 36.5” of legroom and 38.7” of headroom, which makes for a snug fit for average-sized adults but is perfect for petite individuals and children. Plus, the seats themselves are uber-comfortable, whether you go with cloth or leather upholstery. Optional on the Pacifica is powered front passenger seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel, and powered third-row seats that fold down. These features—combined with a smooth, quiet ride, refined handling, and a class-leading Uconnect infotainment system—make the Pacifica a go-to vehicle both for long road trips and quick drives around the town. It looks distinguished Another area where the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica seems to outdo the competition is its appearance. The minivan is beautiful both inside and out. When you see the Pacifica pulling up, there’s no mistaking it for any other vehicle. It’s sleek, clean, and distinguished. It emits a good deal of attitude, especially for a minivan, though it also maintains a sense of elegance. Whichever trim level you go with, the Pacifica looks more like a luxury vehicle than a conventional minivan. The inside is perhaps even more impressive. In a word, it’s handsome. But the Pacifica’s interior not only looks the part—the high-quality materials used to construct its polished design fit seamlessly together, all of which come together for an upscale cabin that rivals even the most luxurious vehicles on the market. Additionally, with its expansive windows, the cabin provides remarkable views of the outdoors. And it has enough cubbies, cupholders, and slide-out bins to keep everyone happy. It has refined performance The 2020 Pacifica also impresses when it comes to performance. Every trim level comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 287 horsepower and gets you to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The only exception is the Pacifica Hybrid, which adds two electric motors and a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery to the 3.6-liter V6 engine and reaches 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. All the Pacifica models (non-hybrid and hybrid) feel considerably lively on the road. The fact that the Pacifica provides a smooth and quiet ride may not necessarily set it apart from the rest of the class. However, it’s probably the most agile minivan on the market. It has exceptionally responsive brakes, precise steering, and minimal body lean—all of which help it feel notably secure around turns. It offers above-average fuel economy Along with impressive performance, the 2020 Pacifica is among the top of its class for fuel-efficiency. The non-hybrid trims come in at 28 MPG highway, 19 MPG city, and 22 MPG combined. As can be expected, the Pacifica Hybrid offers even better fuel economy with 30 MPG combined and 82 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). In short, the Pacifica can provide better fuel economy than some SUVs. It comes with significant 2020 updates While there hasn’t been a complete overhaul of structure or style with the Chrysler Pacifica since it replaced the Town & Country nameplate in 2017, there are some notable new features offered for the 2020 models. Along with simplifying its lineup (which we will discuss below), the 2020 Pacifica comes with an optional “Red S” package for an additional $3,995. Buyers of the Pacifica Limited can opt for the package, which showcases two-tone Nappa leather seats (red and black) with light gray stitching and a sporty “S” stitched onto the front buckets. The Red S Edition also comes with custom 20-inch wheels, shiny black accents on the exterior, custom silver trim on the doors and gauges, a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a Uconnect rear theater system. This package definitely adds some flare to the family-friendly vehicle. Additional features new to 2020 include a dual- or tri-pane panoramic sunroof, eight-passenger seating, black control panel bezels, and Ceramic Gray exterior finish. The Pacifica Trims Chrysler made some changes to the Pacifica lineup for 2020. What used to be the Pacifica L and LX are now a separate vehicle named the Chrysler Voyager, which is basically an economy version of the Pacifica. For 2020, there are four trim levels available for the Pacifica: Touring, Touring L, Touring L Plus, and Limited. The Touring Starting at $33,495 MSRP, the base model Touring is a solid choice. It comes with a lot of standard features and can be outfitted with several configurations. As previously mentioned, the Touring comes standard with a rear-view camera, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and blindspot monitoring. Other standard features include: Six-speaker audio system Uconnect infotainment system Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Bluetooth connectivity 7” touchscreen Satellite radio capability One USB port Tri-zone automatic climate control Remote start Alloy wheels Powered driver’s seat There are two primary upgrade packages available on the Touring. The Uconnect Theater with Wireless Streaming package is an additional $2,395, and it provides HD radio, an 8.4” touchscreen, two 10” seatback touchscreens, and three additional USB ports. The Cold Weather Group package adds a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. Furthermore, if you don’t have a sunroof, you can add an overhead DVD player for $995. The Touring L The base price for the Pacifica Touring L is $36,745, and it comes with the Cold Weather package, as well as perforated leather seats and grocery bag hooks on the backs of the third-row seats. For $895, you can opt for the Premium Audio Group package, which includes a powered front passenger seat, 13-speaker Alpine audio system, 8.4” touchscreen, and additional USB charging ports in the second- and third-rows. The Touring L Plus Coming in at $39,545, the Pacifica Touring L Plus comes with many of the same features as the Touring L. However, the Uconnect Theater with Wireless Streaming package comes standard. Also standard are heated second-row seats, a WiFi hotspot, and a navigation system. Additionally, buyers of the Touring L Plus can opt for a 20-speaker Harman Kardon audio system for $695, as well as hands-free powered sliding doors and a hands-free liftgate. The Limited As can be expected, the $44,445 Pacifica Limited is loaded with much of Chrysler's best. Though it doesn't come stock with the Uconnect Theater with Wireless Streaming package, it is available as a $1,995 upgrade. Nonetheless, the Limited does include the hands-free powered sliding doors and a hands-free liftgate. Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, a tri-pane sunroof, and Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Vac also come standard. The Pacifica Hybrid The 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid retails from $40,245 to $45,800 and is offered in three trim levels: Touring Plus, Touring L, and Limited. The Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid models are similar when it comes to safety, comfort, looks, and performance. Whether you should opt for a non-hybrid or hybrid version really depends on how important fuel efficiency is to you, as the Pacifica Hybrid leads the minivan market at 30 MPG combined and 82 MPGe. However, it doesn’t come with an eight-passenger option.   If you’re looking for a great all-around vehicle for your family, it’s hard to beat the 2020 Chrysler Pacifica. It’s as safe a vehicle as you will find. It wins at style, it wins at function, and it has tons of standard features. If you would like to see for yourself, be sure to come by our dealership for a test drive!

Online shopping is nothing new, but shopping for a car on Facebook Marketplace is the wave of the future. Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat has a great selection of new and used vehicles for sale, and now you can check them all out from the comfort of your own home. Once upon a time, the idea of using a social media site to do any sort of serious business felt strange. Not so much anymore though, as we see plenty of wheeling and dealing on all kinds of sites—social media or other. It actually works out nicely. Social media, for better or worse, has become an integral part of our lives, so why not embrace it a bit more and do a little business, like buying a new or used car kind of business. You can save your results and favorite makes and models and contact others for advice and access in minutes an entire lineup of vehicles that would otherwise take you days to peruse. Facebook Marketplace is a smart way to buy a new or used vehicle, and at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat we embrace the trend and are offering a huge selection of vehicles at ultra-low prices. Why Car Shop on Facebook Marketplace? Facebook’s marketplace first appeared back in 2007 as an alternative to Craigslist for buying and selling, listing jobs, etc. But then in 2014 it mysteriously disappeared only to return two years later. In 2016 Marketplace was reinvented as a platform focused on buying and selling locally. This new, and improved, marketplace served over 500 million people in the years to come, and a lot of those people were buying vehicles. In 2017, Facebook collaborated with Cars.com in order to entice dealerships to work with Marketplace more regularly in order to draw more car shoppers to Facebook rather than Craigslist or Autotrader. So far this has worked incredibly well for both Facebook and dealerships like us. Facebook is able to vet each dealership that works with its Marketplace—making sure all advertisements and sales are honest and accurate. This way, buyers know that what they are looking at is currently on our lot and that the vehicle is exactly as advertised. A huge benefit to using Facebook Marketplace for car shopping is due to what’s called Social Sales Drive. This new product utilizes proprietary artificial intelligence technology to create virtual conversations with shoppers any time they are on the site. Using Facebook Messenger, Social Sales Drive is able to do something most other car-buying sites can’t: create clear online communication between dealerships and customers at any time. These virtual conversations are created by managing queries from shoppers after they find a vehicle they like on the site. Here’s exactly how it works: Through Cars.com, our dealership shares our entire inventory to Facebook Marketplace. The customer then visits Marketplace looking for a new or used vehicle. Once the customer finds something he likes, he contacts the dealership through Facebook Messenger or click-to-call from the VDP of the chosen vehicle. Then the proprietary AI-powered chatbot, named “Ana Bot,” gives the shopper real-time answers to any inquiries on the vehicle—and this is available at any time on any day of the week. The benefit of this type of car shopping is that dealerships don't miss an opportunity to serve a customer and you, the customer, can get detailed information on any car at literally any time. Now, when the customer heads to the dealership, he already has a vehicle picked out and is ready for a test drive. It really doesn’t get much easier to buy a car than that. What We Have to Offer Presently, we have plenty to offer on Facebook Marketplace. To begin shopping, once you access Marketplace you can specify the details to the type of vehicle you are   looking for, such as the body style, make, model, mileage, production year, etc. Or, you can simply begin scrolling through the photos until something catches your eye. Here are a few of the great deals you will find on our Facebook Marketplace: 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport at $24,850. 2018 Jeep Renegade Altitude for $16,300. 2016 Chrysler 200 Limited for only $12,450. 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Coupe at $31,523. Plus there are plenty of 2019 models both new and used. Each option, once clicked on, enhances so you can get all the details you need—and don’t forget to chat with Ana Bot about any information you can’t seem to find.   Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat is excited about making your car buying experience easier and more informative than ever. Visit our Marketplace site on Facebook today (or tonight or at two in the morning) then come see us in person to find that car you have been looking for.

At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat we love the new Ram trucks with their sophisticated exterior and roomy inside, plus there’s all that power underneath the hood (and don’t get us going on all the technology and safety features). But one thing—two things, actually—that have us really excited are the new Ram Night and Warlock editions. These dark, mysterious creatures come packed with unexpected surprises and bold, chromatic features. At first look, it’s obvious Ram has taken on a “less is more” attitude with the new Ram trucks, which brings to light a hidden sophistication in the Ram family. The old, and rather striking, Peterbilt visage has been given a facelift (or a reduction, rather) as the signature Ram curvature is still there, still prominent, but it looks less defined and more mature. This new Ram looks tough, but there’s an element of intelligence added that brings even more of a draw to the venerated truck. We have a good reason for our affinity to the Ram. For years it has served as one of America’s favorite, most reliable vehicles and it continues to lead the market. What keeps the Ram relevant? Here are just a few things: Hauling Capabilities: the powerful V-8 engine can handle heavy-duty loads with ease and a smoothness that you’ll find is not offered in other comparable trucks—namely, the Chevy Silverado. Most other trucks are not powered by a revolutionary eTorque, hybrid engine that combines fuel and electricity. And what keeps the Ram from swaying or vibrating while hauling or towing big loads is its high-strength steel frame. This sturdy skeleton offers up to 12,750 pounds of towing and 2,300 pounds of payload. For those drivers looking to haul on the regular, this is your truck. The Ram’s rugged luxury lets you get hard work done with style and comfort. A New Office: the thought of using your truck as an office may sound a bit strange. Picture paperwork scattered, a misplaced phone, sitting uncomfortably while trying to type. Ram understands truck enthusiasts often need to work while on the move, and have thus created the most luxurious, roomy cabin of any truck in its class. Once you open the door to the all-new Ram truck, soft leather, dark mood lights, and extra space to sit and stretch welcomes you. This is the perfect office. The Harmon Kardon premium speakers offer clear, crisp conversations with clients, while the dual-pane panoramic sunroof offers plenty of natural light. The middle armrest is a perfect mini-desktop, and the dash and surrounding area serve as a perfect space to hold paperwork and materials. Don't be surprised if you end up spending more time in here than in your actual office. Comfortable Interior: A truck has never the first vehicle pictured when thinking of a luxury vehicle, but that has begun to change. Once you and your passengers are inside a Ram truck with the doors shut and that engine purring, you realize you are no longer in a truck—at least in the traditional sense. The thick, plush seating that easily seats five makes the already-smooth drive even smoother. As you float on down the road, exterior sounds are muted while the interior atmosphere is enhanced. The tinted windows, mood lighting, and ample legroom place everyone at ease as all begin to understand they are in something new: a luxuriously tough and roomy cabin made to make everyone happy. And now with the addition of the Night and Warlock, we have even more reason to celebrate. These two new editions to the Ram family are a smart move in creating a niche market where true truck enthusiasts can salivate at the crisp metallic look and black accents. Let’s have a closer look at both models. Seize the Night The most obvious difference in the stealthy Night edition is its dark complexion. The differing shades of grays and blacks work well together and provide a sense of mystery and sophistication. On the monochromatic exterior, there is a blacked-out grille with the RAM logo prominently placed in the middle with shiny, black letters that could be missed if not looked for. Plus there are black badges found throughout, as well as black wheels and exhaust pipe. Inside there is plush, black leather running throughout with dark accents that make every light, from the high-resolution touch-screen to the soft colored knobs scattered about the dash, stand out even more than usual. Drivers have a few options as to what’s found under the hood of the Night edition. There’s the standard 6.4-liter, HEMI V-8 engine; the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine; or the “Best-in-Class” 6.7-liter High Output Cummins Turbo Diesel engine (with 1,000 pound-feet of torque) for those needing extreme power. Ram drivers will be interested to know that if they opt for the Rebel model of the Night edition, the Comfort package comes standard. This package includes wireless charging, rear heated seats, power tailgate release, and the new Rebel Safety Group includes adaptive cruise control with stop and go, forward-collision mitigation, lane departure warning-plus, and auto high beams. The Night edition is cool, mysterious, and a blast to drive. But there is another model we are just as excited about. Let’s check out the companion to the Night—the Warlock edition. The Bold New Warlock At first glance, the all-new Warlock looks familiar. And that’s because we have seen this version of a Ram before—a long time ago, actually. From 1976 to 1979 the Warlock thrived in the truck market for its reliability and sporty look. And now, the Warlock is back and better than ever. The Warlock is made for adventure. This truck is for the weekend warrior, the truck driver who likes to find ways to get mud spatter on the windshield, maybe even a few scrapes and dings just to show where he’s been. The Warlock is “built for the bold” with its black tow hooks, black powder-coated bumpers, and 1-inch suspension lift (only on the 4x4 models). The front-end is made mostly of curved black materials that wrap around the grille, making the Warlock look as if it’s staring you down when facing it, much like a bull getting ready to charge. It can be intimidating—if you’re not the one driving it. The aggressive front-end is softened by the side fender flares that showcase the 20-inch wheels and amp up the sporty aspect to the Warlock. The rear is blacked-out, much like the Night edition, also giving it a mysterious air. There is also the option for side steps, which come highly recommended as the 1-inch lift proves to be more suspension that one would guess. Plus the side steps add to the classic feel of the truck. Inside the Warlock there is nothing but technology and style. The 8.4-inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay support and Android Auto integration. There’s also the 40/20/40 split-folding black cloth bench seats (all in black) and front and rear floor mats. Drivers can upgrade to the ultimate experience and opt for available premium cloth bucket seats, which take comfort to an entirely new level. The Ram Warlock edition takes a classic truck and brings it back to life with modern appeals in technology, comfort, and design, and is one you really have to see in person to fully grasp. Get Your Ram While You Still Can Regardless of which truck piques your interest, now is a great time to buy any model of Ram. At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, we have plenty of inventory of Ram models left, but you had better get here before the start of the holiday season in order to have your pick. To celebrate Ram’s “Power Days” sale, we have tons of specially-priced trucks for you to look at. Check out these models and prices: New 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman Quad Cab 4x4 with a 6’4” box for only $36,380. With our 110% price guarantee, this is a savings of over $5,000! New 2019 Ram 1500 Big Horn/Lone Star Quad Cab 4x4 with a 6’4” box for $37,595. With an MSRP at $45,595, you save $8,000 by shopping with us! New 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Quad Cab 4x4 with a 6’4” box priced as low as $43,640. This is over $6,000 in savings! And there’s plenty more: a Ram 1500 Big Horn with a 5’7” box at $47,455; a new 2020 Ram Big Horn at $49,845; even a 2019 Ram Rebel at $50, 895. And the deals just keep coming as the end of the year approaches, so don’t waste any time on getting that new Ram truck. The time to buy is now!   Come see us today at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat and we’ll help you find the perfect Ram truck for you. Plus we would love to chat about how and when you can get into the new Night and Warlock editions. There’s a lot of good stuff going on with Ram and we can’t wait to show it all to you.   -Andrae Bergeron *Sources: https://www.ramtrucks.com/special-editions/2019-ram-heavy-duty-night-edition.html

Legacies are started with forethought and they are established through hard work and persistence. Karl Abarth, the famous automobile designer, put his heart into everything he touched, and a new line of Fiat vehicles celebrates his awe-inspiring ingenuity and style. Introducing the all-new Fiat 500 Abarth and Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, otherwise known as "The Scorpionship.” They’re mysterious, dark, sleek, and dangerous. The aptly named “Scorpionship” is the induction to the Fiat family of two impressively sleek vehicles dedicated to a man who knew no bounds and understood what it takes to create a vehicle that runs and operates better. Karl Abarth, an Australian known for his advancements in mechanics and marketing, first designed motorbikes. He began gaining notoriety as a motorbike racer and eventually moved to Italy with the hopes of working on automobiles. And by “work” what he really wanted to do is make automobiles better—that is, faster and lasting. His personal touches to vehicles, known as “upgrades,” were so successful he eventually partnered with the Fiat brand where he ended up creating one of their most famous cars, the Fiat 500. When it was created, in 1959, this vehicle was a hit right off, celebrated for its speed, superior handling, and sleek design. Karl’s notoriety lives on in the all-new and “upgraded” 500 Abarth and 124 Spider Abarth. Here are some details on them both: The 500 Abarth The interior of the new Fiat 500 Abarth is exciting. Every aspect, from the shape and design to the upholstery and technology, is focused around you—the passenger. Some cars like to impress with tricks and gadgets that shimmer and shake, but at the end of the day they do little for you. The 500 offers what you need, what you want, and promises to offer up a good time. Inside, the Fiat 500 Abarth offers comfortable seating for everyone with side bolsters impeded into the seats to keep you snug and settled while speeding down the road (the heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission has plenty of zip to it). The high backs to the seats provide even more support and give a sporty, racecar feel. Under the hood, the 500 is suited with a 160-horsepower, 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo Engine that packs a punch. Then there’s the sleek 17-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels to take the design a step further. The Fiat 500 Abarth looks and feels powerful, that’s for sure. The 124 Spider Abarth Inside this Italian roadster, drivers can find the Fiat Connect 7.0 with a 7-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth Audio and Voice Command. Every surface to every inch of the interior is soft, plush, and full of quality. The heated, black leather sporty-seats take comfort to a new level and, just as with the 500, there’s an exciting feeling of being in a racecar ready to take off. The 1.4-liter, six-speed manual transmission offers a smooth, fast drive that has to be experienced to fully grasp. This is beyond having fun. This is truly driving. And the 17-inch Gun Metallic aluminum wheels provide a stark contrast to the soft, smooth shape of the body—an attention to detail surely inspired by the great Karl Abarth himself. We’re excited about the Scorpionship, and as seasoned fans of the Fiat brand, we at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat like to help our customers take care of their Fiat vehicles. Like Karl Abarth, we want your Fiat to last as long as possible. One problem with keeping up on a Fiat's regular service and maintenance is that a lot of drivers are unsure as to when and what things should be done. For instance, some oil needs changing every 3,000 miles while other types of oil last much longer. Some batteries last up to six years while others are lucky to make half of that. What's great about Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat is the professionals in our service department can guide you on all your Fiat's service needs. Not only will they keep you up on when and what needs to be done, but they will also give you tips on how you can keep your Fiat running at its best. Our goal is for you to come in and see us only for those things you can't take care of on your own. By taking the initiative with your Fiat's needs, we can work together to save you money and heartache. Here are a few important tips for your Fiat from our service department: Battery Life There is a bit of leeway on the type of battery you get for your Fiat, but there are specific things that should be done to make it last. The average battery usually lasts as long as four to six years, but this can change depending on how well you take care of your car. Here are a few things you can do to extend your battery’s lifespan: Keep the car out of the elements as often as possible. Cold weather especially wears down your Fiat’s battery, so if you have a garage or car cover, put it to use. Check the electrical connections on your battery once every few weeks. Where your battery connects to the Fiat can begin to erode over time—this can happen with any vehicle. This erosion will eventually eat up and destroy this connection. Simply take a stiff brush and scrub it clean and you are good. Regularly check the battery’s levels of electrolyte. This is commonly forgotten but can be detrimental to your battery’s lifespan if not watched. The easiest way is to stop in to Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat for a quick check and fill up if necessary. Lastly, it's a good idea to regularly check the charge of the battery, especially if you have noticed your lights dimming or sluggishness when you start the car. There are kits you can buy to check the charge on your battery, but it is honestly easier to have our technicians give it a look every time you come in for an oil change. Oil Changes Speaking of, timely oil changes are crucial to keep your Fiat running as it should. On the other side of that, if the oil is not changed as it should be, major problems can occur. We recommend having an oil change every 5,000 miles. However, depending on how you drive, this could change. If you find yourself mostly in stop-and-go traffic, you might consider changing the oil earlier. Then again, if you mostly drive long stretches on the highway, it is possible to go longer before getting that oil changed out. Also, most new Fiat cars use synthetic oil, which lasts longer and works much better than regular oil. Though synthetic costs more (up to three times as much) than regular oil, you don’t have to get it changed nearly as often, so the cost can even out. More than likely, your Fiat uses synthetic oil and it will need to be changed around every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Your best bet is to pop in to Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat. After a quick conversation about your driving habits and a look under the hood, our technicians give you the perfect diagnosis. Windshield Wiper Blades Similar to finding the best battery type for the Fiat, there are many brands and styles of wiper blades available. The most important thing is knowing how to care for them. You can make your windshield wipers last twice as long if you know a few tricks. Here’s what we suggest: Each time you fill up with gas, take a paper towel and wipe the rubberized underside of your wipers. This will take away any dirt and grime picked up from the road and make the rubber piece last much longer. In the winter, if you find that your wipers have frozen over, do not use them until all the ice has melted from the underside. Using them when they are coated in ice can crack the rubber and leave them ineffective. Closely inspect your wipers every six months. This won’t take long, but it’s important to make sure they are clean and suitable for use. If a rock or piece of glass gets wedged underneath it can leave a permanent scratch on your windshield. Even worse, if you do not realize they are defective and then try and use them while driving in the rain you can run into some even bigger problems. Tires Choosing tires for your Fiat can be tricky. Price is definitely a factor, as well as their overall quality. Before you go spending top dollar it’s best to check with the professionals. We can guide you towards the best tire for how you drive. Once you do get those new tires, you will need to do a few things regularly in order to keep your rides smooth and free from blowouts: Have our tires rotated every other oil change. By moving the ones in the back to the front and vice versa, you keep the tires from wearing down as easily. Once a week or so give your tires a quick inspection to make sure there aren't any nails or screws embedded. These can often go unnoticed for days, even weeks, while slowly letting air release. Check your Fiat’s tire pressure every few weeks. If you notice drastic changes in weather, it is a good idea to go ahead and check them as well. The preferred inflation pressure is usually listed on the side of the tire, but our technicians can tell you what’s best as well. Whether you are interested in learning more about the new Abarth 500 and 124 Spider models, or you feel like testing out any of our new or used Fiat models—and we do have plenty—we are happy to help you out. Stop in and see us at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat today.   -Andrae Bergeron https://www.fiatusa.com/abarth.html

If you’re a fan of hybrid vehicles but have been waiting for one with more power and rugged outdoor appeal to appear, than your time may have finally arrived. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), makers of well-known car brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat, and Ram, has confirmed plans to expand their line of electric hybrid vehicles to include the Jeep Wrangler. FCA currently has one hybrid model, The Chrysler Pacifica, which offers a plug-in version for purchase. However, they have a lofty goal of offering as many as 30 electric hybrid models by the year 2022. As with other electric hybrid vehicles, the Jeep Wrangler will have an electric plug that is used for charging. Advantages to the hybrid model include a higher fuel economy and increased engine power. Current fuel economy is 18/23 miles per gallon. With the new Jeep hybrid model that economy increases to 23/25 miles per gallon. And while there is still speculation as to what type of engine will be used, many believe that some form of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan’s 260 horsepower V6 engine will show up under the chasse, as the Jeep currently uses a similar type of engine. So how exactly does a hybrid engine work to influence overall miles per gallon? As you may have already guessed, it works through the use of electricity. Where a traditional engine would have an alternator, the new hybrid Jeep Wrangler houses a powerful 22-horsepower electric engine in addition to the traditional one. This electric engine uses a 48-volt battery for all starts and stops of the vehicle. Housing an electric engine for this purpose allows the vehicle to conserve gasoline and raises the overall miles per gallon. The electric battery also has regenerative features so that every time you brake or coast, you’re helping to charge the battery. So ideally, you’re refueling the battery and saving gasoline all in one action. And while the exact number of miles the battery can run without assistance from the traditional engine hasn’t yet been announced, it’s expected to fall somewhere around the mileage currently being achieved by the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid, which comes in at an impressive 32 miles.  Not too shabby for a rugged, off-road vehicle like the Jeep Wrangler. As you might expect, the overall cost is a bit extra for this upgraded feature. You can plan to pay about $3000 more for the hybrid engine and the required eight-speed automatic transmission that accompanies it. However, if you pair that cost with your overall gas savings and were planning on buying an automatic versus manual transmission regardless, you can expect to recoup your initial investment after around four years of ownership (This number assumes an average of 55% city driving). Jeeps are made to be freewheeling, off-roading, hard-working vehicles so, of course, the biggest question that people tend to ask is, “Will I need to sacrifice ruggedness and power in exchange for a hybrid engine?” And the answer looks to be an emphatic NO. Everything you see on the jeep from the bumpers to the axles is still designed with an off-road adventure-driven owner in mind. The jeep still comes with the soft and hardtop and, as always, drivers still have the option to take the doors off or leave them on. Jeeps are also still crash-tested at the same standards as other cars to assure overall safety regardless of the conditions you’re driving it in. You can also still count on the same firm ride as the non-hybrid and that an acceptable level of interior noise will be heard. Finally, as an added bonus, the new hybrid Jeep Wrangler can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a mere 7 seconds. Not too shabby for a hybrid! If you’re in the market for a rugged off-road vehicle, we highly recommend you research and test drive the new 2020 Jeep Wrangler. With everything from reliable off-road capability to overall improved driving performance and gas mileage, now is the time to make the switch to hybrid. And when it comes to finding the right dealership for the job, Mount Airy Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Fiat has you covered. Stop by to talk with one of our professionals and take a test drive today. We look forward to serving you!     Julie Mastbrook Works Cited “2020 Jeep JL Wrangler PHEV Plug-In Hybrid First Sighting!” 2018+ Jeep Wrangler (JL) News and Forum - JLwranglerforums.com, 2018+ Jeep Wrangler (JL) News and Forum - JLwranglerforums.com, 20 Mar. 2019, www.jlwranglerforums.com/2020-jeep-jl-wrangler-phev-plug-in-hybrid-first-sighting/. Cantu, michael. “Jeep Wrangler Plug-in Hybrid on Track for 2020 Launch.” MotorTrend, 17 Aug. 2018, www.motortrend.com/news/jeep-wrangler-plug-in-hybrid-on-track-for-2020-launch/. Capparella, Joey. “2020 Jeep Wrangler Expands Engine Options with a New V-6 ETorque Hybrid.” Car and Driver, Car and Driver, 15 July 2019, www.caranddriver.com/news/a28396620/2020-jeep-wrangler-new-v-6-hybrid-engine/. Stocksdale, Joel. “2021 Jeep Wrangler Plug-in Hybrid Caught Undisguised.” Autoblog, 20 Mar. 2019, www.autoblog.com/2019/03/20/2021-jeep-wrangler-phev-spy-photos/. Wiese, Dan. “Jeep Wrangler Hybrid: Hybrid Is One More Step in Roughneck's Search for Acceptance in Polite Society.” Stltoday.com, 26 Feb. 2019, www.stltoday.com/brandavestudios/jeep-wrangler-hybrid-hybrid-is-one-more-step-in-roughneck/article_4b45882a-39e3-11e9-a535-ef9f47897c9d.html.

Dodge is pulling out all the stops in their newest lineup of vehicles. The automobile manufacturer seems to be solidifying its legacy as the superior architect of the American muscle car, and no two models on the market today show this better than the Challenger and the Charger. These vehicles share some key similarities: they’re both built on the same platform, they both offer an impressive range of V6 and V8 engines, and they both use the same eight-speed automatic transmission (for the most part), to name a few. Nonetheless, there are also some important differences between the two, and each model offers its own set of characteristics that will appeal to a wide range of drivers. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, the 2019 Dodge Challenger or 2019 Dodge Charger could be the perfect fit. THE CHALLENGER The Dodge Challenger seems to become more popular with time, even though it hasn’t seen a total redesign in over 10 years. That’s not to say that a facelift starting with the 2015 models, little changes made each year, and the constant offering of new trims hasn’t helped. In that regard, this year is no different, as Dodge introduced the Hellcat Redeye and R/T Scat Pack Widebody trims to their 2019 Challenger lineup. Let’s get into some of the details: Looks Perhaps one reason the Challenger hasn't seen a complete redesign in a decade is that people love the way it looks. It really is the epitome of a muscle car, with its sleek two-door body, tenacious grille, and wide back end leaving no room for apologies. The unmistakable appearance that sets the Challenger apart from its rivals—namely the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang—extends beyond its exterior. This modern muscle car comes with a leather and metal-look steering wheel, gear shift knob, and locking glove box, bringing an industrial edge to the interior. Depending on the trim you choose, the seats come in Houndstooth cloth or Nappa leather, with suede inserts and accent stitching available. The aesthetics are topped off by aluminum panels and consoles with metal-looking accents. Performance If there is any characteristic that outshines the look of the Challenger, it’s the performance. The Challenger has not only lived up to its reputation as a superior muscle car, it has exceeded expectations with the 2019 models. The lowest trim levels, the SXT and GT, come stock with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque; this leaves you with a 0-to-60 time at slightly over six seconds. The R/T provides an eight-speed automatic transmission with a 5.7-liter V8 for 372 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque; you can opt for a six-speed manual transmission, which brings the numbers to 375 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Going up a trim level to the R/T Scat Pack will earn you a 6.4-liter V8 good for 485 hp, 475 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 time at just over four seconds (for both automatic and manual). Dodge adds over 200 horsepower and pound-feet of torque with the Hellcat. Yes, you read that correctly. The Hellcat’s supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine produces 717 hp and 656 lb-ft of torque. Pretty crazy, right? But we're not done. The highest trim level and a new addition to the Challenger lineup for 2019, the Hellcat Redeye, is good for a ridiculous 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque. Dodge claims the Hellcat Redeye's 0-60 time to be 3.4 seconds and says it can conquer a quarter-mile in 10.8 seconds. Driving The Challenger has been criticized for its lack of agility. True, the Camaro or Mustang might be better suited for a driver who is looking to take fast turns or race down long roads. However, the Challenger has its advantages when it comes to the driving experience. It’s smooth—so smooth you might mistake it as a Cadillac if you closed your eyes. No matter which trim you choose, you won’t feel many bumps in the pavement. Safety The safety ratings for the 2019 Challenger are solid. It earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, which is as high as a vehicle can score. Its IIHS tests, where “Good” is the best score, resulted in the following: Moderate overlap — Good Side impact — Good Roof strength — Acceptable Driver’s side front small overlap — Marginal In addition, the Challenger's forward collision warning—which is offered as an upgrade on all trims—earned it a Basic rating. Other optional safety feature add-ons include rear-cross traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Comfort Another impressive quality of the Challenger is its comfort. The seats on all the trims are top-quality and make for an enjoyable ride. However, the customization Dodge offers for its seats is something to be admired. Drivers have 17 custom seat options to choose from; so, whether you want to go full-on retro, modern luxury, or anywhere in between, you can get it with the Challenger. Also, heated and ventilated front seats are available, which can make a big difference in comfort. The front and rear legroom in the Challenger's cabin is comparable to its competitors, but its 16.2 cubic feet of trunk space is near the top of the class. One other element of comfort the Challenger provides is that it’s quiet—like really, really, quiet. You won’t hear much road noise from the cockpit, which is saying something given that monster of an engine under the hood. THE CHARGER Yes, the Challenger is as much of a muscle car as you can get, and it’s impressive in many other ways. However, the Charger is right there with it, and it comes with its advantages as well. Looks The 2019 Dodge Charger comes with either a 120.2-inch or 120,4-inch wheelbase, both of which are quite larger than many of its competitors. Yet, this doesn’t take anything away from its sleek body construction. In many regards, the Charger looks like a sedan version of the Challenger with its aggressive exterior features. However, the shape is a bit smoother all around. In short, the Charger could pass as the Challenger’s more responsible older sibling who got married and had kids. As far as the interior aesthetics go, it offers virtually everything the Challenger does and maybe a little more. Performance The Charger offers top-notch performance in all of its trims. Similar to the Challenger, its base model (SXT) comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that’s good for about 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The GT uses the same engine, but the R/T gets an upgrade with a 5.7-liter V8 that produces 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. Up another level gets you the Scat Pack trim and its 6.4-liter V8 with 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. Then comes the leap to the SRT Hellcat—a beast of a car with a 6.2-liter V8 producing 707 lb-ft of torque. All Charger trims come stock with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and manual is not an option. Driving As far as the driving experience, the Charger leaves nothing to be desired. Despite being a large sedan, it’s touted for its agility above competitors like the Chevrolet Impala and Ford Taurus. Unlike its feisty younger sibling, the Charger can take fast turns with grace and minimal body roll. It also offers an all-around smooth riding experience, especially when outfitted with one of several available sport suspension upgrades. Safety Overall, the 2019 Charger received good safety ratings. It was rated five stars for overall safety, side-impact and rollover prevention by the NHTSA, and four stars for frontal-impact collision. While the IIHS gave it a marginal rating in the driver’s side front small overlap test, most of the categories earned a good crash test rating, including: moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints and seats. Comfort The Charger has all the elements of comfort offered by the Challenger, except there’s more room. Overall, the Charger’s cabin is well-built and more spacious than many of its competitors. And similar to the Challenger, the seats are as comfortable as you’re going to find, making it a great vehicle for long trips. KEY DIFFERENCES TO CONSIDER While the Challenger and Charger share many characteristics, we’ve seen how they differ from one another in certain areas. Now let’s take a quick look at some factors with the two models side by side to help give you an idea of which might work best for your needs: Exteriors You can tell by the exteriors that the Challenger and Charger are siblings. They both showcase aggressive body styles that you can spot from anywhere, and both are an unequivocal picture of American muscle in their own right. However, the Challenger is a coupe with a stronger retro look and slightly sharper lines. The Charger, on the other hand, looks more like a street racing car and leans more towards a modern visage. Interiors The interiors in the two models are very similar. Both offer world-class seats and loads of customizations, and both cabins are impressively built. It really comes down to how much space you want and where you want it. You’ll get more legroom with the Charger, but the Challenger has class-leading trunk space. In short, the Charger is preferable if you’ll be driving around with three to five passengers. If not, the Challenger will get the job done. Performance The engines that come in the Challenger and Charger are very similar as well. At every trim level, the Challenger edges out the Charger in horsepower and torque. Both models come stock with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the Challenger offers a six-speed manual transmission on certain trims. Either way you go, you have the potential for obscene horsepower and torque. Driving The Challenger provides a smoother riding experience than most of its competitors, but it’s not the ideal car for taking turns at high speeds. In comparison, the Charger is also smooth, but it handles better than a lot of other cars in its class. Overall, both models are a joy to drive. Pricing As in many other areas, the pricing for the 2019 Challenger and 2019 Charger are neck and neck. The Challenger base prices range from $28,095 MSRP to $59,245 MSRP (prices do not include upgrades). The Charger base prices range from $29,470 MSRP to $65,795 MSRP. The Bottom Line Both the 2019 Dodge Challenger and 2019 Dodge Charger have a lot to offer drivers. Both are a masterpiece of a muscle car, which makes deciding between the two a difficult task. It really comes down to your unique needs and preferences. The Challenger will provide you with unmatched power in a fiery-looking coupe body. The Charger will give you a more family-friendly sedan body without sacrificing an aggressive appearance and powerful performance. If you like muscle, you really can’t go wrong with either choice. To help you decide, be sure to come on over to Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat for a test drive!     -Alex Watson

Demand for plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) is growing, though they still only claimed about 2% of the U.S. market share in 2018 (global market share is similar). That number includes battery-operated vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The thought on everyone's mind: is this the future of driving? The primary difference between the two types of vehicles is that a BEV runs solely off the energy from the vehicle's battery, while a PHEV uses the battery alongside a fuel tank that kicks in at various intervals. There would be clear benefits to drivers and the environment if BEVs were to become mainstream. However, there are currently just too many drawbacks to know how successful the BEV market can become. While many proponents are hopeful that BEVs will eventually become commonplace, the future of these vehicles remains largely unknown due to a number of unanswered questions and issues yet to be resolved. For instance, how will drivers have access to charging their vehicles? Will there be convenient charging stations like there are gas stations? Also, can we expect improvements to be made with batteries in the future? This article will explore the potential advantages of a BEV-driven world and the challenges that BEV drivers currently face, and we'll take a look at some of the main questions and issues that are too prevalent to be ignored. ADVANTAGES OF A BEV-HEAVY MARKET Even though we are still in the early stages of developing electric vehicles, BEVs currently come with many benefits, and it's not hard to see how these benefits could become even more impactful as technology improves. Lower Operating Costs For one, it's much cheaper to charge a BEV than it is to run a traditional vehicle off of gas; it's actually about one-third of the cost. Also, a BEV contains very few moving parts compared to a traditional vehicle, which means it's less expensive to maintain. For instance, with a BEV you don't have to worry about servicing a starter motor, fuel injection system, exhaust system, or radiator, among many other components. Though many improvements need to be made to these vehicles' batteries, most BEV manufacturers provide an eight-year warranty on their batteries even now. Environmental Benefits Some of the most obvious advantages are those that benefit the environment. BEVs have virtually no exhaust emissions, which means they emit much less pollution than traditional vehicles do. And if you use renewable energy for charging, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced even lower. For example, rather than charging from the grid, you can use a polar PV system while there's daylight. If you must use the grid, you can still minimize greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing green power from your electricity company. Even the manufacturing of some of the top BEVs is eco-conscious. For instance, the Ford Focus Electric and Nissan Leaf are largely made of recycled and bio-based materials, such as plastic bags, water bottles, and second-hand car parts and home appliances. Health and Safety Along with the financial and environmental benefits, BEVs can help improve our health and safety. Less pollution from exhaust means better air quality, which can reduce health problems caused by pollution, and BEVs create much less noise pollution than traditional vehicles. Also, since BEVs typically have a lower center of gravity, they are less likely to roll over. Furthermore, fires aren't as much of a risk, and the body structure of BEVs can prove more durable in a collision. DISADVANTAGES OF CURRENT BEV MARKET Of course, there are also drawbacks to BEVs. While they have enjoyed success, it has been with a limited group of consumers. Charging Times Tesla has led innovation in the BEV market in many ways, including its Supercharger networks, which can charge vehicles in about 30 minutes. However, that's still a lot more time than it takes to fill the gas tank of a traditional vehicle. What's more, scientists behind the efforts of manufacturers like Tesla and Toyota have their doubts about the possibility of reducing charging times enough to satisfy mainstream consumers. And since Toyota has been in the electric vehicle game for over 20 years, that speaks to the magnitude of this problem. Electricity Generated Another prevalent issue with BEVs is that they require electricity, which must come from somewhere. In states like California, most of the electricity comes from natural gas supplies, but states like West Virginia use coal to generate up to 90% of its electricity. Overall, about 38% of electricity in the United States is generated by coal. This begs the question: just how clean and green are electric cars? In short, it depends on where in the country you are driving. Furthermore, the lithium-ion batteries used by manufacturers like Tesla contain components that can potentially harm the environment by way of ecological toxicity and contributing to global warming. Limited Categories Finally, you don't see any BEVs that fall under the heavy-duty truck category. This is mainly because the technology isn't workable for truck applications—and it won't be anytime soon. This is a serious problem because there are 2 to 3 million heavy-duty trucks on the road in the U.S. Much of the American economy depends on Class 8 commercial trucks, which guzzle 30 times more gas than the average automobile (about 35 billion gallons each year). It's difficult to see how BEV technology could advance enough to accommodate the heavy-duty truck category in the foreseeable future. However, if such trucks were able to be produced in an electric format, it could drastically decrease oil dependence and significantly benefit the trucking industry financially. THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARGING STATIONS There are currently about 20,000 public charging stations and 57,000 outlets for plug-in electric vehicles in the U.S. Here's the thing: 4,800 of those stations and 18,200 of those outlets are found in California. Not surprisingly, California has also accounted for almost half of all BEV sales in the country since 2011. If there is hope for the BEV market to experience continued growth—and especially if battery-operated cars are to become mainstream—there must be more charging stations created throughout the country. In a sense, the future popularity of BEVs in any particular area of the country depends on the accessibility of charging stations in that area. However, it gets tricky because states that don't sell a lot of BEVs are less inclined to invest in public charging stations, but if they never decide to invest, then their sales will probably not improve by much. Therefore, there must be a break in the cycle at some point if BEVs are to become commonplace in the future. Sure, there are some people who could charge their BEV at home, but that's a limited category of consumers. Without an adequate number of charging stations open to the public, much like gas stations are, BEVs will never reach the mainstream. To put it into perspective, there are approximately 168,000 public gas stations in the U.S.—more than eight times the number of charging stations. The majority of consumers will never make the jump to BEVs until that gap is dramatically closing. THE ROLE OF BATTERIES As essential as charging stations are for the future of BEVs, batteries may play an even more important role. And BEV batteries need to undergo a lot of development if electric vehicles are to become commonplace. Battery Anxiety The term "battery anxiety" is often used in reference to one running out of battery power on their smartphone. We've all seen the symptoms: a family member searching frantically for a charger cable; a co-worker turning their desk over, only to ask you if they can borrow a charger; even a stranger asking if they can PowerShare with your phone. Chances are you've experienced the symptoms yourself. In a study administered by electronics manufacturer LG, 9 out of 10 people showed signs of battery anxiety. The same logic is behind the term "range anxiety" in reference to electric vehicles. If such a phenomenon has that kind of grip on people with smartphones, you can imagine the impact of this anxiety when it comes to driving a car. Range anxiety is one reason why many consumers won't even consider going the BEV route. Most BEVs allow drivers to go about 100 miles fully charged (the Tesla Model S is an exception, as it allows drivers around 250 miles). This is another reason why the scarcity of charging stations is such a severe problem. Nonetheless, many manufacturers have pledged to develop BEVs that will hit about 200 miles per charge. That would surely make a big difference, but it's still a far cry from a conventional vehicle that can go 300 to 400 miles on a full tank of gas. The Problem with Lithium-Ion Batteries Most newer electric cars these days are powered by lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are not without their advantages, such as the fact that they are light-weight (as compared to lead-acid batteries), relatively low-maintenance and can last for 8-10 years. However, there are some serious issues to consider as well. For example, lithium-ion batteries are expensive. While a high-end lead-acid battery—as used in most traditional vehicles—costs around $120, a typical lithium-ion car battery costs in the $1,700 range. Also, lithium is highly reactive. This means if they are damaged or installed incorrectly, they can explode. Moreover, the cells used in lithium-ion batteries are made with rare-earth metals; the supply of these metals is limited, and they're dangerous to mine. Most workers who are tasked with retrieving rare-earth metals are laboring in harsh conditions, to say the least (and in some cases this means illegal child laborers). The Prospect of Flow Batteries Enter a new hope for BEV proponents: the "flow battery." Scientists are currently working on this new type of refillable battery that they hope will replace lithium-ion as the commonplace battery in BEVs. The strongest appeal of the flow battery is that it solves most of the biggest problems consumers have with BEVs. Depending on the model of vehicle and the power source used, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 10 hours to fully charge a lithium-ion battery in a BEV. If the flow battery is a success, it will allow drivers to empty their battery liquid and pump in new liquid in minutes—roughly the same time it would take to fill a gas tank. What's more, since the basic infrastructure is already there, it would be easier for gas stations everywhere to be retrofitted to pump this battery liquid in place of gas. This means that the scarcity of charging stations would no longer be a problem—thus, no more range anxiety. There is still a lot of progress to be made in the development of flow batteries, but it's possible we will see some form of them in the next three years. THE BOTTOM LINE It's easy to see how drivers and the environment would benefit from a BEV-driven market. All things considered, they are a more eco-conscious alternative to traditional vehicles, they are cheaper to operate, and they offer health and safety benefits. That said, BEVs have their share of drawbacks as well. If BEVs are ever to enter the mainstream, more charging stations and better batteries must be made available. It looks like the work is being done to solve these issues, but only time will tell whether or not BEVs are indeed the future.     -Alex Watson

America’s families have asked and Chrysler has delivered. Introducing America’s first hybrid minivan, and the largest hybrid vehicle in the U.S., the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is the best of its class. The 2019 Pacifica Hybrid, according to Business Insider, still outranks Honda and Toyota’s comparable models. Now at Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, you can take the 2019 Pacifica Hybrid for a spin and fall in love with a vehicle that delivers the greatest fuel efficiency, electric mileage, and style for your money today. At a glance: America’s largest hybrid vehicle The most technologically advanced seven-passenger hybrid MSRP: From $40,245 $7500 tax credit 3 rows of family-friendly seating The best combination of safety and fun for your next road trip Hybrids: A More than Happy Medium Hybrid vehicles are a great gateway to the world of plug-ins and electric vehicles. For an everyday vehicle to run errands, commutes, and kids all around, a hybrid means you lose very little by gaining a plug and enough electric range for many people to never use a drop of gas. The Pacifica Hybrid is specifically a great vehicle for families who can’t make the leap to a fully electric vehicle. Hybrids are reasonable; with a lack of infrastructure in place, such as the absence of charging stations for electric vehicles right now in North Carolina, electric vehicles just aren’t cut out for out-of-town family visits or longer road trips. But for those who want to keep their driving local or cut down emissions, or go entirely tailpipe-emissions free, the Pacifica Hybrid is the way to go. Saving You Money, and Saving You Time Charging an electric vehicle isn’t as fast as pumping gasoline for sure, but it does not have to have to take up all of your time. You can charge your battery at home in only two hours with the available 240-volt Level II charger. In comparison… The Pacifica Hybrid 2019’s quick charge in just two hours is faster than the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid, and the Chevrolet Volt. We’d say that’s pretty quick! Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: 2 hours Chevrolet Volt: 2.3 hours Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid: 3.0 hours Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: 3.5 hours Safe. Secure. Sound. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has over 100 standard and available safety and security features. Some of these impressive features include: Available full-speed forward collision with active braking Available LaneSense lane departure warning with lane keep assist Available adaptive cruise control with stop and go Available 360 degree surround-view camera Fog Front driving lights ParkSense with Stop Parking assist And what’s the overall NHTSA safety rating? It shouldn’t be surprising that the Pacifica Hybrid received a 5/5 rating. What is the total combined driving range of the Pacifica Hybrid? The Pacifica Hybrid has an 82 MPG rating, and a 32-mile electric range with an incredible total driving range of up to 520 miles. All of those family vacations you have been dreaming of? Totally within your reach. Crunching Numbers and Configurations: The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid at a glance includes: Payload: 1,313 lbs Warranty: 3 yr/36,000 miles basic, or a 5 yr/60,000 miles powertrain Curb weight: 4,987 lbs Fuel tank capacity: 16.5 gallons Engine: 3.6L V-6 Transmission: 1-speed automatic Power: @ rpm Drivetrain: front-wheel The configurations range from: Touring Plus: $40,245 Touring L: $42,445 Limited: $45,795 Specs: Riding in Style and Comfort The interior of the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is designed to impress. With the most innovative seating and storage in its class and an eco-chic design, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is as family friendly as it is environmentally friendly. The basic trim includes ABS and driveline traction control, with 17-inch polished and painted accented aluminum wheels. Climate control in the vehicle truly gives control to everyone in the vehicle. The Pacifica includes front air conditioning, dual-zone automatic, and rear air conditioning as well. It may be cold in the driver’s seat but are the kids complaining about being hot in the back? Separate controls in the back ensure everyone in the vehicle is comfortable. For radio-aficionados, the Pacifica comes standard with SiriusXM, AM/FM/HD/Satellite, and a seek-scan radio, all controlled by two first row LCD monitors. These monitors feature the most advanced entertainment system available in seven-passenger hybrid, meaning fun, immersive, and smart interaction for the whole family. All of the doors on the Pacifica include Keyfob Remote keyless entry. It also includes heated mirrors, cloth seat trim, driver lumbar support, and a 60-40 split-bench third-row seats. The Touring Plus trim provides the driver and front passenger heated-cushion, heated-seatback, heated front seats, and a leather seat trim. The additional or replacing feature on Touring L trim includes Nappa leather seat trim, driver and passenger lumbar support, a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, 20 speaker Harman Kardon sound, a $775 S Appearance package, and a 120 AC outlet. What does the Pacifica Hybrid cost? The price ranges from $41,490 to $51,050 depending on the trim levels. Does the Pacifica Hybrid qualify for a tax credit? When you purchase an electric vehicle, you may be eligible for a one-time federal tax credit of up to $7500, which is not an incentive guaranteed for other hybrid vehicles on the market. It’s worth noting that this nonrefundable credit doesn’t carry over year to year, so make sure you take advantage of this tax credit while you can. You can receive a portion of the $7500 tax credit even if your tax liability is below $7500. Ask our team at Mount Airy CDJRF if you’re interested in learning more about the tax incentives available to you. The Pacifica Hybrid: How does it work on a long haul? What if you can’t plug in to charge? While the Pacifica doesn’t have enough battery capacity to go entirely on electric power, it can be used as fully electric around town, and as a hybrid for long trips. With a quiet ride inside, excellent captain’s chairs in the first and second rows, and room for seven total passengers, there’s nothing keeping you from enjoying a road trip in this vehicle. The Pacifica Hybrid delivers more usable all-electric range than most other plug-in hybrids and actually recharges the battery pack on regenerative brakes. So, even if you’re running on gas, as you drive and stop, the battery can recharge slightly. Now you can drive where you want when you want without any of the range anxiety. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid seamlessly switches from an electric motor to a gas engine for greater peace of mind and total hybrid power. How do you charge it and how long does it take? When you purchase a Pacifica Hybrid, it comes equipped with a Level I 120-volt AC charging cord set, which requires a conventional 120-volt AC grounded wall receptacle along with the portable charging cord set.  Ensure that your vehicle is turned off and plug the charger cord into the vehicle's power outlet. You can find the charging cord set by opening the cargo area storage bin on the driver’s side, which includes the charging cord in a storage bag. Keep in mind that this cord set is for Level I charging only. Once you begin, insert the AC plug of the charging set into the grounded wall receptacle. Then take the charge connector and place it in the vehicle’s charge inlet. A “click” will be heard when inserted correctly, and the charge active indicator lights will cycle from left to right. Once your vehicle is fully charged, the lights in the charge indicator will show all five bars. You can also set a charging schedule with the available 4C NAV in the Hybrid Electric pages app. On the Charging Schedule page, you can set a charging schedule by checking the box next to the setting “Enable Schedule” and customizing as needed. You can choose to “charge Until Full,” which allows the vehicle to fully charge versus stopping at a certain point. You can manage all of this right from your smartphone. The Level 1 120-volt charger can be fully recharged in approximately 14 hours. You can shorten the time and charge your Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid in as little as 2 hours by using an available Level II 240-volt charger. Charging times are estimated but can change based on the age and condition of the battery, and the current provided to the charger. What’s the expected life of the battery? The expected life of the lithium-ion battery is the life of the vehicle. What about charging from a public charging station? How long does that take? At a public charging station, the Pacifica Hybrid can be charged on Level II 240-volt chargers and takes around 2 hours to fully charge from a completely empty battery. What is the estimated cost of charging the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid? It takes 13k to fully charge the battery and using the national average electricity rate of $0.12/kWh, it costs approximately $1.66 to fully charge the battery using a home charger. Can you tow with a Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid? If so, how much can it tow? Towing a trailer is not permitted on the 2019 Pacifica Hybrid, as hybrids are not rated for towing and the added weight of the battery already weighs on the vehicle significantly. You cannot order the Pacifica Hybrid with a towing package as a result. The non-hybrid Pacifica with the tow package is rated for 3.6K lbs. Is the Pacifica Hybrid worth it? Here at Mount Airy CDJRF, we believe that the Pacifica Hybrid 2019 speaks for itself. As not just the only hybrid minivan on the market, but the best of the best when it comes to your hybrid family vehicle options, the Chrysler Pacifica is a classic in the making and built to suit families of all kinds. Torn between the Pacifica and the Pacifica Hybrid? It’s hard to justify not buying the plug-ins, as the non-hybrid is basically the same as the hybrid unless you really need the second-row seat to fold into the floor on a regular basis, or if you’re locked into a tighter budget and are seeking a lower spec Pacifica. With seating for up to seven, it’s the perfect vehicle for families big and small. With the purchase of a Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, you may be able to factor in the $7500 federal EV tax credit, alongside other possible state and local added incentives, meaning that the hybrid can definitely cost less than the equivalent non-hybrid Pacifica, or other similar vehicles. For example, any other minivan, including the Honda Odyssey, gets nearly as expensive when matching what the Pacifica includes, and they don’t qualify for the $7500 EV tax credit, or other incentives like the carpool lane stickers. Come by Mount Airy CDJRF today to check out the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and see why it’s truly the best in its class.   -Tayler Green

The third generation of the Dodge Durango will soon be coming to an end. Dodge will usher in a new era with the 2021 models by showcasing a new body-on-frame architecture, among many other changes. The primary reason for this is that FCA—the parent company of the Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee—doesn’t want the two SUVs to be rivals anymore. That being said, there is much to like about the latest Durango. And for fans of this generation of models using the unibody platform, which is in its 9th year, buyers can enjoy the current body style and take advantage of all the updates and upgrades that Dodge has to throw at it. In essence, the 2019 Durango looks and acts like a muscle car turned SUV, but it still accommodates the family. If you’re in the market for a new midsize SUV, the 2019 Durango should be considered for your short list. Overview of Specs Perhaps what makes the new Durango most unique is that it’s a midsize sport utility vehicle that provides drivers with the capabilities of a larger SUV while handling more like a compact SUV. In a class of numerous competitors, this aspect is as much impressive as it is welcome. Though it still holds on to the overall body style of its preceding models, the 2019 Durango sports a slightly more aggressive look on the exterior. As with the handling experience, the interior offers features and a layout not unlike those you would find in a smaller SUV. It feels modern and comfortable inside, and with three rows and plenty of room, it makes it the perfect family vehicle. The base model of the new Durango, which starts at an MSRP of $29,995, includes a 3.6-liter V6 at 293 horsepower and 260 foot-pounds of torque. This, along with a standard rear-wheel drive, renders a fuel efficiency of 19 miles per gallon around town and 26 MPG on the highway, which is what can be expected for this type of engine. Drivers can opt for a V8 engine if they want more power, as well as an all-wheel-drive add-on, both of which have their perks though they drive the fuel efficiency down a bit. The SXT Here are some of the other primary features offered on the SXT, which is the base model of the 2019 Durango: 4 doors 5 to 7 passengers 8-speed automatic transmission 48 to 65 cubic feet of cargo space Keyless entry Power windows Rear defrost 18-inch alloy wheels, all-season tires Climate control, dual zone and rear-control A/C Wireless device hookup Hands-free communication system 7-inch touchscreen Rearview camera 4-wheel ABS and 4-wheel disc brakes Airbags at the driver, passenger, front head, front side, and rear head Other Trim Levels There are four other trim levels available that offer various upgrades. The GT is one level above the base model, with the primary differences being rear parking sensors, a garage door control, a leather steering wheel, and a power-operated driver’s seat. The R/T trim offers perhaps the most upgrades for the money: Remote start Powered liftgate 5.7-liter V8 engine Leather upholstery Power-operated passenger seat Heated seats and steering wheel Performance-enhanced steering and suspension 8.4-inch touchscreen Navigation system Alpine stereo system with 9 speakers Going a step further, the Citadel is considered the luxury model of the Durango. Upgrades include chrome side mirror casings, sunroof, and captain seating with a middle console in the second row. If you’re looking for more amenities than the SXT and R/T models offer but want to keep a leaner look, the Citadel may be the choice for you. The SRT is the Durango model you are most likely to see in review photos and magazines. It’s the most performance-focused model, and it reflects in the price at an MSRP of $62,995. Essentially, every mechanical aspect of the all-wheel-drive SRT is performance-tuned, and it also comes with Nappa leather and suede upholstery, air-conditioned front seats, adaptive headlights, and adaptive suspension. The SRT may be the most aggressive midsize SUV in its class. If you’re OK with the price tag and decreased fuel efficiency (13 MPG City/19 MPG Highway), this trim could be the one you find most impressive. How Safe Is It? The new Durango received favorable IIHS safety ratings overall. Crash tests returned good results for roof strength, head restraints, and seats. In particular, the Durango proved adequate in driver and passenger injury measures, as well as driver and passenger head protection. Also, with optional equipment add-ons, it rated superior in front crash prevention. There are many features the Durango SXT provides that help to prevent accidents and protect drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. For instance, it has five airbags strategically placed throughout the vehicle, 4-wheel ABS and 4-wheel disc brakes, and child locks. In addition, each model has traction control, driver-adaptive brake system, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Some of the higher trim levels come standard with front and rear parking sensors, and drivers can purchase packages that add more safety features. Here are some of the features you can add: Automatic high beams Adaptive headlights Adaptive cruise control (ACC) Blind spot alert Forward collision warning Rear cross traffic monitor Auto emergency braking (AEB) The bottom line on safety is that any Durango model you choose will be comparable to the others in its class. With safety standards becoming increasingly stringent, Dodge hasn’t overlooked any aspects with the Durango. How’s the Performance? No matter which model you go with, you can expect good performance from your Dodge Durango. There are three different powertrain options available. The SXT and Citadel come standard with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine (295 HP/260 ft-lb torque), though upgrading the engine in the Citadel is an option. The R/T is stocked with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. By far, the most powerful model is the SRT, which boasts a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 and supplies drivers with 475 HP and 470 ft-lb of torque. Another impressive part of the Durango’s performance is its towing capacity. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 allows drivers to tow up to 6,200 pounds, while the 5.7L HEMI V8 and 6.4L HEMI V8 engines can tow up to 7,400 pounds and 8,700 pounds, respectively. It’s worth noting that the 8,700 pounds towing capacity are considered best in class. When it comes to the driving experience, the new Durango delivers. One of the things that set it apart from other crossovers of its size is that it provides a smooth ride—whether you’re on the highway or trekking through rough terrain. This is one area where the family-friendly quality of the vehicle comes in. Also, the Durango handles like a smaller SUV, making it easier to park and maneuver around corners than its size would suggest. Overall, it accomplishes being both a fun and comfortable ride for people of all ages without compromising safety. Fuel efficiency with the Durango is comparable to others in its class, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-9. The models carrying the 3.6L Pentastar V6 powertrain gives drivers 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway; the 5.7L HEMI V8 produces 14/22 MPG, and the 6.7L HEMI V8 produces 13/19 MPG. What’s it Look Like? The exterior of the 2019 Durango is surely one of its most unique characteristics. Dodge hails it as “a masterwork of muscle,” which is a tribute to its appearance as much as its powerful performance capabilities. The SXT and GT models are a clever combination of sporty and graceful, though you can add the SRT-style hood—which has an air inlet in the center—to the GT if you want. As you go up the ranks of the trim levels, the Durango gets more and more muscular. The SRT, in many ways, resembles the iconic Charger, giving drivers a sense that they can go anywhere and be the boss. Furthermore, many of the models have a good bit of chrome along the exterior, which gives the overall appearance an added boost. There are 10 exterior paint colors to choose from for the 2019 Durango: White Knuckle Granite Redline Red Reactor Blue Vice White Billet DB Black Octane Red Destroyer Grey F8 Green What’s Inside? The interior is another factor that makes the new Durango a great vehicle for families. Its roomy cargo space and welcoming cabin make it a truly comfortable vehicle to sit in—whether you’re driving across town or across the country. The entry-level SXT seats five people, but you can add a third row, which opens up space for seven people. Captain chairs in the second row is another option, which means you could have six people in the vehicle. There’s a variety of leather upholstery upgrades available, as well as a heated steering wheel, power-operated front seats, heated seats (front and second row), and air-conditioned front seats. As far as infotainment goes, the Durango has it going on. The core infotainment system is the Uconnect. This connected vehicle platform is built exclusively into Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, and FIAT vehicles, and it has won several awards for its features and efficiency. At the base model, buyers have access to a 7-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, six-speaker audio system, and voice control features. The upgraded models are even more decked out. You can upgrade to an 8.4-inch screen, built-in navigation, Sirius XM, a BluRay/DVD player for the back seat, and a nine-speaker Alpine or 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. One of the most satisfying qualities of the Uconnect system—and also why it beats out many of its competitors—is that it is very user-friendly and easy to navigate. This is largely because it employs a combination of physical controls, smartphone capabilities, and big touch-screen buttons to go along with a painless interface. In other words, people with little to no technology experience should be able to use the infotainment system with no problems.     If you’re looking for a vehicle that suits the entire family while bringing pure muscle and grace to your driving experience, the 2019 Dodge Durango is a perfect choice. All models come loaded with features and appeal that overshines the competition. As safety is always the most important factor when it comes to driving, the Durango has you and your family covered from front to back with safety features to help prevent accidents and protect you should an accident occur. If you’re looking for power in an SUV, the Durango is a total specimen—untouched by the others in its class. Also, it’s one of the smoother and roomier rides you will find. With a variety of exterior colors, from whites and greys to Dodge’s iconic red, chances are there’s at least one that will wow you. Finally, Dodge has outdone themselves with the infotainment features offered in all its Durango models. Muscle, grace, safety, fun—all can be yours with the new Durango. Be sure to pop on over to Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT to see for yourself.