Even
though they're camouflaged, this rag tag fleet of 2009 Dodge Ram Quad
Cab and Mega Cab prototypes is the real deal - not the mules
previously caught with the new front clip attached
to the current truck.
Some new
powertrain information has also come to light.
At a recent
industry conference in Traverse City, Michigan, Frank Klegon, Chrysler's
executive vice president of product development, reiterated earlier
statements that Chrysler is focused on producing advanced engines for
all its vehicles, including the Ram.
Mr. Klegon
highlighted, "A
significantly upgraded version of the renowned 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with
gains in fuel efficiency, refinement, horsepower and torque, will debut
in the 2009 model year."
It's rumored
part of the HEMI power boost will come from the addition of variable
valve timing and a bump in displacement.
Chrysler
will also offer a new, more fuel-efficient version
of the E85 flex-fuel 4.7-liter base V8 engine, shared with the Dodge
Dakota midsize pickup and featuring a 30 percent increase in horsepower
and a 10 percent increase in torque over the old 4.7-liter V8.
Other gas
engine news - look for an all-new 'Phoenix' V6, with MDS cylinder shut-off
to save fuel, by 2010.
We're still
expecting a new Cummins V8 light duty diesel soon after launch, but
there are whispers of a V6 oil burner too.
