DETROIT – If you found yourself inspired by the European looks and American nostalgia of the new Dodge Dart at this year's Detroit Auto Show, we now know how much the new compact will cost.
Chrysler is setting the base price at $15,995 MSRP for the 2013 model.
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It's built on the architecture of the Alfa Romeo and comes in 5 different trim levels with the top price at $22, 495 MSRP for the loaded R/T sport package.
The next mystery number we'll want to know is the mileage of the new Dart. It's equipped with a 1.4L MultiAir Turbo that should deliver more than 40 mpg on the highway.
I was impressed with the quality of the car's interior and the 11 different color and trim packages allowing owners broad and dramatic choices to truly personalize their vehicles.
"The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking car, offering features and benefits never before found in a compact car," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. "With class-leading style, customization, safety, technology, and interior levels of roominess, the all-new Dart perfectly blends Alfa Romeo DNAand Dodge passion and style into one all-new car that customers will be proud to own and look forward to driving."
The compact segment has grown by leaps and bounds with escalating gasoline prices. Ford has seen sales of its Focus more than double over the past year. Chevy's Cruze is a hot-seller and the Sonic is gaining steam.
The folks at Dodge know they need to over-deliver for the price to break into this well-established lineup.
Production begins later next month at the company's Belvidere, Ill., plant and will arrive in U.S. showrooms in June.