Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, small families, individuals seeking practicality and versatility
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Focus, Chevrolet HHR, Nissan Rogue
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive styling, spacious interior for its class, available AWD, competitive pricing
Design:
Unique styling with a crossover-like appearance, higher ground clearance than a traditional car
Interior Versatility:
Fold-flat front passenger seat for extended cargo length, spacious rear seating
Powertrain Options:
Range of gasoline engines, including efficient 4-cylinder options and a more powerful 2.4L World Engine
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, turbocharging (if applicable)
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (e.g., Getrag NV1500, T350) overhaul, clutch system, shift linkage
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission, JF011E) overhaul, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, drive axles, constant velocity (CV) joints, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rods
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid, calipers, rotors, pads, lines
Electrical System:
12V battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seating systems, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), fault diagnosis, repair procedures for common issues
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, tune-ups
Component Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission service, brake replacement, suspension repair, steering system overhaul
Diagnostic Testing:
Tests for engine performance, electrical systems, ABS, airbags, HVAC
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, sensors, actuators, control modules, audio system
Bodywork:
Panel removal and installation, door adjustments, glass replacement
Depth:
In-depth diagnostics, component-level repair, complete factory-level service procedures
Specificity:
Exact procedures, torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances used by dealership technicians
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag NV1500 or T350)
Optional Transmission 1:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - JF011E
Optional Transmission 2:
CVT with simulated 6 speeds (Autostick)
All Wheel Drive Availability:
Available on select models, typically paired with the 2.4L engine and CVT
Cvt Control:
Electronically controlled with variable pulley ratios
Manual Gear Ratios Typical:
Refer to manual for specific ratios per model and year
Cvt Fluid Type Specification:
Specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVTF NS-2 or equivalent)
Length:
Approximately 170-171 inches
Width:
Approximately 69.4 inches
Height:
Approximately 62.4-63.2 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.7 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 7.3-7.7 inches
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 96-98 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 21.1-24.8 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 56.1-67.4 cubic feet
Curb Weight Typical:
Approximately 3100-3400 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by configuration, typically around 4300 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (for models tested)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Electronic Traction Control (ETC)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on some trims
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Front seat-mounted side airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Available front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions), refer to manual for exact intervals.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Transmission Fluid Change Cvt:
Typically at 30,000-60,000 miles, crucial for CVT longevity. Refer to manual.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Approximately every 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters)
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT (Hybrid OAT) Coolant, typically purple or orange
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; some models may use ATF +4 or a specific electric power steering fluid.
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models have reported issues with durability and premature failure, often related to fluid maintenance or cooling.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine and transmission mounts leading to vibration.
Suspension Components:
Rattles or clunks from suspension components like control arm bushings or sway bar links.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Failure of blend door actuators can cause temperature control issues.
Power Window Motors:
Occasional failures of power window regulators and motors.
Parent Company:
Chrysler LLC / Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
Introduction Year:
2006 (for the 2007 model year)
Design Inspiration:
Designed to fill a gap in the Dodge lineup, offering a more affordable and practical option.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Dodge Nitro SUV and the Jeep Compass/Patriot compact SUVs.
Facelift:
Received a minor facelift for the 2011 model year with updated front and rear styling.
Assembly Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA
Discontinuation Year:
2012
Sales Performance:
Moderate sales success, particularly popular for its price point and practicality in certain markets.