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Chrysler dual clutch transmissions in question for 2012

One of the new components in Chrysler’s fuel saving technologies being applied throughout their product lineup was the addition of a dual clutch transmission for the 2012 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger sedans but reports indicate that those new high tech transmissions will not be offered on 2012 model year vehicles.
The 2011 Dodge Avenger R/T

Chrysler has been planning on making the 2012 Dodge Avenger and Chrysler 200 their first American models to receive a dual clutch (automatic) transmission but due to concerns that this DCT wouldn’t be well received by American drivers; the company has put these plans on hold while they work to perfect the technology. The problem seems to rest in the fact that early applications of these new dual clutch transmissions in the US have garnered some negative reviews from drivers who expect the feel of a traditional automatic transmission.

Chrysler first planned to work with Getrag prior to the government bailout on developing a DCT but that program was put to rest by the bankruptcy proceedings. However, these dual clutch transmissions have been popular in Europe for some time and new parent company Fiat already has production versions of this technology in use – so it seems like a natural transition into American models. Dual clutch transmissions first gained popularity in high performance applications from the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini but it seems that in “average” driving situations and in lower performance models, American consumers don’t like the shifting habits of the DCT.

There is no indication as to how long the American market will have to wait to see the first applications of the dual clutch technology to the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger but it looks like it will not be until the 2013 model year. There have been rumors that the Dodge Avenger will soon see the end of its run, leaving the Chrysler 200 to solider on as the only Chrysler Group product in the midsized sedan segment and if that proves to be true, perhaps Chrysler will hold off on the DCT until they unveil the new form of the Chrysler 200. Unfortunately, there is a bigger need for fuel saving technology applied through transmissions so if Chrysler wants to keep up with the Jones’, they will need to perfect this system as soon as possible.

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The Dodge Challenger SRT8 ACR drops at SEMA 2011
The Ram 392 at SEMA could be the next SRT pickup in 7 easy steps
Chip Foose helps WD40, SEMA charities unveil new custom Dodge Challenger SRT8 392
The 2013 Dodge Viper could pack an 8.7 liter V10

Source: The Car Connection

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