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It was November 2023 when the 2025 Ram 1500 was unveiled. In addition to an updated appearance and new technology, the truck line will introduce a new 3.0-liter Hurricane engine family that increases standard horsepower, and performance as well as improved fuel efficiency. Benna CDJR looks forward to this new truck’s arrival, as will anyone in the greater Superior area interested in a more powerful truck. The Inline-Six Returns Find a car guy with gray hair, and he’ll tell you about the iconic, bullet-proof “slant-six” in 60s and 70s Dodge and Plymouth models. The two 3.0-liter Hurricane engines joining the current 3.6-liter V6 in the RAM 1500 family marks the return of the Mopar inline-6, though now in a more sophisticated and turbocharged form. The switch to an inline configuration brings about several advantages. V-6s are popular because they are short, making them easy to package, particularly when mounted transversely for front-wheel drive models.  But length is not an issue when mounted in a North-South position in a full-size pickup, and the inline-6 configuration enables several advantages. Among these is lower vibration through inherently better engine balancing. An inline-6’s pistons move in tandem with their mirror image on the opposite end of the block, So when pistons 1 and 6 are at top-dead-center, 2 and 5 are spaced at 120 degrees and 3 and 4 at 240 degrees. Each piston pair are two strokes apart (combustion matched by intake and compression matched by exhaust), which means an entirely even firing order resulting in an inherently smooth operation. This eliminates the need for balance shafts or extensive counterweighting that can sap power. There is also a single head instead of two and just two overhead camshafts instead of four. There is also greater room around the engine, making it easier to work on. The all-new 3.0-liter Hurricane engine is rated at 420 horsepower and 469 lb.-ft. of torque. A High Output version will produce 540 horsepower and 521 lb.-ft. of torque. All engines will be combined with a TorqueFlight 8-speed automatic transmission. 3.21, 3.55, or 3.92 axle ratios will allow customers to prioritize fuel economy and vehicle capability according to their needs. Maximum towing capacity is estimated at 11,580 pounds, with a maximum payload at 2,300 pounds. The Ram 1500 will continue with the double-wishbone front suspension and five-link solid rear axle that has brought it accolades across the industry. A class-exclusive, active-level, four-corner air suspension will be available. The system will be adjustable with five different modes: entry/exit, aero, normal, off-road 1, and off-road 2. “The new 2025 Ram 1500 brings our customers more: more power, more performance, and more fuel efficiency with our all-new 3.0-liter Hurricane engines,” said Tim Kuniskis, Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “ With a choice of new and proven gas engines or our upcoming electric truck offerings, Ram is built to serve truck buyers everywhere. Our new powertrain offerings add to the unique combination of bold styling, leading-edge innovation, and technology, durability and capability Ram customers have come to know and love.” A Design Befitting Its Sophistication and Capability The styling is sleeker and more aerodynamic, while still presenting Ram’s bold, heroic presence with a new forward-leaning grille that will have eight different variations depending on the trim level. New premium LED headlamps, with twin bi-functional projector headlamps, are found on Limited and above trims and are matched by new LED tail lights with a jeweled appearance that is standard across the lineup. The 2025 Ram 1500 will be available in Tradesman, Big Horn/Lone Star, Laramie, Rebel, Limited Longhorn, Limited, and the all-new Tungsten trim levels. Features among the trim levels include: Tradesman will come standard with a 12-inch Uconnect screen Bighorn/Lone Star features a new Gridiron paint with laser etching decorative trim accents on the dashboard, doors, and console and a new Gear Embossed seat insert accent material in Diesel Gray or black Laramie features new Chevron film decorative trim accents and introduces a new optional Bison Brown/Sea Salt Gray two-tone interior in addition to the standard black interior Rebel features a new red/black ombre mesh insert material on the standard cloth/vinyl seats Limited Longhorn features the new Barn Wood 45 open pore real wood veneer with an improved saw cut effect. Longhorn is exclusively available with the all-new Bison Brown monochromatic interior and massaging front seats Limited features new Black Ebony open pore real wood veneer decorative trim accents. A new optional black/ebony red interior color package with massaging front seats will be available. Range-topping Tungsten model will feature real metal and leather interior trim, a 14.5-inch Unconnect display, and a segment-first 12.3.-inch front passenger display. Its standard 1,228-watt 23-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system is the most powerful truck audio system in the industry. Other new tech features include a 12.3 gauge cluster, dual wireless phone charging, a digital rearview mirror with tow-mode, a full-color 10-inch Head-Up Display, and a new Hands-Free driving assist system, just to name a few. Coming This Spring Already considered the best-in-class light-duty pickup truck by several sources, including J.D. Power, the 2025 Ram 1500 model line will up the game even further. The first 2025 RAM 1500 models can be expected to fill the Benna CDJR inventory in the first quarter of 2024. The High Output Hurricane engine is expected in the third quarter of 2025. If this sounds like a truck for you, be sure to have one of our sales professionals when the first models arrive.

We’ve all heard the old adage: “Everything’s bigger in Texas”. Ask any Texan, and they will tell you that Texas is big. Big enough that they not only have their own Auto Writers Association (TAWA), but an association big enough to meet each fall for their annual Texas Truck Rodeo. Here they evaluate all varieties of new trucks and SUVs. At the end, they name winners in multiple categories. This year Stellantis’ truck-focused Ram brand and SUV-focused Jeep brand took home nine awards, which was more than any other manufacturer at the competition. “Ram trucks brought their A-game again this year, winning several consecutive awards, including the Full-size Pickup Truck of Texas, and scoring the highest for overall personal appeal, which is significant because Texas is the truck capital of the US,” said Teia Collier, TAWA president. “We also enjoyed the lineup from the Jeep brand, with several vehicles that were the stars of their categories offering incredible performance, craftsmanship and capability.” 32 TAWA members spent a weekend in late September at Eagle Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas, taking trucks and SUVs on the road, off the road, and on the track to evaluate competing vehicles side-by-side. Consideration is given to everything from exterior/interior styling and off-road capability, to the entrant’s overall utility, value, and performance. The Nine awards taken home by Jeep and Ram were: Full-Size Pickup Truck: 2023 Ram 1500 Off-Road Pickup Truck: 2023 Ram 1500 TRX Luxury Pickup Truck: 2023 Ram 1500 Limited Heavy Duty Truck: 2023 Ram Heavy Duty Rebel Highest Personal Appeal: 2023 Ram 1500 Mid-Size SUV: 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Off-Road SUV: 2024 Jeep Wrangler Best Performance: 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Best Feature Award: Stellantis Uconnect 5 Nav System They didn’t have snow or an opportunity to give the heating systems or heated seats a workout, but pretty much everything else they did can relate to what we put our trucks through here in the dairy state. If you are looking for a mid-size truck, heavy-duty truck, a capable SUV, or even just a great infotainment system, you will find the winners right here at Benna Dodge Chrysler Jeep and Ram.

Decades ago, the rent-a-car business competed as heavily in advertising as the auto insurance trade does now. Hertz was the undisputed leader and made sure everyone knew, so Avis came up with a long-running campaign proudly stating, “We’re number Two! We try harder!” Well, Ram (formerly Dodge) has been number 3 in sales under Ford and Chevrolet in light-duty pickup trucks, and Car and Driver seems convinced that being number three means they try even harder. And succeed in doing so. That appears to be the theme as they describe why they have again named the Ram 1500 among their 10 Best Trucks and SUVs, something the Ram 1500 has done every year since the 2019 introduction of the current design. They first point out the broadness of the Ram 1500 lineup from the no-frills Tradesman work trucks to “ luxe Limiteds with interiors to rival a Range Rover”. The publication is also a big fan of the available air springs for all four wheels, which can lower the body on the highway or raise it for off-road use. They additionally call out the multi-hinge tailgate and its useful ability to swing out on either side as well as work in a conventional manner. Their summation: “Everywhere you look, there's evidence of creative thinking and the license to chase ideas that don't fit pickup preconceptions.” Car and Driver also points out that the Ram never forgets that it is a truck and trucks should work hard. They praise the available RAMBox that allows you to store your tools securely without infringing on bed space. And they don’t overlook that when properly equipped, the Ram 1500 can tow over 12,000 pounds. It isn’t lost on Car and Driver that they bestowed this honor on the 2024 Ram 1500 even as it is at the end of its life cycle, and there are big changes planned for the 2025 model, including a pair of turbocharged inline-6 engines, a plug-in hybrid version, new interior, and hands-free highway driving. Not being the top in sales doesn’t mean you aren’t the best. Just think of some number-one TV shows you didn’t watch, but everyone else did. Trucks are what Ram does, and they will keep being creative, make the best trucks they can, build their fan base and accept awards. As Car and Driver points out, they make a truck for everyone, including you, and you can find it at Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Superior, WI.

The 2023 Grand Wagoneer by Jeep has taken the luxury SUV world by storm. With an all-new advertising campaign with Derek and Hannah Jeter, heaps of praise by journalists and car buyers alike, the Grand Wagoneer now has been named Newsweek’s Best Full-Size SUV in their annual 2023 Autos Awards competition. The Wagoneer was also given an award for Best Family-Friendly Technology and Best Passenger Ecosystem. What Is Newsweek? Newsweek was founded as a weekly print magazine in 1933 and since then, has been one of the most trusted and respected news sources in America. What This Means For Grand Wagoneer “For Grand Wagoneer to be recognized by Newsweek as the Best Full-Size SUV for two years in a row is a testament to what we set out to do every day – provide the most premium large SUV,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand North America. “This award is validation that the Grand Wagoneer is tops in its segment, offering unsurpassed performance and capability and premium materials and features, such as available Amazon Fire TV Built-in and exclusive McIntosh audio.” Engine & Towing The Wagoneer is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-6 that produces 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, while the Grand Wagoneer, is powered by the same twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6, dubbed the 510, and outputs 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles feature an 8-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the axle ratio and having 2WD or 4WD, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are able to tow from 5,870 lbs up to 10,000 lbs. Long Wheelbase The long wheelbase Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L are 12 inches longer and have a wheelbase that is 7 inches longer than the standard wheelbase SUVs. Best Family-Friendly Tech As mentioned earlier, the Wagoneer was also awarded the Best Family-Friendly Technology and Best Passenger Ecosystem. The Wagoneer models feature a heads-up display, frameless digital gauge cluster, premium McIntosh sound system, a 10.25-inch interactive display for the front passenger, Amazon Fire TV built into the rear 10.1-inch screens, and a total of 75 inches of digital screen area. All models have the impressive and award-winning Uconnect 5 infotainment system that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, as well as various new convenience and connected services to keep passengers enjoying the ride. Rear passengers also get their own climate controls, along with Relax Mode, which uses the front screens to display soothing videos of the Aurora Borealis, a fireplace fire, among others, while also playing relaxing audio. Best Passenger Ecosystem When evaluating the Best Passenger Ecosystem, Newsweek looks at the ride and comfort of an interior for all passengers, not just the driver and front passenger. When commenting about why the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer by Jeep won the award, they said, “The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer feature couch-like ride quality on top of supple, multi-way power-adjustable front seats. Passengers in the front and back can have their own screens complete with streaming options from Amazon and Netflix. The sliding second-row seats have heating and ventilation capabilities, and their passengers get their own temperature controls. Cargo space is expansive, especially in L versions of the model, and controls feature a high level of design finery. The cabin keeps road and vehicle noise at bay.” At Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer our customers some of the best prices and services. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, our outstanding sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

Benna CDJR has some great news: For those new Jeepers out there, if you have yet to experience the Badge of Honor App, you need to go download it now. No matter what type of Jeeper you are, from the Road Warriors, to the Leisurely Sunday Sightseers, to the Weekend Rock Crawlers, and no matter your level of off-roading skill, the Badge of Honor App has something for you The rating system will help guide you to match trails to your skills. And great news: Previously there were only 62 Badge worthy trails to choose from, but a recent update from Jeep® added 6 new Badges allowing even more adventures! The App will now allow you to conveniently search all 68 trails by your zip code, rated from 1-10 in difficulty, and tell you the current weather in that area in real time. Be sure to use Uconnect 5 Nav system to get all details and over-the-air updates to always know where you are for more carefree crawling. Do you have a Jeep® 4xe? In 2021, Jeep began adding chargers to trailheads across the nation and have been expanding that network ever since. You can locate the nearest charging stations even if you are miles away from the nearest paved road. Never thought about taking your 4xe offroad? Incredibly, the 4xe and the 392 both create the same torque at 470 lbs-feet, and with that torque being instant, 4xe is the perfect ride over the rough terrain. So What’s New? Jeepers that love their Badges, get your time-off requests put in now! The 6 new trails Jeep® has added include two in Kansas, two in Pennsylvania, one in Arkansas, and one in Missouri. Locations are as follows: Quartz Canyon: Hot Springs Off-road Park, Arkansas Barney Rubble Blue Trail #49: Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area, Pennsylvania Fern Ridge Trail #121: Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area, Pennsylvania C-2 Trail #141: Kansas Rocks Recreation Park, Kansas Rattlesnake Alley Trail #149: Kansas Rocks Recreation Park, Kansas Cougar Crossing: Southern Missouri Off-road Ranch, Missouri Benna CDJR asked customers to share their off-roading experiences with Badge of Honor: Customer 1 “First thing I did was download the Jeep® Badge of Honor App. It was so easy to use. All I had to do was create my profile and enter in my Zip Code. Instantly, I had a list of the closest Jeep® rated trails with their difficulty rating and even the weather in the area! Once I uploaded the trail I wanted, my Uconnect NAV system kept me up to date on where I was at all times! I had such a great time, and I am so excited for my next trip!” Customer 2 “My biggest concern about going out to a new trail is if my Gladiator can handle the terrain. With the Jeep® Badge of Honor App, I can read reviews of the trails from fellow Jeepers. This helped me determine what trails I can take my stock Jeep® out on or if any modifications are needed. I know I can have a good time and be confident that I won’t be turning around.” Customer 3 “I have always used my Jeep® as my daily driver. One day my friends said ‘Why do you have a Jeep and never take it off road?” I could only reply with “I have never thought about it”. So, I nervously took my favorite vehicle out  but was very surprised by the capability of my Wrangler. We went through mud, fields, and even into a creek! I loved every minute of that trip, and thanks to the Badge of Honor App, I have already volunteered to set up our next ride!” Have You Downloaded Your Badge of Honor App Yet? What are you waiting for? Benna CDJR can help you get trail ready! At Benna CDJR, we value our customers. You can find new Jeep inventory, including the Wrangler, Gladiator, and the very popular Grand Cherokee as well as an unmatched collection of used car, truck, van, SUV and crossover inventory at our dealership near you. Are you interested in leasing or financing your Jeep? The Finance Department at Benna CDJR can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks and other financial organizations to provide you with great options in purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new Jeep, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Jeep. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Jeep or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Benna CDJR family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at Benna CDJR is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Service Department will get you back on the road quickly when you need basic maintenance like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all of the accessories you need for the best customization of your vehicle to make it uniquely yours and fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We can’t wait to help you on your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Benna CDJR!

It’s that time of year again when the weather gets cold, and the roads are even colder. Most people get excited around this time because of Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, it is important to note that when the season changes and the temperature outside starts to drop, buyers begin to ask how important it is to invest in winter tires. It’s a question nearly as old as the automobile itself: Do winter tires actually make a difference? The answer is yes. But, some factors go into choosing the right tires for your vehicle that will be driven in winter conditions. Temperature Differences Living in an area where it is normal for the daily temperature to be 40 degrees or lower and have a good amount of snowfall, that’s when you know it’s time to buy some winter tires. In contrast, an all-season tire that is rated for snow will be better suited for climates where it dips into the freezing territory but hovers above 40 degrees. They can operate well in 20-30 degrees, but winter tires will allow for safer maneuverability and better braking performance even when it's 0 degrees outside. What About AWD Without Winter Tires? If you drive a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram with all-wheel drive, some people will probably tell you, “Oh, you have all-wheel drive, the weather is no big deal.” No, this is simply not correct. While you have a vehicle with four wheels actively receiving power at the same time, it does not mean the traction of that vehicle will be any better if you have the wrong tires on your car. If anything, it can make things more difficult. When it loses traction, the car will try to put power to the correct wheel(s). However, all of the wheels are attempting to get traction simultaneously, which has the potential for disaster. A dedicated winter tire can help your car stop up to 30 feet shorter on a snowy road at 30 mph compared to an all-season tire, according to testing from Tire Rack. That distance is probably tripled or quadrupled when compared to a summer tire that isn’t rated for snow. Cold Roads, Worse Performance Summer tires are great for performance and sporty driving, but they get hard and take longer to warm up in temperatures below 40 degrees, making them unsafe. All-season tires are better in colder weather, and some can even handle a little snowy driving. Regular ambient temperatures below 20 and more than small amounts of snow will take their toll on all-seasons. Anything other than a dedicated winter tire will feel like you are driving on glass. Which Winter Tire For My Car? Like any other tire, winter tires have different specifications and types. If you have an SUV, truck, or sedan, you will be looking at a standard studless winter tire. If you live in mountainous areas where roads can stay packed with snow and ice for days or weeks at a time, you may want to look at buying studded tires, as they are going to provide much-needed grip with their small metal spikes/studs that can dig into the surface for improved traction. If you have a Charger or Challenger, for instance, then you’ll want to check out some high-performance winter tires that will suit the driving characteristics of your performance vehicle. At Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer our customers some of the best prices and services. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, our outstanding sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

In addition to disrupting vehicle production, another unfortunate consequence of the recent strike was that Stellantis canceled its display at the 2023 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. That is a shame because Dodge clearly had plans to show something that would show a path toward EV performance. Nevertheless, Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is happy to announce that Dodge’s Direct Connection parts division showed that they are not about to leave petrol performance behind with the announcement of the Hellephant C170 HEMI crate engine as well as several other high-performance crate engines previously seen in recent Dodge Challenger and Charger performance models. The Hellephant C170 gets the top billing as it is nothing less than the same engine under the hood of the Dodge Challenger SRT 170, the last of the “Last Call” series of special Challengers and Chargers and the most powerful muscle car ever sold by a manufacturer. Yes, the Hellephant C170 is the same 6.2-liter HEMI V8 that could produce 1,025 horsepower and peak torque of 945 lb-ft. @ 4,200 when run on E85 ethanol blend.  With an E10 blend, it is rated at 900 horsepower and 810 lb-ft of peak torque. The fully assembled Hellephant C170 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine includes the C170 Long Block and features a new 3.0L IHI supercharger with an improved intercooler, 105mm throttle body, and a 3.02-inch pulley for increased boost, along with a new housing, blade, shaft and gear train, and other all component upgrades found in the C170.  The MSRP for the fully complete engine is $27,695. For those looking to do more with less, Direct Connection also announced the availability of several HEMI long blocks: Hellephant C170 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine (part number: 68660541AA) is the engine of the world's most powerful muscle car ever built, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, and will soon be available through Direct Connection. The fully assembled Hellephant C170 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Engine includes the C170 Long Block and features a new 3.0L IHI supercharger with an improved intercooler, larger snout, and a 3.02-inch pulley for increased boost, a 105mm throttle body with new housing, blade, shaft and geartrain, all component upgrades found in the C170 Long Block and more. MSRP: $27,695 Hellephant C170 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Long Block (part number: P5160620AA). The block to the famed C170 features upgraded cylinder heads with upgraded valve guide and seat material, upgraded pistons, upgraded connecting rods with new material, and revised bushing material to support increased combustion pressure. MSRP: $18,995 Hellcrate Redeye 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Long Block (part number: P5160619AA). From the most powerful model before the 140, this block is  Capable of 807 horsepower and 717 lb.-ft. of torque, and includes engine assembly components from cylinder head with valvetrain, engine block with crankshaft, connecting rods, piston and ring, camshaft and lifters, oil pump, and pan, and front timing cover with harmonic balancer. MSRP: $12,995 Hellcrate 6.2L Supercharged Crate HEMI Long Block (part number: P5160618AA). The first Hellcat engine can boost performance to 717 horsepower and 656 lb.-ft. of torque and includes engine assembly components from the cylinder head with valvetrain, engine block with crankshaft, connecting rods, piston and ring, camshaft and lifters, oil pump, and pan, and front timing cover with harmonic balancer. MSRP: $9,495 392 Crate HEMI Long Block ( part number: P5160617AA) Before the Hellcats took things to another level, this block was shown to be plenty capable on the streets with possible 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque and includes engine assembly components from the cylinder head with valvetrain, engine block with crankshaft, connecting rods, piston and ring, and camshaft and lifters. MSRP: $6,995 345 Crate HEMI Long Block (part number: P5160616AA). This was the heart of the legendary 345 (5.7L) HEMI engine introduced in the 2015 Dodge Challenger. The 345 Crate HEMI Long Block offers a foundation capable of unleashing 383 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque. MSRP: $4,495 HurriCrate Cat 3 Twin Turbo Crate Long Block (part number: P5160622AA). Derived from the 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo engine, it can handle up to 550 horsepower and a max of 531 lb.-ft. of torque at just 3,500 rpm. HurriCrates employ state-of-the-art engineering and technologies that include two low-inertia, high-flow turbochargers for rapid response to throttle inputs, Plasma Transfer Wire Arc (spray bore) coating in the cylinder bores for an ultra-thin, low-friction wear surface, and high-pressure direct fuel injection. MSRP: $8,995 HurriCrate Cat 1 Twin Turbo Crate Long Block (part number: P5160621AA).  Also derived from the 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo engine, this block is capable of up to 420 horsepower and 468 Ib.-ft. of torque by 2,500 rpm, delivering more horsepower, more torque, and fewer emissions than many naturally aspirated V-8 engines. MSRP: $6,495 The Dodge brand has been synonymous with high performance, and that will not change. With these crate engines, Dodge-powered vehicles will continue to rule the roads and drag strips across the county.  If you are ready for a project to pump up your ride, contact Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram’s Service Center for more information about these amazingly potent engines and blocks.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the three-row Jeep Grand Cherokee L scored the highest possible ratings in all four IIHS crashworthiness tests, earning the TOP SAFETY PICK+ ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These categories include small overlap front – driver-side, small overlap front – passenger-side, moderate overlap front – original test and side impact – updated test. This all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee earned the highest safety rating in nighttime conditions and an “advanced” rating in daytime vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations with its Full-Speed Collision Warning with Active Braking and Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection, otherwise standardly known as as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) technology. The Intersection Collision Assist detects pedestrians and cyclists approaching the driver’s left and right side when nearing a crossroad. Visible and audible responses will activate if deemed necessary and will automatically brake the vehicle, even to a complete stop to aide in preventing a possible collision. The Drowsy Driver Detection feature tracks behaviors like that of a “drowsy” driver, such as lane deviation. The system will react with audio and/or visual cautions for the driver to pull over. The Grand Cherokee also earned the highest possible headlight rating for its high-beam assist, the unique array of cameras and sensors. With more than 110 safety and security features available, it should come as no surprise that the Grand Cherokee line-up is the most awarded SUV in the industry. “Achieving the highest possible safety rating from the IIHS is consistent with the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s place as the most awarded SUV in history,” says Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand North America. “The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s singular blend of safety technology and extreme condition 4x4 capability affords our customers the level of driving confidence they deserve. And with the appeal of two- and three-row versions, that driving confidence is available to a wider customer demographic.” In addition to the award-winning safety features, this remarkable SUV boasts outstanding performance, comfortability, and functionality. If you’re in the market to own or lease a new SUV that tops the charts when it comes to safety, stop by Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to shop our selection of Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L models. If this vehicle isn’t quite for you, feel free to shop our wide selection of new and used vehicles.

The brand-new Dodge Hornet R/T has recently debuted and is winning over the hearts of journalists and customers alike. In its first year on sale, it has already won a top award for its fantastic 1.3-liter engine. WardsAuto has named the 2024 Hornet R/T as a winner of their 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award. Engine & Battery The Dodge Hornet R/T is powered by a plug-in hybrid electric engine (PHEV) with a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine producing 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. There is also a 90kW electric motor attached to the rear axle. With a 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the Hornet R/T can drive more than 30 miles on a single electric charge. The R/T also introduces a new technology called PowerShot performance that gives the Hornet a 30 horsepower boost while also delivering instant torque. Dodge says this takes 1.5 seconds off the regular 0-60 mph time. The system boosts the power and acceleration through 15-second bursts from the battery system and electric motor. What The Testers Say “This powertrain is a joy to drive in most situations, from punching up PowerShot on a launch to silent EV motoring on local errands,” said Bob Gritzinger, WardsAuto editor-in-chief and a Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems judge. “It’s quick when you want it, mellow when you’re just cruising.” Who Is WardsAuto? WardsAuto, the illustrious automotive trade magazine published since 1924, is best known for its Ward’s 10 Best Engines that started in 1994. Their experts test only new vehicles with a base price of less than $65,000. Testing occurs for two months per car, and then each is scored based on typical, everyday driving scenarios with zero instrumented testing. Wards looks at power, torque, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), among other things. In 2020, due to the rise of electric vehicles, they changed the name to Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems. “Driving fun won’t ever go out of style, and the 1.3-liter turbo PHEV that powers the Dodge Hornet R/T, as well as other very successful models around the world, opens a new chapter for performance,” said Micky Bly, Stellantis head of global propulsion systems. “Our global electrification strategy is in full execution mode and with it comes new levels of capability and performance, all geared toward powering class-leading products that deliver on our ambition for clean, safe and affordable mobility.” At Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer our customers some of the best prices and services. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, our outstanding sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

Jay Leno is considered one of the greatest automotive enthusiasts ever. In fact, he’s probably the first name you’ll mention when talking about people with car collections. Leno is associated with car culture like no one else. There is no doubt he is just as famous for being a gearhead as he is a comedian and talk show host. Not only is he a collector, he drives all of his cars very regularly. Jay Leno’s Garage After hosting The Tonight Show with Jay Leno for 22 seasons, Jay Leno retired home to his car collection and his hit show on YouTube called Jay Leno’s Garage. His online show features him reviewing his personal cars, as well as special and rare cars owned by other people. Employing a staff of people that he works with to restore and keep his vehicles in tip-top shape, Leno has more than 180 cars and 160 motorcycles. To say he’s passionate about anything with wheels would be an understatement. Exclusive Car Care Products Jay Leno’s Garage and Dodge have partnered up to bring enthusiasts a new co-branded line of car care and detailing products through Direct Connection, which is the Dodge brand’s performance products line. With more than 20 different products to help you keep your Dodge looking brand new inside and out, Direct Connection aims to empower gearheads to take care of their rides. On hand to announce the new product line with Jay Leno was Dodge Brand CEO Tim Kuniskis in front of a Dodge Challenger Demon Last Call edition. Your purchase of the Direct Connection detailing bucket starter kit will include a 3.5-gallon bucket plus the following: Direct Connection Quick Detailer Direct Connection Ceramic Wash Shampoo Direct Connection High Gloss Tire Shine Direct Connection All-purpose Cleaner Direct Connection Color-changing Wheel Cleaner Direct Connection Interior Detailer Direct Connection Chenille Wash Mitt (pack) Direct Connection Twist Weave Drying Towel (pack) Microfiber Dressing Applicator Pad “When you think of legendary American automobiles, Dodge instantly comes to mind. And now, with a little help from Jay Leno's Garage car care, we're ensuring these beauties don't just run great, they look great too,” said Jay Leno. “You know, in my years around cars, it's all about authenticity and the passion behind it. Dodge's new Direct Connection website is a game-changer! For every Dodge owner out there, it's THE place to snag those OEM-certified parts and supplies to ramp up your ride with genuine performance upgrades. If you're looking to give your Dodge the royal treatment it deserves, look no further. And hey, while you're sprucing up the performance, don't forget to make it shine with a little help from Jay Leno's Garage car care!” Where Can I Buy Them? Later this year, Dodge will announce pricing and all the products can be purchased exclusively from DCPerformance.com, the official online home of Direction Connection. At Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer some of the best prices and services to all of our customers. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, our great sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our amazing service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

There aren’t many things as American as the Jeep Wrangler. With its rich history and seemingly endless customization possibilities, there are very few vehicles for sale today that offer customers the ability to make it their own the way they can with the Wrangler. It doesn’t matter if you prefer rock crawling, mudding, beach cruising, off-roading, or camping, the Wrangler is the vehicle for you. One unique way to customize your Wrangler is with the 2024 American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) package. This year they are offering more availability of their Upfit packages for the new 2024 Jeep Wrangler. In 2023 they upfitted a limited number of new 2023 Wrangler Rubicon 20th Anniversary Edition models with their Level II package that featured 37-inch tires with an amazing level of capability. Because of the enthusiasm around AEV Wranglers, all 2023 models sold out in two hours. With three distinct upfit packages, the 2024 AEV Wrangler can be had in: Upcountry, Upcountry+, and Level II. All levels will bring 35 and 37-inch tires to Rubicon models, with 35-inch tires for the Upcountry and Upcountry+ Willys models. Level II specifications: 14.2 inches of ground clearance 37.1 inches of water fording 50-degree approach angle 33-degree breakover angle 43-degree departure angle For the 2024 Jeep Wrangler, three upfit levels are available: Upcountry, Upcountry+, and Level II. AEV Upcountry upfit (available on Rubicon and Willys): AEV 2.0-inch suspension kit AEV jack base AEV ProCal AEV Pintler wheels (satin black) 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires JPP/Mopar flare extensions JPP/Mopar spare tire relocation kit AEV plaque AEV Upcountry upfit MSRP: $7,476 AEV Upcountry+ upfit (available on Rubicon and Willys): AEV EX front bumper AEV front skid plate AEV non-winch cover plate AEV 2.0-inch suspension kit AEV jack base AEV ProCal AEV Pintler wheels (satin black) 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires JPP/Mopar flare extensions JPP/Mopar spare tire relocation kit AEV plaque AEV swing-gate badge AEV front-integrated off-road camera relocation kit AEV Upcountry+ upfit MSRP: $11,599 AEV Level II Rubicon upfit (available on Rubicon): AEV EX front bumper AEV front skid plate AEV 7000 series lights Warn Zeon 10-S winch AEV trail camera relocation kit AEV rear bumper AEV tire carrier AEV 2.5-inch DualSport suspension with Bilstein 5100 shocks AEV steering damper AEV jack base AEV ProCal 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires AEV Savegre II wheels (satin black) JPP/Mopar flare extensions AEV plaque AEV Level II badging AEV Level II Rubicon upfit MSRP: $20,049 AEV Level II Rubicon 4xe upfit MSRP: $22,099 (includes 4.56 gear upgrade). Orders up open now to customers on a first-come, first-serve basis at your local Jeep dealership. Your new Wrangler will ship from the Toledo Assembly Complex to AEV for the uplift, and then off to the dealer of your choosing. At Benna Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer some of the best prices and services to all of our customers. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, our great sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our amazing service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

Jeep has long been the most off-road-focused automotive brand in the U.S. if not the world.  And yet, a few decades ago, many people found limitations in their Jeep Wrangler's abilities, particularly when following rugged trails mostly traversed by dirt bikes and ATVs. They turned to the aftermarket, often spending $6,000 to $10,000 on local mechanics, welders, and specialized parts suppliers. Wanting a piece of this business and figuring a purpose-built Jeep would work better than a modified one, a few Jeep true believers in the company managed to convince wary suits to give it a go, and they named the result after one of the most famous trails for such hardcore off-roading, the Rubicon.  A wild success, Jeep gave the same treatment to the Gladiator after its debut. Today, there seems to be no end to the number of extreme off-road versions of pickup trucks, but the Jeep Gladiator has the best platform from which to start. There are nine distinct Gladiator trim levels, all of which are superior off-road machines. Still, models like the Willys, Mojave, and the Rubicon all promise additional off-road capability.  Is there an obvious choice if you want the most off-road capable Gladiator?  The answer is no.  And that is a good thing because all off-roading is not the same. Jeep has it covered, and Benna Chrysler, Jeep Dodge Ram is here to explain which is best at what. Gladiator Willys The Willys derives its name from the World War II - era manufacturer that submitted a winning proposal for the original “General Purpose” vehicle to the U.S. Government and subsequently built a majority of them. The Gladiator lineup includes both the Willys Sport and the Willys.  The first is one step up from the base model, while the Willys is in the middle of the Gladiator hierarchy. The Willys Sport represents the first step toward increased off-road ability due to its 32-inch LT255/75R17C Mud-Terrain Tires and a Trac-Lok ® Limited Slip Rear Differential.  The latter improves off-road ability by locking the rear wheels at about 80%, making it very useful in slippery on-road conditions to maintain stability. The Willys model includes these features plus some non-off-road-focus upgrades from the Sport S and Freedom models, such as keyless entry and the Uconnect ® 4C NAV with 8.4-inch Touchscreen with Navigation and Apple CarPlay ® and Android Auto™ Compatibility.  The Willys has more than enough off-road ability for the off-roader who enjoys challenges but isn’t overtly looking for trouble.  For those trouble seekers, Jeep has a choice of models. Gladiator Rubicon Just outside picturesque Lake Tahoe, California, is a 22-mile destroyer of off-road vehicles known as the Rubicon trail. This “crown jewel of all off-highway trails.” is rated 10 out of a scale of 10 in difficulty and was originally considered the most difficult off-road trail in the world.  This highly technical trail is a mecca for a wide range of off-road vehicles, such as ATVs and dirt bikes. For street-legal vehicles, the challenge is just to get through it without breaking down or needing to be winched to safety.  Boulders and other extremely uneven terrain routinely hang up vehicles with long wheelbases and /or insufficient wheel articulation. Most important to realize, though, is that the tough parts of the course are, by necessity, taken at very slow speeds. Hiking through them is faster. This kind of off-roading is what the Gladiator Rubicon is designed for. A key feature of the Gladiator Rubicon is sway bars that can be disconnected by a dash control to increase wheel articulation. Even then, on its namesake, any one of the wheels will occasionally be suspended in air. To maintain forward motion in these instances, both the front and rear differentials are fully locking. Being able to go slow with precision is more important than going fast. Hence, another crucial factor is the Part-Time Rock-Trac ® 4:1 Low Transfer Case with up to an 84:1 Crawl Ratio to help make all your accelerator pedal adjustments gradual and precise. Another helpful feature available on the Rubicon is the TrailCam-Off Road camera, which enables the driver to see what the underside will encounter when no spotters are available. In addition, the front steel bumper is designed to carry a winch because no one is perfect. Skid plates protect the front bumper, sway bar components, fuel tank, and transfer case. A terrain-specific Off-Road Plus Mode helps the driver manage engine torque and braking in specific circumstances. Gladiator Mojave Off-roading in the Mojave desert and similar areas is the opposite of moving at a walking pace. This is the type of off-roading you see in videos of the Baja 1000 and other world-class rallies. It is fast, rough, and not uncommon for the vehicle to “get air”. Needless to say, this activity gives the vehicle quite a beating, and yet this is the kind of off-roading that is the Gladiator Mojave’s specialty. Consequently, much of the Mohave’s unique components are designed to withstand fast and hard impacts. This starts with FOX 2.5-inch Internal Bypass Shocks featuring external reservoirs to provide enough fluid for the high levels of damping control needed. The track width is also extended both to allow room for those reservoirs and to increase lateral stability. Front Hydraulic Jounce Bumpers soften the blow when even the shocks bottom out. High-clearance fender flares give room for vertical wheel movement. The rear differential fully locks for improved traction, but not the front, as it is inconsequential in this kind of activity. In contrast to the Rubicon model, the low-speed transfer case is designed to operate at speeds up to 50 mph. The Mojave skid plates are designed to withstand harder high-speed impacts and protect the shock reservoirs and the fuel tank, transfer case, and other components. Inside, the seats are reshaped with larger side bolsters to help keep you in place. Which Takes You Where You Want to Go? For all of their specialized abilities, all of the above models are still designed to take care of you when you are not playing on the trails. Thus, they must be adept at normal road-going, hauling things, and keeping you comfortable inside. The best Gladiator for you rests entirely on what you plan to do with it. The Willys will excel in many kinds of off-roading, including those that leave other 4x4 models behind, even as it costs less than the two specialists. The identically-priced Rubicon and Mojave are both extremely capable in conventional off-road use but are ultimately designed for their respective specialties. On the road, the Gladiator Mojave even has the advantage of being best prepared at hitting potholes at speed. Though this covers the general differences between these off-road models, our professional Jeep sales staff can certainly go into more detail. If that sounds interesting to you, pay a visit to Benna Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram and see the Gladiator model up close.  Note that as of this writing, Gladiator models are currently offered for 15% off the MSRP. Happy Trails.