Although high gas prices and a slumping economy have affected all automakers, Chrysler has been hit harder than most. The company is dropping several models, is considering selling its Viper brand, and has even dropped its factory-leasing program. But it's not all bad--the company is rolling out some new products and new technology for model-year 2009.

New Models

For 2009, Dodge Journey joins the Chrysler family. This midsize crossover SUV is already on sale. Also for 2009, Dodge expands the Challenger line, with less expensive and less powerful SE and R/T models joining the top-dog SRT8. The SRT8 also gains a 6-speed manual transmission to go along with the carryover 5-speed automatic. Dodge's full-size Ram pickup is also redesigned for 2009, gaining fresh styling, more power, and a host of comfort and convenience features. Finally, Chrysler's Aspen SUV and Dodge Durango twin gain a hybrid powertrain.

Other models receive more-modest updates. Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot both receive a redesigned interior. Several other Chrysler Group vehicles (Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Charger, Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram 1500, Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee) gain additional power thanks to an available retuned Hemi V8 engine.

Chrysler also reorganized its various multimedia connectivity features, placing them all under the "uconnect" banner. Uconnect will be available with various features, such as a 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, satellite radio, MP3 connectivity, wireless Internet connectivity, and a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, depending on the model. Also new for 2009 is Chrysler's Rear Cross Path system. When in reverse, it uses radar sensors to alert drivers in congested places, like parking lots, of approaching traffic crossing behind the vehicle.

Certain vehicles (Dodge Caliber and Avenger, Chrysler Sebring) have dropped their all-wheel-drive models. In response to tough economic times, Chrysler is also discontinuing its factory-leasing program.

Chrysler also drops four models for 2009: The Chrysler Crossfire, Pacifica, PT Cruiser convertible (don't worry retro fans, the PT Cruiser wagon soldiers on), and Dodge's Magnum won't make it another model year. 

These twin SUVs gain a new hybrid powertrain this year. Hybrids combine a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with a battery-powered electric motor for 385 horsepower. They can run solely on gas or electric power, or both, depending on driving demands. No plug-in charging is necessary, and the Hybrid models have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. Hybrids are otherwise identical to conventional models, with two exceptions: Hybrid towing capacity is only 6,000 lb, and a low-range gear for off-roading is not available. Like the conventional gasoline Hemi V8, the Hybrid models' Hemi features Chrysler's Multi-Displacement cylinder deactivation system.

Dodge Challenger

Dodge launched this retro muscle-machine in 2008 in limited numbers. Initially available only in SRT8 trim with a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 and a 5-speed automatic transmission, the Challenger line grows for 2009. SE and R/T models are now available, and the R/T and SRT8 can be optioned with a 6-speed manual transmission. The SE is powered by a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, while R/T models get a 376-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 (R/Ts with an automatic transmission make 372 horsepower). The expanded line should allow Challenger to capture more buyers. The SE will serve as the line's entry-level model, and the R/T will appeal to those buyers who don't want to step up to the more powerful--and more expensive--SRT8. The expanded Challenger lineup hits showrooms this fall.

Dodge Journey

Journey went on sale earlier this year as a 2009 model. This is Dodge's first crossover, and it's meant to bridge the gap between the company's Nitro and Durango SUVs. Unlike those models, Journey's platform is car based. It seats up to seven passengers, and is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive and either 4-cylinder or V6 engines. Journey offers several storage areas. Items can be stowed under the front passenger seat cushion, in the second-row foot well, and in underfloor bins in the cargo area.

Dodge Ram 1500

Dodge's bread-and-butter full-size pickup truck gets a makeover along with more power and new convenience features. Ram 1500 is available as a 2-door regular cab or in two 4-door variations--Quad Cab and Crew Cab. Both 4-door versions have conventional doors. A 3.7-liter V6 is the base engine, and two V8s are available--a 4.7-liter unit and a 5.7-liter Hemi. The Hemi V8 adds 35 horsepower over the 2008 model. Ram is available in five different trim levels and now has lockable, in-bed storage bins and rear-seat, in-floor storage bins. A rearview camera is also available. The 2009 Ram 1500 goes on sale this fall.

Rear Cross Path

Available on the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, Rear Cross Path alerts drivers to traffic that is crossing behind the vehicle while the vehicle is in reverse. It uses both a visual icon in the sideview mirror and an audible chime to alert drivers to crossing traffic.

Uconnect

Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite may be the biggest across-the-board news for the automaker. Uconnect replaces the company's MyGig multimedia system and brings Chrysler's suite of infotainment systems together under one name. The technologies that are banded together under the uconnect brand include a wireless cell phone link, a 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital media files, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, satellite radio and TV, an MP3 player interface, and wireless internet connectivity. Different combinations of uconnect technologies will be available on different models.