Posted by Bob Aldons – Managing Director, Northstar Motor Group

EOFY is getting closer and closer, June 30th will be on us before we know where we are. It’s high time to look at maximizing all available tax deductions on items that you may be contemplating over the next six months and as importantly, Julia Gillard still has the accelerated deprecation offer on the table for eligible businesses for purchases prior to June 30th.

Tax minimization is legal and in fact is encouraged by the vast majority of accountants. Don’t leave for the Tax Man what you can legally deduct. Remember the old proverb – The Tax Man Giveth and the Tax Man Taketh away. Reduce what he takes and keep what you can.

As a small businessman myself, I encourage you to look at every conceivable way to reduce your taxable income.  Have a close look at any equipment. If it’s at the end of its life or old technology is costing too much to repair, the impending financial year closewould be the ideal time to upgrade.

When you finance your equipment replacement, the payments will be classified as business operating expenses and deductions can be claimed on them immediately. If you choose to use Goods Mortgage as your preferred method of finance, you can claim the interest content of that payment and depreciate the item as well. And a bonus till June 30th is that you can claim the accelerated depreciation on this item up to $5000. Be warned though – you can’t claim the depreciation if you lease it. It must be done through a hire purchase style arrangement - and besides equipment, Northstar Financial Services can also help you with your vehicle replacement. The same rule applies for the accelerated depreciation – Hire Purchase is the way to go here too.

Our car dealerships currently have some amazing end of financial year offers on the table – Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Volkswagen, Mahindra and of course Isuzu Ute.

Northstar Financial Services can work with you to arrange your finance before EOFY arrives – competitive rates and terms, a great understanding of what your business requires and also competitive insurance products as well.

Contact one of my Finance and Insurance Professionals directly. You’ll find their wealth of experience and attention to detail refreshing.

• Car Loans
• Truck Loans
• Horse Float Loans
• Equipment Loans
• Bike Loans

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012, Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Fiat Alfa

Fiat's Freemont is ready for family... journeys.

Fiat offers drive-away deal on Freemont SUV

Look familiar? It should, because the Fiat Freemont crossover is a rebadged version of the Dodge Journey, albeit with some changes.

New Fiat-Chrysler dealership

The five-seat version is walking out the door right now from just $27,000 drive-away - although the seven-seat version will cost $1500 extra.

Fiat’s Freemont is available in three specification levels: Base, Urban and Lounge. It's powered by either a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or an economical 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel.

Both engines drive the front wheels via either a six-speed automatic transmission (petrol engine) or a six-speed manual (diesel engine). The diesel, by the way is priced from $32,600 (plus on-roads).

The 2.4-litre petrol engine produces 125kW/220Nm while the diesel is good for 125kW/350Nm, the latter from a low 1750 revs.

Standard equipment levels are impressive across the range and include Uconnect phone with Bluetooth audio streaming, keyless entry and start, child-booster seats, rear-parking sensors, USB & AUX inputs, automatic headlights, auto-tint rearview mirror, active front headrests, alarm with anti-intrusion system and tyre pressure monitoring system. Triple-zone climate control is also packaged with the seven-seat option.

Freemont kicks off a new-model offensive for Fiat. The stylish Panda and Punto models will follow later in the year, following an expansion of the 500 range in June.

Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo commenced business as the franchisee for these iconic Italian brands on February 1st 2013. We're both proud and pleased to finally bring the brands to the Redcliffe Peninsula and now at our new dealership at Morayfield. If we can be of assistance with Fiat or Alfa Romeo enquiries call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula, or at 266 Morayfield Road Morayfield, opposite Bunnings. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782

Source: http://www.carsguide.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

From mild to wild – these pictures probably represent the best all round look of the MY14 Jeep Cherokee due here in late 2013

And yes, it’s confronting, it’s different but it’s certainly a “Look at me” vehicle.

Jeep has defended the controversial styling of its all-new Cherokee SUV, which made its global debut at last week’s New York motor show and goes on sale priced from around $30,000 in October.

Internet bloggers went into overdrive when the redesigned American off-roader when it was officially pre-revealed in February, with the vast majority disparaging the new Cherokee’s pointy-nosed, split-headlight styling.

However, Jeep has hit back at critics of the bold new, saying the radical new design was not only progressive and enduring, but necessary for the success of the vital new model in a booming SUV sector awash with new arrivals.

Chief designer Mark Allen said in New York that when Fiat Chrysler’s top brass, including CEO Sergio Marchionne, were presented two design proposals for the next Cherokee, they overwhelmingly voted for the wilder option.

“Everyone wants to know how we came to this answer,” he admitted. “Trust me, we offered up to our management – and you've got to give them full credit – ‘mild to wild’ for this exterior look, and they all picked wild.

“Mild was never going to be competitive in this segment. We wanted to hit the segment running. The mood was to move aggressively with this vehicle. It’s got to stand on its own. It’s got to be modern. It’s got to go on a while.

“The decision seemed to be easy. That’s the best result for a designer.”

Allen admitted that some people, both inside the company and out, remained unsympathetic to the distinctive design, which was revealed about six months before it hits North American showrooms following production in Ohio from May, presumably to get customers used to the idea.

“Some people have struggled with the front-end, but they’re coming around. Some of the photos haven’t been flattering. I’ve been looking at it for a couple of years so I’m used to it.

“Everybody just kept gravitating towards this. It was just the most modern thing we had up on the board.

“We did not want a box. A box looks very inefficient. This vehicle is very efficient, and we wanted to communicate that with the shape.

“If you look at the face of the vehicle, there is no corner on it. Splitting the lights and moving the lights around there allowed us to really rake back the front of the vehicle.

“If you think about the beloved (1980s) XJ Cherokee, that was radically different from the vehicle that it replaced. They weren’t looking back when they were doing that vehicle back then and neither does this.”

Allen said the new Cherokee would offer a significant point of difference from other new medium SUVs, including the Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-TRAIL, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V and Mitsubishi Outlander – as well as the model it replaces.

“We were out of the market with the old Liberty (Cherokee),” he said. “That just wasn’t competitive with the set that’s out there right now. Management didn’t just want us to ease into that segment. They wanted everybody to know that we are here.”

Falling into line with its key mid-size rivals, the new model is smaller than the old Cherokee (which was badged as the Liberty outside Australia, where Subaru’s Legacy wears the same name), but significantly larger than Jeep’s compact Patriot and Compass SUVs, which will merge into a single model in their next generation.

Moving from a body-on-frame design to Fiat Chrysler’s new monococque platform from the Dodge Dart and Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Jeep maintains the new Cherokee five-seater is “the most capable mid-size SUV on the planet”.

Jeep has already revealed full specifications, including three different four-wheel drive systems, two transverse petrol engines (2.4 and 3.2-litre) and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel – all matched to an SUV-first nine-speed automatic transmission – more than 70 advanced safety and security features including 10 airbags and four equipment grades.

They will include the entry-level front-wheel drive Sport, the mid-range Longitude (known as Latitude in the US, where the Renault of the same name isn’t sold) and Limited, and the ‘trail-rated’ Trailhawk.

Corporate Affairs Director Karla Leach told motoring.com.au that Fiat Chrysler Group Australia is “aiming to start at $30,000” with the entry-level four-cylinder 2WD Sport variant (the outgoing Sport 2WD 3.7 auto opens the current Cherokee range at $28,000).

However, while all three engine options will be offered with the nine-speed auto in Australia, where the Longitude is expect to be the most popular variant, the diesel Cherokee will not be available from launch and the hard-core Trailhawk will only be available with a petrol V6.

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarjeep.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533

Source:    http://www.carsales.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Dodge has a future Down Under, and expansion beyond the Journey is on the table.

RUMOURS of the demise of US brand Dodge in Australia appear to have been greatly exaggerated, with local parent company Fiat Chrysler confirming it has a future here.

But the company has stopped short of saying which - if any – new models are in pipeline for the local market beyond its current single model, the Journey people-mover.

However, it is believed that several right-hand-drive business cases are being examined in the US, with models such as the Ram ute, Durango large SUV and Charger rear-drive sedan all in with a shot at coming to Australia next year.

This means Dodge could be the next Fiat Chrysler Group brand in-line for expansion, with the company already confirming plans to grow the Fiat model range beyond the 500 city car to include the Punto small hatchback, Panda five-door hatchback and Freemont people-mover by year’s end.

As we have reported, Fiat Chrysler has spoken previously of its plans to withdraw the Dodge marque from most international markets and place more focus on its strong North American home territory.

Comments from senior management in April last year along those lines occurred around the same time as Dodge Caliber and Nitro stocks in Australia dried up, leaving the Journey as the last Dodge standing.

With Fiat Chrysler set to launch the Fiat Freemont – essentially a rebadged Journey, questions over the viability of the Dodge version were raised. As reported, the company will side-step this problem by positioning the Journey as a more premium offering.

Sales of the Journey are still relatively strong, with 169 units delivered in March, and 419 sales for the first quarter (up 168 per cent).

According to Fiat Chrysler director of corporate affairs Karla Leach, the company originally intended for Dodge to become a ‘premium’ American brand, but not necessarily an exclusively American one.

The apparent about-face means the future of the badge is “definitely confirmed” for Australia, and while there is no confirmation of a subsequent model expansions, several business cases are “alive and well”.

Fiat Chrysler senior manager of product planning Zac Loo, meanwhile, told GoAuto this week that the company was “open to all possibilities in future”.

Media reports emerging from the Detroit motor show earlier this year revealed that Fiat Chrysler Group Australia managing director Clyde Campbell has commissioned right-hand-drive viability studies on both the Durango and Ram.

The full-size, three-row (but petrol-only) Durango is believed to be a candidate based on its substantial cabin capacity, and the fact that it could undercut other upper-large SUVs such as the Toyota LandCruiser and Nissan Patrol by tens of thousand of dollars.

The Ram, meanwhile, could become the first large American ute sold here since Ford Australia discontinued the F-Series last decade. It is known there is still a potential market for such vehicles in the heavy hauling business and potentially the mining industry.

High end versions of the Ram, called the 3500, use a 6.7-litre Cummins diesel engine producing 260kW and 1150Nm of torque.

Company executives have also told Australian media that the Charger rear-drive sedan is a strong candidate locally, with a RHD version a chance to be sold alongside the Chrysler 300 from 2014.

There is no firm word on a potential return for the hardcore Viper - now badged as SRT rather than Dodge - however the company has previously expressed enthusiasm for the car.

Call into Northstar Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstardodge.com.au  or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Dodge needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782

Source: www.goauto.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons - Northstar Motor Group

Australian car buyers are utilising online resources at all stages of their buying process, and almost three quarters (73%) of new and used car buyers use online media as part of their research, according to findings released by Nielsen.

The consumer research company's 'Australian automotive report 2012' found the use of online resources ranked second only to visiting car dealerships amongst buyers of new cars, and were the most popular resources for buyers of used cars.

The majority of online new car research now takes place on laptops and desktop computers (64% and 62% respectively), however, new car buyers are increasingly using mobile devices as part of their decision making process (29% use mobile phones), up 15 percentage points from the previous year.

Tablet usage has gone from 5% in 2011 to 26% in 2012, as tablet ownership continues its sharp increase across Australian households.

“The opportunities held by online media to build awareness, engage potential vehicle purchasers, fulfil their information needs and move car buyers through their decision making process are abundant,” says Nielsen Media's Melanie Ingrey.

“Online sources are unquestionably important in the car buying decision making process, and their influence is growing.”

The use of social media as part of the automotive decision making process is also strong, with 25% of both new and used car buyers calling on this form of media to guide and inform their car buying decisions. Among new car buyers who have engaged with organisations on social platforms, 28% have engaged with a car brand, up from 18% in 2011.

“These findings signal a real interest in peer reviews and feedback from like-minded consumers. They also highlight the continued opportunities for brands to utilise social platforms and spaces as a means of connecting with, and communicating with customers." says Ingrey.

The report also found that the use of classifieds sites by used car buyers who use online resources is close to saturation (97%), while manufacturers’ sites have far more use among new car buyers than used car buyers.  

Among used car buyers who use online resources, CarSales is by far the most popular site called upon for buying a car with three quarters using the site. It is also the second most commonly visited website among new car buyers (45%). CarsGuide is also popular among both new and used car buyers who utilise online resources (49% used; 39% new).  

Despite the increase of online and mobile sources, traditional sources of research remain popular tools. Print media as an awareness and discovery mechanism is particularly popular among new car buyers with two-thirds (65%) using print resources at the awareness stage.  

Ingrey concludes: “It is clear that consumers are looking to varied sources for information; whether it is websites, forums, Facebook pages or classified sites like CarSales - in addition to the traditional sources such as print media and visiting car dealerships. It’s clear that consumers are now seeking ever more information, and their media consumption is mirroring this trend.”

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012, Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au  or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Source: http://www.autotalk.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Face of the future: Jeep has transformed the Cherokee from a boxy four-wheel drive into a sleek and modern SUV.

Jeep’s management insist radical Cherokee design necessary for model's survival

JEEP has defended the new Cherokee’s controversial front-end styling, calling it progressive, long-lasting and crucial to luring buyers away from rival compact SUVs that were eroding away market share.

Speaking at the New York motor show last week, chief designer Mark Allen revealed that Fiat and Chrysler management under leader Sergio Marchionne insisted on nothing less than visual boldness.

“Trust me,” he said. “We offered up to our management – and you've got to give them full credit – ‘mild to wild’ for this exterior look, and they all picked wild.

“The mood was to move aggressively with this vehicle.

“If you look at the face of the vehicle, there is no corner on it. Splitting the lights, and moving the lights around there, allowed us to really rake back the front of the vehicle.

“It’s got to stand on its own, it’s got to be modern. It’s got to go on a while.”

Significantly larger than the preceding Patriot and Compass, but smaller than the old Cherokee (which was sold as the Liberty everywhere but Australia due to Subaru’s hold on the name), the newcomer finally falls in line with the compact SUV norm.

It does so by employing a monocoque body instead of a separate ladder-frame chassis, transverse engine installation and front-wheel drive for at least part of the time – the largest Jeep in history to do so.

Using the (US) best-selling Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 as the benchmarks, Mr Allen acknowledged that Jeep is finally in with a chance to succeed where it has previously failed.

“We were out of the market with the old Liberty,” he admitted.

“That just wasn’t competitive with the set that’s out there right now. Management didn’t just want us to ease into that segment. They wanted everybody to know that we are here.”

Taking about two and a half years to complete, Jeep’s design studio in North America was given the freedom to be expressive with their proposals.

“It just came out of the pen,” is how Mr Allen described the process.

“Everybody just kept gravitating towards this (look). It was just the most modern thing we had up on the board.

“We did not want a box. A box looks very inefficient. This vehicle is very efficient, and we wanted to communicate that with the shape.”

Mr Allen believes that even the more cutting-edge elements still possess enough traditional Jeep styling cues to connect with past models, including the squared-off wheel arches and seven-bar grille motifs.

“The front grille is very wind splitting and the windscreen is very swept back,” he said.

“(But) it’s got a lot of what’s in the Grand Cherokee – a lot of muscular-type sheetmetal lines.

“I get a lot of questions about ‘why is the grille bent back like that?’ Well, if you do look back, there actually is a lot of Jeep in this thing.

“The first Cherokee – the full-sized one – had a kink in the grille. But it wasn’t as pronounced. The XJ (’84 Cherokee), the TJ (’96 Wrangler), the WJ (’99 Grand Cherokee), they all had a kink. Here we’ve amplified it a lot more.”

Mr Allen also wants to remind people that Jeep has had controversial designs in the not-too-distant past.

“If you think about the beloved XJ Cherokee, that was radically different from the vehicle that it replaced,” he said.

“They weren’t looking back when they were doing that vehicle back then. I don’t know what the reviews were back in 1984, but to go from a full-sized body-in-frame monstrosity down to this little thing, that was pretty radical too.”

Another Jeep insider added that lacklustre Patriot sales – released in 2007 to look like a modernised XJ Cherokee – further drove management to be more daring with the KL Cherokee.

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarjeep.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533

Source: www.goauto.com.au

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Motor Group

Think of a super car. For me, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Pagani, McLaren.

An Audi R8 doesn't rate in my top 25, but does scrape into the best 50 super cars of all time from Complex Rideshttp .

So why then is it priced at $408,000 (plus on roads) and chasing Lamborghini in price?

LEFT: On the money: At $408,200 plus on-road costs, the flagship Audi R8 V10 Plus is nearly as expensive as a Lamborghini Gallardo.

Hardcore $408K V10 Plus heads up facelifted Australian Audi R8 range

AROUND 35 Australians put their names down for the facelifted Audi R8 supercar ahead of today's official launch – and a third have opted for the new $408,200 (plus on-road costs) V10 Plus flagship.

This new pinnacle of Audi's performance arsenal costs just $1300 less than a Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2, which delivers almost identical power and torque outputs.

It is the first time Audi has stepped into Raging Bull territory with production car pricing, as only limited numbers of the ultra-exclusive, lightweight R8 GT coupe of 2010 were produced, followed up by the even pricier Spyder drop-top version in 2011.

But when performance figures are taking into account, the Plus looks like good value as it screams from rest to 100km/h in just 3.5 seconds on the way to a hair-raising 317km/h top speed.

That is a tenth quicker than the GT, and just 3km/h off its v-max – enough to earn the Plus the title of quickest production Audi in history

Meanwhile the least expensive Lambo's rear-drive, manual driveline puts it four tenths behind the all-wheel-drive, dual-clutch Audi in the sprint to 100km/h, although its top speed is shared with the GT.

The Plus packs a special 404kW/540Nm version of the R8's Lamborghini-derived 5.2-litre V10 engine, and the car's 1570kg mass makes it 50kg lighter than the standard V10 but 45kg heavier than the GT.

Weight-reducing measures include lighter titanium-finished 19-inch alloy wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, thinner insulation and fibreglass seat frames for the Plus-specific bucket seats.

The exterior mirrors, side air scoops, front splitter, rear diffuser and lining for the LED-illuminated engine compartment of the Plus are all made from carbon-fibre.

Exclusive to the Plus – which is only available as a coupe – is a new matte Sepang blue paint finish that costs $11,000 extra.

The Plus also gets gloss black tailpipes and interior upgrades comprising extended leather, Alcantara headlining, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and carbon sigma trim.

Magnetic Ride adaptive suspension is dropped in favour of a more focused sports setup with bespoke spring and damper tuning plus tweaks to the front camber angle.

In manual coupe and open-top Spyder format the range-opening V8 has received a $8500 price hike, to $279,500 and $308,400 respectively.

However all models fitted with the new seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission have no change in price over equivalent outgoing models using the six-speed R-tronic robotised manual.

The quick-shifting S-tronic is a major performance enhancer, shaving three tenths off the 0-100km/h time for all automatic facelifted R8s.

As a result the automatic V8 coupe ($287,000) hits triple digits in 4.3 seconds and the Spyder ($315,900) does it in 4.5s

Audi Australia corporate communications executive Shaun Cleary told GoAuto up to 95 per cent of R8 customers are expected to opt for the S-tronic.

He said this prompted the company to focus on maintaining the price of automatic variants while upping the cost of manuals to reflect the higher standard specification, which includes full LED headlights and upgraded Fine Nappa leather upholstery.

Manual V10 R8s have been deleted from the range, meaning entry to the bigger engined coupe now costs $366,900 and and the Spyder $395,800, with respective 0-100km/h times now down to 3.6s and 3.8s.

In addition to the aforementioned LED headlights and premium leather, the R8 comes with tyre pressure monitoring, a premium sat-nav/infotainment system with Audi Music Interface and 19-inch forged alloy wheels.

Audi has not messed much with the successful R8 styling formula for this update, with the most noticeable changes being restyled front and rear lights and a new grille with bevelled corners, flanked by squared-off air intakes.

The high and low-beam LED arrays of the new headlights separated by a daytime-running light strip, while the rear indicators now sweep orange light towards the intended direction of travel rather than just flashing.

Hot Plus variant aside, outputs from the standard V8 and V10 engines remain at 316kW/430Nm and 386kW/530Nm respectively but the new S-tronic transmission improves fuel efficiency.

A tall seventh ratio enables the R8 Plus to deliver a relatively responsible fuel consumption figure of 12.9 litres per 100 kilometres – less than the outgoing V8 version and not bad considering a Holden Commodore SS uses 12.3L/100km.

Automatic V8 coupes consume almost nine per cent less than before at 12.4L/100km, while the V10 is 4.4 per cent less thirsty at 13.1L/100km.

Audi has sold 315 R8s in Australia since it was launched here in October 2007.

An all-new second-generation version is in the works and is expected to be revealed next year.

Source: http://www.goauto.com.au

We don't sell super cars, but if you'd like to see the super star cars at Northstar call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012, Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Alfa Romeo

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

Northstar continues to expand its brand portfolio. Along with the original Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands since 2003, Isuzu Ute and Volkswagen since 2008, Mahindra in 2012 and Northstar now has Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Fiat Professional, and Abarth, the company is hopeful of securing Chinese brand Foton before the end of the year.

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler

If you want to experience Chrysler  in the flesh, call into Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

2011 Chrysler 200

2014 Chrysler 200 to feature a new design language

Chrysler's Senior Vice President of Product Design has revealed some new details about the next-generation 200 which is due in 2014.

Speaking to Wards Auto, Ralph Gilles said the 200 will have a new styling language with a "very different feeling [and] look." The executive was coy on details, buthinted the car will be a "beautiful and relevant vehicle."

While the Chrysler 200 will get a revamp, the Dodge Avenger won't be as lucky as it isscheduled to be phased out at the end of the year. Despite this, it's not all bad news for Dodge as Gilles teased “The Challenger is the oldest interior of the whole group, the electronics are the oldest in the group. There’s a lot of potential – I’ll leave it at that.”

Source: Wards Auto via Automobile Magazine

Posted by Bob Aldons – Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarjeep.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au.

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer of the Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

Owners will also be given more scope to personalise their vehicles with more colours and interior trim options.

Jeep has unveiled the new Grand Cherokee at the Detroit motor show.

A customisable instrument display and heavily revised interior mark the mid-life facelift for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Jeep’s flagship SUV adopts a more upmarket look inside and out, with smaller headlamps styled along the lines of the Chrysler 300, classier interior materials and a Euro-style eight-speed automatic that improves fuel economy and performance.

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters join the standard equipment, along with dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

The instrument gauges are displayed on a 7-inch colour “vehicle information screen” that drivers can customise to show everything from digital speed to fuel economy, stored messages, exterior temperature, average and current fuel economy and compass bearing.

The centre stack has been revised with new switchgear and the 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen now uses the third generation of Jeep’s UConnect software, providing voice control of the phone, sound system and satnav functions. Functions can be upgraded using the internet connection, giving owners access to the latest software developments from the Chrysler group.

A new top-spec Summit model will also be launched complete with 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and suede roof lining when the revised cars go on sale later this year.  Owners will also be given more scope to personalise their vehicles with more colours and interior trim options.

The performance SRT8 versions now stand out from the line-up with blacked out finishes in place of the regular chrome. The ZF transmission has a launch mode and the infotainment system will display a range of performance statistics, from the transmission oil temperature to cornering G forces.

Source: www.carsguide.com.au/news-and-reviews/car-news/next_jeep_grand_cherokee_debuts

Posted By Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

If you want to experience Chrysler Voyager in the flesh, call into Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge is Fiat Chrysler Groups Northern Metro Dealer Of The Year for 2012 - all the more reason to discuss your Jeep needs with us. Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 BNE JEEP or 1300 263 533.

2013 Chrysler Town & Country S 27.11.2012

Town & Country could get a reprieve

Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne announced plans to drop the Chrysler Town & Country when the next-generation Dodge Grand Caravan is introduced, but it looks like the automaker is having second thoughts.

The Detroit Free Press is reporting thecompany  is showing four concepts - a Dodge and Chrysler minivan and a Dodge and Chrysler crossover - at consumer clinics to determine which models will be appropriated to each brand. While only two models are slated for production, the company wants to eliminate overlap by approving a minivan for one brand and a crossover for the other.

According to styling guru Ralph Gilles, "We know not all of them [the concepts] will see the light of day, but we spend a lot of time studying scenarios, trying out designs that could work in each scenario so we're ready whichever way it goes."

Source: The Detroit Free Press

Presented by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Designed to give the cars a sinister appearance

Dodge has announced plans to offer Blacktop packages for the Avenger, Charger and Challenger.

The Avenger Blacktop package costs $595 and adds a gloss black grille, a rear spoiler and 18-inch aluminum wheels with a gloss black finish. Customers can also order leather upholstery and heated front seats for an additional $400.

Likewise, Blacktop package for the Charger R/T costs $1,795 and includes a gloss black grille, a rear spoiler and 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels. There's also steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a 3.06 rear axle and a Beats Audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

Lastly, the Blacktop package for the Challenger R/T retails for $1,995 and has a gloss black accents on the grille, fuel door and 20-inch aluminum wheels. There's also a matte graphite body stripe and the Super Track Pak which includes monotube shock absorbers, upgraded brake lines and Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires.

Call into Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.
We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 NTH STAR or 1300 684 782.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Motor Group

Whilst it's only a bit more than 2 months since Northstar Motor Group split from the previous partnership, growth is starting.

On August 1st we took on the Mahindra franchise for North Brisbane along with another used car operation at Rothwell near Deception Bay. We're also in discussions with Fiat Chrysler regarding a branch operation for Chrysler Jeep and Dodge at Morayfield along with the inclusion of the other Fiat Chrysler brands - Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat Professional. Add to this plans for a new state of the art service department at Clontarf and you'll begin to realize that things are progressing pretty well - albeit pretty busy.

Call into Northstar Motor Group at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.nsmg.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 894 655.

Funky third-generation Fiat Panda 4x4 features off-road tech to rival larger SUVs

FIAT will unveil the four-wheel-drive version of its third-generation Panda city car at the Paris motor show next month, which will be under serious consideration for Australia if it is built with right-hand-drive.

The latest 4x4 Panda, one of several new variants Fiat is adding to the range that was unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show last September, continues a tradition started almost three decades ago with the tiny and tinny, yet rugged and capable original.

Using modern technology to help take it off the beaten path, Fiat's latest 4WD Panda features permanent all-wheel-drive, an electronic locking differential function and distributes traction to the appropriate axle via two differentials and an electronically controlled coupling.

Fiat-Chrysler Group Australia corporate affairs director Lenore Fletcher told GoAuto the company's product strategy boss Alex Tam “was absolutely raving about” the Panda 4x4 after seeing it on a recent trip to Fiat headquarters in Turin.

“He said it was a really funky, functional cool car”, said Ms Fletcher. “He was really excited about it and it is definitely one we would love to look at closely.”

Ms Fletcher reiterated Fiat-Chrysler's desire to expand the Australian Fiat range, with anything built in right-hand-drive on the radar...read more

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

The calculation is really simple. In the next iteration of the Dodge Charger and Challenger, is there enough demand worldwide for the designers to look at a RH drive version of these vehicles? The RHD market is in the UK, South Africa and Australia with a small volume coming out of other Pacific rim countries such as New Zealand.

In the meantime, we've looked at becoming one of 2 Queensland agents for a company bringing a limited number of Dodge Challengers to Australia and doing the LH to RH conversion here. We've just received a LH drive Challenger onto our showroom, for display purposes, so if you've got a spare $125k that you'd like to put into a serious American Muscle Car, drop into our showroom and have a look.

Call into Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares, our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced. Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au . Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 894 655.

Next-gen Charger could wear Chrysler badges in Oz after Dodge departure

MUSCLE car fans could see the Chrysler Charger nameplate return to Australia as Dodge faces the axe here – but it is not likely to happen any time soon.

Speaking at a recent media event on his first trip to Australia, the chief operating officer of Fiat-Chrysler Asia-Pacific, Mike Manley, told journalists the key requests he gets from this country are for right-hand-drive Dodge muscle cars and Ram trucks.

He said Australia is Chrysler’s largest RHD export market, while growth in South Africa and “strong” demand in the UK – despite Europe’s economic woes – pointed to “potential for more RHD vehicles rather than less”.

He made no bones about the fact Dodge is unlikely to exist here by the time the next-generation Charger emerges – though this will be quite some time given the current Charger was launched in October 2010, and this would be the first logical opportunity to bring it here.

Fiat-Chrysler Group Australia managing director Clyde Campbell told GoAuto he is committed to the Dodge brand until next year.

He reiterated his position of being loathe to walk away from Dodge while its only right-hand-drive model still in production – the seven-seat Journey people-mover – is attracting respectable sales volumes.

“We will probably get 1500-2000 Journey sales this year, (plus) some Nitros,” he said.

“While we continue to get production of the (Journey), why would we walk away from it?

“It just doesn’t make sense if it is giving me 2000 sales per year – there are some brands in Australia that would love to be doing 2000 sales per year.”

Mr Campbell noted that the Charger name has a “strong presence” here, where the reference point is Chrysler’s Valiant Charger of the 1970s, but that it makes more sense as a Dodge in the dominant US market.

Both Mr Manley and Mr Campbell agreed there is no chance of an RHD Charger in the current generation.

“It doesn’t make sense to re-engineer a car for right-hand drive part-way through its lifecycle,” said Mr Campbell.

Mr Manley, who is also global president and CEO of Jeep, did not rule out the possibility of an RHD Charger in the future. Though unlikely, he hinted it could be re-branded, depending on how much “intervention” was required.

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta-based Dodge Dart sedan revealed at the Detroit motor show earlier this year was transformed into the Chinese-built Fiat Viaggio using little more than restyled front and rear bumpers and lights.

“It depends on what sort of intervention you want to do because that car (Charger) in particular is all Dodge; it screams Dodge,” said Mr Manley.

“That’s important because for me that vehicle is an absolute classic Dodge; it would be very hard to put a Chrysler badge on that car.”

Despite this, Mr Manley said he would “never say never” to the reappearance of the Chrysler Charger in Australia.

“I have seen a lot of things in my time in this industry,” he joked....read more

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler

It's been interesting reading the reviews by various automotive journalists so far since they were exposed to the 300 at Phillip Island last week.

There's the "I drive a small car and this is an environmental vandal" type journo's and then there's the "At last someone's given me a car to drive that suits my personality" type. I think Ewan Kennedy falls into the latter. His review is based on someone who likes to drive a larger car - fast.

I'll let Ewan tell you all about the 300 in this review. If you want to experience 300 in the flesh, call into Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. We're only 15 minutes or so from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive down the highway from Noosa, Bundaberg, Maryborough, and a short trip from Nambour, Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Bribie Island. We also get a lot of our customers as FIDO - that's not a dog by the way, that's fly in drive out. With cheap airfares our customers come in from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Mt Isa and even Sydney, Melbourne and as far away as Perth.

We'll happily arrange a drive home registration and you know the best thing about this? The drive home gives you just the best running in you'll ever get. New engines love a long drive to bed everything in and you'll get the best economy you've ever experienced.

Alternatively if you're time or distance poor, check us out online at www.northstarchrysler.com.au  or read more reviews at www.mycarreview.com.au  Finally, if you can't come to us, we'll come to your home, workplace or worksite - call Northstar on 1300 894 655.

New 300 - enough said.

A raft of safety features has already earned the Chrysler 300 the top rating from the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the new 2012 Chrysler 300 with specs, fuel economy and verdict.

A new home and a new family waiting to move in – that’s what’s on the agenda for the Fiat Chrysler Group in Australia right now with the new, almost-finished HQ at Port Melbourne being the scene recently for the launch of the company’s latest 300 range of large sedans.

VALUE

Along with the new 300s come the first eight-speed automatic transmission in a large car costing less than $70,000, a choice of V6 petrol or diesel power, or V8 petrol, a dynamic suspension, more than 60 advanced safety and security features, carbon fibre and wood grain finishes and Napa leather upholstery.

Kicking off the Chryslers is the 300 Limited, then comes the 300C, the 300C Luxury and the range-topping SRT8. Prices start at $43,000 for the petrol Limited, the diesel adds $5000, and top out at $66,000 for the Hemi V8 SRT8.

VERDICT

Saad Chehab, Head, Chrysler Brand - Chrysler Group LLC, says: “The 2012 Chrysler 300 is built on the idea that luxury feels better earned - that those who worked hard to achieve their place in the world should demand as much as is demanded of them.” That just about sums it up....read more

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler

In 2005, the release of the then 300C heralded a joyous time for everyone at Northstar Chrysler Jeep. We'd only been a Chrysler dealer for 2 years and here was the epitome of Detroit - big bold, powerful and angry - a gangster car - a car that didn't just shout, it screamed at the top of its lungs - LOOK AT ME.

And the drive impression of the car was fantastic - muscular, loud and so nice. Even the Rappers bought these - I think it was Snoop Dog who was the first celebrity to own a 300C and then they were featured in television shows - NCIS comes to mind. We've been without the 300 range for about a year now. When the build finished in Austria in 2009, we had a bunch of cars for sale, running out at the end of 2010 to early 2011.

And now it's back - but in a singularly different style - more luxury than gangster, more refinement than muscle, but lurking in the background is a stonking 6.4 litre engine fitted to the SRT8 version. And Chrysler haven't forgotten their 'dark past' planning to sponsor the Dark Knight Rises www.thedarkknightrises.com due in cinemas shortly.  The film features a stunning Chrysler 300 S with the number plates - DK 300S, which Northstar Chrysler has acquired for our  demonstrator fleet.

If you're keen to be one of the first to see new 300 range, call into Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa- Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula. You can call 1300 894 655 to arrange a time to be the first to see 300 on July 20th when Northstar will hold a special VIP night to welcome the car. Alternatively click through www.northstarchrysler.com.au to register your interest or to read more about 300 from an international perspective, check out all the stories at www.mycarreview.com.au . Northstar Motor Group is located only a 15-20 minute drive from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely drive from Nambour, Caloundra, Noosa and Bribie Island. You folks in Kingaroy and Kilcoy will also be serviced and looked after by Northstar as we welcome you into our market area.

Photo credit: Handout | 2012 Chrysler 300C, front view.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

Don't buy a Jeep Wrangler!  Let me explain. Don't buy a Jeep Wrangler if you want to use as your mid-week commuter, for going shopping, taking the pets to the vet and the kids to school.

Don't buy a Jeep if you think it will do this easily. The fact is you buy a Jeep Wrangler to take it off road. To the beach, the bush, the outback and everywhere in between. Other than your kids being the envy of all others when you do drop them off to school, a Jeep Wrangler isn't the sort of vehicle that does mid-week easily or comfortably.

However as this journo from Carsguide says : "Within 100m of entering a rocky and sandy trail, it was immediately obvious the Wrangler relaxed and opened up.  The steep rocky inclines, soft dunes and sandy beaches were devoured with ease and in fantastic comfort.  What a turnaround, the Wrangler suddenly came alive".

Jeep Wrangler isn't waterproof, it has electrical concerns from time to time, (especially after being 3 feet underwater) it's noisy and lumpy. But ask any Wrangler owner what they'd prefer to take through sand, mud, water and dusty rough roads and they'll pick a Wrangler over anything else on the market - Jeep Wrangler - tradition and toughness overcomes everything.

If you're looking for such a vehicle, call 1300 894 655 or 07 34808600 and chat to the Northstar Jeep team. Northstar is located at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula just a short drive from Brisbane Airport and a leisurely stroll down from Mooloolaba, Caloundra and Bribie Island. We're also looking after the folks from Kilcoy, Wamuran and Kingaroy now.

If you can't make it to us, shop online at www.northstarjeep.com.au or find out more information about all things Jeep at www.mycarreview.com.au .

Andre Edmunds' full report is available here:

"Think off-road, think Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler is steeped in history and has been synonymous with off-roading since 1941.  The original prototype was designed in 1940 and hand built in just 49 days for the US Army.

During World War II, more than 700,000 were built, making them instantly recognisable by soldiers and civilians alike.  It has since become a legend in its own right with a massive global following. And with good reason, for those who want to venture off sealed surfaces.....read more

Don't hold back - Northstar Jeep for Jeep Wrangler!

The Wrangler is unique on the road, barely changed in 70 years, and with a bright yellow Dozer paint job it stands out in traffic even more.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Since I became a Chrysler dealer in 2003, we've had 3 owners - Daimler, then a investment company (purely in it for the cash?) and now Fiat.

At least with Fiat and Sergio Marchionne at the helm, we're owned by car people with passion who don't necessarily think that the US way is the only way. Already we've seen quality control on new models improved markedly, new engines, new transmissions and designs that will take us well into the future.

The global influence of Fiat will see no vehicle line left as it is - unless of course it's meeting targets and profitable. Jeep Wrangler is probably the only model that could be considered safe from the Italian's knife. But the Fiat people still bring a passion to performance - Viper SRT is one very good example.

As Automobile Magazine outlines, the future looks bright.  A new Chrysler 200 replacing the Dodge Avenger, a new people mover, a Grand Cherokee Wagoneer (7 seater) to replace the Dodge Durango and an entry level Chrysler 100 (Fiat based) in 2016.

2011 Dodge Durango R/T 09.02.2011

Dodge Avenger and Durango could be dropped

Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has already revealed plans to drop several models and new details are starting to emerge about what vehicles will get the axe.

According to Automobile Magazine, Chrysler will launch a redesigned 200 in 2013. It will reportedly be about the same size as the Audi A4 and be offered as a sedan, coupe and convertible. A variety of four- and six-cylinder engines are expected and all-wheel drive could be optional. More importantly, the Dodge Avenger will be dropped ensuring the 200 is Chrysler's only mid-size sedan.

Later in 2015, a new Chrysler Town & Country will be launched. It will be a crossover in the same vein as the Mercedes R-Class, leaving the 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan as the company's only minivan.

In 2016, a redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee will be unveiled. When this happens, the Dodge Durango will be dropped and effectively replaced by the Jeep Grand Wagoneer which is slated to go on sale in 2014.

A full list of the changes can be found at the source, but other highlights include a new Dodge Journey (and SRT variant) in 2013, a redesigned Dodge / SRT Challenger in 2014 and an entry-level Chrysler 100 in 2016. There's also word of a Fiat 500 Zagato in 2013 and an Alfa Romeo crossover in 2014.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Sensationalism in press, or electronic media annoys me no end. I've just finished watching the riveting interview between Tracey Grimshaw on A Current Affair with Lindy Chamberlain which talk directly to trial by media and now Haitham Razagui takes my brands to task - with headlines which scream - Jeep Compass, Chrysler Voyager to be dropped.

If Haitham had done some more research and even god forbid, asked some questions of  the PR Department from Fiat Chrysler Group, the journalist would have determined that the vehicles weren't being dropped, but simply that the model line was finishing in favour of some very clever and brand new models in the next 2 years.

Chrysler did something similar with 300C a couple of years ago. "300C finished" was the most popular headline back in 2010 - the last of the then current model 300C had finished production in Austria and dealers had to wait almost 2 years to receive the new generation 300 series due to launch in late July.

All I'd ask Haitham to do is to do more research, chat to people who do know what's planned and cease the sensational headlines. I think the motoring press causes more damage to brand, models and re-sale value by shooting from the hip (or should that be lip) than they realize.

Anyway, jumping down off my soapbox, if you're in the market for any of our brands - Chrysler Jeep Dodge vehicles and Mopar Performance parts and accessories, give the team at Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge a call on 07 34808600. Alternatively visit our website at Northstarjeep.com.au and submit any queries  on price or product there.

if you're doing some research on Chrysler Jeep or Dodge vehicles, check out our sister site at mycarreview.com.au. And if all else fails, you'll find Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge and Mopar at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula just 15 minutes or so from the Brisbane Airport precinct and a short drive down the highway from Maroochydore and Bribie Island - Don't Hold back.

Off the Compass: The recently-face lifted Jeep Compass is one of the Fiat-Chrysler products targeted for termination in a bid to streamline the product line-up.

Sergio Marchionne outlines plan to reduce overlapping Fiat-Chrysler models by 2014

FIAT-CHRYSLER CEO Sergio Marchionne has outlined plans to reduce the number of overlapping models in the company’s line-up by 2014, naming the Jeep Compass SUV and Chrysler Voyager people-mover among those in the firing line.

Speaking at a recent US media event at Chrysler’s Belvedere assembly plant in Illinois, and in a recent interview with Automobile magazine, Mr Marchionne also confirmed a high-performance SRT variant of the Dodge Dart sedan is under development and an electric Fiat 500 will be introduced to North America later this year.

He told employees at Belvedere there are “a number of candidates” to replace the Compass, although it is not clear whether this was in reference to a replacement product or simply that another vehicle will take its place on the production line.

A smaller, upmarket crossover – rumoured to resemble the Mercedes-Benz R-Class – will supersede the Voyager (known in North America as the Town and Country), while the next-generation Dodge Grand Caravan will continue as Fiat-Chrysler’s people-mover entrant.

Removing the Voyager could again reduce the number of Chrysler products sold in Australia to one – it is the brand’s sole product here until the new 300C arrives in July – although Lancia-based premium light and small cars in the shape of the Ypsilon and Delta could arrive to bolster the line-up by 2014.

While the number of re-badged and duplicated models will be reduced across all brands under the Fiat-Chrysler umbrella in order to boost each brand’s identity, the company is also aiming to cut costs by sharing platforms.

For example, an SUV based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta-derived Compact US Wide (CUSW) platform that underpins the Holden Cruze-sized Dart will replace the Jeep Cherokee (known as Liberty in markets outside Australia).

From top: Jeep Compass; Dodge Dart; Chrysler Voyager.

Dodge’s Caliber crossover (based on twins-under-the-skin Jeep Compass and Patriot) and Nitro SUV (based on the Jeep Cherokee) have already ceased production, but Mr Marchionne has not indicated how the Patriot fits into the equation.

The Compass and Patriot will continue to be built alongside the new Dart in Belvidere until August 2014.

Mr Marchionne suggested the SRT Dart is in the advanced stages of development, saying “the only thing we’re fighting over now is to determine how big an engine we stick in it”.

A prime candidate would be the Alfa Romeo-developed 1.8-litre turbo-petrol engine announced in 2011, which the brand claims has a power output of 224kW and is set to enter production next year.

This would make the Dart the first four-cylinder SRT model since the Caliber SRT4, which debuted in 2006 with a 223kW/353Nm turbocharged 2.4-litre petrol engine and was discontinued in 2009.

But Australia is unlikely to see the SRT Dart as the Dodge brand is set to disappear when stocks of the Caliber and Nitro run out, with the Journey coming back as the Fiat Freemont – although there is a chance for the Dart-based, Chinese-built Fiat Viaggio to be imported.

Regarding the electric version of the Fiat 500, Mr Marchionne said the company will “lose money on every car we make” and admitted it is only being built to comply with requirements in some US states for electrified vehicles, and to familiarise engineers with electric drive trains.

However, by 2017 the company plans to introduce alternative drive trains such as hybrids and compressed natural gas combustion engines, the first of which will emerge later this year in the form of a CNG-powered Ram truck.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Get Finance Now

Matt Darby outline's the role of the finance department in a modern car dealership.

The finance and Insurance department in a car dealership is more than just a profit centre, it's where customers who want to purchase a particular vehicle will determine the affordability of that vehicle.

From talking to our customers, we find that their bank and credit union aren't all that interested in funding the vehicle - lack of interest, higher rates and charges and then the approval and documentation process can take weeks. A dealer finance manager can generally have an approval on the spot for most customers or overnight at the worst.

Why does this happen? Finance in dealerships is an important aspect of the business and rather than a side line, it comes down to right person, right place, right time. I've had personal experience with the delays that banks make and prefer to deal directly with my own finance guys.

If you're in the market for any personal or business items, whether they're motorcycles, boats, office equipment, caravans, motor homes or for any worthwhile purpose, give our finance team an opportunity. Call 07 34808600 or visit our web site getfinancenow.com.au  A simple online application will have you on the road to a quick approval

The nature of vehicle dealerships is that often each department has its own budget that they must work to.  This often means that each department in the dealership is working in isolation from the others.  

As a generalisation, the competitiveness of the used vehicle market often means the used vehicle department is the most willing to invest in new technology and services to market their vehicles online.

Everyone knows the value of finance and insurance to a dealership - for many it is the most profitable aspect of their business.  This being the case is there not an opportunity for the used vehicle and F&I departments to work together to benefit both?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes!  Used vehicles and F&I are closely linked in "real life" so why is this not seen more often in the digital space?  This may be due to lack of communication, political or budgetary reasons or simply not knowing how F&I can be involved in online marketing.  

Whatever the reasons, there are a number of tactics that can be used to more closely integrate F&I with online marketing of used vehicles.

Finance application forms

The most obvious place to start is by ensuring that the dealership website includes a finance application form.  This is, obviously, included on the finance page of your website but should also be integrated with your used vehicle pages.  

After all, where is the logic in a browser finding a vehicle they like, then having to leave the page to find out whether they can afford it.  Dealerships can use a stripped back finance enquiry form or a fully fledged finance application form depending on how well you know your customers.

Displaying finance rates

Finance rates often make a vehicle seem more appealing than the listed price.  The logic behind this is that seeing a weekly or monthly finance rate helps put prices into perspectives that customers can understand.  $69,990 may seem unreachable to most, but when broken down into a monthly repayment, potential customers are able to rationalise their decision.  

Displaying these rate on the stock page can be a straightforward process that is simply a case of including a fixed finance rate in your used vehicle listings - i.e. Finance from $XXX per month.

Finance calculators

Finance calculators take the next step from finance application forms and displaying finance rates.  A finance calculator allows customers to work out exactly what they can afford to pay by adjusting a number of variables such as deposit and length of term but keeping the finance rate constant.  

This helps make the process more personal for a browser and searching by finance can be a more relevant way for some browsers to search.

Finance & Insurance in email marketing  

The three tools listed above focus on the area of used vehicle presentation on a dealer’s website.  F&I can also play a part in email marketing communications.  Many dealers are effective at promoting special finance rates but few drill down to market these on individual used vehicles.  

Imagine how much more effective this could be if the email recipient receives an email with a selection of used cars all listed with a monthly finance rate that he or she can relate to.  A car they like quickly becomes a car they can afford when it is presented in this manner.

Finance can also be important in retaining customers that have previously purchased a vehicle from you.

Emailing new models with finance rates to customers that are nearing the end of their lease term, or are three years into their finance repayments, is a great way for them to see how easy it would be to upgrade for very little added expense.

All of the above tools are available to dealerships.  If it doesn't exist as an off-the-shelf product then think about getting it purpose-built for your dealership - this is certainly worth the investment if it results in more finance enquiry.  

To be truly effective, online dealership departments MUST work together - not just the F&I and used vehicle departments but also the new vehicle, parts, service and admin departments.

Article from the: Automotive News -- May 30, 2012 - 2:53 pm ET

Gilles: "We'll have no choice but to be some of the most wind-swept vehicles that you've ever seen."

Thought Leadership

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. -- Chrysler Group designers are spending more time in the wind tunnel to make more aerodynamic vehicles, aiding fuel economy, design chief Ralph Gilles said today.

Speaking at the annual Mackinac Policy Conference, a gathering of Michigan political and business leaders at this resort island in northern Michigan, Gilles said aerodynamics are becoming an increasingly important design aspect at Chrysler and throughout the industry.

Gilles pointed out that vehicles such as the Audi A7 and the newly redesigned Toyota Avalon have shown that mid-sized sedans can have the aerodynamic design typically associated with sports cars.

"The wind is starting to sculpt these vehicles," Gilles said.

He contrasted those vehicles with the Chrysler 300's boxier design, but Gilles said Chrysler has realized that it will need to follow the industry trend toward sleeker cars. He said the next-generation 200 and 300 also will be sleeker.

"We'll have no choice but to be some of the most wind-swept vehicles that you've ever seen," Gilles said.

Speaking to reporters after his speech, Gilles said his design team spends between 200-300 hours in the wind tunnel (combined, as a team) analyzing a vehicle's aerodynamics during a vehicle's design process. Previously, he said, a design team would only spend around 100 hours in the tunnel.

He added that the automaker is putting more emphasis on hiring people with experience in fluid dynamics as vehicle design takes more advantage of aerodynamics to increase fuel efficiency.

"It's amazing the details, especially if you look at the back of a car," Gilles said. "There are a lot of little flicks and bends that simulate aquatic animals almost."

More collaboration between Chrysler's engineers and designers has been key to the changes, Gilles said. Although the two groups traditionally have been separated, he said that since he took over as head of design last year he has made a point of ensuring teamwork.

He said engineers now have access to the company's design studio and that meetings between the engineers and designers are held in the studio. Gilles said designers and engineers are aware of the other group's challenges and are conscious of that as they work to produce new vehicles.

"It made them much more compassionate about what the ultimate goal was," Gilles said, "and at the same time it grew friendships."

Gilles added that the level of design integration at Chrysler extends to CEO Sergio Marchionne .

Gilles, who reports directly to Marchionne, said it's easier to push for more advanced and less traditional designs when the top man is involved.

He said: "The seas get parted."

Fiat 500 Abarth 695 Maserati Edition UK pricing announced

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Fiat Chrysler

With the takeover of the Fiat and Alfa Romeo distributorship in Australia from May 1st, Northstar has been approached by Fiat Chrysler Australia to submit an expression of interest for the Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands in Redcliffe, Pine Rivers and Caboolture.

There's a major decision required - it's not just a matter of putting up a sign and expecting people to flock to the door. The investment in even a small new car franchise is significant - showroom space, signage, specials tools, staff training, let alone stocks of spare parts, and new cars.

We're all pretty keen to complete the Fiat Chrysler range - Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge will look great on the corner of Anzac Avenue and Boardman Road,  but we don't want to make the same mistake that we did with the other European brands - Citroen and Renault. I'm confident that under the stewardship of Chrysler CEO, Clyde Campbell and with the fantastic marketing team headed by Sam Tabart, they're be a great future for these 2 iconic Italian brands. Will go very well with my Ducati Diavel won't it?

For more information on the progress of our applications, feel free to chat directly to myself, or my General Manager Cameron Semark. Give us a call or just drop into Northstar at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring. you can also leave us a message at www.nsmg.com.au .

Abarth 695 Maserati Edition 17.5.2012

Fiat has decided to wait until the end of the year to launch the Abarth 695 Maserati Edition, but we can reveal to you that the pricing will start at £32,000 (on-the-road). The Fiat 500C special edition model was shown for the first time in March at the Geneva Motor Show and will be limited to a production run of 499 units.

Power comes from a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v engine that generates 180 PS (132 kW / 178 bhp) and is mated with a manual Abarth Competizione gearbox which is electronically operated with steering wheel controls. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) in under 7 seconds before reaching a top speed in excess of 225 kph (140 mph).

The exterior gets a special three-layer Pontevecchio Bordeaux livery and is well matched to the 17-inch Maserati-inspired Neptune design alloy wheels. Each model receives special Abarth 695 Maserati Edition graphics and serial number plates ranging from 1 to 499.

Often the most valuable trading lessons arise during a recession

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Peter Aitken tells of the Mike Shaw story - a dealer in the US who changed the face of his business during the GFC.

At Northstar Motor Group Redcliffe, we were fortunate to 'see' the global financial crisis actually coming some 6 months before most other auto dealers In Australia. My business partner had been meeting with some very senior people from the ANZ Bank and their finance arm Esanda and pursued a cost reduction program which saved us about $1.2 million dollars per annum.

It's a truism - you learn better practices in tough times that you do in good times. We were guilty of adding to our staff count without much consideration, we were spending on incentives, equipment that wasn't being utilized productively and advertising like there was no tomorrow.

We hadn't reviewed our supplier charges for almost 5 years and our stock levels of new and used cars, and spare parts was through the roof. the fact was that we were burning cash at a great rate. And it's not funny at all that we probably have not survived the GFC if we hadn't cut the cloth to fit the suit.

That fact is that we did, We allowed natural attrition to reduce our staff count in the main only having to retrench 1 person, everyone and I mean everyone stepped up to another level and Northstar Motor Group not only survived, but continues to prosper.

If you're in the market for a new luxury car, the all new Chrysler 300 will be with us soon. I was fortunate to see the vehicle this year in Las Vegas and just been privy to the earlier marketing concepts from Chrysler Head Office. To say it will be an exciting vehicle and an wonderful launch is an understatement. new Chrysler 300 launches to the public on July 4th 2012 - coincidentally American Independence Day and the date of the final State of Origin Match for 2012 at Suncorp Stadium.

If you'd like to find out more about 300, visit www.lovemychrysler.com.au  or call into the Northstar dealership at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula.

How often have you been able to secure higher profit returns for your dealership as you are pulling out of a difficult trading cycle? Often these trading cycles occur for reasons well beyond normal trading control, just as we have seen the recent GFC (global financial crisis) adversely impact on just about every trading sector.

So what normally happens during these difficult times? Often it depends on both the severity and the duration of the economic downturn. As an owner of a retail dealership it becomes a case of trying to cut your cloth to suit the situation. The obvious early targets are the large variable and semi-fixed expenses within the dealership such as staffing level, in particular non-productive staff, inventory reductions to lower interest costs and the many arms of advertising.

I wish to share with you today an article I came across in the US Automotive News this week covering a number of actions taken by Mike Shaw, owner of Mike Shaw Automotive in Denver, Colorado.

Last year Mike Shaw’s group retailed 5406 new (increase of 45% over 2010) and 6370 used (increase of 59% over 2010). He now owns seven dealerships that sell Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Honda, Kia, Subaru and Toyota.

During 2007, with the advent of the GFC and recession starting to rumble into the US economy, Shaw made the tough decision to cancel the $1.5 million the group spent on newspaper advertising spread over their six dealerships.

At the same time they doubled their advertising spend on the internet to $360,000. By deduction, the prior spend on internet marketing of $180,000 represented just 10.7% of the combined advertising spend on newspaper and internet.

At the time of doubling the internet spend, actions were taken to increase the number of staff in the internet department and Shaw made internet sales the cornerstone of the group's marketing strategy.

By January 2009, the group had taken drastic action to either layoff or act through attrition 350 of their 650 staff. In Mike Shaw’s words: “I’ve been through tough times before so we moved fast, we cut advertising, we cut personnel.

“You name it, we cut it to survive."

On the process side, one action the group took in 2009 was to introduce the V-Auto used vehicle inventory management tool. This is a pricing and inventory tool used widely within the US to ascertain the advertised price of similar make/model/mileage/condition vehicles. Dealers are able to obtain prices for similar models within their PMA, city, state or other states. The tool then allows the dealer to set a price based on the basket of similar advertised models.

For instance, you may have a late model Honda Civic to advertise and the median advertised price of similar mileage/age Civics is say $15,000. You may seek to position your Civic at let’s say 95% of the median or $14,250 at a lower gross margin as you have made the decision to go for quick turn on the stock unit.

The other key advantage the tool offers is for the dealer to select the ideal fast turning stock for their yard. As a result ROI is increased and interest rate lowered.

Of all the changes made by Mike Shaw, he today acknowledges the internet strategy has made the biggest difference. His dealerships were working with the internet since the early 2000’s but Shaw admits at that time: “they were not very robust”.

“We started out like most people, just taking some salespeople and telling them they were now in the internet department so make it happen.”

However, by 2007, floor traffic slowed markedly and internet leads began generating more sales.

Some of the actions taken by the group in 2007 were:

•    Stopping all newspaper advertising

•    Doubling internet advertising

•    Implementing the V-Auto inventory and pricing tool

•    Listing every new vehicle as well as all used vehicles on all third party sites

•    Doubled the number of photos on each vehicle to 40

•    Increased internet sales staff in each dealership depending on size, from 3-6 people

•    Introduced written scripts to capture pertinent customer information on family size/annual miles driven/whether the customer wished to trade

•    Internet salespeople were trained to respond to emails and telephone within the hour

•    When the prospects arrived at the dealership, the internet salespersons handled them

•    Each internet salesperson was expected to handle 100-120 leads per month

Since 2007 the internet response time has been reduced to 15 minutes and each internet salesperson is expected to handle 80 leads per month.

One of the most noticeable shifts in salesperson behaviour is their pronounced preference to work within the internet department as that is where the leads are coming in, no longer is the showroom floor or used yard the favoured place to work within.

Currently, moves have been made to concentrate on three-person internet departments handling at least 150 leads a month, scheduling appointments and following up with customers. This pod does not handle in-store sales (walk-ins). Another advantage of the smaller set up is training is easier to implement.

Scott James, president of the Mike Shaw Group says: “it has now become easier to train a top-notch group of internet salespersons. Since they are not selling in-store sales, it frees their time to concentrate on follow-up, which is the key ingredient to internet success.”

Last year the group converted between 8-10% of their internet leads to sales. However, in their Corpus Christi, Texas operation - with their newer three-person internet department - they were able to achieve a closing ratio of 15%, the best in the group.

Finally, Mike Shaw says: “Leads and sales generated by the internet are no different from the way dealers have sold vehicles for years. It’s all about finding out what the customer needs and taking care of those needs.

“It’s nothing more than how we used to sell cars on the phone, with 3" by 5" cards and follow-up - the only difference is it’s all done electronically”.

I found this a very relevant article in the sense here was a dealer adapting to the change in trading circumstances, making some decisive and bold calls but importantly at a time when the trading conditions are more favourable has made the decision to further enhance their digital marketing practices.

Food for thought for our average NZ dealership?

The other day I discovered a very comprehensive text book on the subject of digital marketing: “The Ultimate Web Marketing Guide” - 584 pages, written by Michael Miller, published November 2010, worth hunting down.

Best regards

Peter Aitken

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Get Finance Now

Matt Darby outline the role of the finance department in a modern car dealership.

The finance and Insurance department in a car dealership is more than just a profit centre, it's where customers who want to purchase a particular vehicle will determine the affordability of that vehicle.

From talking to our customers, we find that their bank and credit union aren't all that interested in funding the vehicle - lack of interest, higher rates and charges and then the approval and documentation process can take weeks. A dealer finance manager can generally have an approval on the spot for most customers or overnight at the worst.

Why does this happen? Finance in dealerships is an important aspect of the business and rather than a side line, it comes down to right person, right place, right time. I've had personal experience with the delays that banks make and prefer to deal directly with my own finance guys.

If you're in the market for any personal or business items, whether they're motorcycles, boats, office equipment, caravans, motor homes or for any worthwhile purpose, give our finance team an opportunity. Call 07 34808600 or visit our web site www.getfinancenow.com.au . A simple online application will have you on the road to a quick approval

The nature of vehicle dealerships is that often each department has its own budget that they must work to. This often means that each department in the dealership is working in isolation from the others.

As a generalisation, the competitiveness of the used vehicle market often means the used vehicle department is the most willing to invest in new technology and services to market their vehicles online.

Everyone knows the value of finance and insurance to a dealership - for many it is the most profitable aspect of their business. This being the case is there not an opportunity for the used vehicle and F&I departments to work together to benefit both?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes! Used vehicles and F&I are closely linked in "real life" so why is this not seen more often in the digital space? This may be due to lack of communication, political or budgetary reasons or simply not knowing how F&I can be involved in online marketing.

Whatever the reasons, there are a number of tactics that can be used to more closely integrate F&I with online marketing of used vehicles.

Finance application forms

The most obvious place to start is by ensuring that the dealership website includes a finance application form. This is, obviously, included on the finance page of your website but should also be integrated with your used vehicle pages.

After all, where is the logic in a browser finding a vehicle they like, then having to leave the page to find out whether they can afford it. Dealerships can use a stripped back finance enquiry form or a fully fledged finance application form depending on how well you know your customers.

Displaying finance rates

Finance rates often make a vehicle seem more appealing than the listed price. The logic behind this is that seeing a weekly or monthly finance rate helps put prices into perspectives that customers can understand. $69,990 may seem unreachable to most, but when broken down into a monthly repayment, potential customers are able to rationalise their decision.

Displaying these rate on the stock page can be a straightforward process that is simply a case of including a fixed finance rate in your used vehicle listings - i.e. Finance from $XXX per month.

Finance calculators

Finance calculators take the next step from finance application forms and displaying finance rates. A finance calculator allows customers to work out exactly what they can afford to pay by adjusting a number of variables such as deposit and length of term but keeping the finance rate constant.

This helps make the process more personal for a browser and searching by finance can be a more relevant way for some browsers to search.

Finance & Insurance in email marketing

The three tools listed above focus on the area of used vehicle presentation on a dealer's website. F&I can also play a part in email marketing communications. Many dealers are effective at promoting special finance rates but few drill down to market these on individual used vehicles.

Imagine how much more effective this could be if the email recipient receives an email with a selection of used cars all listed with a monthly finance rate that he or she can relate to. A car they like quickly becomes a car they can afford when it is presented in this manner.

Finance can also be important in retaining customers that have previously purchased a vehicle from you.

Emailing new models with finance rates to customers that are nearing the end of their lease term, or are three years into their finance repayments, is a great way for them to see how easy it would be to upgrade for very little added expense.

All of the above tools are available to dealerships. If it doesn't exist as an off-the-shelf product then think about getting it purpose-built for your dealership - this is certainly worth the investment if it results in more finance enquiry.

To be truly effective, online dealership departments MUST work together - not just the F&I and used vehicle departments but also the new vehicle, parts, service and admin departments.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

Mike Costello - tell me it's not true. I'm aghast - the most powerful SUV available here under $100k, is being delayed because those greedy yanks can't get enough of them? What a tragedy. Seems that we'll have the equally significant 300C SRT8 before the Grand Cherokee, but this may be a blessing in disguise.

There's already so much interest in the 300C that a delay of a couple of months is probably a good thing, even though jeep dealer will still be disappointed. With so much going on in Head Office at present, the information leaking out hasn't even reached the Jeep dealer body. 

It's been a great year so far for all Chrysler Jeep Dodge dealers. Sales are up, enquiry is rising and dealers are happy. The change in attitude since the takeover by Fiat is nothing short of a miracle. Sergio Marchionne has certainly something to be proud of. Whilst the Dodge nameplate seems ready to leave Australian shores again, hopefully we'll get to keep the Dodge Journey under a Fiat badge - Fiat Freemont (Not Fairmont).

If you want to keep up to date with what's happening in the Chrysler and Jeep world, pop into Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring. Cameron Semark, our general manager and his team led by Justin Ryan and Service Manager Brad Beuth will be happy to tell you all about the resurgence of their brands.

 If you can't get to us, we'll be happy to answer all your question via our web site - www.nsmg.com.au  and then click on the Jeep, Chrysler or Dodge brand drop downs. Check out the monthly specials at www.lovemyjeep.com.au , www.lovemychrysler.com.au or www.lovemydodge.com.au . We've currently got a great deal going on Dodge Nitro and the new Dodge Journey R/T is available for delivery.

If you'd like to do some research on our brands visit our sister site www.mycarreview.com.au 

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler

When I first saw the new 300C in the styling dome in Detroit 2 years ago, I was a little concerned that the car had lost it's mojo.

3 years down the track and pictures and video of the 2012 Chrysler 300C emerging from the USA says that I was wrong. It's funny how time changes your opinions on updated designs and lines. The old 300C was the gangster car, the car that you wanted to be seen in (and heard) that made a statement on who you were.

The MY12 300C is more refined but still manages to encompass that 'look at me' aura that 300C officianados will be happy about, but the more refined of us (LOL) will want to drive just because it looks good. The new 300C will offer 2 engines in the 'entry' model - a 3.6 litre V6 Pentastar engine and a 3.0 litre diesel engine both with an 8 speed automatic transmission. If you want the muscle along with the looks, you'll need to specify the SRT8 which matches the 6.4 litre V8 engine with the same 8 speed transmission.

Rumour has it that the 300C will launch on national television on the evening of July 4th (US Independence day) during the 3rd State of Origin Clash (Rugby League). And even more the launch ad apparently will be very memorable indeed

In the meantime, you can pre-order 300C from Northstar Chrysler at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula or visit their web site at www.nsmg.com.au Any questions you have can be sent to them via their website If it's more information you're after, then check out www.lovemychrsyler.com.au or www.mycarreview.com.au .

300 not out: The second-generation 300C sedan will re-launch Chrysler in Australia in July.

Having almost disappeared, Chrysler will be back mid-year with new 300C

13 April 2012
By DAVID HASSALL

CHRYSLER as a brand may have almost disappeared from Australian sales charts – it sold just three vehicles nationally last month – but it will return “very strongly” in July when the next-generation 300C in launched.

With the 300C and Sebring Cabrio having been discontinued last year and the Grand Voyager slowing to a trickle – it accounted for Chrysler’s only 17 sales in the first quarter of this year – virtually no fresh Chrysler-badged product will be available for three months.

However, Chrysler Australia corporate affairs director Lenore Fletcher told GoAuto that “there could be a lot of new product” coming after the new 300C make its debut here July.

“We will be back absolutely – and very strongly – with the new 300C in July, and there are other models that we are shopping for,” said Ms Fletcher.

She said a replacement for the slow-selling Grand Voyager large people-mover was unlikely to be one of them.

Coming so long after the 300C was launched in the US late last year, the second-generation large car will be launched with a full range of variants, including a new diesel and the high-performance SRT8.

Left: Chrysler Grand Voyager; Chrysler Sebring Cabrio; Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The new 6.4-litre SRT8 V8 engine, which replaces the outgoing 6.1-litre unit, was first seen in the Dodge Challenger and produces 347kW of power and 630Nm of torque, which represents increases of 30kW and 61Nm, pushing the big sedan from 0-100km/h in less than five seconds.

Base models will be powered by Chrysler’s new 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol V6, which produces 215kW and 350Nm of torque – 32kW and 10Nm more than the old V6 – or the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel that produces 177kW and 550Nm in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, while the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 carries over from the old model and produces 265kW and 528Nm.

In the absence of the 300C and Sebring for most of 2011, Chrysler brand sales dropped 60.4 per cent to just 580 units last year, but the Chrysler Group was saved by its Jeep and Dodge brands, which were up 44.7 per cent and 41 per cent respectively, bringing the group’s sales total close to 12,000 units.

With the Nitro having gone out of production, Dodge sales have slipped 22.9 per cent this year, but Jeep has more than compensated by more than doubling, with a 136.9 per cent increase in the first quarter to 4105 sales.

Chrysler group sales are therefore well on track for a record year, at least since the company built cars locally.

“Jeep is going gangbusters for us, and we can maintain that momentum,” said Ms Fletcher.

“The dealers are very happy because they’re very busy. We’ve just had our best quarter on record and we’ve been setting records all over the place – best January, best February, best March and best sales months for Compass, Patriot and Grand Cherokee.”

Ms Fletcher said the reasons for Jeep’s recent success included the latest “I bought a Jeep” TV commercial, which cleverly and subtly sets out to attract more women buyers to what has traditionally been a male-dominated brand.

“Jeep sales have always been male-dominated, but the ‘I bought a Jeep’ program really appeals to women and has resulted in a turnaround in attitude, so that’s pushing people into dealerships,” she said.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

David Hassall has the same concerns that I had when I saw that 2012 Jeep Compass had only scored 2 stars n recent European tests. In ANCAP tests the Compass achieved 4 stars placing it in the top 90% of vehicles sold in Australia.

The Euro NCAP tests are more concerned with frontal passenger injury than the rollover protection targeted in Australia. In my opinion the significant change to the Euro testing criteria doesn't paint the full picture and I wonder whether the Europeans may even be slanted against vehicles made in the USA?

If you're wanting more information on Jeep Compass, visit our website www.nsmg.com.au and then click on the Jeep brand dropdown. Our monthly specials can be found at www.lovemyjeep.com.au or for more reviews and road tests, visit www.mycarreview.com.au

If you're still one of those people who want to see, touch and drive what you want to buy, call into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula.

Left: Number crunching: Jeep’s Compass rates two stars in Europe, but four stars in Australia – after the same physical crash test.

Concern over global crash-test ratings as Jeep Compass goes from two stars to four

16 April 2012

By DAVID HASSALL

JEEP has scored its anticipated four-star crash-test rating in Australia for the recently facelifted Compass SUV – two stars better than it had achieved under the tougher new European test regime.

The Compass gained the higher rating in Australia simply because of differences in the way test results are weighted, with the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) giving more emphasis to rollover protection and less to pedestrian protection than the Euro NCAP regime.

Jeep Australia corporate affairs director Lenore Fletcher told GoAuto there was a case for uniformity in crash test ratings around the world because it was currently “confusing for consumers”.

ANCAP chief executive Nicholas Clarke told us there would always be differences in ratings to other NCAP regimes, even though they use the same suite of tests.

“There will always be differences in how we rate vehicles because the environments are different between countries,” he said.

“For example, rollover is a big killer in Australia but not so much in Europe.”

From top: Mahindra Pik Up, Toyota Aurion.

ANCAP also announced today that the locally made Toyota Aurion had achieved the maximum five-star rating, as expected given that the previous model scored five stars and the Camry on which it is based also carries the top rating.

The new-generation Aurion, which will be launched in South Australia tomorrow, was crash-tested locally.

ANCAP also awarded five stars to two new light cars, the Kia Rio (sedan and three-door hatch, to match last year’s five-door hatch) and the Suzuki Swift Sport (matching the regular Swift).

However, the local independent vehicle safety advocate was less impressed after also crash-testing the Indian-built Mahindra Pik-Up, saying that “concern still remains” after awarding it only three stars – one more than it had previously.

ANCAP chair Lauchlan McIntosh said the Mahindra’s rating was well below consumer expectations for a new vehicle.

“The protection of vehicle occupants is ANCAP’s primary consideration and this is being achieved through a combination of stronger passenger compartments and the inclusion of active Safety Assist Technologies (SATs),” he said.

“Over 90 per cent of vehicles sold now have either a four or five-star safety rating, so it concerns me greatly to see the Mahindra still well below the standard consumers are demanding.”

ANCAP has been highly critical of the Mahindra Pik-Up in the past, saying after a test last year there was a high risk of life-threatening head and neck injury in the frontal offset crash test as the airbag was still deploying when the driver’s head contacted it.

Mr Clarke explained that Mahindra had “tweaked” the restraint package and also improved the vehicle structure to improve the offset crash test performance, resulting in the awarding of an extra star.

“Mahindra should be applauded for making changes on the run, but it is still a long way from par,” he said.

Mr Clarke said that most utes sold in Australia now rate four and five stars, with the notable exception of the Great Wall utes, which still carry only two-star ratings.

However, the safety organisation was more complimentary of Toyota Australia for the local engineering work on the latest V6-engined Aurion.

It noted the inclusion of SATs including automatic high beam and intelligent seatbelt reminders for all seats – saying the Aurion set an industry benchmark for the standard inclusion of such features.

“It is pleasing to see Toyota continue to provide such a high level of safety to the market, and there are exciting times ahead with further SAT innovation in the pipeline,” said Mr McIntosh.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

As outlined in previous blog posts, Jeep Wrangler would arguably be one of the most customized American built vehicles anywhere in the world.

Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge's GM Cameron Semark has the touch when it comes to customizing Jeep Wrangler four door and 2 door variations. Cameron's latest and probably his greatest dress up starts with an Orange Crush 4 door Wrangler Sport with the new Pentastar 3.6 V6 engine and 5 speed auto. Add in customized orange leather trim, front and rear chrome bars and chrome sidesteps, 25" Chrome wheels along with Mopar exhaust, cold air induction and other goodies and you have one hell of a Jeep.

If you'd like to inspect this custom creation, call into Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 320 Anzac Avenue on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula to admire Cameron's work. You can also check it out online at www.nsmg.com.au see our monthly specials at www.lovemyjeep.com.au  www.lovemydodge.com.au and www.lovemychrysler.com.au  

For other reviews and information about Northstar brands visit www.mycarreview.com.au .

Jeep Wrangler Beijing concept 06.4.2012

Celebrates the company's return to China

Chrysler has announced plans to introduce two new concepts at the Beijing Motor Show.

Designed to celebrate the company's return to China, the concepts are uniquely styled vehicles which could eventually be offered as specials editions. As such, the 300C concept has a blacked out exterior with a new front bumper, a mesh grille and unique alloy wheels.

On the other hand, the Jeep Wrangler concept has a black and gold exterior with dragon decals and unique lighting units. The colour scheme carries over to interior where there's a black dashboard which is contrasted by gold accents on the steering wheel, instrument cluster and door handles.

By Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

The Carsguide Team reveal the latest technology out of Detroit and it's cutting edge stuff. How cool is this technology. The charging of portable devises such as smart phones has been a problem for a while.

Unless you had an in car charger - not a good look, you'd generally run out of juice for the thing if you were using it and your car all day.

This smart idea from Chrysler, just points the way that the company is innovating since the rescue from Chapter 11 by European auto company Fiat. Don't expect to see it soon in Australia, the trans pacific technology movement isn't all that quick but we hope that it's with us in early 2013

If you're looking for a new Chrysler Jeep or Dodge or any Mopar accessories for your car, check out our website at www.nsmg.com.au and click on the brand button of your choice.

CJD specials are changed monthly and the best way to find them is to click through to www.lovemychrysler.com.au or www.lovemyjeep.com.au or www.lovemydodge.com.au

If you want to visit and browse you'll find us at 320 Anzac Avenue Kippa-Ring on the beautiful Redcliffe Peninsula.

Charging is available while the car is running, and is able to juice up a range of devices.

Chrysler will be the first car company to offer wireless charging on the go.

The Mopar-branded system will appear first on the Dodge Dart, and uses an integrated charging-grid bin installed at the front of the centre console, with charging activated when you place a smartphone fitted with the charging case into the bin.

Charging is available while the car is running, and is able to juice up a range of devices including iPhone, Blackberry, MP3 Players and Droid-based devices

The new technology will appear as a $200 option on the Dodge Dart as it rolls out in overseas markets from 2013, then progress to other vehicles in the Chrysler stable.

"At Mopar, we look for every single opportunity to make our customers' lives easier," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC's service, parts and customer-care brand. "Our industry-first in-vehicle wireless charging system is the perfect solution for those connected customers who are always on the go.

By Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

The age old question about when to service rather than should I service raises its head again. A reader of Carsguide posed this question to Graham Smith. Don't know that Graham rang our service department, but if he did we would have given him an appropriate answer.

My opinion is that a Timing Belt should be changed every 4 years or 100,000 kilometres. The belts, generally made of rubber deteriorate over time and most manufacturers recommend changing it at the 90k - 110k service. Those services are every 12-15k or every 12 months whichever comes first.

So on the basis that the car is 8 or 9 years old, it should have had this done about 4 years ago and would definitely need it done NOW. Skipping or missing services is a trap for customers - some think that by skipping a service it's ok. Far from the fact - cars are made of metal, rubber, glass, plastic, vinyl and rely of things like oil and rubber belts to transfer the power generated from the engine to the road.

As far as the other belts in your car, look at changing these at 2 years or 50,000 k's. Better to be safe than sorry. It's way too late to do it after your car is left as an overheated mess on the side of the road

If you're interested in discussing anything to do with the servicing of your PT Cruiser or any other vehicles in our range, visit www.nsmg.com.au and click on the service icon - leave a message and one of our service representatives will get back to you with prices, advice or anything else to do with your car.

If you're interested in one of the new cars in our range, click on the brand or specials drop downs and check out what's available from Northstar Motor Group.

Q. My daughter has a 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser that has only done 80,000 km. The handbook recommends that the timing belt be changed at 140,000 km, but there is no mention of time. On this basis the car will be 14 years old before this mileage is reached. Should the belt be changed at five or six years, as it would surely perish as it gets older?

A. Belts perish and stretch over time and need to be replaced even though the mileage is low in your case. We couldn't establish a recommended time, from mechanics or Chrysler dealerships, but I would suggest it would be worth changing the belt given the car is eight years old.

Graham Smith

Comments by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

2 Tonnes of Grand Cherokee laps the Nurburgring in a tad under 9 minutes. Not the quickest time around the famous track by any stretch, but it's 6.4 litre 351kw V8 does beat a Range Rover Sport which is only really planned to get Jeremy Clarkson complaining at the lack of sophistication of the American Dinosaur.

Reality is that it goes fast, sounds unbelievably awesome and looks brilliant. And it's coming to a Northstar Jeep dealership near you REALLY soon.

For more information and arrival dates, pop into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe or visit us online at www.nsmg.com.au. There's a few reviews on this magnificent machine at www.mycarreview.com.au as well    

The Nürburgring has become the de facto place to promote high-performance vehicles, but it's still a tad surprising to see the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 on Germany's famous racetrack.

Oddness aside, the clip shows Sabine Schmitz piloting the 5,150 lb (2,336 kg) SUV around the Nordschleife in 8:49.487. That's not exactly stellar, but it beats the time posted by a supercharged Range Rover Sport.

As we have previously reported, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 has a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine with 470 hp (351 kW / 477 PS) and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Source: SRT via Autoblog

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Chrysler Jeep Dodge

The motor industry is a moving dynamic and evolving place - changes in ownership of dealerships pales into insignificance compared to the movement of ownership worldwide. The post GFC take- over of Chrysler by Fiat has led to a massive recovery of Chrysler as well as the incursion into the USA by the now parent company. It's done for a reason, generally not to feed inflated egos.

According to the Carsguide team and recently confirmed by Clyde Campbell from CJD head office, Chrysler Australia will wake over the management and distribution of Fiat and Alfa products for Australian and New Zealand effective May 1st 2012.

What does that mean for us in Redcliffe? How does Northstar Fiat and Northstar Alfa Romeo sound?

Rolls off the tongue pretty well, but there's a long way to go before that even becomes a thought. Existing dealers (not too many in Brisbane) should be given the opportunity to retain and expand their presence - there's only one in Brisbane for Alfa - in Fortitude Valley, but expect Chrysler to roll out a fairly aggressive dealer presence in the next year or two.

We'll be a bit wary of any small European brands - we've had experience with Citroen and Renault, both handed back to the distributor during the GFC, but with the strength of the Chrysler management team behind them, Fiat and Alfa will certainly in my opinion, be a different story.

In the meantime, if you're looking for a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge, call into Northstar at 320 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe and let us show you what great service is all about. Visit our web site at www.nsmg.com.au, check the month specials pages at www.lovemyjeep.com.au or www.lovemychrysler.com.au or www.lovemydodge.com.au .

If you want to research any of our group brands, or are looking for articles and stories you can check them out at www.mycarreview.com.au.

The move follows the Fiat Group's takeover of Chrysler.

Fiat and Alfa Romeo will revert to factory distribution in Australia.

From May, the two European makes will no longer be distributed in Australia and New Zealand by the independent Ateco Group in Sydney, headed by entrepreneur Neville Crichton. Ateco also holds the rights for Citroen, Lotus and the chinese brands Chery and Great Wall.

Sister company European Automotive Imports has the distribution rights for Ferrari and Maserati. The move follows the Fiat Group's takeover of Chrysler. The new Group is combining its distribution arms in all major markets and concentrating on those, such as Chrysler Australia, that are factory owned.

The changes to Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat commercial vehicle distribution will have no effect on the distribution of Ferrari and Maserati, which remain with European Automotive Imports. All existing Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealers will move with the brands to Chrysler, while arrangements for staff at Ateco who worked exclusively on Alfa Romeo and Fiat will be made on an individual basis.

At one time Volkswagen, Audi, Suzuki and Kia have all spent periods under the guiding hand of Ateco. "There is no doubt that without Ateco, the Fiat Group could not even consider returning Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat Commercial Vehicles to factory distribution," chairman Neville Crichton said.

"Ateco has proven to them that all three brands have a long term place in the Australian and New Zealand markets, that there is consistent and growing demand for their products and that Australia and New Zealand have, once again, got a key role to play in the companys global aspirations."

Crichton is noted for rescuing and restoring a unique part of Alfa Romeo's heritage when he purchased the last remaining Alfa Romeo G1 in the world, the model that has the distinction of being the very first Alfa Romeo.

Believing that all Alfa Romeos must be a driveable, not museum pieces, Neville Crichton carried out a ground-up restoration that was so thorough the restored car won its class in the worlds leading classic car event, the Pebble Beach Concours in the USA. During Alfa Romeos Centenary Year, the G1 toured Australia successfully competing in classic car events across Australia.

"Ateco is a constantly changing and evolving company," Crichton said. "As we say good bye to Alfa Romeo and Fiat we will be welcoming into our company new brands and businesses that will benefit from the unique skills and talents we have to offer."

Managing director of the Chrysler Australia, Clyde Campbell, confirmed the takeover of the iconic Italian brands. "We are delighted to be named the official distributor of Fiat, Fiat Commercial and Alfa Romeo, and we look forward to re-energising these brands in the Australian market," Campbell said.

Under the new agreement, the current Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealer group, which numbers 17 passenger dealerships with 22 commercial vehicle outlets across the country, will report into the Melbourne-based Chrysler Australia group. Sales for the Fiat, Fiat Commercial and Alfa Romeo brands during 2011 were recorded by VFACTS at 2,635 vehicles.

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Dodge

Northstar Dodge had the Avenger as a model for a brief window prior to the 2008/9 Global financial crisis. At the time, Chrysler USA decided to suspend build in RH drive but now seems to have had a relook at the model

Whilst similar in styling, the vehicle features the 3.6 V6 Pentastar engine, pumping out 211kw or power mated to a 6 speed transmission. Inside and outside, the vehicle has been 'premium' enhance to differentiate it to the norms - expect to see it in Nth America later this year

If you're looking for prices on Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro or any of the other vehicles in the Chrysler or Jeep range, visit www.nsmg.com.au or call into 320 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe

2011 Dodge Avenger

Starts at $21,495

Dodge has introduced the 2012 Avenger SE V6.

Designed to offer "unprecedented performance and value for driving enthusiasts," the model features a dual exhaust system, a rear spoiler, LED taillights and 18-inch aluminum wheels.

Inside, the cabin is sparsely equipped but has "premium" cloth seats, air conditioning and a four-speaker audio system.

Power comes from a 3.6-liter V6 engine which develops 283 hp (211 kW / 287 PS) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission that enables the sedan to return up to 29 mpg highway.

The model will go on sale later this year and pricing starts at $21,495.

Source: Dodge

Comments by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

Jeep Wrangler is arguably the most modified new vehicle around the roads in Australia. Cameron Semark, the GM at Northstar Jeep is currently preparing a Jeep Wrangler Crusher for release.

Jeep have announced plans to release up to 6 designer models at the Moab Easter Safari in the USA and we'll bring them to you in all their glory as soon as Easter passes.

If you're interested in what you can do to your Jeep, drop into Northstar Jeep at 320 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe or ask us on line at www.nsmg.com.au. Pop in and have a look at the Jeep Wrangler Crusher - should be ready for its reveal in about 10 days time

Jeep J-12 concept 23.3.2012

Several retro-inspired models will be introduced

Jeep has announced plans to introduce six vehicles at the Moab Easter Jeep Safari.

The Wrangler Apache has a rugged front bumper, a Warn winch and a blue body stripe.

Next up, the J-12 concept draws inspiration from the 1960's Gladiator. It appears to be a Wrangler-based pick up with a revised front fascia and a short rear bed.

Lastly, the Mighty FC concept recalls the Forward Control model that was built between 1956 and 1965. It off-road bumpers, a small grille and a long rear bed.

The Moab Easter Jeep Safari kicks off on March 31st, so expect to learn more about the concepts later this month.

Source: Jeep

Commentary by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

Automotive News reveals details on the next generation Jeep Liberty (Jeep Cherokee in Australia)

The current shaped Cherokee (KJ and KK) has been around as long as I've been a dealer (2003) and is due for a major change both in exterior, interior, engine and transmission

A new engine, probably the 3.2 version of the V6 Pentastar engine is slated for inclusions as is a 9 speed automatic Fiat gearbox. AN suggests that the USA will see this new model in 2013, but here down under, we should expect late 2013 or early 2014.

2011 Jeep Liberty Jet 17.11.2010

Nine-speed automatic transmission also mentioned

New details are starting to emerge about the Jeep Liberty successor.

According to Automotive News, the model will debut with a newly-developed 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. These changes should enable the crossover to be much more fuel efficient than its predecessor.

Additional information is limited, but the model could ride on the CUSW (Compact U.S. Wide) platform and be introduced at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

Source: Automotive News

by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

The last line of his review by Ewan Kennedy says it all: " This and the sheer pleasure in owning a Jeep Wrangler seem certain to see its sales climb significantly during 2012"

Ewan obviously isn't an urban cowboy - he appreciates the Jeep Wrangler for what it is - a tough go anywhere real four wheel drive, with capabilities more suited off road than on. let's face it, you don't buy a Jeep Wrangler to take the kids to school. That said, when you see a blinged Wrangler dropping the small people off to school, their has to be a bit of off road envy.

Nowadays, more and more Wranglers are sporting larger chrome wheels, outrageous colour schemes and inside, navigation, leather and a whole lot more to boot. Gone are the days of the 2 door utilitarian half door Jeeps. Instead customers are spending upwards of ten thousand dollars to personalize their weekend getaway vehicles. You've probably seen "It's a Jeep Thing - You Wouldn't Understand adorn the rear windscreens of Wranglers, Cherokee's and the like - if you don't get it, you won't get it. Don't Hold Back - visit  http://www.northstarjeep.com.au     for prices, specifications and offers on the new Jeep Wrangler and run out models.

By Ewan Kennedy - Carsguide

New Jeep looks the same as before - but there’s big news under that tough bonnet.

There’s something special about driving a Jeep Wrangler.  The car that helped win a war has a rugged feel you don’t get in many so-called 4WDs anymore. All of which may sound like a criticism – but in fact we just love the way the American icon sounds and feels. Instead of being isolated from the action you’re sitting amongst everything that’s happening.

ENGINE AND MECHANICAL

Our test drive marks introduction of a new V6 petrol engine to the Jeep Wrangler range. A thoroughly modern design displacing 3.6 litres, this twin-cam unit develops up to 209 kW of power, with 347 Nm to torque. Most to the latter is available at only 1800 revs – giving it diesel-like grunt that’s perfect for off-road driving.

Jeep’s test figures say the new petrol power plant accelerates from rest to 100 km/h in almost 30 per cent less time than the old 3.8 petrol unit it replaces, yet uses significantly less fuel while providing the overtaking safety the acceleration provides.

The turbo-diesel 2.8-litre four-cylinder engine is still available and Jeep says it’s still likely to make up the bulk of sales of Jeep Wranglers – however, we feel the extra smoothness and responsiveness, not to mention the lack of that diesel fuel smell, will point more people in the direction of petrol than the sales guys anticipate.

A five-speed automatic transmission is likely to be the biggest seller and though it seems to be cheating in some ways to drive a tough 4WD with a self-shifter there’s no doubt it will be simpler to drive in the tough on-road conditions that are likely to be the fate of the typical Wrangler.

DESIGN

Visually the 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, the latter being the long-wheelbase four-door model, are as before. The seven-slot grille has become an iconic part of the Jeep – though it must be pointed out that the earliest models actually had nine slots – as has the flat bonnet with rounded side and the squared-off mudguards.

Jeep designers have tried playing games with the shape in the past, but the purists have jumped on them from a great height and the chances of them being silly again seem rather slim.

DRIVING

We took a brace of Jeeps over terrain that would have stopped many vehicles masquerading as 4WDs but which are aimed at creating the aforementioned isolation, not at enjoying the rugged Australian outback, beaches and forests.

We took our Jeeps along narrow ridges with steep drop-offs that could have killed us had we got it wrong then along beaches with howling winds that created dangerous waves, as well as softening up the sand. (The winds later blew down a high-tech tent apparently erected in a semi-sheltered area for us to lunch.) As well as through paddocks with kangaroo and wallaby bouncing in front of us, apparently with a death wish.

One thing we would like changed is the simple strap holding the doors open. We nearly had our knees smashed when the wind sweeping of the Southern Ocean tried to slam the doors shut. A more modern strut system to hold the door open would have prevented this – all complaints and explanations from Jeep lovers will be considered, but don’t be too harsh with your threats; particularly those who suggest we should be knee-capped…

The favourable increase in the value of the Australian dollar against the US greenback has resulted in Jeep being able to begin the price list at a very reasonable $32,000 (excluding government and dealer delivery charges). This and the sheer pleasure in owning a Jeep Wrangler seem certain to see its sales climb significantly during 2012.

How did JEEP get its name?

by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep Brisbane

I asked this question at the recent Jeep Australia 4 Ball Championship played on the Gold Coast recently and all i really got in return was a stare. The internet is a wonderful place to start for most research, but there wasn't a lot of accurate info on this question. From the web site www.didyouknow.it the information below seems to be as good as it gets.

You can find out more by visiting our Jeep Dealership in Redcliffe - put the guys to the test and see what they can tell you - Northstar Jeep for all your Jeep questions and answers.

There are many explanations of the origin of the word “jeep,” which have proven difficult to verify. Probably the most popular notion holds that the vehicle bore the designation “GP” (for “Gov. Purposes” or “General Purpose”), which was phonetically slurred into the word jeep.

Another explanation of the name has it that it was based on a character from the Popeye comic strip in the 1930′s that was known as Eugene the Jeep. This little guy was from another dimension and was blessed with the ability to go anywhere and do anything. He went through walls, scaled huge trees, flew, disappeared, etc. There wasn’t anywhere Eugene the Jeep couldn’t go.

How Did Jeep Get Its Name

•  It is a popular belief that the name ‘jeep’ was derived from the abbreviation of the term G.P., which stood for ‘General Purpose vehicle’.

•  According to historical records, the term G.P. stood for automaker Ford’s nomenclature according to which, ‘G’ meant a vehicle for government’s use and ‘P’ was used to designate its 80-inch wheelbase.

•  In 1949, the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors, a manufacturer of railroad locomotives, launched its "General Purpose" line of automobiles, which were later named as ‘geeps’ and pronounced as ‘jeep’.

•  According to some historians, the word “jeep” was used in Oklahoma, in the 1930’s, to describe specialized trucks that were used in oil drilling.

•  Many people say that history of jeep dates back to the period of World War I, when mechanics in the garages used this term to refer to any new motor vehicle received for a test.

•  Another clarification for the word ‘jeep’ is that it was based on a character named ‘Eugene the Jeep’, which featured in the popular ‘Popeye’ comic strip in the 1930’s. The cartoon character gained instant recognition and became a sensation among the ardent Popeye fans.

•  The word "Jeep" had been also used in reference to a small tractor, manufactured by Moline.

Jeep Wrangler holds price point : Reviewed by Stuart Martin
by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep

After a stellar 2011, Chrysler Australia, the importers of the Jeep Wrangler, have launched the new 2012 model with much fanfare. And the noise is that the company has held most of the price points, even though the iconic Jeep has a vastly improved engine - Pentastar V6 over the old (read really old) 3.8 litre donk.

If you're in need of an auto, this transmission has also been updated to a swish 6 speed replacing the old 4 speed clunker. Whilst the current 2.8 diesel is still the same, it probably won't be long before the FIAT based diesel, now fitted to the grand Cherokee, is available. The delay here is the world wide popularity of the Italian diesel, slated to be fitted with an 8 Speed Auto to the new Chrysler 300C.

As far as safety is concerned the vehicle is fitted with most of the safety items from the Jeep parts store, but the great news is that side curtain airbags will be available very soon and may already be fitted as an option to most of the Wranglers already in Australia.

Jeep Wrangler isn't for everyone - it's the superstar of the real off roaders, but if you're into serious four wheel driving, there isn't any option. Don't Hold Back - call the Jeep experts at Northstar Jeep - Redcliffe

By Stuart Martin - The Advertiser

Chrysler Australia managing director Clyde Campbell said the brand recorded 12,000 in 2011 - its highest sales since 1994.

Jeep has kept the price steady for its updated Wrangler.

Pricing was announced as the Jeep Wrangler was launched this week in Australia – the biggest market outside its home North American turf is being introduced to the new Jeep Wrangler.

The range kicks off with the new petrol V6 two-door soft-topped Jeep Wrangler Sport for $32,000, with a somewhat steep $6000 hike for the same model in diesel form. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon two-door is a petrol-only proposition and starts from $42,000.

Stretching the length and adding two doors pushes the starting price for the Unlimited petrol Sport to $36,000 ($42,000 if you prefer diesel) or $46,000 for the top-spec Rubicon Unlimited.

The two and four-door Jeep Wrangler range has been upgraded with the addition of the new 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine already doing service in the Grand Cherokee, which produces 209kW and 347Nm - up 63kW and 32Nm over the old 3.8-litre six-cylinder, with a five-speed auto (a $2000 option for petrol models or an extra $1000 on a diesel variant) or six-speed manual gearbox.

The Wrangler diesel drivetrain is a carry-over from the previous model, sticking with the 16-valve DOHC 2.8-litre direct-injection turbodiesel four cylinder that produces 147kW and 460Nm, with the same transmission options; a fuel-saving stop/start system is standard with the manual turbodiesel drivetrain.

The brand will also introduce a top-end hard-topped limited-edition model that will be auto-only, with leather trim, 18-inch alloy wheels and a six CD sound system among the standard fare.

Standard features in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler include driver and front-passenger air bags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with off-road mode, stability and traction control, hill-start and descent control systems, climate control, a six-speaker sound system, 17in wheels and a tyre pressure warning system.

Chrysler Australia managing director Clyde Campbell said the brand recorded 12,000 in 2011 - its highest sales since 1994. "With impressive sales from star performers such as the new Compass and the segment-dominating Grand Cherokee, Jeep is off to a spectacular start in 2012 – a beginning that will be given even more substance with the new Wrangler," he said.

There's every chance that we'll see the new Dodge Dart at Northstar Dodge late 2013 or early 2014 if a business case can be built around the Holden Cruze sized vehicle. Given the limited number of right hand drive markets world wide, Dodge markets such as South Africa, UK, Japan and Australia need to commit to enough volume to make the decision worthwhile for us.

Dodge is missing an attractively priced passenger vehicle since the Avenger was disontinued in 2008, but the Dodge Journey continues to sell well whilst Nitro and Caliber are now in short supply. Dodge fans would love to see a larger suite of products, such as Charger and Challenger, along with Viper to flesh out the brand

At Northstar Dodge, we've continued to have success with Nitro, we sold every Caliber that we could get our hands on and Journey sells well when we can get the limited stock available, such is the attraction of such is the attraction of this vehicle.

2012 Jeep Wrangler: first drive review
by Bob Aldons - Northstar Jeep Brisbane

Thanks to Chris Riley from News Limited, you're seeing the embryo of a unbelievable looking vehicle currently under 'construction' for my Jeep General Manager, Cameron Semark.

Cameron has started build on a four door Wrangler in Crush - the orange colour featured in the story below. BUT - picture the total vehicle in this colour, with 25 inch Mopar wheels with Orange highlights, with leather interior (orange of course) with a 2" lift kit, lots of chrome and other coloured bits - even the springs will be colour coded.

Cameron and his team at Northstar Jeep have this insane ability to transform a standard vehicle into a thing of beauty - a bit like West Coast Custom - they're not cheap, but being an individual is what it's all about. I'll look forward to the Jeep Wrangler Crusher getting finished - bring it on. And oh, a free bottle of Orange Fanta with every Wrangler sold.

Chris' final comments: "Despite its flaws like everyone we've got a bit of soft spot for the Wrangler. It's great fun for a weekend, but less so as a daily driver where it lacks the cut and thrust for city driving (and those big chunky tyres will be expensive to replace). Your choice"

Chris my man. It's a bloody Jeep - you don't buy it for round town use, you buy it to go off road! or to be seen driving round town, to the school, to the local, to be seen in it - and then you go off road. Don't hold back Chris. We'll invite you to have a go with our Crusher - or whatever cool name that Cameron comes up with.  

By Chris Riley - News Limited Community Newspapers

The Jeep Wrangler is an American icon. It's been produced in essentially the same form since 1941 when it was created for the US Army. The concept has been refined along the way of course, with the addition of a four-door model a few years ago but they all sit behind the same trademark, seven-bar radiator grille that identifies the brand.

Because it's an icon and has awesome off road ability, many people feel obliged to cut it some slack, when really the design could do with a major overhaul. More than anything else it needs to be much safer in the context of modern motor vehicles.

WHY?

If you like the great outdoors and love getting away from it all, then this could be the one. The Wrangler is a purpose-built recreational 4x4 that offers the best `out of the box' off road experience available. You'll be able to get places the others dream about and not have to worry about breaking your car.

WHY NOT?

If you're not planning to take this car off road, perhaps you should think again. That's the Wrangler's prime role in life and apart from the machismo it bestows it could disappoint as a road car, especially if you're contemplating the wagon as the primary means of family transport. It's big, not very manoeuvrable and not particularly safe.

THE ALTERNATIVES

Land Rover's Defender springs to mind as does the Toyota FJ Cruiser (the funny looking one). The Defender however is more agricultural, designed with functionality in mind for the armed forces and government agencies. It doesn't offer a very pleasant on-road experience.

The FJ is worth a look. Based on the Prado it is a very capable off roader, but sadly does not offer a diesel like the Prado. We recommend diesels not just for their economy, but also the extra torque that makes driving more pleasant.

WHAT'S NEW?

The big news is the Pentastar petrol V6, a replacement for the hoary old 3.8 which had a thirst that was not commensurate with its modest power output. The new DOHC 3.6-litre V6 is lighter, more compact and delivers much more respectable performance,  with a power output of 209kW and 347Nm of torque.

The other big news is the new five-speed auto, replacing the previous four-speed. It's a much better thing and allows the driver to change gears manually. The 2.8 litre four cylinder turbo diesel carries over with 147kW and up to 460Nm of torque depending on transmission. There's also a six-speed manual. What we're really waiting to see however is the new V M Motori diesel from Grand Cherokee  that would be nice.

THE DRIVE

Not as bad as you might think. The V6 promises faster acceleration and better economy. The suspension is stiff and bouncy at times, but still manages to do an acceptable job of soaking up the bumps. The steering is vague and really needs to be addressed, and it sitting high and heavy it tends to run wide in corners with too much speed.

Off road it's fantastic fun. It will bounce and grind its way up just about anything. Nothing seems to too great a challenge. Fuel economy for the V6 ranges from 11.4 to 12.0 litres/100k for the manual two-door and four-door auto. The diesel ranges from 7.1 to 8.8 litres/100km.

SAFETY

Jeep claims four stars for safety in US crash tests, but it has not been tested here yet. Two airbags are standard along with anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Brake Assist, All-Speed Traction Control (ASTC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) and Brake Locking Differentials (BLD).

GOODIES

New colours. Revised axles ratios for more extreme off road. Option of body coloured roof panels and wheel arch flares. Tyre pressured monitoring and climate airconditioning standard across the range. Prices range from $32,000 through to $48,000 for the top of the range Rubicon.

VERDICT

Despite its flaws like everyone we've got a bit of soft spot for the Wrangler. It's great fun for a weekend, but less so as a daily driver where it lacks the cut and thrust for city driving (and those big chunky tyres will be expensive to replace). Your choice.

JEEP WRANGLER 2012

Price: from $32,000

Warranty: 3 years, 100,000km with Jeep roadside assistance

Service interval: 12,000km or 6-months

Thirst: 1.2 L/100km (manual) 11.3L/100km (auto), CO2 259g/km (manual) 263g/km (auto) - (OOPS Typo Chris)

Safety equipment: Airbags, ABS, ESC, HSA, ERM

Crash rating: N/A

Engine: Pentastar 3.6-litre V6, 209kW/347Nm

Transmission: 6-speed manual standard, 6-speed auto optional, 4WD

Body: Four-door, 5 seats

Dimensions: 4751mm (L); 1877mm (W); 1840mm (H); 2947mm (WB)

Weight: 2540kg

Tyres: 245/75R17, 17-inch aluminium painted satin carbon wheels.

By Bob Aldons    - Northstar Dodge

If there's an assurance that I can give you dear reader is that the car I saw in late 2010 looked a lot nicer than this one. However, with due deference to the Hot Wheels people, and whilst historically they are pretty close to the finished design, I think the vehicle to be shown at the New York motor show in April will not be maroon - suspect that bright red will be the colour of choice. And won't that make a difference.

Any way you put it, the SRT Viper will be the hot car at the show - Americans love for muscle cars hasn't diminished even with their gas at $4.00 a gallon.

Will it come here? Probably not for a while and even then, if it does, only in very limited numbers and to specialized dealers. I'd suggest that some will make their way here via the low volume importers and then be converted from left to right . Price for this way - circa $200k

2013 SRT Viper Hot Wheels die cast model leaked image

Images of a Hot Wheels die cast model for the new 2013 SRT Viper have surfaced on a Viper forum site. It follows an initial thumbnail picture that surfaced a couple of weeks ago and gives our best look yet at the next generation muscle car.

The Hot Wheels model cars are built to be exact replicas of the production cars and it is well known that they generally get a sneak peak at the styling of upcoming models before the rest of the world. Therefore, if the images attached to this article turn out to be authentic, we can expect to see the 2013 Viper looking very similar to this.

All will be revealed closer to the model's scheduled unveiling at the New York Auto Show in April.

By Bob Aldons - Northstar Dodge

Whilst we don't get the Dodge Challenger down under, there's a great hope that the next generation of Dodge muscle car will be designed in RH drive. Sergio Marchionne has said time and time again that for Chrysler Fiat to be a truly global car company it needs to offer their products to the world.

Here's hoping

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition

Could ride on a new rear-wheel platform

According to a recent report, Chrysler is developing a new Barracuda to replace the Dodge Challenger.

Motor Trend says the model will be significantly smaller than the Challenger and eschew its retro-inspired styling. It could also ride on a new rear-wheel platform that is separate from the one used on the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300. If this pans out, the architecture could be used on several upcoming Alfa Romeos including a sports car, a coupe and a sedan.

We're taking everything with a grain of salt, but the magazine says the ‘Cuda could eventually be sold under the SRT brand.

Source: Motor Trend

I had the unique opportunity to see the soon to be released Viper in late 2010 at the international Chrysler Dealer Conference. It was breathtaking and my only wish that we'd get to see it in Australia. What Hope? Not too much, but Sergio Marchionne did indicate that it was a world car.

The new Viper will get an exclusive Stryker Logo replacing the traditional Dodge Ram head. Does this mean a new high performance division within Chrysler? Your guess is as good as mine, but one thing's for sure, the Viper SRT will be a stonker - 8.7 litre V10 engine with plenty of go, reputed to be 450kw. Chrysler Super Car. OORA

Stryker logo gives 2013 SRT Viper some venom

SRT Viper logo progression

A short time ago, SRT released a first teaser image of the new 2013 Viper and one of the interesting aspects of the teaser was the logo that was central to the image. This logo has now been revealed by Chrysler's performance division as the Stryker.

They have also used the opportunity to show the previous incarnations of the fanged viper for comparison. It started with the Sneaky Pete that ran from 1992 up until 2002 before being replaced by the Fangs which were a mainstay until 2010.

We will get our first chance to see the new logo on the front of the 2013 SRT Viper when it is unveiled at the New York Auto Show in April.