To determine a winner, we considered the performance data we collected over the week, sifted through the various specs and information about each truck, measured the value they offered to owners, and added in our own driving impressions. We logged a lot of miles and a lot of time in each truck, and if this was just about performance numbers, fuel economy and payload, our choices might well be different. But it wasn’t. This test is about much more than that — specifically, which truck gives us the most capabilities, the most creature comforts and the fewest compromises for our $30,000 price tag? Which is the most truck for our money? Which of these five competitors would force us to make the fewest concessions while doing all the things we like and have to do? With that said, here are our results. 5th Place: Chevy Silverado 1500 The Silverado is the second-oldest model in the segment and in need of powertrain, chassis and styling upgrades. The Silverado just barely qualified for this test by offering crank windows, manual door locks, manual mirrors, rubber floormats, no key fob and rear drum brakes. And you still have to write that $30,000 check anyway. While there’s something very satisfying about driving a work truck the way your dad (or granddad) did, the Silverado should have a value package combination that was closer in features to the Ram 1500. 4th Place: Nissan Titan You have to take your hat off to a truck that can be completely ignored for a long time that still manages to hold its own in a competition like this. The Titan is the oldest truck in the segment, and it suffers from trying too much to be like other players, without making any attempt to stand out. In fact, it didn’t win a single competitive event. The suspension and ride are probably its best features, but the interior needs a major overhaul, and the exterior styling is beginning to look dated. A six-speed (or higher) gearbox would also help improve fuel economy. 3rd Place: 2011 Ford F-150 Ford’s decision to send us a regular cab for this test was bold, if not crazy, but we’re guessing the Ford people thought they had more to gain by sending a well-equipped XLT than sending a stripped-down version like the Silverado. We’re not sure if they were right, but if that’s what allowed them to include the 5.0-liter V-8, it was probably the right thing to do. The engine impressed everyone. What didn’t impress us was the strange choice of an integrated brake controller (do regular cabs tow much?), and why include the ta
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From Interstate Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM:

“Chrysler’s Jeep division… unveiled the second generation Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the New York International Auto Show, heralding a new era of high performance SUVs.

Offering 465 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is by far the most powerful Jeep ever offered. As a result, Jeep says that it should be capable of sprinting to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with a mid-13 second quarter mile figure. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

That power comes courtesy of an all-new 6.4-liter HEMI V8 that builds on the outgoing 6.1-liter model by offering an additional 45 horsepower and 45 lb-ft. of torque. Chrysler says that its engineers worked especially hard to make 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque available between 2,800 and 6,000 rpm.

To reduce fuel consumption, an active valve exhaust system cuts out four cylinders, which Jeep says helps increase fuel economy by 13 percent on the highway. Combined with a large gas tank, Jeep says the Grand Cherokee SRT8 should be capable of a 450 mile range.

Inside, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 gains steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to control the five-speed automatic transmission.

Jeep says it worked hard to further refine the Grand Cherokee SRT8′s handling by building on the all-new WK2 platform with a new Selec-Track traction-enhancing system. With a name that conjures up images of Jeep’s SelecTrac transfer case, the new Selec-Track interacts with the stability control, adaptive damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, electronic limited slip differential, throttle control and cylinder de-activation. Five modes – Auto, Sport, Tow, Track and Snow – ensure ideal traction for any situation. Unlike the previous Grand Cherokee SRT8, the new SUV is designed to be used year round for a variety of uses – even towing.

A single-speed transfer case sends power between the front and rear wheels. Uprated power steering and Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes help the Grand Cherokee maintain control. Jeep says that the new SUV will stop from 60 mph in just 112 feet.”

-Left Lane News

Interstate Dodge Chrysler Jeep offers many automotive products and services to our Monroe area customers. From quality new Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler vehicles to used cars, we know anyone looking for a vehicle in the Monroe region will likely find what they want at our dealership. We carry a comprehensive line of Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler vehicles, including the Ram 1500, Challenger, Journey, Wrangler Unlimited and 300, making us a good choice as your greater Monroe Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler car dealer.

Our services include trusted Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler car repair, original Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler parts, and financing to help our customers purchase the car of their dreams.

Call Interstate Dodge Chrysler Jeep, or come visit us in person. We’re conveniently located at 701 Constitution Drive and look forward to helping you with your automotive needs.