Do They Still Make the Dodge Dart?
The Dodge Dart is a compact car that was produced by FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) from 2012 to 2016. It was a significant attempt by the company to revive its compact car presence in the United States, a market dominated by imports from Japan and South Korea. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Dodge Dart, its successes and challenges, and whether they still make the Dodge Dart.
History of the Dodge Dart
The third generation of the Dodge Dart was introduced in 2012, as a response to the growing demand for fuel-efficient and affordable compact cars. The Dart was designed to compete with the likes of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf. The initial models were offered with a range of engines, including a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged turbocharged engine.
Features and Design
The Dodge Dart was known for its sleek and sporty design, with a bold front grille, flared fenders, and a sloping roofline. The interior was well-appointed, with comfortable seating for five passengers, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a range of safety features, including a reinforced passenger compartment and anti-lock brakes.
Safety and Fuel Economy
The Dodge Dart had a mixed safety record, with some models receiving four and five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The car’s fuel economy varied, with a best of 31 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, depending on the engine and transmission combination.
Challenges and Discontinuation
Despite its initial promise, the Dodge Dart faced significant challenges in the market. Sales were slower than expected, and the car struggled to differentiate itself from its competitors. In 2015, FCA announced that it would discontinue production of the Dart, citing low sales and high development costs. The last Dart rolled off the assembly line in January 2016.
Do They Still Make the Dodge Dart?
So, do they still make the Dodge Dart? The answer is simple – no. The Dodge Dart was discontinued in 2016, and there are no plans to revive the model. FCA has shifted its focus to other segments, such as the compact SUV market, where the Jeep Compass and Jeep Renegade have been successful.
Alternatives to the Dodge Dart
If you’re in the market for a compact car, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Hyundai Elantra: A well-regarded compact car with a range of engine options and advanced safety features.
- Honda Civic: A perennial bestseller, the Civic is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling.
- Volkswagen Golf: A European import, the Golf is praised for its comfort, handling, and premium feel.
Conclusion
The Dodge Dart was an ambitious attempt by FCA to crack the compact car market. While it had its strengths, such as a bold design and comfortable interior, it ultimately failed to gain traction with consumers. The car’s discontinuation was a sad end to a promising project, but FCA has since focused on other segments, where it has achieved greater success. If you’re in the market for a compact car, there are many alternatives to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.