Dodge Dart Aero Package Targets 41 mpg Highway for 2013
Chrysler Group claims the 2013 Dodge Dart Aero Package will deliver 41 mpg on the highway, positioning the compact saloon as a contender in the fuel economy race.
Chrysler Group has announced that the 2013 Dodge Dart, when equipped with the Aero Package, will achieve a manufacturer-claimed 41 miles per gallon on the highway. This figure was released ahead of official Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification, highlighting Chrysler’s focus on delivering improved fuel efficiency in the compact saloon segment.
Dodge Dart Aero Package: 41 mpg Highway Target
Engine and Transmission Details
The Dart Aero Package features a 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an engine shared with Fiat models. This unit produces 160 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. For the Aero Package’s top fuel economy, the engine must be paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Chrysler reports that the standard Dart with this engine returns 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, but with the Aero Package’s aerodynamic enhancements and low rolling resistance tyres, the highway figure rises to 41 mpg according to the company’s internal testing.
| Engine | 1.4-litre MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Power | 160 hp |
| Torque | 148 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Six-speed manual |
| Highway fuel economy | 41 mpg (claimed) |
The Aero Package’s fuel economy claim applies only to models fitted with the manual gearbox. The 1.4-litre engine is available with an automatic transmission in other trims, but the top economy figure is not quoted for that combination. The base Dart SE, by comparison, is powered by a 2.0-litre Tigershark engine, also producing 160 hp but with a different torque profile and without the same efficiency focus.
Pricing and Trim Structure
The 2013 Dodge Dart SE, the entry-level model, starts at $15,995 in the US market. Higher trim levels, such as the R/T, are priced up to $22,495. The Aero Package is positioned as an option for buyers who prioritise fuel economy over additional performance or luxury features. While the base SE uses the 2.0-litre Tigershark engine, the Aero Package is exclusively available with the 1.4-litre turbo engine.
Aero Package Features
To achieve its efficiency targets, the Aero Package incorporates a number of enhancements beyond the standard Dart. These include aerodynamic modifications designed to reduce drag, such as revised front and rear fascias, underbody panels, and a rear spoiler. Low rolling resistance tyres are also fitted to minimise energy loss and further improve fuel consumption. These changes are intended to help the Dart compete with other high-efficiency compact saloons, especially in a segment where many rivals were not yet offering hybrid technology at the time.
Market Context and Competition
The Dart’s 41 mpg highway claim places it among the most efficient non-hybrid compact saloons available in the US market in 2013. At launch, few direct competitors could match this level of highway fuel economy without the use of hybrid or diesel technology. The Dart’s underlying platform, derived from Fiat, is also used for the Fiat Viaggio in China, reflecting Chrysler’s efforts to leverage global engineering to meet varying market demands.
Chrysler’s focus on fuel economy with the Dart Aero Package aligns with tightening US fuel efficiency regulations and growing consumer demand for lower running costs. The company’s announcement came as the EPA’s official certification was still pending, so prospective buyers were advised to consult updated figures before making a purchase decision.
Dart Platform and Related Models
The 2013 Dodge Dart is notable for being built on a platform sourced from Fiat, marking a significant collaboration between Chrysler and its Italian partner. This platform underpins not only the Dart but also the Fiat Viaggio, which is produced and sold in China. The shared platform strategy allows Chrysler to benefit from Fiat’s engineering expertise, particularly in the area of efficient small cars. This approach was part of a broader trend in the industry, as manufacturers sought to reduce development costs and improve efficiency by sharing architectures across brands and global markets.
Consumer Considerations
For buyers considering the Dart Aero Package, the combination of a turbocharged engine, manual transmission, and aerodynamic enhancements offers a compelling option for those seeking high fuel efficiency in a conventional petrol-powered car. The package is targeted at drivers who value economy but do not wish to move to hybrid or diesel alternatives. Pricing for the Dart Aero Package is designed to be accessible, starting from the base SE model’s $15,995 price point and rising with additional features and trim levels.
At the time of Chrysler’s announcement, the Dart Aero Package had not yet received official EPA certification. Buyers are encouraged to consult the latest EPA ratings and consider real-world driving conditions, as manufacturer figures may differ from official or observed results.
