V8-X Posted December 9, 2011 Share Posted December 9, 2011 (edited) Here are the 2011 J.D. Power VOSS results from the U.K., Germany, and France: Hmmm. So #10 on the UK list. But below industry average for Germany and France. Doesn't show so good in my eyes. EDIT: And makes you wonder why Ford (who is below industry average on 2 of 3, and barely above on the 3rd) want to keep bringing those vehicles to the states. I know, I know, One Ford. Edited December 9, 2011 by V8-X Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mark B. Morrow Posted December 9, 2011 Share Posted December 9, 2011 You see where Ford's at on all those charts? C1/EUCD may be good designs, but I have my doubts about Ford's EU suppliers and their manufacturing processes. It could be worse, see where Fiat is. Ouch! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RichardJensen Posted December 9, 2011 Share Posted December 9, 2011 makes you wonder why Ford (who is below industry average on 2 of 3, and barely above on the 3rd) want to keep bringing those vehicles to the states. Three reasons in decreasing orders of plausibility: 1 - Mulally puts through the order: 'we're going with global architectures on global segments', and the company hasn't the money or the time to engineer new products that use North America's superior manufacturing methods and supplier base (and really, it's not even up for debate--NA's manufacturing & supplier base post Hinrichs/Padilla was leagues better than EU). So: 2 - The newest and best coordinated global platforms (C1 & EUCD) are selected as foundations for the global platforms, as the most doable if not the best possible scenario. These become C2 & CD4. 3 - Ford budgets less time for these transitions than they should have because they minimized the gap between NA & EU in terms of quality expectations and ability to resolve carryover issues from EU. My suspicion is that moving from C170 version 2.0 (2008+ Focus) to C2 involved significant steps backwards in terms of the actual assembly steps, even if the overall assembly sequence is superior. Take, for instance, how you design a head unit in terms of installation. How many seconds will it take? How many motions? How many awkward motions? etc. I have a suspicion that Ford took a step backwards by going to C2, and that this is seen in some of the issues with the Focus. Further, I have doubts that these issues (if they exist) will be fully corrected on CD4, although they should be less of an issue. The *next* global platforms--CD5 & C3 should combine the close relationship of C1 & EUCD with the better manufacturing engineering practices developed in NA and applied to CD3, D3, and the C170 2.0 Focus. Anyway, that's just my theory. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ovaltine Posted December 10, 2011 Share Posted December 10, 2011 I wonder if they'll resurrect the (mandatory - for a Dart or Duster) passenger-side fresh air vent "box", that held either 8 beers or a fifth of your favorite liquor? A very nice feature for keeping these ice cold during the cooler months! Anyone else old enough on here to remember this "feature" on those cars? It was just too convenient not to have been designed for that purpose. :shades: -Ovaltine Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
papilgee4evaeva Posted December 10, 2011 Share Posted December 10, 2011 Dart, huh? Better than Neon, although the last ones weren't so bad. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silvrsvt Posted December 11, 2011 Share Posted December 11, 2011 Better than Neon, although the last ones weren't so bad. Neon was pretty decent, as long as you didn't crash it...LOL Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sullynd Posted December 11, 2011 Share Posted December 11, 2011 I wonder if they'll resurrect the (mandatory - for a Dart or Duster) passenger-side fresh air vent "box", that held either 8 beers or a fifth of your favorite liquor? A very nice feature for keeping these ice cold during the cooler months! Well the Caliber it's replacing has it: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blazerdude20 Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 http://forums.motortrend.com/70/9006927/the-general-forum/dodge-dart-interior-revealed/index.html Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mettech Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 http://forums.motort...aled/index.html The new Dart is going to be very interesting to watch over time. Inside looks top notch. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lfeg Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 I like some of what I am reading on this new Dart, especially the interior having more than the typical 3 or 4 bland washed out color choices most cars have today. And actual engine choices! I thought those went away with buggy whips. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anthony Posted December 13, 2011 Author Share Posted December 13, 2011 (edited) Press Release (emphasis added for those who like to scan) Full Gallery of teaser images at YouJoint.com All-new 2013 Dodge Dart Interior Sets New Standard for Compact Cars A Modern Blend of Precision Craftsmanship, State-of-the-art Technology & Safety, Exciting Bursts of Color and Hand-sculpted Shapes Create a Highly Customizable Interior New Dodge Dart built with materials and precision craftsmanship typically found in more expensive vehicle segments Customization is key – Dodge offers thousands of ways to personalize the Dart Available high-tech features include class-exclusive customizable 7-inch gauge cluster, 8.4-inch Uconnect® touchscreen, heated steering wheel and illuminated floating island bezel Class-leading safety – Dodge Dart's 10 standard airbags are unsurpassed in the compact car segment The Dodge brand is giving a sneak peek into the high-tech, precisely crafted and highly customizable interior of its all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. Scheduled to be introduced Jan. 9 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the new Dodge Dart's interior sets a new standard for compact cars. Setting a New Standard – Quality & Spaciousness Dodge designers focused on creating a modern blend of precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology, exciting bursts of color and hand-sculpted shapes when designing the Dart's interior, which is made with materials and technology typically found in more expensive vehicle segments. Starting with modern Dodge DNA, and through the use of innovative ambient interior lighting, high-quality soft-touch materials and high-tech features, the 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected delights for both drivers and passengers. The Dart's "driver-centric" layout is designed to put all controls within easy reach of the driver. Customizable displays and comfort-tuned seats are packaged in an exceptionally spacious, pleasing interior. Packaged in the footprint of a compact car, the 2013 Dodge Dart features the interior spaciousness of a mid-sized sedan, and it boasts best-in-class hip and shoulder room. Unmatched Customization Customization was key in the all-new Dodge Dart's development, and with 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color and trim combinations, six wheel options, three engine options and three transmissions, each Dodge Dart can be personalized by every buyer to fit their individual style. And the combinations are multiplied exponentially, as Mopar will also offer hundreds of customization options and themed packages specifically developed for the Dart. Class-leading Technology The high-tech centerpiece of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is the class-exclusive floating island bezel, which houses the segment-exclusive available 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster display with light pipe surround that also houses the available class-exclusive UConnect® Touch 8.4-inch touchscreen multimedia center – the largest touchscreen in its class. Thoughtful storage options throughout fit today's technology. The glove box easily conceals a stowed iPad; the center console features auxiliary jacks to plug in a wide variety of electronic devices, and thoughtful, inventive storage solutions, such as console map pockets, which are perfect for storing mobile phones, receipts, or pen and paper. Lighting in all the right places provides drivers and passengers a warm, comfortable cockpit. Available "racetrack" lighting surrounds the floating island bezel. Ambient lighting for the door handles, map pockets, foot wells, glove box, storage bin and illuminated cup holders is both useful and provides a warm atmosphere inside the vehicle. Unmatched Safety Safety was also at the forefront in the development of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart. Built on a strong foundation, constructed with 68 percent high-strength steel, engineers added both active and passive safety features, including 10 standard airbags, which is unsurpassed in the segment. The 2013 Dodge Dart is also the only car in its class to offer Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection. Edited December 13, 2011 by Intrepidatious Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anthony Posted December 13, 2011 Author Share Posted December 13, 2011 (edited) Sharp eyes noted that it looks as if there will be a hatchback model (most likely): - Rear Wiper switch Edited December 13, 2011 by Intrepidatious Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silvrsvt Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 The interior looks decent, but I'm not sure about that lighting surround on the dash...sounds like it could be distracting. At least it looks like it will be pretty competive in the compact market place... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fordmantpw Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 The interior looks decent, but I'm not sure about that lighting surround on the dash...sounds like it could be distracting. That's what I'm thinking too. It looks cool, and will draw people in, but I think it may get annoying after a while. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anthony Posted December 13, 2011 Author Share Posted December 13, 2011 That's what I'm thinking too. It looks cool, and will draw people in, but I think it may get annoying after a while. I'm sure it can be turned off. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chevys Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 I kinda like this car. Cant wait to see more details. Nice to see the engine options ect... I remember the old Darts. My Dad had one with a slant 6. It was a company car and was reliable for its time. They then went to Dodge Aspens/volares and those were the worst built cars of my memory. His exact words were " and this is why I have never and will never buy a Chryco product". As bad as the Fords and Chevys were in this era the dodges were far worse. This segment is getting competitive as all get out. I would actually take a look at one and thats coming from a person who has never even considered a Dodge. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
156n3rd Posted December 13, 2011 Share Posted December 13, 2011 I kinda like this car. Cant wait to see more details. Nice to see the engine options ect... I remember the old Darts. My Dad had one with a slant 6. It was a company car and was reliable for its time. They then went to Dodge Aspens/volares and those were the worst built cars of my memory. His exact words were " and this is why I have never and will never buy a Chryco product". As bad as the Fords and Chevys were in this era the dodges were far worse. This segment is getting competitive as all get out. I would actually take a look at one and thats coming from a person who has never even considered a Dodge. I certainly would not disrespect your father as everyone has a right to their opinion. ALL American cars were pretty crappy in the 1970's. I went through several GM's before buying Fords which help up very well. But my 1966 Dodge Dart was in my top 5 (and I've owned over 30 since 1969) cars that I've ever owned. The Aspen/Diplomats were garbage, it's true. But Chrysler has been whacky ever since. I am on my second PTCruiser and it doesn't measure up to the first. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BORG Posted December 14, 2011 Share Posted December 14, 2011 Loving the look of the cabin, especially the tech. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
twintornados Posted December 14, 2011 Share Posted December 14, 2011 The interior looks decent, but I'm not sure about that lighting surround on the dash...sounds like it could be distracting. What does light "sound" like? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fordmantpw Posted December 14, 2011 Share Posted December 14, 2011 What does light "sound" like? Depends on whether or not it is in a vacuum. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anthony Posted December 14, 2011 Author Share Posted December 14, 2011 Depends on whether or not it is in a vacuum. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jasonj80 Posted December 14, 2011 Share Posted December 14, 2011 It is sounding and looking like a very nice car. Wonder if Ford is going to update the Focus to 10 airbags and bring over some of the other tech items on the Euro Focus to make sure it can at least optionally have the same features. (BLIS, Adaptive Cruise, street sign recognition) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silvrsvt Posted December 14, 2011 Share Posted December 14, 2011 What does light "sound" like? :P Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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