Blog

2015 Chrysler 200 Features Prepare to be impressed. The 2015 Chrysler 200 has been completely redesigned for the new model year, and we think this is one of the most innovative and game-changing sedans to come out in a long time. Here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, we're proud to offer this model to our customers throughout the region, and are pleased to say it's been a popular model for people to test drive and purchase. What makes this car so unique and worth checking out? Today we'll go over some of the 2015 Chrysler 200 features that make it such a distinctive model in today's competitive midsize sedan market. more Excellent features in the 2015 Chrysler 200 Class exclusive transmission: One distinguishing characteristic of the 2015 Chrsyler 200 is that it's the first in its class to offer a 9-speed transmission. This allows for a smooth, comfortable ride, but further still helps the 2015 Chrysler 200 achieve its highly competitive fuel economy numbers of up to 36 miles per gallon as estimated by the EPA. Two great engine options: When you choose the 2015 Chrysler 200, you still have some important decisions to make. Among them, do you go for the standard 2.4-liter MultiAir2 Tigershark I-4 engine or the upgraded 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Opt for the base engine and you'll get  184 horsepower and 173 pound feet of torque -- competitive with much of the segment -- or go for the V6 and now you're up to 295 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Comfortable space with great storage options Superior comfort and convenience. One thing 2015 Chrysler 200 customers say again and again when checking out this model is how surprisingly well-crafted and inviting everything is in the car's interior. From high-quality materials to excellent technology and innovative storage like the versatile center console, the 2015 Chrysler 200 is designed with happy passengers in mind. Want to test drive the new 2015 Chrysler 200 and see what we mean when we say that this model is something out of the ordinary? Call or stop by and see us today at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine!

Do more than ever in the 2015 Ram 1500 2015 Ram 1500 mpg Details for the new 2015 Ram 1500 have recently been announced, and we're thrilled to be bringing another solid model year's worth of trucks for the drivers of Racine and the surrounding areas to shop for and make the most of! Want to know what to expect from this year's model? While the award-winning pickup hasn't been redesigned for the new year, it's gotten a few improvements and continues to be a major competitor in one of the toughest segments in the auto world. We'll talk about the 2015 Ram 1500 mpg, powertrain options, towing capacity, and more! more The Power of EcoDiesel First up is fuel economy. If you end up going for the widely-celebrated 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel, you're looking at a class-leading 28 highway mpg, which is a phenomenal number for a full-size pickup. Certainly many area drivers with some distance to travel regularly will want to seriously consider this option. Another great pick if you're not into the diesel thing is the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 which gets you best-in-class gas fuel economy of 25 highway mpg. Yup -- That's best in class for two engines! What else can you get in your 2015 Ram 1500 for an engine? A V8, of course! The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 gets an incredible 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy on the V6 and V8 models are improved by Variable Valve Timing (VVT)   How about towing? The Ram 1500 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel can tow up to 9,200 lbs, and the V8 has a maximum towing capacity of 10,450 pounds when properly equipped. It's safe to say that if you're looking at full-size pickup for towing, there's something in the 2015 Ram 1500 lineup that'll have you covered. Want to be among the first to test drive and own the new 2015 Ram 1500 in Racine WI? Give us a call or schedule a test drive online and we'll let you know as soon as we've got them in stock. In the meantime, check out our current stock of Ram trucks for you to choose from and let us know if there's one you'd like to drive!

Can you eat and drive in Wisconsin? "Alright, now show me a parallel park." "Did someone say cheese fries?" Back in driver's ed (pictured above, that poor hungry girl) we learned a lot about paying attention while on the road. However, with so many drive-thru fast food options and the go-go-go nature of so many of our lives, it's likely that nobody ever specifically said to us "Don't eat and drive." Not even our well-meaning driver's ed instructor. It's always been generally accepted that it's a thing people do - your parents probably did it! How could they ever be wrong? Well... Alright so let's cut to the legality of the thing: Can you eat and drive in Wisconsin? Will you get pulled over for biting into your cheeseburger? No, but that doesn't mean it can't get you in trouble. more You can probably eat cheese while driving. You're an expert. Distracted driving is definitely a punishable offense if it causes an accident. After all, you're neglecting your number one job when behind the wheel -- to pay attention! So while your curly fries won't single-handedly land you in the cop shop or service center, that which results in your paying more attention to them than the road certainly could. So are we saying you should never put any food in your mouth while operating a motor vehicle? Not necessarily. Let's say you're cruising along in your Jeep, you've got some snack crackers in the center console, and you can reach into the bag and snack on a few while at a stop light or making your merry way along a sparsely-populated highway. Chances are, no big deal.     We love fruit, too, but can't it wait til you get home? But if you're in heavy traffic, gripping the wheel, yelling at the kids, and biting into a big gooey donut... Yikes. Don't do that. The donut can wait. We dare say maybe even the yelling can wait (though maybe it really can't -- we'll leave you to do the parenting). In any case, the bottom line is that while you are allowed to eat behind the wheel, it's your responsibility to do so in away that doesn't inhibit your ability to pay full attention to the task at hand. There are many distracted driving dangers nowadays, and we really don't want you to be a perpetrator or a victim of any of them. We're safety folks here at Palmen, what can we say?

Does the Dodge Dart have a sunroof? Looks mighty sunny in there... The Dodge Dart is one of those cars that can be deceiving at first. Is it super economical or incredibly tech-forward and feature-rich? You've got to pick one of those options, right? Turns out, you don't! This is one model that really defies that need to choose and kicks it right to the curb. So now you must be wondering: Just how good do these features get? Is there a touchscreen available? Does the Dodge Dart have a sunroof? How about heated seats? You might find yourself surprised to learn what's offered in the 2014 Dodge Dart! more Where ya headed? The Dart will help you get there! We'll start with what comes standard on the base model. For a low starting price on these new models,  you can expect a six-way driver's seat, power windows, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and mp3 compatibility among many great features. Move on up into the higher trims like the SXT, Aero, GT, and Limited, and that's where the Dart's full and impressive range really starts to take shape and shine. Yes, there's an available touchscreen along with Bluetooth voice commands, SiriusXM Satellite radio compatibility, navigation by Garmin, and so much more. You'll definitely be impressed by what's an option when you start to explore the various iterations of this year's Dart. Here comes the sun!   How about that sunroof? Yes! It's available as an option on the SXT and GT models, and comes standard on the Limited. Let the day come in and ride with you with power express open and close functions when you choose one of these great models. Ready to learn more about the Dodge Dart in Racine WI or maybe take one for a test drive? It's as easy as setting up an appointment and making your way here!

2015 Dodge Viper price The 2015 Dodge Viper SRT is one of the most gorgeous vehicles we've seen in a while, and we hope our other models don't hear us say that. It's true, though. From the impossibly sleek lines to its low, utterly-in-control stance, there's really not much to argue with in terms of what this red hot model presents to the admiring eyes that would certainly trail it everywhere -- if only they could keep up. Alright, but before we "ooh" and "ahh" over a series of pictures of it (and rest-assured, we will do that) we'll get some business out of the way. For example, the 2015 Dodge Viper price. It's probably better than you think. more Alright so the starting MSRP recently announced by Dodge is $84,995. Now while that's not small potatoes (seriously, think of how many potatoes you can get for just five dollars... the Viper is maybe the whole state of Wisconsin covered in potatoes only much better to look at), it's important to put things in perspective. The Viper that was released in 1992 was about 50 grand, and believe it or not today's price is about the same when adjusted for inflation! An iconic, legendary, incredible performance machine (that gets you over 600 horsepower!) for the same price as over twenty years ago? Yes! Okay, now let's look at it! Is it just us, or is the Viper not looking particularly stealthy here? Living up to its serpentine name only translates to good things on the open road. This silver color with the black stripes really makes a statement, and it's one we'd like to hear every morning when we step into the garage! Vroom! While this probably isn't anywhere near where we'd like to be seated when the 2015 Dodge Viper approaches, we certainly wouldn't kick out a chance to be behind the wheel at this point. The Viper may look a little angry here, but we'd be as happy as can be at the helm of this gorgeous road beast. Were we to own a dilapidated barn, we might be tempted to park our purple 2015 Dodge Viper SRT inside of it, just to see if we could tempt fate into destroying what is undoubtedly the coolest thing we've ever owned. Because fate never does that sort of thing to good people. Right? That's how the world works? Well, if you're saddling up to become the owner of one of these new Dodge Vipers - and they should be out right around early next year - give us a call and we'll talk about how we might be able to help you out with that worthy endeavor.

Great Lakes Brew Fest 2014 Racine WI 2014 tickets are still on sale! Go here! Here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, we're always happy to sponsor local events that represent our great community so well. And while we certainly love those more laid-back or charity-focused events, we're also not one to turn down a party! Did someone say beer festival? Yes, this year we're proud to sponsor the Great Lakes Brew Fest 2014 in Racine, and we've got plenty of details for you about the event right here on our blog. more When and where is the 2014 Great Lakes Brew Fest? It's coming right up -- This Saturday, September 13th 2014. The festival will be held at the Racine Zoological Gardens right here in Racine - that's at 200 Goold Street. There will be shuttles available from area hotels and other locations, and you can get those built right into your ticket price! Alright, so what's it going to cost you and what do you get for your admission? Fine questions! Regular admission will be $49, which includes general admission, a Fest pint glass, and of course, unlimited sampling of the brews on tap! So whos' brewin' it up for this thing? Take a look at these great breweries which are only a fraction of those you'll be able to sample: And don't you dare forget the cider! For the full list, check this out. Can you bring your kids? Nope, sorry! This is one event that's open only to those 21 and older. What can I eat at the Fest to help soak up all the delicious beer I intend to sample? Ah, now this one won't leave you disappointed! From chili cheese dogs to corn on the cob, pulled pork sandwiches to burritos and soft pretzels... let us put it this way: If you'd expect it at a beer festival in Wisconsin, it's probably going to be there. That obviously includes fried cheese curds. Any questions? Give us a call or go to the Brew Fest Website for more details? Or perhaps you'd like to learn more about the cars, trucks, and SUVs we have in stock here at Palmen Racine? Let us know!

Is the Jeep Wrangler good in snow? The Wrangler Polar is made with snowy days in mind, but how about the average Jeep Wrangler? Last year, Jeep brought you the Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition, which featured an icy exterior color as well as special features like 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, an available Tru-Lok electronic locker for the Dana 44 rear axel, and Bridgestone Dueler tires with aggressive tread. It was definitely ready for winter. How about the other versions, though? Is the Jeep Wrangler good in snow? Today we explore that question with a look at some of the standard and available features that might just help you get through another Wisconsin winter! more Here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, we think the Jeep Wrangler is a great choice for winter! Here are a few reasons why: It'll be toasty in here in no time! 1. Advanced drive- and powertrain. Every Jeep Wrangler, even the base model, comes standard with a V-6 engine and 4x4 drive type that allows you to conquer and grip the road most effectively. Many people in Wisconsin prefer a vehicle with a little more capability than the average sedan, and the Wrangler is a solid choice in that regard. 2. High clearance. The Jeep Wrangler sits a little taller than some of its counterparts in the crossover/SUV game, and that can give you a distinct advantage in winter. Anyone who's ever been stuck in deep snow or helped someone else out of it (so probably just about everyone in the state!) knows what we mean here. It's a familiar sight for many of us, but it doesn't need to be scary for drivers. 3. Good heating system. Wranglers are known for how quickly they warm up, and that's worth a lot to many drivers who don't want to shiver and see their breath for half of the morning commute. Even those who opt for a soft-top Wrangler will be impress with how warm it gets inside -- and then of course be grateful for the ease of the soft top once another one of our gorgeous summers rolls around. If you think a Jeep Wrangler might be just what you need this winter, give us a call here at Palmen and we'll get you behind the wheel for a test drive!

2015 Chrysler Town and Country Changes The outside maybe familiar, but some big changes have come to this family favorite. Thinking about checking out the new-for-2015 Chrysler Town and Country in Racine? Here at Palmen, we're thrilled to be getting this new model in stock soon to join the current 2014 Town and Country models for you to choose from. Today on the blog we want to give you an advanced glimpse of some of the 2015 Chrysler Town and Country changes that you can expect from this model, particularly the two new trim levels that you'll be able to decide on, should they fit your needs and budget. more Inside the new T&C! As always, the Town & Country offers an array of great features that come standard, but in fact for this new model year the standard model has gotten even better. This new trim level, called the Town & Country LX, gives you more for your money at the base level than ever before. Features that come included with the LX include power sliding doors, 17-inch aluminum wheels, leather-trimmed seats, class-exclusive Stow 'n Go seating, and a ParkView rear backup camera which had once been only offered as an optional feature on the base model. Chrysler up its standard game on the Town & Country to try to reach a broader number of families looking for a capable, well-equipped vehicle for everyday transportation, vacations, projects, and more. Those shoppers looking for a more luxury experience will find more than ever in the all-new top trim, the 2015 Chrysler Town and Country Limited Platinum. Building on the current T&C Limited, the Limited Platinum is for those who really want to treat themselves and their passengers to something high-end and decked out. Blu-ray, anyone? In the new Limited Platinum trim, it's all yours! The Town & Country Limited Platinum trim level includes a dual-screen Blu-ray DVD system, Nappa premium leather adorning the interior, a power sunroof, standard navigation... believe it or not, we could actually go on! This is a gorgeous, well-appointed model that we genuinely look forward to getting our customers acquainted with. If you're interested in the Chrysler Town and Country, whether it's one of the new-for-2015 trim levels or one of the current models we've got in stock like the 30th Anniversary Edition, give us a call or drop us a line today!

Lebron James orange Jeep Exact model not shown. For pics of the Lebron Jeep, go here! If you're a fan of legendary NBA star LeBron James and Jeep vehicles, you may be saddened to know that a unique opportinity has just recently passed you by -- for now, at least (more on that later)! Last weekend in Willoughby Ohio, Lebron James' orange Jeep was made available in an auction by Fusco Auctions for its current owner -- who is the second to own it after LeBron. A worn jersey of the star athlete's was also auctioned off. more To be clear, it was actually a 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited that James had bought new and customized significantly. He originally paid $33,000 for the burnt orange Jeep, and put in another $33,000 is customizations. What did he do to improve and add value to the Jeep, which was slated to auction at a minimum reserve of $50,000? The Wrangler Unlimited's spacious interior only continues to improve. The orange and black interior was adorned with embroidered seats and headrests featuring Lebron's "King James" logo, which is of a lion wearing a crown on his head. The logo also appears in the center of the custom wheels. Lebron himself had only put about 1,000 miles on it, with just another few added by the current owner. So, what did the Lebron's orange Jeep sell for? It didn't! For now, the current owner will hang on to it, but stay tuned for future opportunities to own what might be the most fun and functional piece of memorabilia we can think of! Want your own Jeep Wrangler Unlimited but don't feel like you need it to be previously owned and customized by a huge basketball star? We can help you out with that -- Have a look through our selection online!

What to Do in Case of a Road Accident We aren’t calling the back luck. We just want to make sure that you have the tools necessary to stay safe even when an emergency happen. While on the road, the possibilities of something “out of the blue” coming your way are very real. But that shouldn't be a problem if you know what to do … and that is where we come in. Here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, we want to make sure that you know what to do in case of a road accident in order to keep you and your family and loved ones always safe. more Let's give them a good example. The best thing you can do is to keep calm and keep on driving. For example, if you find yourself drifting to the ride side of the road, don’t panic and try to maneuver the car like in an action movie. The sudden right-left-right-left movement of the tires might actually cause the car to run off the road or even flip. Just allow your vehicle to slow down, which will also give you time to regain calm. Be smooth and steer away. and .. let's just see what happens. We also recommend you to put it in neutral. Almost all passengers can do it as easily as the drivers. When does that work? When the accelerators might be stuck due to misplaced floor mats, or objects that shouldn’t really reach the driver’s side. All you have to remember is to stay calm - that’s when the ideas come in more clearly. Since every car has a blind spot, it is important that you make sure that in case of an accident you have perfect visibility so that that moment doesn’t become something worse. For that, you can even get a spotter. Get somebody with better visibility than you to tell you when to go, stop or if they are some objects on your way. Something like having a third eye but less weird. And remember that in case of an accident, always call the police. And don’t worry, any damage to you car, we will be glad to repair here at our service center. Give us a call and one of our expert representative will gladly set you up with an appointment. We are always here to help.

2014 Dodge Avenger in Racine WI The has come for you to enjoy the best of the best. No more wondering if you can get it all at once because with the 2014 Dodge Avenger, there is no doubt you will. We are talking about impressive technology, elegant lines and great efficiency on the road. There is no doubt that the 2014 Dodge Avenger in Racine WI will be your best option when it comes to a vehicle that does more than just “get you there.” more Let the light shine through The best thing about the 2014 Dodge Avenger is the fact that you have many options to choose from. From Granite Crystal to True Blue for the exterior painting, there is a special Avenger for everybody. Depending also on the model, you can select from an array of fabrics, colors, and options for the interior. "Modern" never had so much style. And this stylish design extends across this great model due to its extended capacity. In the case of only you and your date going out and about, the 2014 Dodge Avenger has the amazing 60/40 split seat, which allows the rear seat to become part of your trunk space! But don’t be confused. This great vehicle comes with 13.5 cubic-feet of cargo capacity. Let’s just say nothing needs to be left behind at home any more. Visibility is an aspect that we take seriously; there is nothing more important for us than you and your loved one’s safety. This is why we admire the 2014 Dodge Avenger’s Ring of Fire LED taillamps and halogen headlamps, which give you excellent light spread performance. And if technology is what is important for you, then the 2014 Dodge Avenger might just be your perfect fit. With the available Uconnect Touchscreen with Navigation and SiriusXM Travel Link, you will be able to stay focused on the road while getting information like movie showtimes, fuel stations and best pricings. And hold on there! The 2014 Dodge Avenger it’s not only an amazing transportation machine, but it also becomes a WiFi Spot! All we saying is you might want to talk to your landlord and simply move in to this amazing vehicle. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call and allow one of our expert sales representatives to arrange a test drive for you. It might change your life forever.

What to Do if Your Car Gets Stolen Sometimes we cannot help mayhem from happening. Somebody scratching one’s car, a miscalculated backup, children with baseball  bats close to our windshields or somebody deciding that your car should be theirs. Although it hurts to lose something so valuable like your vehicle, here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, we want to make sure that you know what to do if your car gets stolen in order to regain calm and have once again a sense of security. more It can happen to anybody First things first, you have to call the police. Don’t panic and just breath. We understand that some things in the heat of the moment, we don't know how to properly act in order to solve a problem. This is why it is wise to call the experts and let the police handle these type of situations. Remember that this is a serious emergency and calling the cops could help you get your car back! We just want to help you know what to do if it happens to you. We advise you to be as specific as you can when describing your automobile to the police. Tell them where it happened, the color of your car, license plate or any details that might help them identify it among the rest. You can also spread the word yourself by creating flyers about your stolen car and where people can reach you if they happen to see it. You can also search on the internet, not for your car but for pieces of it since this is what thieves often steal cars to sell theirs parts online. And last, but definitely not least, remember to always take valuables out of your car, like your wallet or driver’s license. It is not being negative … it’s being cautious. Remember that here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler of Racine, We strive to give you as many options and solutions as we can in and out of the dealer. So, give us a call. One of our expert sales representative s will be waiting to assist you.