Details on the upcoming compact and midsize carsby David Zatz on March 1, 2011 at 11:50 am EST From 2012 to 2014, Chrysler will be replacing much of its current lineup with new cars based on the new CUSW platform, adapted from Fiat’s C-EVO dimensions. Most CUSW cars, including replacements for the current Dodge Avenger, Chrysler 200, and Dodge Caliber, will use a brand new nine-speed automatic; Chrysler will be the first company to use this transmission, which is expected to cut gas consumption by up to 11% (versus current six-speed automatics). The ZF nine-speed will be used in many compact and midsized cars, starting in 2013, probably coming standard with the V6 engines. It will be made by Chrysler in Kokomo, under license; Chrysler may be obtaining some units directly from ZF if it cannot produce enough in Indiana. Smaller cars powered by engines with less torque, such as the four-cylinder gas engines, will use Fiat’s dual-clutch transmission, which is much more efficient than most hydraulic automatics. A recent Chrysler publication noted that 70% of the body structure in cars based on this platform will be high-strength metals. (Thanks, Ghost175) Share me!RedditFacebookTwitterMorePrintTumblrLinkedInGoogle