Up Front

The new 2012 Fiat 500 is powered by a world-class 1.4-liter engine with state-of-the-art MultiAir™ technology. MultiAir significantly reduces emissions while improving fuel economy and power delivery when compared to similar engines.

Chrysler Group LLC recently introduced head-turning new-vehicle lineups at both the Los Angeles International Auto Show, held at the L.A. Convention Center on Nov. 17–28, 2010, and the North American International Auto Show, held at Detroit’s Cobo Center on Jan. 10–23, 2011. Beginning on p. 10, we’ll recap Fiat® brand's big coming out party and return to the North American market—after 27 years—with the reveal of the 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento). And, we’ll take the wraps off several new or redesigned Chrysler Group vehicles on display in L.A. and Detroit—including a showcase of Moparized vehicles.

Keeping up with Mopar®-powered drivers, the 2010 racing season is in the books, and an extensive list of drivers have etched their names in the win columns of a variety of racing series. For a complete season review, turn to p. 16.

With winter weather here and pothole-stricken roads on the horizon—soon to be accelerating wear and tear on your customers’ steering and suspension systems—be sure to check out all the Chrysler-approved service and repair information. We’ll discuss ball joint replacement on pp. 36–37, suspension bushing replacement on pp. 46–47 and stalling and cold start diagnostics on pp. 48–49.

Meanwhile, on pp. 40–42, MM continues its coverage of the science of high-performance engine parts with the second of a two-part discussion by our own Tech Insider, Larry Shepard. Larry will focus on Upper Valvetrain Design in this issue—camshafts and cylinder heads—a follow up to Lower Valvetrain Design published in the November/December 2010 issue of MM.