2013 Dodge Dart to Feature 9-Speed Auto; 40 MPG

More details are being revealed about Dodge's all-new compact sedan, the 2013 Dart. Just a few days ago Dodge released some teaser images of their 2013 Dart compact sedan, which will have its official debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month. And now we're finding out more details about the first new Dodge vehicle that's based off a Fiat platform.According to Automotive News, one of the three transmissions that will be available is an all-new ZF nine-speed automatic gearbox that will reportedly increase fuel economy by some 10 to 16 percent over a six-speed dual-clutch.As a result, the Dart can be capable of hitting that industry important 40 mpg mark. The other two transmission options will likely be a six-speed dual-clutch and a six-speed manual.Engine options will include 2.0 and 2.4-liter "Tigershark" engines along with the 1.4-liter MultiAir that's currently in the Fiat 500. So why exactly is hitting that 40 mpg so vital for Chrysler? What's wrong with something between 36 to 39 mpg?It allows the Italian automaker to receive its final five percent of Chrysler stock from the U.S. government as part of the agreement made between the two sides.Regardless of all of this, our biggest interest in the Dart is the fact that it's based on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. If done correctly, the Dart could in fact be the closest thing to driving an Alfa sedan in the U.S.