A new report finds that it will be another two years before the Dodge Dart receives its long-promised nine-speed automatic transmission.
Originally slated to be the first recipient of Chrysler’s ZF-supplied nine-speed automatic, the Dodge Dart lost that distinction when the latest Jeep Cherokee was selected to debut the gearbox instead. Now, Automotive News reports that the nona-cog transmission won’t arrive until the Dart receives a substantial refresh in mid-2016.
When it does finally find its way into the Dart, the nine-speed should provide a welcome fuel economy boost while also hastening acceleration. The Dart is currently offered with a six-speed automatic or, in the case of the efficiency-focused Dart Aero, a somewhat unrefined six-speed dual-clutch automatic. A six-speed manual is standard on most models.
In addition to the new gearbox, the Dart’s upcoming facelift will see a trim level reshuffling that will result in fewer standard features and fewer available configurations, resulting in a lower starting price and a streamlined lineup. Bolder exterior styling is also expected, as is a new SRT performance model that should arrive in late 2016.
Little is known about the Dart SRT, but rumors point to a turbocharged four-cylinder and all-wheel-drive.
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