DODGE STRATUS BLENDS CRISPER RESPONSE, WITH OVERALL COMFORT

Since its introduction, the Dodge Stratus has been lauded for its dynamic handling attributes. For 1999, Stratus moves the needle even further with a newly tuned suspension that provides an impressive blend of crisp response and driving comfort, as well as better value across the entire model range.

Aggressive tuning of its modified double-wishbone suspension brings Stratus to world-class handling levels. By improved damping and retuning of the suspension, Stratus has an even more balanced, responsive feel that truly inspires spirited driving.

"Having evaluated some of the best performance compacts from around the world, we retuned the Stratus to significantly improve its overall driving dynamics," said Jim Julow, General Manager - Dodge Division. "The result is a much better "on center" steering feel, increased ride control and a much more solid, substantial feel."

Stratus becomes an even better value for 1999 with the addition of a new package, now offered as standard equipment. This package includes power-operated windows, door locks and mirrors, as well as a driver's seat height adjuster and rear floor mats.

Winner of Car and Driver magazine's coveted "10Best" award for three consecutive years, the Stratus sedan lineup features two trim levels and three responsive multi-valve engines: a 132 horsepower, 2.0-liter, 16-valve, SOHC four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transaxle; a 150 hp, 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC four-cylinder engine with a fully adaptive four-speed electronic transaxle; and a 168 hp, 2.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic with the AutoStick® feature. AutoStick offers the performance-oriented driving experience of a manual without sacrificing the convenience of an automatic. AutoStick is standard on every V-6 equipped Dodge Stratus ES.

For 1999, Stratus comes standard with new 14-inch wheel covers, new interior fabric, a revised instrument cluster and the 2.0-liter SOHC engine with a five-speed manual transaxle. Stratus ES now has as standard the 168 hp, 2.5-liter V-6 engine mated to the fully adaptive four-speed electronic AutoStick transaxle; four-wheel disc brakes with ABS; power windows, locks and mirrors; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; new five-spoke aluminum wheels and an improved instrument cluster with revised graphics.

Safety features on all 1999 Stratus sedans include next-generation driver and front-passenger air bags*, side-guard door beams, anti-lock brakes (standard on ES), front seat height-adjustable shoulder belts and an optional personal security package. Both models also get Chrysler Corporation's exclusive Sentry KeyTM vehicle immobilizer as an option.

New colors for 1999 include Inferno Red and Light Cypress Green.

"Dodge Stratus continues to pace its segment for overall appearance, performance and exceptional value," Julow said. "We continue to refine the Dodge Stratus to satisfy consumers who demand performance and bold styling, which is exactly what this car delivers."