Chrysler, Mopar hope Ram Runner kit can challenge Ford SVT Raptor

In an effort to compete with the Ford SVT Raptor off-road pickup, Chrysler and parts group Mopar have released the Ram Runner kit. The Mopar Ram Runner kit, available for owners of 2009-2011 Dodge Ram 1500 models, can be installed at home or by the dealer for a total parts cost of just less than $20,000. The Ram Runner upgraders on a budget can add kit elements individually as well.

Ford Iosis Max unveiled at Geneva motor show 2009

By Tim Pollard First Official Pictures 02 March 2009 18:00 Ford is serving up a big-bang surprise at Geneva with the launch of the Iosis Max concept car. The third in a series of Iosis show cars, the Max affords our first view of the new 2011 Ford Focus, with a hint of next-gen 2010 C-Max thrown in for good measure.  The Iosis Max looks just like the next-gen Focus at the front and heralds some important new styling treatments for all future Fords, its designers have told CAR. The lower trapezoidal grille, for instance, will in future feature these horizontal chromed strakes, echoing the feature lines on the bonnet, and the Blue Oval badge appears more prominently in the middle of the higher, Fiesta-style grille.

Driven: Chevrolet Orlando

Chevrolet recently launched the new Orlando crossover in the UK market. The seven passenger vehicle – which eschews a conventional monovolume MPV package in favor of a more bulky, upright one that aims to fill the same need – will be sold in the North American market as well as in Europe. Cloaked in crossover skin, the Orlando is not to be taken lightly.