All new 3.6L V-6 from Chrysler

Chrysler announced a new 3.6L V-6 power plant today.  It can output as much as 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque when its transplanted into the new 2011 Grand Cherokee.  They say this engine will replace 7 different V-6 engines they currently produce.  Its hard to imagine why there were seven in the first place, but its about time they got it right.

Engine efficiencies from Fiat's multi-air technology will help make fuel economy gains from 8-11% compared to the old engines as well as increasing their entire lineup of cars frugality by 25%.Expect this engine to replace many V-8's in their lineup.  Higher engine output will be available through turbocharging and direct-injection.  Maybe the Challenger will have around 300 hp in it's base V-6 now.  A DOHC setup is used in an aluminum block and Chrysler is saying it will get 90% of its torque at 1500 rpm with regular octane petrol.

Chrysler 3.6-liter, DOHC, 24-valve Pentastar V-6 Technical Specifications
Displacement: 3.6 liters
Bore x stroke: 96 x 83 mm
Valve train system: Double-overhead cam with roller finger followers and hydraulic lash adjusters. Dual independent cam-torque actuated phasers
Fuel injection: Multi-point port fuel injection
Construction: High-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block and semi-permanent mold aluminum cylinder head
Maximum engine speed: 7200 rpm
Fuel requirement: E85 (Ethanol) or unleaded regular, 87 octane (R+M)/2
Emission capability: PZEV