Chrysler's SEMA Vehicles

Like almost everyone else, Chrysler is bringing a contingent of modified vehicles to the upcoming SEMA expo in Las Vegas. While some vehicles are still under wraps, the company has shown off some of them ahead of schedule.

First, an early look at the Dodge Nitro Panel Wagon. After releasing concept art of it earlier in the month (See our blog on that here), Dodge has finally shown the finished product. Previously unseen is the extendable load floor in the back. The floor can bear up to 400lbs and can extend as much as 36" beyond the length of the car. To make sure that cargo doesn't slide out, there are plenty of handles and tie-downs to attach rope and bungee cords to, while an aviation-style cargo net keeps it out of the passenger area. In the sides are panels designed as storage for small items such as tools or parts.

For those more interested in hauling ass instead of cargo, there is the 5.7L HEMI Dodge Nitro. This car was born when the folks at Daimler Chrysler Vehicle Build Shops took a 5.7-liter Hemi crate engine, attached a five-speed manual transmission, and shoehorned it into the Nitro. To make sure that the Nitro was able to stop as well as go, they put 14-inch Brembo brakes behind the 22-inch Alcoa wheels. The front and rear fascias, as well as the hood, are all custom made from carbon fiber and the car is coated in special blackberry pearl paint.

Next is a custom Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon. Specially modified for maximum offroad capability, this Wranger comes with Dana 44 axles and a special suspension that allows enough clearance for 35-inch Mud Terrain tires on 18-inch wheels from Taneisya. A Warn 9.5ti winch is mounted to the American Expedition Vehicles bumper, a full-size spare is mounted in the rear, and the entire vehicle is coated in Rolex Silver paint. Finally, the 3.7-liter V6 is replaced with a 3.0-liter common-rail diesel engine that pumps out 390 lb-ft of torque.

Not to be left behind on the trail, the upcoming Jeep Patriot goes guerilla. It receives a 2.5-inch lift, which gives it 11 inches of ground clearance. Taking full advantage of the added clearance, the Patriot's 16-inch Jeep Moab wheels receive a set of 31-inch BMG Mud Terrains. The regular front fascia is replaced with a steel bumper that features two tow hooks and rally lights. Finally, cargo capacity is maximized with a custom roof rack that spans the vehicle's entire roof.

Finally, there is the still-under-wraps 300C Pullman. The Pullman name is taken from 1960s Mercedes-Benz limousines, and this car's size is fitting of the name's heritage. Chrysler makes full use of the extra length and equips the Pullman with dual sunroofs and massive suicide rear doors. A Hotchkiss Sportline suspension improves and a Bassani exhaust slightly increases power. Finally, Chrysler has the pullman sit on 22-inch wheels wearing Diamondback rubber.