(October 5, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Dodge has announced its new Dart Aero model has been EPA-rated at 41 mpg in highway driving and will start at $20,090 including destination charge.

Powered by the sporty, fun-to-drive and advanced 1.4-liter MultiAir intercooled turbocharged engine combined with several aerodynamic enhancements, including lightweight aluminum chassis components, active grille shutters, underbody aero kit, a lowered profile and low-rolling resistance tires, the Aero model achieves an impressive 41 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway with the six-speed manual and 40 mpg on the highway with the six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT).

"The all-new Dodge Dart is a groundbreaking vehicle, offering features and benefits never before offered in a compact car," said Reid Bigland, President CEO - Dodge Brand. "The new Dart Aero builds on these attributes by combining a remarkable 41mpg with interior room of a mid-size car and class-leading technology, style and safety."

The Aero model also is packed with a slew of standard features, such as the 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, an unsurpassed 10 standard airbags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic stability control, cruise control, auto headlamps, air conditioning with micron filter, power windows and locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, projector headlamps and class-exclusive LED "racetrack" taillamps.

High-tech features, including the class-exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen media center and 7-inch TFT reconfigurable gauge cluster, also are available on the Dodge Dart Aero.

Production of the Dodge Dart Aero model started at the Belvedere, Ill., Assembly Plant several weeks ago.