The Chrysler Group’s new generation of cars are nothing if not good looking, which explains the company’s penchant for cosmetic upgrades.
The 2014 Dodge Dart SXT Blacktop joined Dodge’s line of meaner-looking vehicles at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
Based on the mid-level Dart SXT with the Rallye Appearance Group (you’ve gotta love these names), the Blacktop features unique exterior and interior trim that give this compact sedan a bit more attitude.
On top of the Rallye Appearance Group, which includes items like dark-tinted projector headlights and a blacked-out grille, the Blacktop gets gloss black 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels and mirror caps.
Despite its name, the Dart Blacktop is actually available in a variety of colors, including the whimsically-named “Redline Red” and “Blue Streak.”
The interior gets a black and Ruby Red two-tone treatment, with Ruby Red accent stitching on the center console, instrument panel, and seat bolsters. The door panels and front seats get some Ruby Red accenting as well.
The Blacktop is mechanically identical to a regular Dart SXT. That means buyers get a 2.4-liter “Tigershark” four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, coupled to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Blacktop models are in showrooms now. The package commands a relatively small $295 premium over a regular Dart SXT with the Rallye Appearance Group, bringing the base price up to $21,275, including destination.
Dodge also builds Blacktop versions of the Challenger, Charger, Avenger, Journey, and Grand Caravan, if you like the look.
So far, the biggest factory upgrades available for the Dart are in the looks department. There are Mopar and Scat Pack options available, but it would be nice to see a full-on Dart SRT, perhaps powered by one of the new four-cylinder engines Chrysler is cooking up.
