The Chrysler Pentastar engine family is a series of aluminium (die-cast cylinder block) dual overhead cam24-valvegasolineV6 engines introduced for the 2011 model year in Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. The engine was initially named "Phoenix," but the name was changed before the official launch due to a trademark conflict; the Pentastar name is derived from the trademark of the former Chrysler Corporation, which dates back to 1963.
The Pentastar engine was introduced at the 2009 New York Auto Show.[2][3] The engine design allows the use of E85 or 87 octane fuel and features dual variable valve timing. Forced induction, and cylinder deactivation options were engineered into the engine design, but have not been implemented from the factory, remaining "on the shelf" as of 2016.[4]
Insiders initially reported that the engine would come in four basic sizes (3.0, 3.3, 3.6, and 4.0 L), each offered in various states of tune. The 3.3 L and 4.0 L have been dropped from the list and a 3.2L added, while Fiat's investor website, as of December 2011, specifies the 3.0 L with Fiat's MultiAir technology.[5] The 3.6 L engine itself has different power ratings in different vehicles, and has higher output 305 hp (227 kW; 309 PS) and 269 pound force-feet (365 N⋅m) of torque when applied in the Dodge Challenger.[6]
Single and Twin-turbocharged variants had been planned for 2015. These engines were projected to produce around 420 and 370 hp (313 and 276 kW; 426 and 375 PS), respectively. Direct injection was also planned.[7]
Due to the new ownership structure, Fiat has obtained the right to use these engines, and had adopted them in the larger models of Lancia and Fiat brands.
2011–2020 Dodge Grand Caravan (Models: SE American Value Package (AVP) or Canadian Value Package (CVP), SE, Crew, Crew Lux, SXT, R/T, SE Plus, SXT Plus, GT)
2011–2019 Dodge Journey (Models: SE American Value Package (AVP) or Canadian Value Package (CVP), Mainstreet, Crew, Crew Lux, SXT, R/T, GT, Crossroad)
For 2016, FCA released an updated version of the 3.6 L engine. This engine features upgrades to the variable valve timing (VVT) system, two-stage variable valve lift (VVL), a new intake manifold, new valve springs, new piston rings, new fuel injectors, new ignition coils, a cooled Exhaust gas recirculation system, lower internal friction and lower weight. It also features a higher compression ratio, increased from 10.2:1 to 11.3:1. These improvements increase power as well as efficiency,[12] however the new version no longer supports flex-fuel capability.
