2013 Dodge Dart lands at Detroit auto show; available this spring

Buyers are going to find an attractive, competitive new compact sedan in Dodge showrooms this spring: the 2013 Dodge Dart, seen live for the first time Monday at the Detroit auto show.

While the name may remind you of a budget Chrysler product last seen in 1976, the new Dart is decidedly modern--even multicultural. The 2013 Dart is based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, Alfa being another company owned by Chrysler parent Fiat. The Giulietta has gained a good reputation in Europe, thanks to its swoopy design and sporty driving dynamics. Dodge appears to have left most of the good stuff while wrapping the Dart in attractive, Americanized sheetmetal.

Interior appointments include upscale features like ambient lighting, an available seven-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster and an 8.4-inch touch-screen media center.

Only available with front-wheel drive, the 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by a choice of three four-cylinder engines: a 160-hp 2.0-liter; a 160-hp turbo 1.4-liter; and a 184-hp 2.4-liter. Likewise, three six-speed transmissions will be offered: a dual-clutch, a traditional automatic and a manual. In a welcome change (for enthusiasts) from recent trends, the manual will be available with all three engines. The automatic will be limited to the 2.0-liter and the 2.4-liter, while the dual-clutch transmission will be paired exclusively with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine.

You can find more coverage of the Detroit auto show at autoweek.com.