New (1/27/2012) — Production and home page updated

The Pentastar engines were created by Chrysler engineers to replace the V6 powerplants used by both Chrysler Group and Mercedes. By model-year 2013, it will be Chrysler’s sole V6.

The Pentastar 3.6 liter V6 engine pumps out 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque in the 2011 Dodge Challenger. Coupled with the eight-speed automatic in the Charger, it equals prior-generation Hemi V8 0-60 times (6.6 seconds).

A planned direct-injection 3-liter twin-turbo version was projected to hit 400 horsepower; its status is unknown. We expect the 3.2 to be in the Jeep Cherokee next year.

This site has rumors and projections for the future, an in-depth look at the Pentastar V6, engine specifications, repairs, and a look at production and the factory.

The Pentastar enabled major V6 engine components to be cut from 189 parts to just 32. Exhaust manifolds are cast directly into the cylinder head (32 different exhaust manifolds had been used). Intake assemblies, which together accounted for 32 different part numbers, have been slashed to two upper and two lower assemblies.

Camshaft variations have dropped from 14 to four; fuel rail assemblies dropped from 14 to two.

Fully dressed, the new Pentastar V-6 is 94 pounds lighter than the 3.7-liter engine (Grand Cherokee) and 42 pounds lighter than the 3.5-liter (Chrysler 300).

Now that you know what kind of engine you want, it's a good idea to have proper insurance coverage. You can look into insurance quotes and find the best coverage option for your future Pentastar-equipped vehicle.