Chrysler's new program to match the government's $4,500 Cash for Clunker payout is a smart move and hopefully reflects a turnaround at a company that has seriously been out of tune with the market.

The auto maker is offering up to $4,500 cash or zero percent financing for six years on most of its 2009 Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep models. The incentive lasts until Aug. 31 and buyers are eligible even if they don't qualify for the clunkers program.

Under that program, you can trade in an old car with an official rating of 18 miles to the gallon for a discount on a new car with better mileage.

Does Chrysler's new incentive reflect changes under way as its new owner, Italian giant Fiat, takes over? Certainly, it's an imaginative breath of fresh air for a company seriously struggling to move cars off the lot.

Indeed, it will be interesting to see not only if the incentive results in more sales but also which Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep models are picked off.

_ Peter C.T. Elsworth