2008 Dodge Avenger

Styles

Overview

Replacing the Stratus in Dodge's 2008 model lineup, the Avenger brings a completely different, more upright and angular appearance that borrows styling cues from the big Charger sedan and Dodge's muscle-car past. But the Avenger's appeal goes beyond outward appearance; the model offers several innovative interior features not otherwise seen among its peers.

Examples of the standout interior features available include the Chill Zone, a cooled storage compartment that can hold up to four beverage cans, a heated/cooled cup holder, stain-resistant seat fabric, LED directional interior lighting, and MP3 play compatibility on all audio systems. There's also a rear-seat video system, a Bluetooth UConnect hands-free cell phone interface, and an audio system called MyGig, which is paired with a navigation system and 20-gigabyte hard drive for storing music and images, or recording voice memos.

The Avenger is available in three different models: the basic SE, upscale SXT, and sporty R/T. The SE and SXT come with a standard 173-horsepower, 2.4L four-cylinder engine that brings up to 30 miles per gallon on the highway, according to EPA estimates. Optional on the SXT is a 189-horsepower, 2.7L V6 engine, which has flex-fuel capacity for operating on any mix of gasoline and ethanol up to E85 (85 percent ethanol). Both the 2.4L and 2.7L engines are paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. A 235-horsepower, 3.5L V6 is standard on the R/T and is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick manual control. All-weather all-wheel drive is optional on the R/T; all other Avengers come with front-wheel drive.

The base SE model comes surprisingly well equipped, with standard keyless entry, cruise control, the Chill Zone, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. Top R/T models include leather upholstery, power heated fold-away side mirrors, and automatic climate control.

Front seat-mounted side air bags and side-curtain air bags that cover front and rear occupants are standard on all Avenger models. Anti-lock brakes are standard on all but the base SE, while stability control is only standard on the R/T.

Value

The 2008 Dodge Avenger, a mid-size sedan that competes with the Chevy Malibu, Ford Fusion, and Toyota Camry, among others, goes on sale initially priced $1,605 below the comparable outgoing Dodge Stratus, according to the automaker. While the base price is lower, the Avenger has expanded standard-feature content including side air bags, an alarm, and the innovative Chill Zone cooler system. Several options, such as the MyGig audio/navigation system and heated/cooled cup holder, also differentiate it feature-wise from other mid-size sedans.