2003 Dodge Stratus Coupe

Features
The list of noteworthy standard stuff on our test SXT includes power rack-and-pinion steering, "Touring" suspension, AM/FM sound system with six speakers and a 4-disc CD changer, an extra 12-volt power outlet, full-length console with two cupholders, tilt steering column and P205/60HR16 all-season tires. Over and above the $18,880 base price, an $880 "Customer Preferred Package" adds 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a decklid spoiler, remote keyless entry and a security alarm. The 4-speed automatic ($825) and a $625 destination charge bring the sticker to $21,210 before an "SXT Package Discount" deducts $530 for an as-tested total of $20,680. Very reasonable, indeed, for the level of looks, utility and driving fun the '03 SXT affords.


Only a couple of things rubbed us wrong in our week with the Stratus. Like most imports, but unlike most domestics, the 12-volt power plug goes dead when the ignition is off. While this may be to prevent some plug-in device from running down your battery, we prefer uninterrupted power for charging cell phones while parked, for example, and for not having to restart certain accessories each time you restart the car. Also, there's no way to prevent the rear courtesy lamps from lighting when you open a door. Automakers should understand that there are times and places when you don't want to light up your car's interior and everything in it.

Safety
Standard safety features for 2003 include "next-generation" driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, a rear seat center shoulder seatbelt, a remote keyless entry system, Sentry Key engine immobilizer (which makes it almost impossible to start the engine without a customized owner's key) and—especially important for owners with small children—the LATCH (Lower Anchors and upper Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchorage system, and an emergency internal trunk lid release. Also available are side curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes with low-speed traction control to help prevent wheel lockup in hard braking situations.


Some might wonder whether the Stratus Coupe, assembled alongside DaimlerChrysler-partner Mitsubishi models at the Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America plant in Normal, Illinois, is a "domestic" or an "import" in disguise. With a carefully tuned combination of Dodge-family styling and Mitsubishi powertrain and other components, we'd contend it's a thoroughly pleasant blend of both. (www.dodge.com)