2008 Dodge Avenger

Chrysler's Dodge division has been launching hot new models in a variety of sizes and segments, beginning with the Magnum wagon and carrying through to the full-size Charger sedan (on the same capable rear-drive platform), the front-drive Caliber compact and the jeep-based Nitro midsize truck. All share the trademark Dodge-brand boldness in styling and attitude.

Styling

Now this all-new Avenger, sharing Chrysler's Sebring front-drive architecture, brings that distinctive Dodge look and feel to the highly competitive midsize sedan segment. Looking (not by accident) like a downsized Charger, it offers a choice of fuel-efficient four-cylinder, flex-fuel V-6 or higher-performance V-6 power and a host of innovative features, and it starts some $1,600 below the Stratus it replaces despite nearly $1,000 in added content.


Avenger is also Dodge's first midsize car with available all-wheel-drive capability combined with a sport-tuned suspension, performance steering and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Traction Control. "The all-new Avenger brings Dodge-brand American musclecar heritage into the midsize car segment," said Design Vice President Trevor Creed. "It offers a unique alternative to the competition."


Avenger's distinctive styling begins at the front with a chrome Dodge-signature crosshair grille with black texture between the bars and large quad headlamps housed in black. The side profile shares more family traits with its Charger stablemate, including muscular hop-up rear shoulders, large wheels and tires and a functional rear spoiler, while blacked-out B-pillars and a ribbed black C-pillar plate help the car appear longer and lower than it is. In back, large taillamps wrap around the corners and combine with a serious spoiler to frame the deck lid.

Interior

The interior is also bold and distinctive, with matched grains and low gloss levels contributing to a fairly upscale impression. The V-shaped center stack incorporates either a standard AM/FM/CD radio or the available MyGIG (navigation/entertainment/communication) system and culminates in a gated shifter bezel. Unique in the midsize segment is the Avenger's "Chill Zone," a beverage storage bin in the passenger-side upper instrument panel that can hold and chill (depending on ambient temperature and air conditioning settings) up to four 12-oz. beverage cans.