2008 Dodge Avenger

The Avenger's cabin is also surprisingly spacious with nearly 101 cu. ft. of room—seven more than the '07 Stratus—with 2.5 inches more headroom, 1.2 inches more shoulder room and an inch more front-seat hip room. Drivers also sit 2.5 inches higher for a crossover-like "command-of-the-road" seating position.


Three engines are offered in 2008 Avengers: a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, an available flex-fuel 2.7-liter V-6 and an available 3.5-liter V-6, the latter coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick. Standard with a four-speed automatic in SE and SXT models, the new dual-VVT (variable valve timing) four delivers 15 percent more power (173 vs. 150 hp) and eight percent better fuel efficiency than the older 2.4-liter four it replaces. Under the EPA's new 2008 testing procedures, it is rated at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, which Chrysler says would be 24 and 32 mpg using 2007 EPA standards.

Powertrain

Available in the mid-range SXT is a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter six that provides V-6 power at a price competitive with most four-cylinder engines. Operating on any blend of gasoline and fuel-grade ethanol up to E-85 (85 percent ethanol), it generates 189 horses and 191 lb.-ft. of torque along with 19 mpg city and 27 highway EPA economy. Avenger R/T and R/T AWD offer a standard 3.5-liter V-6 good for 235 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. driving through a new six-speed automatic with Auto Stick manual control.


The R/T AWD's available all-wheel-drive system works on demand, driving the front wheels until power to the rear wheels is needed for added traction on snow, ice and other low-traction surfaces. It also operates between 25 and 65 mph on dry pavement to enhance handling during performance driving.

Innovative Technologies
Beyond its bold design and pleasing interior, this new midsize Dodge also boasts some new segment-unique technologies. Besides the aforementioned MyGIG and Chill Zone, there are: a heated/cooled front cupholder that can keep cold beverages cool (to 35 degrees F) and hot beverages warm (to 140 degrees F); YES Essentials Fabric, an easy-care, soil-repellent, anti-microbial textile that protects seats from stains, odors and discoloration; heated cloth seats; an available DVD rear-seat entertainment system that includes AM/FM stereo with MP3-capable CD/DVD player, six-disc CD/DVD changer and SIRIUS Satellite Radio; LED interior lighting with high-focus directional white light for both front and rear seating areas; and MP3 capability on all audio systems.