Base price: $23,545
As tested: $24,320
3.5-liter, 235-horsepower V-6
16 city / 26 highway
More info: www.dodge.com
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If you love the Dodge Charger, but are a little short on scratch, here's some good news. For 2008, Dodge has introduced the Avenger, a Mini-Me version of its full-size cruiser. In terms of styling, it's a dead ringer for the Charger; in fact, it is one of the best-looking and roomiest mid-size cruisers on the market. Our R/T tester got the larger 18-inch wheels, which make a big difference in overall curb appeal. The trunk spoiler hints that the car is as much go as show, and other Charger design cues include the muscular flared rear quarter panel and the cross-membered front grill. The easiest way to tell these two cars apart? You'll be driving the Avenger around with an extra 10 grand in your wallet.
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The R/T comes with special interior appointments. Handsome two-tone leather seats combine sporty stability and long haul comfort. The front buckets were as comfortable as any car in recent memory. The instrument panel also takes after the Charger's dash, although the interior appointments look a little chintzy. (Note to carmakers: Spend an extra hundred bucks on interior materials; it will make a huge difference.) A four-can cooler/heater rests just above the glove box, and very modern Zion-like interior lights make for a bright compartment.
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The performance-minded R/T comes equipped with 24 valve 3.5-liter V-6. If you expected Hemi power from the six cylinder, you may be a bit disappointed. The engine does not have the neck-snapping torque of the V-8, but the Avenger still clocks 0-60 in a tick under seven seconds. Power delivery isn't exactly smooth or quiet -- but something has to give at the $25,000 price point. The city driving fuel economy rating of only 16 mpg seems more compatible to an SUV than a mid-size car, but the Avenger compensates with a respectable 26 mpg rating on the highway. The suspension is somewhat soft for true sport driving, but it makes for a smooth ride around town for the daily driver. At highway speeds, the Dodge has a quiet, comfortable ride.
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Race car looks at a K-mart price will leave money in your wallet for some other toys.
-- by Chad Doering |
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