By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National December 21, 2010Vehicle Overview
The Avenger midsize sedan is one of many Dodge models that have been significantly updated for the 2011 model year. The Avenger is related to the Chrysler 200 — formerly the Sebring — and both cars get a new interior, a revised suspension and a new V-6 engine option. Competitors include the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion and Mazda6.
Exterior
The Avenger didn't get as big of an exterior overhaul as the 200, but there are some subtle changes, like a new crosshair grille, new taillights and smoother bumper styling. Aside from the new taillights, which don't really go with the rest of the car, it's a nice update on an existing design theme. Other exterior features include:
- Standard 17-inch steel wheels; 17- or 18-inch aluminum rims optional
- Dual exhaust tips (V-6 models)
- Optional fog lights
- Optional heated side mirrors
- Optional sunroof
- Optional rear spoiler
Interior
The prior Avenger's cabin was filled with lots of hard plastic trim that gave the sedan a low-rent feel. Much of that is gone, thanks to a reskinned dashboard and nicer touch points on the doors. That said, some rudimentary elements remain, like cheap airplane-style map lights and a wobbly turn-signal stalk. Interior features include:
- Standard cloth seats; leather upholstery optional
- Standard manual air conditioning; automatic air conditioning optional
- Standard cruise control
- Standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls
- Standard 60/40-split folding backrest
- Standard CD stereo with auxiliary input; touch-screen audio system with music hard drive optional
- Optional navigation system
Under the Hood
A 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, and it works with either a four- or six-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim level. The optional V-6 is Chrysler's new 283-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, which pairs with a six-speed automatic.
- Front-wheel drive
- Both engines can use regular gas
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- All-disc antilock brakes
- Electronic stability system
- Side-impact airbags for the front seats
- Side curtain airbags
- Active front head restraints
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Mike Hanley | Cars.com National | May 3, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | December 21, 2010 |
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