2011 Dodge Avenger: Up Close
The Avenger midsize sedan is one of many Dodge models that have been significantly updated for the 2011 model year. Like the Chrysler 200 — formerly the Sebring — it’s related to, the Avenger was in desperate need of an improved interior, and it mostly gets one.
The prior Avenger’s cabin was filled with lots of hard plastic trim that gave it a low-rent feel. Much of that’s gone, thanks to a re-skinned dashboard and nicer touch points on the doors. However, some rudimentary elements remain like the cheapo airplane-style map lights and wobbly turn-signal stalk.
Compared to other family sedans, which have been getting larger in recent years, the Avenger’s cabin is snug. You notice it when you’re in the driver’s seat, as the roof is pretty close to your head. The front bucket seats are small, too.
The Avenger didn’t get as big of an exterior overhaul as the 200, but there are some subtle changes including a new crosshair grille, new taillights and smoother bumper styling. Besides the new taillights, which don’t really go with the rest of the car, it’s a nice update on an existing design theme.
The Avenger’s changes give family sedan shoppers, who may have written the car off in the past, new reasons to consider it. This is an extremely competitive segment, though, and the updates don’t necessarily vault the Avenger to the top of the class but keep it in the game.
