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The hot-rod folk at Chrysler’s SRT4 performance division are at it again, cranking out a 425-horsepower Dodge Magnum SRT8 that is undoubtedly the most brutally fast station wagon on the planet. Oops. Did I say station wagon? That’s so unhip. Apparently, “station wagon” is an archaic term that is banned from all discussions of … well, what do you call them? In the press material from Dodge, Magnum is described only as a “sport tourer,” despite its obvious retro wagon styling. So why the shame? There’s much to be said for being the world’s coolest station wagon. So Magnum SRT8 is not only gorgeous, versatile and accommodating, it’s also muscle-car fast. Among today’s pricey performance cars and trucks, it also carries a fairly modest price tag. The Magnum SRT8 is pumped up with a 6.1-liter version of Chrysler’s classic Hemi engine that’s been engineered to deliver a mountain of thunderous power to pull this two-ton craft from zero to 60 in just over five seconds. Along with the muscle comes a set of powerful disc brakes by Brembo, the premium brand in performance braking; suspension tuning that helps Magnum track like an oversized sports car; and 20-inch aluminum wheels shod with Goodyear’s sticky F1 tires. Two decades after Chrysler Corp. helped kill off station wagons with its innovative minivan, wagons of all shapes and sizes are back with a vengeance in America’s showrooms. So it could be seen as ironic that after 20 years, Dodge now produces Magnum SRT8, the hippest station wagon of them all.

PERFORMANCE: Yes, 425 horsepower is a lot, even when Magnum weighs in at 4,260 pounds. Despite the heft, engine response is strong and immediate, no doubt bolstered by 420 pound-feet torque. The 6.1-liter V-8 makes 25.percent more power than the 5.7-liter Hemi in the Magnum RT due to improved intake and exhaust flow, flat-top pistons and a more-aggressive camshaft profile. The booming exhaust makes a fitting accompaniment to the powerful acceleration. Naturally, gas mileage is a tad off, especially when you keep sampling the performance, as I did. A five-speed automatic transmission with manual shifter comes standard.

DRIVABILITY: Magnum is more a heavy cruiser than a nimble sports car, but the suspension tweaks greatly improve handling over the standard Magnum. These include thicker anti-sway bars; tuned spring rates, shocks and bushings;and a slightly lower ride height. An electronic stability program comes standard and is calibrated for SRT8’s handling characteristics. The steering is responsive and the brakes are awesome. Despite all the handling adjustments, Magnum still needs to be driven for what it is: a large, heavy wagon.

STYLING: SRT8 enhancements to the already cleanly attractive form include those big 20-inch wheels with red brake calipers peeking through the slots.

INTERIOR: Roomy and accommodating, with the hauling benefit of a large cargo area, Magnum remains an excellent compromise between sporty transport and practical wagon. Most luxury and safety trim comes standard with one glaring exception: side and side-curtain airbags cost extra. And those narrow windows that look so stylish also impede outward vision.

BOTTOM LINE: SRT8 may be the performance flagship, but for those who want the hot-rod style without the gas guzzling, there are two V-6 versions starting at about $23,000.

Dodge Magnum SRT8

Vehicle type: Four-passenger, four-door wagon, rear-wheel drive. Engine: 6.1-liter V-8, 425 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 420 pound-feet torque at 4,800 rpm. Transmission: Five-speed automatic. Wheelbase: 120 inches. Overall length: 197.7 inches. Curb weight: 4,260 inches. EPA rating: 14 city, 20 highway.

Highs: Engine muscle, sharp styling, versatility. Lows: Outward vision, fuel mileage, side airbags extra.

Pricing Base price: $37,320. Price as tested: $41,400. OPTIONS SRT option group, including Sirius satellite radio, navigation system, 6-CD MP3 audio, $2,065. Sunroof, $950. Side and side-curtain airbags, $390. Shipping, $675.