Although the Hemi-powered Charger sedan and Magnum wagon attract most of the attention at Dodge dealers right now, the 2008 Dodge Avenger should get its fair share of looks when it goes on sale early next year.
Smaller than the Charger sedan, the Avenger will replace the outdated Stratus in the Dodge lineup. It won't have Hemi power, but judging by our most recent spy photos the Avenger will at least look like the Charger. Up front it uses upturned headlights to frame a crosshair grille while the deep front air dam gets larger air intakes and foglights. Judging by the strategically placed camouflage on the prototype, the Avenger will also share the Charger's unique C-pillar styling. In back, a set of squared-off taillights similar to the Charger finish it off.
The front-wheel-drive Avenger will share its platform with the Chrysler Sebring and next-generation Mitsubishi Galant. Engine choices will be similar to the current model, a base four-cylinder shared with the new Dodge Caliber, a midrange 2.7-liter V6 and a top-of-the-line R/T model with a 3.5-liter V6. With 250 hp and 250 pound-feet of torque, the 3.5-liter V6 would put the Avenger right in line with current midsize sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion. A new six-speed automatic is expected to be used with the 3.5-liter V6 while the 2.7-liter V6 and 2.4-liter engines will most likely get a four-speed auto.
Like most cars in the class, there will be three trim levels with varying degrees of equipment. The Mopar heads over at allpar.com have a complete rundown on the expected content levels, but there's nothing too surprising. Base trim will get you the usual stuff like air conditioning, a CD stereo and keyless entry while midgrade models will add ABS, aluminum interior trim and 17-inch wheels. The top-level equipment list includes a Boston Acoustics sound system, 18-inch wheels and leather seating. Expect to see all the official information on the 2008 Dodge Avenger revealed in the next six months with a possible debut at the Los Angeles auto show in November.
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