Dodge pulls wraps off New Avenger

Dodge continues the complete revamp of its product lineup with the Avenger mid-size sedan.  The current generation has been on sale since 2008, so it’s time for a mid-cycle refresh.  That’s where things get interesting.  The Avenger shares platform and parts with the Chrysler Sebring, which is being replaced by the Chrysler 200.  That opens up a whole slew of upgrades for the Dodge.  Click past the jump for the details, press release and pictures.

Chrysler is concentrating on its interiors, and the Avenger gets a host of updates in that area, specifically in the materials and fit and finish department.  Upscale materials abound, and the Avenger will feature the automaker’s latest electronics packages.  The inside of the new Avenger is almost monochrome, with most of its surfaces swathed in black.  Luckily, there are some contrasting silver-colored trim pieces to break up the darkness.

Outside, things aren’t as wildly different as inside, but the sheetmetal sees some updates, most notably up front.  The fender flares are crisp and pronounced, and the back glass area – the C pillar – has a smoother transition between it and the trunk area.  The rear taillamps are now LEDs, which is becoming more and more mainstream with each model year.  Up front, the Dodge cross-bar is large, but not as big as the headlights.  The fog lights, in contrast, are almost too small.  Overall, the Avenger looks a lot like its big brother the Charger.

The changes continue underneath the bodywork, with a completely revised suspension.  The new Avenger should be a lot more fun and engaging to drive than its predecessor.  I have a feeling that the new suspension bits are more a function of the Chrysler 200’s revised chassis, but the Dodge will be the more fun-to-drive car.  In addition to the suspension, the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine gets updates, and the Pentastar V6 will be available, with 283/260 horsepower/foot-pounds of torque, which will bring it up to par with some of its competitors and beyond others, which should put the Avenger on the short list of buyers looking for a speedy mid-size sedan.

The 2011 Avenger goes on sale later this year.

Show Press Release

by John Suit

Source: Chrysler