New 2009 Dodge Avenger

After replacing the Dodge Stratus last year as Chrysler’s go-to midsize sedan, the 2009 Dodge Avenger brings a sportier, more powerful option to the table.

Not only does the name “Avenger” evoke edgy connotations, but its design draws cpmparisons to the bold Dodge Charger.  The Avenger is available in three trim levels; SE, SXT and sporty R/T, and has three engines to choose from.  A 2.4-liter, 173-horsepower four-cylinder engine produces 166 pounds-feet of torque, while a 3.5-liter, 235-horsepower V-6 cranks out 232 pounds-feet of torque.  A 2.7-liter, 186-horsepower Flex-Fuel V-6 is available in the SXT trim.  Fuel Economy for the Avenger is decent with 16-21 mpg in the city and 27-30 mpg on the highway. The Avenger competes with the Ford Fusion, Pontiac G6 and Kia Optima.

Aside from copious amounts of space (100 cubic feet of cabin volume), interior amenities are plentiful across the board. The Avenger boasts the incredibly versatile UConnect® system that can fulfill your digital dreams through a 6.5-inch touch screen.  Turn your car into a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect laptops, phones, PSPs, PDAs and play online games, surf the internet and download music.  The 30 GB hard drive lets you upload and store up to 6,700 songs, tons of photos and play your iPod/MP3 player through the sound system.  Include Sirius Satellite Radio, turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth connectivity and you’ve just turned your car into the ultimate entertainment center.  An available Boston Acoustics® sound system provides a whopping 368 watts of power and crystal clear sound quality.  An integrated dashboard drink cooler stores up to four beverages, while an optional beverage cooling/heating system manages your drinks in the center console.

When it comes to safety, the Avenger has you covered.  Front-seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags come standard.  The Avenger’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP) assists drivers in maintaining control of their vehicle during extreme steering maneuvers.  ESP and traction control are optional on the SXT and standard on the R/T; an antilock braking system comes standard on both.  The Accident Response System turns on interior lights, unlocks doors and cuts fuel to the engine after airbags deploy.

With an intimidating exterior, fully capable interior and decent fuel economy, the 2009 Dodge Avenger gives you a lot of car at a amazingly reasonable price.