Right off the drafting table for 2008 the all new Avenger features the contemporary, Retro look that's been the calling card of the Dodge design team in recent years. The Avenger's bold vertical front-end displays the signature "crosshair" grille and a large, low front air dam. The wheel openings are flared with a prominent rear-quarter bulge that flows into the rear fender and visually supports the deck spoiler across the trunk.
There are three trim levels: the SE, the SXT and the performance oriented R/T like the one we drove that came with the optional 18-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels.
Depending on trim level the Avenger comes equipped with either the 2.4 Liter DOHC 4 cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels or a 3.5 Liter V-6 that produces 235 horsepower, mated to a 6-speed sequential transmission that drives all four wheels.
As would be expected, the 2.4 Liter engine delivers the best EPA fuel estimates at 21 City/32 Highway with the larger 3.5 Liter power plant that was in our test car coming in at 17 City/26 Highway.
Only the top of the line R/T comes with disc brakes standard at all four corners. The base SE model comes with front discs/rear drums and the mid range trim level SXT comes with optional rear discs.
The Retro look continues on the inside as the dash is dominated by large round gauges and hefty multi-function leather wrapped adjustable steering wheel.
The very non-retro multi media system resides in the center console and contains a powerful radio/CD/MP3 player as well as on board 20-GB hard drive, and Satellite GPS system accessed by way of the 6.5 inch LCD touch screen monitor.
Occupant safety ranks high on the priority list and is highlighted by multi-stage front and side-impact airbags, energy absorbing safety-zone construction and optional electronic stability technology.
MSRP for the AWD dodge Avenger R/T like the one we drove is $23,545 and it comes with a 3-year 36,000 mile warranty.
The 2008 Dodge Avenger, a thoroughly up-to-date vehicle wrapped up in a pleasing Retro body style.