Dodge Avenger. Red Avenger

Trying to understand who and what Dodge intended to take revenge on by bringing its new D-class sedan Avenger to the European market, one involuntarily wonders: what did Europe do to deserve this from the American manufacturer? And does this 'crusade' have any chance of success?

Many questions arise when you see this car. Can a machine with such a daring appearance win our hearts? We are not used to this.

We have long been accustomed to smooth biodesign lines, being convinced that this is fashionable and harmonious. And suddenly — such a turn.

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

Looking at this car, you realize that your calm perception of the world crumbles to dust. It is gone. But there is it — the Dodge Avenger. This angular silhouette casts a gloomy shadow over our former ideals. Has it really triumphed?

When the initial shock passes and horror gives way to curiosity, it turns out that the Avenger is not as scary as it seems. Yes, it is aggressive and even angry. Its appearance seems carved with an axe, as if the designers were on vacation and the rough work was entrusted to a carpenter. But there is a certain harmony in this harshness. Even the strange bulges over the rear wheel arches eventually begin to be taken for granted.

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

Harmony also reigns inside. The interior is done in the same brutal style, which is not bad, since it does not contradict the exterior. Here too, an axe was used. But saying that everything is unconditionally pleasing would be a lie.

The first thing that catches your eye is the materials. Why is the entire interior of this business sedan so hard? Couldn't they have used soft plastic? Or is this a way to save money? Why cross out everything we are used to in American cars?

The content is up to par. We like that four people can easily fit in the Avenger and go on a long journey. It is spacious and comfortable, and the number of power drives is pleasing. But this little 'no' is alarming. You get the feeling that you have been cheated at the market.

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

The Avenger enters the European market with four engines: a two-liter and a 2.4-liter from the World Engine series, a new 2.7-liter V6, and a two-liter turbodiesel.

But in Russia, only the first two are currently available. Moreover, the two-liter unit works exclusively with a five-speed manual. The second is paired with an automatic transmission equipped with the Auto Stick function. It sounds impressive, but in reality, this function simply allows manual gear shifting, which has already become standard for cars with an automatic.

For the test, we got exactly such a car, and I think this version will be the most in demand. Why? It's simple. The Avenger with this engine and gearbox is honest. The car behaves exactly as you expect. Its 170 'horses' give it quite decent dynamics.

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

The Avenger is indeed fast. Moreover, it is not difficult for it to accelerate not only from a standstill, but also when the speedometer needle has already passed a hundred — tested on the highway. You don't need to prepare for overtaking. You tuck in about ten meters behind the car ahead, wait for the moment, turn on the turn signal, floor the pedal — and now you are not the follower, but the leader. Simple, fast, and therefore safe.

Since we are talking about safety, it is worth noting that the base configuration of the Avenger includes ABS, traction control, brake assist, and an electronic stability control system.

We had to verify the latter in practice, and by accident. On one of the turns at high speed, the car hit broken asphalt, and it started to slide. But the slide lasted only a fraction of a second. ESP intervened and stabilized the car before the driver even began to act. The car instantly returned to its course — we didn't even have time to get scared.

After a day of interacting with the Avenger, we understood why Dodge decided to take revenge on Europe. For the fact that someone long insisted that America cannot make cars. Like, motorized sofas with cup holders — yes, but real cars — no. Nonsense! The Avenger is really good, especially when it comes to driving qualities. And everyone has flaws.

Twin

The Dodge Avenger has a 'blood brother' — the Chrysler Sebring. Both cars are built on the same platform, have the same engines, suspension, and gearboxes. Moreover, they are assembled on the same production line. But the Sebring is not a competitor to the Avenger. It is a more luxurious business sedan with higher quality trim materials. Unsurprisingly, it costs more.

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

2008 Dodge Avenger
© Photo: 5 Koleso

Driving
In motion, the Dodge Avenger performs excellently. The response to the gas pedal is pleasing. It steers well and holds confidently in corners. The only thing is that the brakes could be more powerful.

Interior
Spacious, easily accommodates five adult passengers.

Comfort
In the Avenger, you can talk about full-fledged comfort. The suspension is moderately soft, and the noise level at speed is moderate. Passengers will not complain about a lack of space. The equipment with amenities like climate control and music is average, but acceptable.

Safety
The car inspires confidence in any road situation. The operation of the stability control system is especially pleasing.

Price
The price matches the quality of the car.

Advantages and disadvantages
+ spacious interior, suspension operation.
- hard plastic, hard seats, sluggish brakes.

Our opinion

The Avenger leaves a mixed impression. Its stern appearance sets it apart from other cars. Driving qualities are top-notch — it goes confidently and assertively, steers well, and the suspension works excellently. Inside, there are some drawbacks — hard plastic and seats — but it is spacious. If you turn a blind eye to this, the car is quite comfortable and, given its price, should find a buyer.