2008 Dodge Avenger
Based on analysis of 31 Avenger reviews and test drives.
Dodge Avenger - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Dodge Avenger ranks 23 out of 23 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 31 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Avenger, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Avenger trails its competitors because it can't match their performance, interior refinement and value.
New for 2008, the Avenger replaces the 2006 two-door Dodge Stratus and is named after the Mitsubishi-based Avenger coupe of the 1990s. According to our analysis, the 2008 Dodge Avenger is an aggressively styled, economical alternative within the midsize sedan class, but doesn't have outstanding power or refinement to recommend it. Car and Driver says it sits "squarely in the middle of Camry, Accord, and Altima territory, each of which conveys a significantly better sense of quality and offers quieter, more refined powertrains." However, the Washington Post says the high-level Avenger R/T "is a decent mid-size family car with muscle-car pretensions surrounded by better-designed, higher-quality competitors."
The 2008 Dodge Avenger is available in three main trims: the base SE, the SXT and the R/T. The SXT is available as either the L package or the M package, which feature different engines. Dodge is also now offering an incentive for all prospective buyers to receive $2.99-a-gallon gas for the first three years or 12,000 miles with their new Avenger. If you're in the market for an affordable midsize sedan, keep in mind the well-respected Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.
- "The Avenger still trails the Honda Accord in refinement and driving enjoyment, but it's a solid effort." -- Car and Driver
- "It's got real sex appeal, good fuel economy, a nice-looking, functional interior with reasonable family room…lots of ordering flexibility with three model lines, and a host of interesting options." -- New Car Test Drive
- "While consumers don't need a mid-size sedan to handle the likes of Lex Luther every day, the Avenger will certainly hold its own against those daily Jokers we all come across on the road." -- Detroit News
- In contrast, Automobile Magazine writes, "This new Avenger won't be rewriting any rules for the mid-size class. At best, it's an alternative with a uniquely American accent." -- Automobile Magazine
Avenger Performance - 5.7 (Mediocre)
The Avenger's performance is a sore point. The Washington Post says the car is "as mild-mannered as a Toyota Camry on a Sunday drive." Automobile Magazine says the driving experience is not cool, and "those expecting a performance hit from the V-6 powered R/T … will be disappointed." Continue with our full Performance Review to find out why the engine is considered weak, or the handling characterized as unrefined. continue
Avenger Exterior - 7.4 (Good)
The Dodge Avenger's aggressive physical appearance is polarizing, and it's score anchors the affordable midsize cars. Compared to some sedans, Car and Driver says "the Avenger looks rather overwrought." But New Car Test Drive says it brings "some real style to the middle of the American car market, competing directly against a host of cars that are shaped like half-dissolved lozenges." Check out the Dodge Avenger Photo Gallery to view the car's distinctive sheetmetal, or continue with our full Exterior Review for more reviewers opinions on the design. continue
Avenger Interior - 6.4 (Mediocre)
Poor fit and finish plague the Avenger's five-seat interior, and lead to the sedan's mediocre interior score. The Truth About Cars reports "once again, the quality of The Chrysler's Group's rock hard plastics is both inexplicable and inexcusable. Even Kia uses finer materials." Check out our Dodge Avenger Photo Gallery for images of the plastic used in the Avenger's cabin, or click on to our full Interior Review for information on the Avenger's standard and optional interior features. continue
Avenger Safety - 9.7 (Excellent)
The Avenger gets excellent crash test scores from federal government. Continue with our full Safety Review for information on the Avenger's standard safety features. continue
Avenger Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Dodge Avenger reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Avenger comes with Dodge's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review for more information on the Avenger's powertrain coverage. continue
