2008 Dodge Magnum [ 2007 ]
in Affordable Full Size Wagons
Based on analysis of 44 Magnum reviews and test drives.
Dodge Magnum - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Dodge Magnum ranks 1 out of 6 Affordable Full Size Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 44 published reviews and test drives of the Dodge Magnum, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 Magnum ranks highly because reviewers love its powerful (but optional) V8 engines and its aggressively retro exterior styling. However, they dislike the base model's underpowered V6 and are disappointed that so many of the Magnum's safety features cost extra.
When the Dodge Magnum first appeared in model year 2005, it did more than give Chrysler's sales figures a boost: It made station wagons hip. It looked cool and, with the available V8 engines, performed like a hot rod out of decades past. Reviewers loved it -- and they still do. "[T]he Magnum is a bona fide triple threat," says Automobile Magazine. "[U]tilitarian, good looking, and fine driving." In fact, the 2007 Magnum made Edmunds' list of Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2007.
The low-end SE trim, with a 2.7-liter V6 engine that reviewers find seriously underpowered, invites sneers from automotive writers, but the SRT8, with its 6.1-liter Hemi V8, has reviewers comparing it to classic 1950s hot rods. The Magnum's handling also gets good notices, but it's the exterior styling that really makes reviewers swoon.
The Magnum's major drawback is the lack of safety features in the base model SE, which forces buyers to pay several thousand dollars to upgrade to the SXT model for traction and stability control and anti-lock brakes. Side air bags are not available in any model or even as an option.
The Magnum comes in four trims -- the base model SE, the SXT, the R/T and the high-performance SRT8.
- "All told, the Magnum's styling, performance, and practicality make it a suitable hot rod for young showoffs or a hip familymobile for people looking to enliven their driveway." -- U.S. News
- "It is as subtle as a Sherman tank and if that is your cup of tea you'll have lots and lots of fun..." -- The Auto Channel
- "Ultimate American station wagon. Very fast. Solid handling. Roomy. Comfortable." -- Chicago Sun-Times
- "The Magnum is certainly not a car for everyone, not even in its base form, and most certainly not in this ready-for-the-drag-strip-after-the-groceries-are-unloaded version." -- Boston Globe
- "Among today's pricey performance cars and trucks, it also carries a fairly modest price tag." -- Arizona Republic
Magnum Performance - 7.7 (Good)
Reviewers dismiss the 2008 Dodge Magnum's standard V6 engine as underpowered, but can't stop praising the two available V8 engines. The Washington Post gushes that the V8-powered Magnum "rides, runs and handles better than any full-size station wagon in our memory. The thing is just a joy to drive." The Magnum ranks high in its class for its exemplary performance. Continue with our full Performance Review to read about each of the Mangum's unique performance trims. continue
Magnum Exterior - 9.1 (Excellent)
Most critics are left aghast by the Magnums head-turning, menacing body style. In fact, Forbes calls the Magnum "one of the most aggressively styled station wagons ever built." The Magnum ranks in the top half of its class for its unique design. Continue with our full Exterior Review to read what the naysayers conclude, or check out our photo gallery. continue
Magnum Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)
Reviewers mostly find the 2008 Dodge Magnum's interior roomy and pleasant looking, with a clean, elegant design. "The Magnum's interior is comfortable, spacious and happily uncomplicated," says the Sacramento Bee. The Magnum ranks in the top half of its class for its interior. Continue with our full Interior Review to read what critics like and don't like about its cargo hold, or go to the 2008 Magnum Photo Gallery to see pictures of its cabin for yourself. continue
Magnum Safety - NA
The 2008 Magnum fares well in government crash tests, and makes available a wide array of safety features. It is, however, criticized for its lack of standard accident avoidance equipment. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn which active and passive safety features come standard. continue
Magnum Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Dodge Magnum 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 Magnum comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to read about Dodge's competitive powertrain warranty. continue
