From the front, there’s no mistaking Dodge’s current styling theme with the Avenger’s exterior lines revaling a connection to the other Dodge models (the Caliber and the Nitro).

Dodge Avenger’s side profile shares more family characteristics with the Dodge Caliber (the first of the re-entry models for Dodge in the Australian market) and Charger (a North Amercican model which is based on the Chrysler 300C). Muscular rear shoulders, a distinctive “kick-up” in the rear doors, large diameter wheels and tyres and a rear spoiler on SXT models embody the Dodge brand styling attributes. Avenger’s long greenhouse is accentuated by black appliqués on the B-pillars, which make this sedan look like it’s pouncing forward, even when it’s at a standstill. From the rear, large, expressive tail lamp modules placed at the corners frame the boot lid and add to the Dodge appearance.

The Dodge Avenger rides on a 2765 mm wheelbase and 1570 mm track, which add to its stance, improve ride quality and stability and maximise crumple-zone space in the engine compartment to enhance occupant protection.

Impressive Interior Makes Bold Statement

Graphic design elements, which set the new Dodge Avenger’s exterior design apart from the competition, also are evident throughout the vehicle’s spacious interior.

Carefully matched textures and low gloss levels contribute to Dodge Avenger’s interior surfaces. The instrument panel top pad and centre stack feature a “Franklin” grain with low-gloss finish to match the defroster grille, driver cubby and Dodge logo on passenger side surrounds. From the instrument cluster bezel to the climate control knobs, circles are a primary graphic element repeated throughout the Avenger’s interior.

Taking a cue from the Dodge Ram name, the Dodge Avenger’s centre stack features a V-like ram’s horn shape that surrounds the gated shifter bezel and serves as a design focal point. Avenger’s centre stack features dual heating and air conditioning vents. A large opening below the vents provides room for either the standard CD radio or the optional cutting-edge MyGIG™ multi-media infotainment system. On vehicles equipped with the UConnect® Hands-free Communication System (an after-sales option), phone buttons are packaged in the radio control head unit for easy access and a clean, streamlined appearance.

Space for People and Storage

Dodge Avenger’s interior provides comfortable seating for the driver and up to four passengers. The long wheelbase, wide track and packaging results in a cabin interior that is spacious. Maximum headroom is 1,016 mm in the front and 972 mm in the rear, while legroom measures 1,077 mm in the front and 954 mm in the rear. Shoulder room is 1,433 mm front and 1,430 mm rear. Hip room is 1,352 mm front and 1,351 mm rear.

Luggage volume in the Dodge Avenger’s boot is a 452 litres. Cargo carrying versatility is boosted by 60/40 split folding rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat. For smaller items, storage areas are provided in the centre console – with upper and lower storage bins topped by a sliding armrest – and both front doors, with a map pocket behind the driver’s seat.

Adding appeal to Dodge Avenger is the Chill Zone™, a chilled beverage storage bin that is standard on all Avenger models. Housed in the passenger-side upper dashboard panel, the bin can hold and chill as many as four 500 ml beverage bottles or cans. As well as Chill Zone™, SXT models receive a heated/cooler cup holder.

Powertrains Deliver Excellent Fuel Efficiency

A choice of three engines is offered to power the Dodge Avenger variants sold in Australia: From launch, two petrol four cylinder engines, a 2.0-litre and a 2.4-litre will be offered. A 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine will be available in early 2008 for the Avenger.

In standard form, Dodge Avenger SX models will be fitted with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, with dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), intake manifold flow control valves, dual counter-rotating balance shafts and many more features. A great entry-level option, this engine provides Avenger with the best power and combined fuel consumption among its key competitors. Matched to a five-speed manual transmission, this 16-valve engine provides 115 kW at 6,300 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 5,100 rpm. Fuel economy is 7.8 litres per 100 km (combined cycle).

The optional 2.4-litre petrol engine with dual VVT is matched to a four-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, which gives the driver manual shifting control or full automatic operation. This 16-valve engine generates 125 kW at 6,000 rpm and 220 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm, giving it the best power among its key competitors.

In January 2008, Avenger SXT will also feature an optional 2.7-litre V-6 engine, which produces 137 kW of power and 256 Nm of torque. The V6 is matched to Chrysler Group’s new six-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, which provides quicker standing-start acceleration. Smaller steps between ratios also make for a smoother, quieter ride, as the engine speed doesn’t change as often with each shift.

Chassis and Running Gear Make Driving Fun

Dodge Avenger’s chassis and running gear put the emphasis on fun-to-drive ride and handling. The sedan’s long wheelbase (2,765 mm) and wide track (1,570 mm) give it a high level of stability. The Avenger’s overall torsion and bending stiffness give it an on-road performance with a solid feel, while allowing the body to remain tight and quiet.

The front-wheel-drive Dodge Avenger is built on the Chrysler Group’s latest platform. It features a front suspension set up with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear suspension. Front and rear suspension cross members are isolated to the body to provide a quiet ride, with less road noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) than previous models. The vehicle also uses world-class levels of sealants and sound-deadening materials to reduce road, wind and powertrain noise.

The direct-feel, power-assisted rack and pinion steering is speed-sensitive, with a 16.5-to-1 ratio and 11.13 metre turning diameter. The all-disc braking system is equipped with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, backed up with state-of-the-art electronics.

Multi-media Infotainment

The Dodge Avenger also features MyGIG, an optional multi-media infotainment system. This navigation radio features a motorised, flip-down 6.5-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) display with a touch-screen panel that can support 65,000 colours. The TFT screen uses an active matrix for viewing from angles up to 180 degrees – perfect for the centre of an instrument panel.

The system provides a two- or three-dimensional appearance to graphics and animation, as well as multiple font sizes and styles.

• A 20-gigabyte hard disc drive for storing map data for the navigation system, photos or up to 1,600 songs
• Gracenote™ music-file management, which automatically adds song, artist and album information to the music files
• Universal Serial Bus (USB) port that allows for the transfer of data onto the hard drive
• Voice memo recording, which allows a message up to three minutes long to be recorded using the microphone integrated into the rear-view mirror
• Display screen that can display movies when the vehicle is in Park
• Capability to support three simultaneous audio output sources
• UConnect Hands-free Communication System that uses Bluetooth® technology to provide voice-activated wireless communication between the occupants’ compatible mobile phone and the vehicle’s onboard receiver
• Functionality in six languages (Dutch, English, French, German, Italian and Spanish)

Safety Features

Safety and security are a priority among mid-sized segment car buyers in Australia and the new Dodge Avenger offers a combination of safety features that are designed to keep occupants safe and secure.

Integrated with the body shell, Avenger’s safety cage is constructed with dual-phase, high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel components designed to protect occupants in all driving situations. Avenger’s strong safety cage is complemented with a combination of standard safety items demanded by buyers in the mid-sized segment.

Active Safety

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
• Brake Assist System
• All speed Traction Control System
• Seat-belt pretensioners and Constant Force Retractors

Passive Safety

• Advanced multi-stage front air bags
• Full-length side-curtain air bags
• Sentry Key® Engine Immobiliser and Security alarm

Model line-up

The Dodge Avenger will be introduced into the Australian market with two models: Dodge Avenger SX and Dodge Avenger SXT.

Dodge Avenger SX – from $28,290*

The Dodge Avenger SX features a 2.0 litre four cylinder engine matched to a five speed manual transmission.

Dodge Avenger SXT – from $34,990*

The Dodge Avenger SXT features in standard form a 2.4 litre four cylinder engine matched to a four speed automatic transmission.

* Please see technical specifications/pricing and options documents for complete standard equipment listing and optional extras pricing.

Dodge Avenger Pricing

Avenger SX - $28,290

• 2.0L DOHC 16V 5-speed manual

Avenger SX - $30,990

• 2.4L DOHC 16V 4-speed automatic

Avenger SXT - $34,990

• 2.4L DOHC 16V 4-speed automatic

Avenger SXT - (Pricing unavailable until release)

• 2.7L DOHC 24V 6-speed automatic

Dodge Avenger Production