Automotive Faqs

The Magnum gets no major changes for 2007. This large wagon is a companion to the Dodge Charger sedan and shares its basic design with the Chrysler 300 sedan. Magnum seats five and offers V6 and V8 engines. SE models have a 190-hp V6. SXT versions have a 250-hp V6.

The R/Ts have Chrysler’s 340-hp Hemi V8, and high-performance SRT8s have a 425-hp Hemi V8. The 340-hp V8 uses Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System that deactivates four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. All Magnums have automatic transmission: a 4-speed on SEs, a 5-speed on others. Rear-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is available on SXT and R/T versions.

ABS and traction/antiskid control are optional on SE, standard on others. Curtain side airbags are available on all. R/T, SRT8, and AWD SXT models have firmer suspension tuning. SRT8s add Brembo-brand brakes and specific trim. Split folding rear seatbacks are standard. Available are power-adjustable pedals and wireless cell phone link. The Road/Track Performance Group gives R/T versions 350 hp and adds 20-inch wheels and special suspension tuning.

Charger is getting a kid brother in the 2007 replacement for Dodge’s midsize Stratus sedan. Called Avenger, it shares a platform, powertrain and many features with Chrysler’s just-launched Sebring sedan, but looks like a scaled-down Charger. Dodge hasn’t released particulars yet, but Avengers should have fewer standard features and lower list prices than Sebring sedans. More news soon, so keep checking back.

Meantime, Dodge says the Charger SRT8 will offer a special cosmetic option reviving the “Super Bee” name from the muscle-car 1960s. The exterior wears “Detonator Yellow” paint set off by black patches on hood and rear deck and large Super Bee logos in the original style. Yellow stitching adorns seats, steering wheel and shift knob.

Further out, sources say the big Dodges and Chrysler’s 300 will be “restyled and reengineered” for 2009, which likely means a full makeover. Also expected for Chrysler’s LX-platform trio is more parts-sharing with the C- and E-Class lines at corporate cousin Mercedes-Benz. This is said to involve a new vehicle-electronics system and, from model-year 2010, replacement V6 engines designed for higher mpg.

Last but not least is the promised 2008 return of Dodge’s early-1970s Challenger “ponycar.” Already previewed in concept form, this sporty coupe wears modernized styling on a Charger platform with a 4-inch shorter wheelbase. Dodge will shun an entry-level V6 for 5.7- and 6.1-liter Hemi V8 models. Sources expect prices upstream of equivalent Ford Mustangs. Convertibles are not assured, but might be offered later on.[ConsumerGuide]

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