Dodge Avenger 2008
By René Gervais
After a several hundred kilometre trip including several days in the city, we became somewhat indifferent to the lack of seating comfort noted earlier. Not very positive, you say, but considering my first impression, this could be taken as a plus. Then I discovered the excellent stereo system which, as you know, can deter one’s attention from other features. Naturally, the wonderful sound does not improve turning stability but it makes the trip bearable when you’re travelling with a Blackberry fanatic (unpleasant enough) who insists on writing out loud. Don’t fret, however, there’s a buyer for every vehicle. Now back to the Avenger!
After the musical interlude, I realized that the Avenger has a lot to offer. Whether it’s the trunk or the cabin, space abounds. Add to that a fuel consumption ratio usually seen in much smaller vehicles and astonishment becomes begrudging admiration. The Kudos will fade, though, when we get around to the engine.
Normally, one should be impressed by a four cylinder developing 173hp but if that horsepower is bolted to a 1545kg mass, one should re-evaluate. Fundamentally, the motor should not be blamed yet when passing disappoints, glaring under the hood comes naturally. As mentioned earlier, it’s very surprising to find such excellent fuel consumption in a heavy vehicle with a modest four-speed transmission.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Avenger has more to offer than flaws and knocking it indiscriminately would be unjustified. They say that taste and colors are personal. In that case, others will like them more than I. This vehicle afforded me certain thrills, therefore we must accentuate the elements liable to interest the prospective buyer. Personally, its best feature rests with the impressive space available relative to the modest retail price and lest we forget, the great fuel efficiency. Finally, what do you make of one person’s opinion? If you see in this car a break with never-ending style imitation and if after a trial run, it still pleases, you’ll be convinced of its stability and the black sheep in you can rest easy.
Additional comments: Ben
You find my colleague negative? Not I! For once, I totally endorse his observations. Briefly, the SXT 2.7’s six cylinders help the power ratio and more power can be found in the R/T version sporting a 3.5 litre developing 235hp. This version firmer suspension helps road handling. I cannot, unfortunately, disassociate myself from the other observations. |
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