2009 Dodge Avenger in Clinton Twp., MI - $4,700

Combining bold, aggressive Dodge styling with innovative interior features, high levels of safety and reliability, impressive performance and above average fuel economy, the Avenger serves as the entry level vehicle for the Dodge product line.

New for 2012, the Dodge Avenger offers a model lineup comprised of the SE, SXT, SXT Plus and the new for 2012 Avenger R/T. The 2012 Dodge Avenger sports two new exterior colors: Copperhead Pearl Coat and Blue Streak Pearl Coat.

Power for the 2012 Dodge Avenger is generated by the 2.4L four-cylinder World Gas Engine, which has been recalibrated and is mated to a four- or six-speed automatic transmission for a fun and fuel-efficient driving experience. A powerful 3.5L V6 is optional for the R/T. Torque is communicated to the street through the 40TES four-speed automatic. The optional V6 engine is outfitted with a 62TE six-speed adaptive automatic or Auto Stick driver-interactive automatic with manual control.

The new for 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T model offers a distinctive monochromatic exterior appearance with unique 18-inch polished "Rallye design" aluminum wheels, black background headlamps, unique body-color grille, black headlamp background, R/T fender stripes on the front quarter panel and unique 18-inch aluminum wheels. The performance elements carry through to the rear of the vehicle with a spoiler and the "R/T" badge.

Dodge engineers tuned the Avenger's suspension specifically to the R/T model. They increased roll stiffness by 18 percent and spring rates by 17 percent in the front and more than 12 percent in the rear. Front strut damping rates are increased 15 percent, rear strut damping rates are increased almost 20 percent and the rear stabilizer bar diameter is 2 mm larger, increased from 19 mm to 21 mm. The suspension changes result in a spirited, performance sedan driving experience.

The interior of the 2012 Dodge Avenger R/T sports distinctive Aunde fabric with Z stripe accent, red stitching and performance leather-trimmed bolsters that hold drivers and passengers firmly in their seats when they put the Avenger to the test. The front seats are heated and sport an "R/T" graphic stitched in red on the front headrests. Drivers will notice a cockpit unlike other Avenger models. It features a unique gauge cluster with a center-mounted tachometer with the "R/T" graphic and SRT-inspired brake and accelerator pedal pads. The steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather with red accent stitching. Red ambient accent lighting in the interior cabin is unique to the R/T model. A 276-watt Boston Acoustic sound system compliments the standard touchscreen entertainment center with a hard drive that offers 28 GB of available storage for songs and other media.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 108.9; overall length: 192.6; width: 72.8; height: 58.4

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 173 hp at 6,000 rpm and 166 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm; 3.6L V6 – 283 hp at 6,400 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed automatic, six-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 2.4L four-cylinder – 21 city/30 hwy, (4-speed automatic), 20 city/31 hwy. (6-speed automatic); 3.6L V6 – 19 city/29 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 13.5 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, all-speed traction control, electronic stability control, remote keyless entry, and tire pressure monitoring system. SXT Plus adds fog lamps, automatic headlamps, and remote engine start. R/T adds HomeLink garage door opener.

Optional safety features include: navigation system and Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Dodge Avenger sedan starts from $18,995 for the SE upto $25,995 for the R/T. Destination charges add $750.