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Dodge Avenger

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For other uses, see avenger (disambiguation).
Dodge Avenger
2012 Dodge Avenger sedan
Overview
Manufacturer
Production1994–2000 and 2007–2014
Model years1995–2000 and 2008–2014
Body and chassis
Class
Chronology
SuccessorChrysler 200

The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-sized sedan that was marketed by Dodge. The Avenger made its North American debut in 1994 as a two-door coupe, which was produced until 2000. The model name was re-introduced to the market as a four-door sports sedan starting in 2007.

The 2014 model year marked the end of Avenger production as the mid-sized models for both the Dodge and Chrysler brands were consolidated into the new 2015 Chrysler 200[1] while Dodge received the new compact Dart.[2]

Dodge Avenger Coupe (1995–2000)

Dodge Avenger Coupe
Overview
Also calledChrysler Sebring coupe
Production1994–2000
Model years1995–2000
AssemblyNormal, Illinois, United States (DSM)
DesignerDaniel Sims (1991)
Body and chassis
ClassMid-sized sports car
Body style2-door coupe
LayoutTransverse front-engine, front-wheel drive
PlatformChrysler FJ platform
RelatedEagle Talon
Mitsubishi Eclipse
Powertrain
Engine2.0 L 420A I4
2.5 L 6G73 V6
Transmission5-speed manual
4-speed Ultradrive 41TE automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase103.7 in (2,634 mm)
Length190.2 in (4,831 mm) (1998–2000)
187.2 in (4,755 mm) (1994–97)
Width69.1 in (1,755 mm) (1998–2000)
68.5 in (1,740 mm) (1994–97)
Height53.0 in (1,346 mm) (1998–2000)
51 in (1,295 mm) (1994–97)
Chronology
PredecessorDodge Stealth, Dodge Daytona
SuccessorDodge Stratus coupe
1998 Dodge Avenger coupe

Introduced as a two-door coupe in North America, the Dodge Avenger was built from 1994 to 2000 in a similar size and price class as the Dodge Daytona, which was discontinued in 1994. The Avenger, along with the similar Chrysler Sebring coupe, was built by Diamond Star Motors (DSM), a joint venture between Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors, on a version of the Mitsubishi Galant platform (which also spawned the similar Mitsubishi Eclipse). Chrysler sold its equity stake to Mitsubishi in 1993, and Diamond-Star Motors was renamed to Mitsubishi Motors Manufacturing America (MMMA) on July 1, 1995. Avengers and Sebring coupes built from 1994 to 1996 both have DSM markings in their engine compartments.

The Avenger was built on a 103.7 in (2,634 mm) wheelbase and used either a 2.0 L inline-four engine (the Chrysler 420A) or a Mitsubishi-designed 2.5 L V6. The four-cylinder was coupled to either a five-speed manual transmission, shared with the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon, or a four-speed automatic. The V6 engine was only available with the A604 automatic transmission.[3] The Avengers featured a fully independent double wishbone suspension and variable speed rack and pinion steering.

Changes

Anti-lock braking system was used in all ES models to 1999. In 1997, the front fascia, trunklid, and rear bumper were changed; 16-inch wheels were standard, and the license plate was moved from the decklid to the rear bumper. In 2000, the V6 and automatic transmission combination was made standard on all Avengers, and ABS was made an "option" for ES models. The four-cylinder engine was dropped for 2000.

Trims

  • 1995–2000 - "Highline" base model (V6 among other options made standard in 2000)
  • 1995–2000 - ES

From 1997, a "Sport Appearance Package" was made available on Base model. This package included 16" wheels, a deck lid spoiler, along with other standard and optional features.

Timeline
Year Event
MY 1995 Initial introduction - replaces the Daytona. A DOHC 16-valve 2.0 L I4 engine (140 hp, 130 lb⋅ft (176 N⋅m) of torque) is standard. A SOHC 24-valve 2.5 L V6 engine and an automatic transmission (155 hp, 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque) are made optional on the ES. Fog lamps and ABS are also optional on the ES.
1996 Power and torque ratings for the V6 are increased (163 horsepower, 170 lb⋅ft (230 N⋅m). torque), ES Coupes had new seat fabric.
1997 Sport model introduced (in addition to the base and ES). The Avenger Sport package consisted of exclusive 16-inch aluminum wheels and a body-color spoiler. New front and rear fascias are added. Added a body-color rear spoiler, P215/50HR17 tires, and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels for the ES. The V6 is also standard for the ES, as well as rear disc brakes.
1998 An on-board recycling vapor recovery system, cafe latte exterior color and a black and gray interior color combination are added.
1999 Next generation driver and front passenger airbags are added, as well as a new exterior color: Shark Blue. The V6 engine and automatic transmission are standard on all models in mid-year, as well as several options.
2000 Last year for the Avenger. The V6 with automatic drive train are standard. ABS an option on ES models. Gained a number of standard features that had previously been optional, including power windows and locks. Base models added cruise control and 4-wheel disc brakes. ES coupes now come with standard leather upholstery, keyless remote entry, and a power driver's seat.

Never a high selling vehicle, in 2000 the Avenger was discontinued and replaced by the Dodge Stratus coupe for 2001. This model was also made at the former Diamond Star plant by Mitsubishi, using the Eclipse platform and architecture, though the Stratus sedan was engineered and built by Chrysler.

Dodge Avenger sedan (2007–2014)

Dodge Avenger sedan
Overview
Also calledDodge GTS (Mexico)
ProductionFebruary 2007– 2014
Model years2008–2014
AssemblyUnited States: Sterling Heights, Michigan (Sterling Heights Assembly)
DesignerRyan Nagode (2004)
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size car
Body style4-door fastback sedan
LayoutTransverse front-engine, front-wheel drive / all-wheel drive
PlatformChrysler JS platform
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase108.9 in (2,766 mm)
Length190.9 in (4,849 mm)
Width71.8 in (1,824 mm)
Height58.9 in (1,496 mm)
Chronology
PredecessorDodge Stratus
SuccessorChrysler 200
Dodge Dart

The Dodge Avenger nameplate was reused in February 2007 as a 2008 model year[4] sedan to replace the Dodge Stratus, whose coupe version had replaced the original Avenger in 2001. According to some reports, the Avenger, along with the redesigned Chrysler Sebring, shares a DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi Motors platform called JS which used the Mitsubishi GS as a starting point. The base engine in the SE and SXT trim levels was the 2.4 L GEMA I4 naturally aspirated "World Engine", a joint venture between DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai. Additional engines included an optional 2.7 L V6 in the SXT and a standard 3.5 L V6 in the R/T trim level. In addition to the 2.4 L "World Engine" and the V6s, export vehicles were offered with the 2.0 L naturally aspirated "World Engine", as well as a 2.0 L turbocharged diesel (Pumpe-Düse) made by Volkswagen.[5] As a 2008 model, the Dodge Avenger came to showrooms in February 2007.

Rear view

Features on the new Avenger include optional heated/cooled cup holders as well as Dodge's new "Chill Zone", a feature that comes standard on all Avenger models, which can store up to four 12-US fl oz cans in the glove box and chill them to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.[6]

Like its Dodge Journey stablemate, the Avenger's exterior was styled by Chrysler's Ryan Nagode.[7] The interior was styled by Ben S. Chang.[5]

The Avenger replaced the Charger as Dodge's car in NASCAR in 2007 for Car of Tomorrow races. It got its first win with former Formula One driver Juan Pablo Montoya in the 2007 Toyota/Save Mart 350 at the Infineon Raceway.

The Avenger was officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on September 28, 2006 as a concept car. It was launched in Europe and was sold in the United Kingdom, filling a gap in the Chrysler range that was left by the Neon's demise four years earlier. It was also launched in Australia, although with only the 2.4 L engine. The 2007 - 2014 model was sold widely in New Zealand.

In the United Kingdom, it has been discontinued, although sales continued in the Republic of Ireland and in Western Europe until late 2009 following Fiat's takeover of Chrysler Group. This new version continued with SE, SXT trim levels and is not badged the same way as North American or the South American versions. The Avenger competed directly with the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion, with the 2007 and later Chrysler Sebring being aimed at the higher priced American cars such as the Mercury Milan, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura.

In the US, the Avenger was launched with a 30-second television ad, "Tuned Up," that debuted Sunday, March 4, 2007 during NHL hockey, an ad in which a lab technician discovers he can play "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple on the Avenger's transmission. Another television spot likened the Avenger to the "superhero" vehicle for the everyman, depicting a driver piloting his Avenger through Gotham-like streets and alleys, speaking to the MyGig entertainment system in distinctly Batman-reminiscent tones, to arrive home, pull into a two-car garage and open the rear door to a sleeping child in the rear car-seat.[8]

Revisions

In the 2009 model year, like its Caliber, Charger, Grand Caravan, Journey, and Nitro models, the "AVENGER" badge at the trunklid's left was pushed to the right to make way for "DODGE" at the left.

Changes for 2011

2011 Dodge Avenger Heat

For 2011, the Avenger received its first major overhaul since its 2008 re-introduction. Exterior changes include slightly revised sheet metal with a new crosshair grille displaying the new Dodge logo on the lower right corner of the grille, a sleeker bumper cut design, and standard LED combination tail lights. Changes to the interior are more noticeable with a completely redesigned dashboard and instrument panel featuring an available 6.5-inch navigation/media center screen. Higher-quality soft-touch plastics for dashboard, door, and trim panels replaces the old materials, which were criticized for their poor fit and finish quality, as well as being unpleasant to the touch. The seats receive better cushioning and higher-grade upholstery. Two-tone interior color combinations will be available.[9]

Mechanically, the 2011 Avenger came standard with the existing 173 hp (129 kW) 2.4 L GEMA I4, although it was now paired with a six-speed automatic, as well as the option of the previous four-speed. Also available was the new 3.6 L Pentastar V6, which generates 283 hp (211 kW) and 260 pound force-feet (350 N⋅m) of torque. The suspension was revised to improve handling and ride quality.[9] Trim level designations were replaced by Express, Mainstreet, Lux, and Heat models.[10]

The Dodge Avenger was ranked the "Most American Made" sedan by the American University's Kogod School of Business 2013 Made in America Auto Index.[11] The Dodge Avenger also has an overall rating of 6.7.[12]

Trims

2008-2010 model dashboard
Avenger SXT rear view, 2011-2013 model
  • SE: (2007–2009, 2012–2013) The "base" trim level from 2007-2009, and then again from 2012-2013.
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V Dual VVT 4-speed automatic
  • SXT: (2007–2010, 2012–2013) The "volume" trim level from 2007-2010, and again from 2012-2013.
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V Dual VVT 4-speed automatic
    • 2.7 L EER V6 DOHC 24-valve MPI 4-speed automatic
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V Dual VVT 6-speed automatic

3.6L Pentastar

  • SXT Plus: (2012) One of the more "uplevel" trim levels in 2012. Discontinued after 2012.
    • 3.6 L Pentastar V6 DOHC 24V MPI 6-speed automatic
  • R/T: (2007–2010, 2012–2013) At first the "top-of-the-line" trim level from 2007-2010, and then the "performance-oriented" trim level from 2012-2013.
    • 3.5 L EGF High Output V6 24V MPI 6-speed automatic
    • 3.6 L Pentastar V6 DOHC 24V MPI 6-speed automatic
  • R/T AWD: (2007–2009)
    • 3.5 L EGF High Output V6 24V MPI 6-speed automatic
  • Express: (2010-2011) Replaces SE as basic trim level from 2010-2011. Discontinued after 2011.
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V MPI 4-speed automatic
  • Mainstreet: (2011) Replaces SXT as one of the more "basic" trim levels in 2011, and then discontinued after 2011.
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V MPI 6-speed automatic
  • Lux: (2011) Replaces SXT Plus as one of the "uplevel" trims in 2011, and then discontinued after 2011.
    • 2.4 L GEMA I4 DOHC 16V MPI 6-speed automatic
    • 3.6 L Pentastar V6 DOHC 24V MPI 6-speed automatic
  • Heat: (2011) Replaces SXT Plus as one of the "uplevel" trim levels in 2011, and then discontinued after 2011.

Total sales

Year U.S. Canada Mexico
2007[13] 83,804 7,067[14] 8,091[15]
2008[16] 61,963 8,525[17]
2009[18] 38,922 5,533 3,592
2010[19] 50,923 3,495 3,690
2011[20] 64,023 4,680 4,147
2012[21] 96,890 4,858 3,748
2013[22] 93,842 7,631 3,119[23]
2014[24] 51,705 488
2015 1,268[25] 8
2016 45 N/A
2019 1 N/A
Total 543,385 33,760 34,912
Sales Total 612,057

Safety

The 2008 to 2013 Avenger, also sold as the Chrysler Sebring from 2008 to 2010, and the Chrysler 200 from 2011 to 2013, receives an overall "Good" rating with no significant injuries. In the small overlap test, also conducted by the IIHS, the car received an overall "Acceptable" rating, due to marginal dummy kinematics and slight intrusion into the passenger compartment. In the side test, the Avenger earns a "Good" rating, however, rib fractures would be possible for the driver. In the roof strength evaluation, it earns a "Good" rating, as well as its head restraints and seats. The Avenger earned the "Top Safety Pick" award in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, and earned the "Top Safety Pick+" award for 2013.

Discontinuation

The discontinuation of the Dodge Avenger was announced by the automaker in early 2014, along with the end of the Chrysler 200 convertible model.[26] The final 2014 model year Avengers were produced during first quarter 2014.[27]

Motorsport

The first-generation Dodge Avenger body style was widely used in the National Hot Rod Association, but came to the most prominence being driven by Darrell Alderman and Scott Geoffrion, during their run from 1994–2000, as the Dodge Boys. The car was also used for the 1994 and 1995 incarnations of the International Race of Champions. Avenger sheet metal was also used on race cars by several ARCA race teams from 1995 to 2000.

The second-generation Dodge Avenger was used in the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Season as the Car of Tomorrow model from Dodge. In 2008, the Dodge CoT was changed back to the Charger.

References

  1. ^ Chrysler planning new midsize car to replace Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger in 2014
  2. ^ Chrysler 200 vs. Dodge Dart: How They Compare
  3. ^ Debertin, David. "Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger coupes: Mitsubishi Mopars". Allpar. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  4. ^ Wernle, Bradford (January 17, 2007). "New Dodge costs less than outgoing model". Autoweek. Retrieved July 11, 2014.
  5. ^ a b "2008-2014 Dodge Avenger cars". AllPar. Retrieved July 11, 2014.
  6. ^ "2008 Dodge Avenger". CarGurus.com. Retrieved 2008-06-29.
  7. ^ Pegg, Harry (February 8, 2008). "Dodge has strong hand in Journey". The London Free Press.[dead link‍]
  8. ^ "2008 Dodge Avenger Launches Marketing Campaign". Carbuyersnotebook.com. 2 March 2007. Archived from the original on 2 October 2008. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  9. ^ a b Kong, Benson (October 28, 2010). "First Look: 2011 Dodge Avenger". Motor Trend. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  10. ^ "Full 2011 Dodge Avenger Review". Edmunds. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  11. ^ "New Auto Index Redefines "American Made" Cars". Kogod School of Business, The American University. May 2013. Archived from the original on 2013-04-03. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  12. ^ "2014 Dodge Avenger Review". US News & World Report. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  13. ^ "Dodge Avenger Sales Figures". goodcarbadcar.net. 2011-01-01. Retrieved 2014-11-11.
  14. ^ Good Car Bad Car (Dodge Avenger Sales Figures)
  15. ^ Cars Italy (Dodge Avenger Sales 2007)
  16. ^ "December 2008 Sales: Chrysler LLC". CheersandGears.com. 2009-01-05. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
  17. ^ "AMDA Mex (Industria Automotriz 2008-2013.pdf)" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 2016-01-20. Retrieved 2017-07-07.
  18. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC December 2009 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2010-01-05. Retrieved 2010-01-05.
  19. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC December 2010 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2011-01-04. Retrieved 2011-01-04.
  20. ^ "Chrysler sales shoot up 37% (26% for 2011)". allpar.com. Archived from the original on 2012-01-10. Retrieved 2012-01-04.
  21. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2012 U.S. Sales Increased 10 Percent" (Press release). Chrysler Group LLC. 2013-01-03. Retrieved 2013-01-04.
  22. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 6 Percent" (Press release). Chrysler Group LLC. 2014-01-03. Retrieved 2014-01-06.
  23. ^ Chrysler de México (Chrysler de México estableció récord de ventas para el año con 9,977 unidades durante noviembre 2013)
  24. ^ "FCA US LLC Reports December 2014 U.S. Sales Increased 20 Percent - Best December Sales in a Decade; Full-Year Sales Up 16 Percent - Strongest Annual Sales Since 2006" (Press release). PRNewswire. 5 January 2015. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  25. ^ FCA Group (Sales in USA December 2015)
  26. ^ Joseph, Noah (23 February 2014). "Chrysler killing off 200 Convertible, Dodge Avenger". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
  27. ^ Mihalascu, Dan (24 February 2014). "2015 Chrysler 200 Won't Get Convertible Model; Dodge Avenger Will Be Axed as Well". Carscoops.com. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
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