Dodge Avenger

Dodge Avenger
Overview
Manufacturer	Mitsubishi Motors (1995–2000) Dodge (Chrysler LLC/Chrysler Group LLC) (2007–2014)
Production	1995–2000 2007–2014
Body and chassis
Class	Mid-size
Chronology
Successor	Chrysler 200

The Dodge Avenger is a front-wheel drive, mid-size sedan that was built by Dodge. The Dodge Avenger made its North American debut in 1995 as a two-door coupe, which was produced until 2000. It was re-introduced to the market as a four-door sports sedan starting in 2008. The 2014 model year marked the last production for the Avenger, as models for both the Dodge and Chrysler brands were consolidated into the single 2015 Chrysler 200 model,.^[1] while Dodge received the compact Dart based on the same platform.^[2]

Dodge Avenger Coupe (1995–2000)

Dodge Avenger Coupe
Overview
Also called	Chrysler Sebring coupe
Production	1995–2000
Assembly	United States: Normal, Illinois (Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America)
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door coupe
Layout	Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive
Platform	Chrysler FJ platform
Related	Eagle Talon Mitsubishi Eclipse
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L 420A I4 (gasoline) 2.5 L 6G73 V6 (gasoline)
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed Ultradrive 41TE automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	103.7 in (2,634 mm)
Length	190.2 in (4,831 mm) (1998–2000) 187.2 in (4,755 mm) (1995–97)
Width	69.1 in (1,755 mm) (1998–2000) 68.5 in (1,740 mm) (1995–97)
Height	53.0 in (1,346 mm) (1998–2000) 51 in (1,295 mm) (1995–97)
Chronology
Predecessor	Dodge Stealth, Dodge Daytona
Successor	Dodge Stratus coupe

Introduced as a two-door coupe in North America, the Dodge Avenger was built from 1995 to 2000 in a similar size and price class as the Dodge Daytona, which was discontinued in 1993. 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.[3] .Avengers and Sebring coupes built from 1995 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 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
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.

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 called	Dodge GTS (Mexico)
Production	February 2007– 2014
Model years	2008–2014
Assembly	United States: Sterling Heights, Michigan (Sterling Heights Assembly) Mexico: Chihuahua (2013-2014)
Designer	Ryan Nagode
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan
Layout	Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive / all-wheel drive
Platform	Chrysler JS platform
Related	Chrysler 200 Chrysler Sebring Dodge Journey
Powertrain
Engine	2.0 L World I4 (gasoline) 2.0 L VW I4 (t/c diesel) 2.4 L World I4 (gasoline) 2.7 L EER V6 (gasoline) 3.5 L EGF V6 (gasoline) 3.6 L Pentastar V6 (gasoline)
Transmission	4-speed Ultradrive 40TES automatic 4-speed Ultradrive41TES automatic 5-speed Magna T-355 manual 6-speed Ultradrive 62TE automatic 6-speed Getrag Mps6 DCT automatic 6-speed Aisin manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	108.9 in (2,766 mm)
Length	190.9 in (4,849 mm)
Width	71.8 in (1,824 mm)
Height	58.9 in (1,496 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	Dodge Stratus
Successor	Chrysler 200

The Dodge Avenger name returned 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.

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

• 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
• SXT Plus: (2012) One of the more "upevel" 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.
  • 3.6 L Pentastar V6 DOHC 24V MPI 6-speed automatic

Total American sales

Calendar Year	Sales
2007[13]	83,804
2008[14]	61,963
2009[15]	38,922
2010[16]	50,923
2011[17]	64,023
2012[18]	96,890
2013[19]	93,842
2014[20]	51,705

Safety

The 2008-2013 Avenger, also sold as the Chrysler Sebring from 2008-2010, and the Chrysler 200 from 2011-2013, 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.^[21] The final 2014 model year Avengers were produced during first quarter 2014.^[22] Starting mid-2014, the second generation 2015 Chrysler 200 went on sale, meaning to replace the Avenger in its lineup.

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 celebrated 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 1995-2000.

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. "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.
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. 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. 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. "December 2008 Sales: Chrysler LLC". CheersandGears.com. 2009-01-05. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
15. "Chrysler Group LLC December 2009 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2010-01-05. Retrieved 2010-01-05.
16. "Chrysler Group LLC December 2010 Sales". CheersandGears.com. 2011-01-04. Retrieved 2011-01-04.
17. "Chrysler sales shoot up 37% (26% for 2011)". allpar.com. Retrieved 2012-01-04.
18. "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2012 U.S. Sales Increased 10 Percent" (Press release). Chrysler Group LLC. 2013-01-03. Retrieved 2013-01-04.
19. "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 6 Percent" (Press release). Chrysler Group LLC. 2014-01-03. Retrieved 2014-01-06.
20. "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.
21. Joseph, Noah (23 February 2014). "Chrysler killing off 200 Convertible, Dodge Avenger". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 7 April 2015.
22. 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.

External links

• Official website
• Dodge Avenger Product Heritage