The Dodge Stratus is a mid-size car that was introduced by Dodge in December 1994 and was based on the 4-door sedan Chrysler JA platform . The Stratus, Plymouth Breeze , and Chrysler Cirrus were all on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1996 and 1997. It received critical acclaim at launch, but ratings fell over time. An updated version of the Stratus was introduced for 2001, with the Cirrus being renamed as the Chrysler Sebring , and a coupé model was also added to the range. Production ended in early 2006 at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant after building 1,308,123 Stratus and Sebrings since 2000.
70-619: The Dodge Avenger replaced the Stratus nameplate in early 2007 for the 2008 model year . After the discontinuation of the Stratus sedan in 2006, the assembly line and tooling were sold to the Russian concern, GAZ , which manufactured 9,000 units of a very slightly modified Stratus from 2008 through 2010 called the Volga Siber . The Dodge Stratus was the middle entry of the JA platform (with
140-641: A 2008 model year sedan to replace the Dodge Stratus, whose coupe version had replaced the original Avenger in 2001. Like its Dodge Journey stablemate, the Avenger's exterior was styled by Chrysler's Ryan Nagode . Ben S. Chang designed the interior. The Avenger was officially unveiled as a concept car at the Paris Motor Show on 28 September 2006. It was launched in Europe and marketed in
210-566: A base model Dodge Stratus, the Breeze came standard with the 2.0 L I4 engine, five-speed manual transmission, 14-inch wheel covers, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, AM/FM stereo, and driver and front-passenger airbags. The Breeze was also available with many options including a four-speed automatic transmission , 2.4 L I4 engine (available with automatic transmission only), anti-lock brakes , cruise control , power windows , power door locks , power mirrors , cassette or CD player, and
280-565: A four-door notchback sedan was designed with flowing lines with no distinct beginning or end, but almost resembled a two-box fastback . Design work was done during 1991, with the final version moved on for production by 1992. The Cirrus was introduced for 1995 as a replacement for the Chrysler LeBaron sedan. It was often compared to other smaller mid-size cars such as the Chevrolet Malibu , yet judged roomier than
350-481: A full instrument cluster. The SE (1999–2000) was the least expensive trim level of Stratus in 2000. The SE included the same standard equipment as the previously-base Base trim level of Stratus. The ES (1995–2000) was the top-of-the-line trim level of Stratus from 1995 to 2000. The ES added the following equipment to the Base or SE trim levels: a 2.4 L I4 engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels,
420-674: A fully independent double wishbone suspension and variable-speed rack-and-pinion steering. Trims included the Highline base model (the V6 engine, among other options, were made standard in 2000) and the ES. A DOHC 16-valve 2.0 L I4 engine (140 hp (104 kW; 142 PS) and 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 (116 kW; 157 PS) and 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque) are optional on
490-792: A higher ground clearance for the Brazilian road conditions. In Argentina, it was marketed as the Chrysler Stratus, and it was raced in the category "Superturismo Sudamericano" (Copa de las Naciones), driven by Ernesto Bessone and Pablo Peon. In the Gulf States , the Stratus was sold under both the Dodge and Chrysler brand. The latter sporting the styling of the European version with the exception of having North American market rear bumper. In several countries and U.S. jurisdictions,
560-571: A higher ground clearance for the road conditions there. In Europe, only the 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine or the 2.5 L V6 engine were available. The European version also had chrome accent moldings along the doors and bumpers. The Base (1995–1999) was the least expensive trim level of Stratus from 1995 to 1999. The Base was equipped with a 2.0 L I4 engine, a five-speed manual transmission, fifteen-inch black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an A/M-F/M stereo with four speakers, air conditioning, manual windows and door locks, cloth seats, and
630-479: A low extending waterfall grille that was either chrome or body-colored depending on the color of the vehicle. The Cirrus was one of the first Chrysler vehicles to feature the rose medallion logo, which had not been used in 41 years. From 1995 to 1997, the Cirrus was offered in two trim levels: the entry-level LX and the luxury LXi. The LX model was dropped for the 1998 model year, but returned in 2000 to compensate for
700-609: A possible injury to the right leg. On the side test, the Stratus receives a "Poor" rating without optional side airbags due to a serious neck injury, a weak side structure, possible rib fractures, and high forces on the shoulder and pelvis. Its seats and head restraints earn an overall "Acceptable" rating from the IIHS. The license and production facilities for the second generation Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring sedans were sold in April 2006 to Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska , owner of
770-558: A power driver's seat. The coupe did not achieve high sales numbers, so in 2000, the Avenger was discontinued. It was replaced by the Dodge Stratus coupe for the 2001 model year. This coupe utilized the third-generation Eclipse platform and architecture. Mitsubishi assembled it at the former Diamond Star plant. However, the Stratus sedan was engineered and built by Chrysler. The Dodge Avenger nameplate returned in February 2007 as
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#1732773379048840-510: A power sunroof. Additionally, 1998 and 1999 Breezes offered an "Expresso Package" similar to the one available on the Voyager and Neon . "Expresso" content included special badging, unique wheel covers, upgraded audio system, and premium interior cloth in unique "Rhythm" pattern. The Breeze was discontinued early in the 2000 model year, as part of Chrysler's phaseout of the Plymouth brand ;
910-510: A soft ride while the R/T versions included a firmer suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, and 18-inch wheels. For the 2011 model year, the Avenger received its first significant overhaul since its 2008 reintroduction. 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 taillights. Changes to
980-479: Is a front-wheel drive , mid-sized sedan that was marketed by Dodge . The Avenger made its North American debut in 1994 for the 1995 model year as a coupe that was produced until 2000. The model name was reintroduced to the market as a four-door sedan in 2007 for the 2008 model year. The Dodge Avenger name was used on the South African market Hillman Avengers in 1975 and 1976. The 2014 model year marked
1050-476: The Acclaim , the Breeze did manage to sell over 230,000 units and total production was greater than that of its Chrysler Cirrus sibling, which was produced for nearly two additional years. As part of Chrysler's new marketing strategy which addressed concerns that its brands were treading into each other's marketing territory, Plymouth, as Chrysler Corporation's low-price brand for essentially its entire existence,
1120-589: The Avenger , did not include a coupé version. The first generation Dodge Stratus received a "Poor" rating in the IIHS frontal crash test. It was actually a Chrysler Cirrus that was tested, but the results also apply to the Stratus, and also the Plymouth Breeze. The second generation Stratus and its twin, the Chrysler Sebring, received an overall "Acceptable" rating in the IIHS frontal test due to
1190-522: The Chrysler Corporation 's new cab-forward design, which was launched on the larger LH sedans in 1992. This three-box design was characterized by a large passenger cabin in proportion to a comparatively short hood and trunk, highlighted by a long, dramatically slanted windshield and short overhangs. Pushing the wheels further to the corners of the body created a much larger cabin than most other similarly sized vehicles of that time. The
1260-678: The Ford Contour by many magazines such as Consumer Reports . The exteriors of the Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus, and Plymouth Breeze were very similar, with the front fascia , rear bumper , taillights , and wheels being the main differences. The interiors had little variation between the three models; being almost identical, save for the name on the steering wheel , and a few available options. The fascias of each JA car corresponds with each brand's minivan offering, sharing headlights , and grille designs. All three variants of
1330-716: The GAZ company in Nizhny Novgorod , which builds the Volga automobile. The price for the production line and rights was approximately US$ 151 million (€124 million). The models were built by GAZ in Russia from late 2007 through 2010 as the Volga Siber . The production facilities were planned to build up to 65,000 cars of both models yearly. Four-cylinder engines were to be purchased from Chrysler and made in Mexico. The Siber
1400-647: The Infineon Raceway . In 2008, the Dodge CoT appearance was changed back to the Charger model. Rebadged models, mostly from Japanese or Korean manufacturers – Rebadged Chrysler/Plymouth models for external markets Chrysler Cirrus The Chrysler Cirrus is a mid-sized 4-door notchback sedan introduced by Chrysler motors for the 1995 model year. Built on the Chrysler JA platform ,
1470-792: The Plymouth Breeze that was discontinued early in the 2000 model year. It was replaced by the 2001 Dodge Stratus sedan. The Cirrus was used as a patrol cruiser by the Macedonian police from 2000 to the 2010s. The LX (1995–1997; 2000) was the base Chrysler Cirrus trim level. It included the following standard equipment: a 2.4 L I4 engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an AM/FM stereo with cassette player and six speakers, air conditioning, full instrumentation, power windows and door locks, exterior color-keyed side mirrors and door handles, and premium cloth seats. The LXi (1995–2000)
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#17327733790481540-417: The Plymouth Breeze ), anti-lock brakes , four-wheel independent suspension (double wishbone in the front with a multilink rear), tilt steering wheel , cruise control , power windows , power door locks , power driver's seat, leather seats (Cirrus only), power antenna, a six-CD changer, sunroof, remote keyless entry, anti-theft system, etc. A five-speed manual was available with the 2.0 L. The 2.4 L
1610-548: The Plymouth Cricket between 1972 and 1974. In place of the Hillman engines, this version used a Peugeot 1.6 L engine (as also installed in locally assembled Peugeot 404s ) to satisfy local content requirements. The Dodge-branded Avenger was introduced in 1975 and was then renamed Chrysler in 1976. This generation has nothing in common with later Dodge Avengers. After Chrysler ZA was merged into Sigma in 1976,
1680-592: The "Top Safety Pick+" award in 2013. The discontinuation of the Dodge Avenger was announced by the automaker in early 2014, along with the end of the Chrysler 200 convertible model. The final 2014 model year Avengers were produced during the first quarter 2014. The Avenger nameplate has since been revived as the Jeep Avenger with the 2023 model year. The first-generation Dodge Avenger body style
1750-410: The 1995 Ford Contour by many magazines such as Consumer Reports . The Stratus, Cirrus, and Breeze had many parts that were interchangeable between each model. The exteriors of these three cars were very similar, with the front fascia, rear bumper, taillights, and wheels being the main differences. The interiors had little variation between the three models; being almost identical, save for the name on
1820-419: The 2.0 L naturally aspirated World Engine, as well as a 2.0 L turbocharged diesel ( Pumpe-Düse ) made by Volkswagen . Although a 2008 model, the Dodge Avenger was available in February 2007. In the U.S. market, the Avenger was launched with a 30-second television advertisement, "Tuned Up", that debuted on 4 March 2007, during NHL hockey, an ad in which a lab technician discovers he can play " Smoke on
1890-526: The 2.4 L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick. This engine produced 168 hp (125 kW; 170 PS) at 5200 rpm and 216 pound force-feet (293 N⋅m) of torque at 2200 rpm. The 2.4 L turbo engines were only available for the Mexican market. The Stratus was sold in Europe, with the 2.0 L and the V6 engines, as the Chrysler Stratus (the Dodge name
1960-504: The 2011 Avenger came standard with the existing 173 hp (129 kW) 2.4 L GEMA I4. However, it was now paired with a six-speed automatic or the option of having the previous four-speed. Also available was the new 3.6 L Pentastar V6, rated at 283 hp (211 kW) and 260 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m) of torque. The suspension was revised to improve handling and ride quality. Trim level designations were replaced by Express, Mainstreet, Lux, and Heat models. The Dodge Avenger
2030-399: The 4-door notchback sedan joined Chrysler's roster of "Cloud Car" models drawing their names from meteorological terms, including the mid-priced Dodge Stratus it was based on introduced at the same time, and the low-priced Plymouth Breeze variant a year later. Development of the Cirrus started in 1991, with the goal of creating an affordable, expressive-looking, fun-to-drive vehicle that
2100-577: The Avenger was soon canceled to allow Sigma to free up more production capacity for the Mazda 323 . The Avenger nameplate returned as a 2023 subcompact Jeep model available as a plug-in hybrid version or an all-electric drivetrain. Introduced as a two-door coupe in North America, the Dodge Avenger was built from 1994 until 2000 in a similar size and price class as the Dodge Daytona , which
2170-501: The Cirrus being the higher-end model and the Breeze being the lower-end model). Introduced in 1995, the Stratus had two models, the base (later renamed SE in 2000), which came standard with the 2.0 L straight-4 and had the SOHC 2.4 L as optional, and the ES , which came standard with the a 2.0 L from 1995 to 1997, and had a DOHC 2.4 L and a 2.5 L V6 as optional. In 1998
Dodge Stratus - Misplaced Pages Continue
2240-450: The DOHC 2.4 L was standard and the 2.5 L V6 was optional on the ES, and from 1999 to 2000, the 2.5 L V6 was the only engine on the ES model. The Stratus directly replaced the high-volume Spirit and Dynasty (United States only) to favorable reviews, but lower sales. The Stratus was often compared to other small mid-sizes such as the Chevrolet Malibu , and judged roomier than
2310-561: The Dodge branded model also competed in North American Touring Car Championship as one of few truly professional teams to compete in the short-lived championship, with David Donohue winning the 1997 season using a Stratus. For Brazil, the Stratus was marketed as the Chrysler Stratus, the equivalent Chrysler Cirrus being unavailable. It had the same engines as the North American version but
2380-536: The ES, and from 1999 to 2000, the 2.5 L V6 was the only engine on the ES model. The Stratus directly replaced the high-volume Spirit and Dynasty ( United States only) to favorable reviews, but lower sales. Mexico: A turbocharged version of the Stratus was sold in Mexico, with the 2.4 L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick . This engine produced 168 hp (125 kW; 170 PS) at 5200 rpm and 216 pound force-feet (293 N⋅m) of torque at 2200 rpm. In 2000,
2450-509: The ES. Fog lamps and ABS are optional on the ES. Standard were 16-inch wheels, and the license plate was moved from the decklid to the rear bumper. The front and rear fasciae were redesigned. A Sport model was introduced (in addition to the base and ES). The Avenger Sport package consisted of exclusive 16-inch aluminum wheels and a body-color spoiler. This appearance package was available on the base model. A body-color rear spoiler, P215/50HR17 tires, and 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels were added for
2520-452: The ES. The V6 is also standard for the ES, and rear disc brakes. An onboard recycling vapor recovery system, Cafe Latte exterior color, and a black and gray interior color combination are added. 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. An antilock braking system (ABS)
2590-579: The Mitsubishi GS as a starting point. The SE and SXT trim levels' base engine 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
2660-508: The Stratus and Cirrus were used as police vehicles. In 2000, the Stratus became the last of the "Cloud Cars" when the Cirrus was renamed as the Sebring, and the Breeze was discontinued (along with the Plymouth brand). This generation of the Dodge Stratus was not sold in Canada, although 1999 was the last year for Dodge Stratus sales in Canada. The 2002 models no longer had the "DODGE" badges on
2730-552: The Stratus was available for its last year of sales in Canada, with the Chrysler Sebring taking over as the company's only lower mid-size sedan - Dodge did not sell the equivalent version in Canada. The Stratus was marketed as the Chrysler Stratus in markets that the Dodge name was not used; such as Europe, Argentina, and Brazil. In Brazil, the Stratus had the same engines as the North American version but
2800-550: The U.S. in the Dodge SRT-4 and PT Cruiser GT . Stratus R/T engines built from March 2004 were had 225 hp (168 kW) at 5200 rpm and 235 lb⋅ft (319 N⋅m) of torque at 4200 rpm. Stratus R/T models with the turbocharged engine featured a "Turbo" badge on the rear. For 2001, Dodge introduced the Stratus coupé, replacing the discontinued Avenger . This model along with the Chrysler Sebring coupé were built at
2870-692: The United Kingdom, filling a gap in the Chrysler range left by the Neon's discontinuation four years earlier. It was also launched in Australia with only the 2.4 L engine. The Avenger was discontinued in that market in 2010 due to slow sales. The 2007 through 2014 models were sold in New Zealand. According to some reports, the Avenger and the redesigned Chrysler Sebring share a DaimlerChrysler / Mitsubishi Motors platform called JS, which used
Dodge Stratus - Misplaced Pages Continue
2940-506: The United Kingdom. Sales of the Avenger continued in the Republic of Ireland and Western Europe until late 2009, following Fiat's takeover of Chrysler Group. This version continued with SE and SXT trim levels but was not badged the same way as North American or South American versions. Under the influence of Fiat, the 2010 model year Avenger sedan had few changes.New were front side and head-curtain airbags as well as head-impact protection in
3010-509: 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
3080-479: The end of Avenger production as the mid-sized models for both the Dodge and Chrysler brands were consolidated into the new Chrysler 200 introduced for the 2015 model year while Dodge received the new compact Dart . The first use of the Dodge Avenger name was on a badge-engineered version of the European Hillman Avenger , exclusive to South Africa . The same car was sold in North America as
3150-461: The former Diamond Star Motors plant by Mitsubishi , using the ST-22 platform . Like its Chrysler counterpart, the coupé models shared very little other than the name and a few exterior styling cues with sedan and convertible models. The Stratus coupé was restyled for the 2003 model year. The coupé was discontinued after 2005, one year before the sedan. The next midsize Dodge which replaced the Stratus,
3220-553: The front doors. The Stratus and Sebring sedans for the second generation used a revised version of the Chrysler JA platform named JR . The coupé models with the same names were entirely different cars; they were actually based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse . During this time, sales declined as its ratings by consumer and auto magazines fell among competing mid-size cars. At the same time sedan market had shifted with
3290-468: The front seats. The optional all-wheel drive was discontinued, limiting the Avenger to only front-wheel drive. The 2.7 L V6 was dropped, leaving two different drivetrains: a 2.4 L (173 hp (129 kW; 175 PS) I4 with four-speed automatic transmission (the SXT model) or a 3.5 L (235 hp (175 kW; 238 PS) V6 with AutoStick six-speed (available on the R/T). The Avenger featured
3360-469: The higher-priced American cars such as the Mercury Milan , Pontiac G6 , and Saturn Aura . For the 2009 model year, like its Caliber , Charger , Grand Caravan , Journey , and Nitro models, the "AVENGER" badge at the trunk lid's left was repositioned to the right side to make way for "DODGE" at the left. Following Fiat's takeover of Chrysler Group, marketing of the Avenger was discontinued in
3430-494: 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 replaced 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 were available. Mechanically,
3500-556: The larger Intrepid and later Charger achieving record sales. The 2004 model year included styling revisions, but this did not improve sales. The Stratus was discontinued in May 2006 (the Sebring name was continued). In Mexico, the Stratus R/T came in a turbocharged version. The Stratus R/T's turbocharged 2.4 L engine included improvements in 2001 with output increasing to 215 hp (160 kW). This version would later be used in
3570-672: The last Breeze rolled off the Sterling Heights Assembly line on January 7, 2000. The Base (1996–2000) was the least-expensive trim level of the Plymouth Breeze from 1996 to 1999, and the only available trim level for the Breeze's final year of production in 2000. The Base included the following standard equipment: a 2.0 L I4 engine, a five-speed manual transmission, fifteen-inch black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an A/M-F/M stereo with four speakers, full instrumentation, air conditioning, cloth seats, and manual windows and door locks. The Expresso (1998–1999)
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#17327733790483640-559: The platform were available with most of the same standard features: four-wheel independent suspension (double wishbone in the front with a multilink rear), air conditioning , tilt steering wheel , and driver and front-passenger air bags and available options, such as the following: an optional four-speed automatic transmission ( Autostick was not available on the Breeze), anti-lock brakes , cruise control , power windows , power door locks , power mirrors , sunroof. A five-speed manual
3710-408: The rear car seat. Features on the new Avenger included optional heated/cooled cup holders and 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 °F. The Avenger competed directly with the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion , with the 2007 and later Chrysler Sebring being aimed at
3780-399: The rear trunk lid. The Dodge Stratus was introduced in February 1995, with two trims: base (later renamed SE for 2000), which came standard with the 2.0 L I4 or optional 2.4 L; and the ES, which came standard with the a 2.0 L from 1994 to 1997, and had a DOHC 2.4 L and a 2.5 L V6 as optional. In 1998 the 2.4 L was standard and the 2.5 L V6 was optional on
3850-424: The small overlap test due to marginal dummy kinematics and slight intrusion into the passenger compartment. In the side test, the Avenger earned a "Good" rating; however, rib fractures were possible for the driver. In the roof strength evaluation, it gained a "Good" rating, as well as for its head restraints and seats. The Avenger earned the "Top Safety Pick" award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014 as well as earned
3920-402: The steering wheel, and a few available options. The fascias of each JA car resembled each brand's minivan offering, sharing headlights and grill designs. All three variants of the platform were available with most of the same standard features and available options, such as the following: a four-speed automatic transmission and an optional semi-automatic dubbed " Autostick " (not available on
3990-457: Was also used on race cars by several ARCA race teams from 1995 until 2000. The Avenger replaced the Charger as Dodge's car for the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Season . It appeared in Dodge Avenger grille, headlights, and taillights as the standard "spec" Car of Tomorrow (CoT) model. It got its first win with former Formula One driver Juan Pablo Montoya in the 2007 Toyota/Save Mart 350 at
4060-532: 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 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. The Avengers featured
4130-658: Was discontinued in February 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. Diamond-Star Motors was renamed Mitsubishi Motors Manufacturing America (MMMA) on July 1, 1995. Avengers and Sebring coupes built from 1994 until 1996 have DSM identification in their engine compartments. The Avenger
4200-567: Was introduced at the start of the Global Economic Crisis of 2008 , and through an annual production of 40,000 vehicles had been planned, sales were not as expected and around 9,000 had been manufactured by the time the Siber was discontinued after the 2010 model year. Rebadged models, mostly from Japanese or Korean manufacturers – Rebadged Chrysler/Plymouth models for external markets Dodge Avenger The Dodge Avenger
4270-400: Was not offered in a manual because of its high torque and difficult drivability issues, mainly due to wheel spinning. In 2000, the Stratus was available for its last year of sales in Canada, with the Chrysler Sebring taking over as the company's only lower mid-size sedan - Dodge did not sell the equivalent version in Canada. A turbocharged version of the Stratus was sold in Mexico, with
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#17327733790484340-512: Was not used in Europe, except for commercial vehicles ). Its styling was similar to that of Chrysler's Cirrus (which featured chrome accent moldings along the doors and bumpers), with the exception of the rear taillights, which were the same as Dodge's Stratus, and a Dodge grille, which differed from that of the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze. The Chrysler Stratus competed in the Swedish Touring Car Championship ;
4410-592: Was ranked the "Most American Made" sedan by the American University 's Kogod School of Business 2013 Made in America Auto Index. The Dodge Avenger also has an overall rating of 6.7. The 2008 through 2013 Avenger, also sold as the Chrysler Sebring from 2008 until 2010, and the Chrysler 200 from 2011 through 2013, received an overall "Good" rating by the IIHS, indicating no significant injuries. The car received an overall "Acceptable" rating in
4480-472: Was standard with the 2.0 L. The 2.4 L was not offered in a manual because of its high torque and difficult drivability issues, mainly due to excessive wheel spinning at speeds over 100 mph. The Cirrus was originally available in two trim levels: the well-equipped base LX and the luxury LXi . Both models featured sporty, black twin-post side mirrors , fog lights , the same body side moldings, chrome bumper accents, an automatic transmission and
4550-412: Was still safe enough to transport an everyday family. The concept car designed for the 1992 auto show circuit featured rear suicide doors and a 400 hp (298 kW; 406 PS) turbocharged 3.0 L two-stroke engine using alcohol fuel . The concept also foreshadowed a hood-line with almost no break with the windshield to improve aerodynamics. Both the concept and production model used
4620-451: Was the top-of-the-line Chrysler Cirrus trim level. It added the following equipment to the LX trim level: alloy wheels, a premium AM/FM stereo with cassette player and integrated CD changer controls, keyless entry, chrome accents, a premium front grille, and wood grain interior trim. The Plymouth Breeze was released in 1995 as a 1996 model. Although it did not match the sales of its predecessor,
4690-444: Was the top-of-the-line trim level of the Plymouth Breeze, but was discontinued after 1999. The Expresso added the following equipment to the Base trim level: power windows and door locks, an A/M-F/M stereo with cassette player and six speakers, premium cloth seats, exterior color-keyed side mirrors and door handles, and a 2.4 L I4 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. An "Expresso" decal adorned both front doors, as well as
4760-465: Was to focus exclusively on value. As a result, the Breeze (as well as the base model Stratus) filled the position as the entry-level JA car. Due to this, the Breeze lacked certain features including an available V6 engine, alloy wheels, leather interior, body-colored door handles, fog lights, and Chrysler's Autostick transmission, all of which were offered on the Stratus and Cirrus. The Plymouth Breeze came only as one basic model. Equipped similarly to
4830-462: Was used in all ES models until 1999. For the 2000 model year, the V6 and automatic transmission combination were standard on all Avengers, and ABS was an "option" for ES models. The four-cylinder engine was no longer available. Standard features that had previously been optional included power windows and locks. Base models added cruise control and four-wheel disc brakes . The ES coupes now come with standard leather upholstery, keyless remote entry, and
4900-627: Was widely used in the National Hot Rod Association and earned the most prominence driven by Darrell Alderman and Scott Geoffrion from 1994 until 2000 as the Dodge Boys . The coupe was used for the 1994 and 1995 incarnations of the International Race of Champions . Although Dodge was IROC's car of choice since 1990, Dodge dropped out of this racing series after the 1995 season. Avenger sheet metal
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