Dodge Avenger

Dodge hasn't had much success in the midsize sedan arena something it has enjoyed with its full-size Dodge Charger. That shouldn't be much of a surprise to anyone given Dodge's reluctance to stay with the same model name from generation to generation.

In the 1980s, the Dodge 600 was succeeded by the Spirit and in the 1990s, the Stratus was the midsize offering until it was replaced by the Avenger in 2008. That Avenger got lost in a sea of competitive models, but for 2011 it appears that Dodge has found the right kind of model for consumer consideration.

And, unlike in times past, the Avenger name will be retained. That's probably good because the outgoing Avenger, although not particularly competitive, had enough going for it to keep Dodge fans happy. With the 2011 model Dodge will finally have a midsize offering to crow about.

The biggest changes for this front-wheel-drive Avenger will be found underneath its hood. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine returns, but it gives up its dated four-speed automatic for a modern six-speed transmission. That will help the Avenger squeeze more mpg out of a car that was getting 30 mpg on the highway in 2010.

The Avenger's optional engines -- a 2.7-liter V-6 and 3.5-liter V-6 are now gone, replaced by the automaker's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. That engine has already found its way under the hood of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and will, according to Chrysler, power 13 separate models over the coming years.

The Pentastar V-6 is rated at 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Significantly, while other midsize models no longer offer a V-6 or minimize its availability in favor of four-cylinder models, Dodge is taking the approach that some customers still want performance. And, with 1.6 million buyers choosing mid-size cars annually, the Avenger will target those customers wanting more.

Other changes for the 2011 Dodge Avenger include the cosmetic. This sedan gains a new grill, hood and headlamps and offers new rear deck treatment. Inside, the Avenger gains a new dash, fresh gauges, nicer materials and sound deadening materials. Soft touch armrests, new heating and cooling outlet units, a three-spoke steering wheel and ambient lighting upgrades are also evident.