Top Used Dodge Models
Founded as the Dodge Brothers Company in 1900 to supply parts and assemblies for Detroit's growing auto industry, Dodge began making its own complete vehicles in 1914. Dodge Brothers emerged as a leading builder of light trucks in the 1920s. The brand was sold to Chrysler Corporation in 1928. Chrysler Corporation was sold to Daimler-Benz AG in 1998 to form DaimlerChrysler. Rationalizing Chrysler's broad lineup was a priority, and Dodge's sister brand Plymouth was withdrawn from the market. With this move, Dodge became DaimlerChrysler's low-price division as well as its performance division. Dodge, today, continues to produce affordable, sometimes exciting and unique vehicles. Here are the top used Dodge models.
Used Dodge Ram
The Dodge Ram 1500 is one of the best selling light-duty trucks in the US. One highlight of used Rams is its excellent handling abilities, particularly on the highway.The Ram 1500 is easy to drive and steer, and it responds predictably. A four-wheel-drive version maneuvers capably and takes curves passably well at modest speeds. Inside, the 2007 Ram 1500 can hold three adults in a regular cab when the immense center armrest/storage box is raised. With the extended cab, it fits six. Features of the '07 Ram include a power-sliding rear window, bucket seats, a navigation radio and a DVD entertainment system. Four-wheel-drive models have a standard electronic transfer case and Hemi-equipped Rams have fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology. The standard 3.7-liter V-6 produces 215 horsepower. Rams can be equipped with an available 235-hp, 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 that can run on regular unleaded fuel, E85 or a combination of the two. A 345-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is also available. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. With the 4.7- or 5.7-liter engine, the automatic is a five-speed unit. For 2007, used Ram 1500 models with cloth seats get YES Essentials stain-, odor- and static-resistant seat fabric. Rams come in a wide variety of versions, with variations on the bed length, and the cabin space. Quad Cab pickups, with four conventional front-hinged doors, can also be equipped with the two bed sizes and are 20 inches longer in both wheelbase and overall length. The rear doors open 85 degrees to ease access.
Used Dodge Caliber
The Caliber is makes sure everyone know it is a Dodge, thanks to the crosshair grille - and the signature red paint that seems to adorn all Dodge models upon their introduction. It resembles the Magnum, nut is smaller. Used Dodge Calibers offer five-seat four-door hatchback versatility, and was designed to replace the outgoing compact Neon. Although the Caliber is considered an affordable vehicle, it is loaded with features, including illuminated cupholder rings, an MP3-player holster and a center armrest that slides forward 3 inches for improved comfort. The SXT and R/T trim levels add a 60/40-split, folding backseat and a folding front passenger seat to extend the cargo area. The 1.8-, 2.0- and 2.4-liter versions of the four-cylinder engine produce 148, 158 and 172 horsepower, respectively. In addition to increasing with engine size, the torque output also characteristically comes at lower engine speeds. The EPA-estimated city/highway fuel economy for each used Caliber is between 28/32 mpg, and 23/26 mpg, depending on the powertrain.
Used Dodge Dakota
The Dakota may be Dodge smaller pickup, but in no way does it act small. The Dakota was redesigned for 2005 to be bigger, bolder, and tougher. Club Cab models have a 6.5-foot bed, while the Quad Cab gets a bed that measures 5 feet, 4 inches. Quad Cab models can be configured for six-person seating rather than the usual five-person capacity. With the rear seats folded, Club Cab storage space totals 30 cubic feet, versus 37.1 cubic feet in the Quad Cab. Club Cab models have forward-facing rear seats and rear-hinged access doors. The rear seat, however, is more suitable for children or small adults. Squared-off styling on the hood, grille and fender edges gives a distinctive look. Wheels are available in 16-, 17- and 18-inch sizes. Although the used Dakota is available with a V6, the V8 is much more suitable, delivering a steady, satisfying stream of power. Four-wheel-drive versions ride with pleasant smoothness on good pavement. The suspension reacts quickly to bumps and recovers promptly. On narrow two-lane roads, the Dakota maneuvers quite handily and with satisfying steering feel.
Used Dodge Magnum
The Dodge Magnum was first rolled out in 2005 as a replacement to the Intrepid. The big difference was that instead of a front-wheel-drive sedan similar to the Intrepid, the Magnum is a rear- or all-wheel-drive wagon. The Magnum is an aggressive looking vehicle with the option of powerful engines; an innovative Multi-Displacement System in the Hemi shuts down half of the engine's cylinders during light engine load conditions. In the cabin, the Magnum offers plenty of space for a family and a decent amount of cargo area. Cargo volume totals 27.2 cubic feet with the rear seat up and 71.6 cubic feet with the seat folded. A tri-fold false floor allows for extra storage. Significantly sportier in shape than most wagons, the Magnum features distinct tapered rear-quarter windows. Big fender flares surround 17-, 18- or 20-inch wheels, depending on the model. The 3.5-liter V-6 performs with satisfying vigor, if a trifle slow at start-off, but it's a little noisier. Engine noise with the 2.7-liter V-6 is more noticeable but not bothersome, and performance doesn't fall far short of the bigger V-6. Dodge also offers a high performing SRT8 model, which gets a 425-hp, 6.1-liter V-8 and goes from zero to 60 mph in a little more than 5 seconds.
Used Dodge Avenger
The Dodge Avenger sedan was first rolled out in 2008 to replace the stratus. The Avenger offers an aggressive look and a bold grille with Dodge's iconic crosshairs. The rear end looks much like the one on the full-size Charger, while the side profile draws elements from the compact Caliber hatchback. Up front, the Avenger SE includes a black grille, while the SXT and R/T have chrome grilles. The R/T also includes fog lights. Wheel choices range from 16-inch steel wheels on the SE to 18-inch alloy rims on the R/T. For power, used Avenger SE and SXT include a 173-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Optional on the SXT is a 2.7-liter V-6 that makes 189 hp and can run on gasoline or ethanol-based E85. Dodge's Chill Zone, which allows drinks to be cooled by air-conditioning vents in a covered storage box atop the glove compartment, is standard on all Avengers. Other standard features include air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows and door locks. The SXT adds a power driver's seat and stain-resistant upholstery, among other things, while the R/T includes automatic climate control, steering-wheel audio controls and more.