22nd Place: Dodge Avenger

Overview:

The Avenger is a twin of the last-place Chrysler Sebring that comes out ahead because of a significant price discrepancy: the Sebring in this comparison is over $1,500 more than a comparably-equipped Avenger. (While most of their models are similar in price, Sebring buyers are required to buy an expensive package to get the V6 engine, while it is standard on the top-trim Avenger.) So while it shares most of the Sebring's faults, and even manages to diminish that car's already unexceptional ride quality, it does at least beat most of the others in this group in terms of price.

Driving the Avenger:

The Avenger has a stiff ride that doesn't absorb bumps well and can feel jittery even on smooth pavement at highway speeds. The steering is numb and slow, and the car lacks a nimble feel despite improved resistance to body roll compared to the Sebring. As in the Sebring, the V6 is powerful, allowing for very quick acceleration, but other competitors' are even more so. The six-speed automatic standard on this V6 is often in the wrong gear, and doesn't always shift smoothly. The engine is smooth and quiet, but wind and road noise are excessive. Gas mileage is poor for a midsize sedan.

Inside the Avenger:

Although the Avenger's dash design differs from the Sebring's, the general feel is the same. The front seats are hard and shapeless, uncomfortable and lacking in support. The rear is adequately roomy, but that seat too is overly hard, and the backrest angle forces occupants into an overly upright position. The interior is sloppily assembled using hard, cheap plastics. Most instruments are simple to use, and the gauges are clear enough. Drivers sit comfortably, but visibility is compromised by thick roof pillars and a high rear deck. Entry/exit is easy enough, but the doors could be larger. The small trunk is accessed through an inconveniently small opening.

Avenger pricing:

The Avenger reviewed here came equipped with the same features as the Sebring, but at $25,191 instead of $26,896. Though that makes the Avenger one of the less expensive cars in this group, there are still several that significantly undercut its price tag.

Conclusion:

The Avenger may not do many things well, but at least it's cheaper than the near-identical Chrysler Sebring. However, its lower price does not excuse its many shortcomings, and it is still several thousand dollars away from the cheapest car in this group. Unless you really need its heated cupholders, look elsewhere.

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