2008 Dodge Magnum in Houston, TX - $0

Reflecting what the automaker considers to be "the new shape" of American muscle, the Dodge Magnum R/T celebrates what American muscle cars were in the past, but with a design and packaging configuration that charges into the future. The "cut down" custom look of the exterior profile only adds to the wagon's aggressively muscular stance.

The Magnum R/T is offered in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations with power being generated by the muscular 5.7L HEMI V8. The HEMI motor also features a cylinder deactivation system that seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders of the engine when V8 power is not needed, improving fuel economy up to 20 percent.

Torque is communicated to the pavement through the company's proven five-speed automatic gearbox, equipped with AutoStick driver-selectable range control.

For 2007, a newly available Road/Track Performance Group package for the rear-wheel drive R/T includes 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels; 245/45ZR20 all-season performance tires; performance exhaust/induction resulting in ten more horsepower; upgraded performance suspension and steering gear; performance seats with preferred suede inserts; automatic temperature control; express up/down front windows; eight-way driver and front passenger heated seats; automatic headlamps; load leveling and height control shocks; and heritage R/T exterior badging and upholstery.

On the road, the R/T is all business. Handling, control and response are balanced and immediate. The driver enjoys all the advantages that V8 power, rear-drive and a body-on-frame can provide without any of the disadvantages of the past.

The Dodge wagon is equipped with a four-wheel independent suspension system. The front suspension hardware includes short/long arm with high upper "A" arm, lateral and diagonal lower links with dual ball joint front knuckle, coil springs over gas-charged shock absorbers. In the rear, a five-link configuration works with coil springs, gas-charged shock absorbers and an isolated suspension cradle. AWD models add a lower "A" arm to the front suspension.

Inside, the cabin is cavernous and comfortable. The tilt/telescopic steering wheel is user-friendly for tall and short drivers alike. The interior presentation is clean and modern -- with powerpoints for portable electronic devices -- one on the dashboard, the second in the center console storage bin. Rear seat passengers are treated to leg room and the comfort of the large wagon. Creature comforts found in the rear seat include center armrest with dual cupholders and 60/40 split fold-down seating -- to maximize both passenger and cargo carrying ability.

The rear cargo area is flexible and spacious -- featuring an upper flat-load floor that expands the usable cargo area when the rear seats are folded forward. Additional storage is provided below this load floor for smaller items and in deep pockets on either side of the floor rearward of the wheels.

A unusually large cargo opening is created by hinging the top of the rear gate midway between the C- and D-pillar. This "extreme access" liftgate opens wide enough to accommodate a box containing a 27-inch TV.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 120.0; overall length: 197.7; width: 74.1; height: 58.3 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 5.7L HEMI V8 -- 340 hp at 5,000 rpm and 390 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic with AutoStick.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/25 hwy., (RWD); 17 city/24 hwy., (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 71.6 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" Country of origin

Final assembly point: Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

US/Canadian: 75 percent.

Engine: Mexico; Transmission: Germany.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, electronic stability control, brake assist, all-speed traction control, performance four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, speed-sensitive power door locks, Sentry Key theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry, power adjustable pedals, fog lamps and tire monitoring system. Optional safety features include garage door opener and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Dodge Magnum R/T wagon starts from $31,040 for the RWD Magnum R/T and $33,040 for the AWD model. Destination charges add $675.

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