2005 Dodge Magnum RT AWD

Last Word: 2005 Dodge Magnum

What's Hot

Nice 3.5L V-6, excellent Hemi V-8s

Quiet, composed ride; surprisingly agile

Looks like nothing else on the road

What's Not

Hemi fuel economy

Not as spacious as midsize SUVs

Shape limits cargo space

What's New

Entirely new for the 2005 model year, the Magnum rolls into 2006 with few noteworthy alternations--with one exception: The muscle-bound SRT8 model storms into showrooms in the summer of 2005, featuring a 6.1-liter/425-horse Hemi V-8. Priced under $40,000, the Magnum SRT8 backs up its 85 additional horses with a sport-tuned suspension, high-performance Brembo disc brakes, and Goodyear Eagle F1 tires on 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, and standard leather seating over heavily bolstered sport seats.

Key Options

Depending on trim level, Magnum buyers can opt for such niceties as a power moonroof, heated seats, front- and rear-seat side curtain airbags, power seats with leather, and power-adjustable pedals. There's also an available six-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system, the subscription-based Sirius satellite radio, well-executed rear DVD entertainment system, and the innovative UConnect hands-free communication system, which features wireless integration with Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and personal digital assistants. One particularly worthwhile option on the RT and top-dog SRT8 models is the excellent DVD-based GPS navigation system with a full-color LCD. A roof rack is optional as well, and SXT and RT models offer all-wheel drive derived from the excellent Mercedes 4Matic system.

Final Word

Striking to behold and--thanks to its Mercedes-Benz-cribbed chassis design and available Hemi V-8 engines--great to drive, the Magnum is a truly compelling alternative to the ubiquitous midsize sport/utility vehicle.