As replacement for the Dodge Stratus, the new 2008 Avenger is styled like a seven-eighths scale Charger. As for competition, it’s aimed right for the middle—Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion etc. One thing is certain: compared to the boring exterior design of some sedans, the Avenger is downright stylish, interesting, even exciting.

You get a choice of powertrains in this fwd sedan, starting with a 173 horsepower 4-cylinder. From there, 189-hp and 235-hp 6-cylinder engines are available. The two smaller engines come with a 4-speed automatic, while the 235-hp variant brings a new 6-speed auto.

Wanting to see the virtues of a more basic model, I requested a 4-cylinder, and received a mid-level SXT with the I4 engine. While it had no options, I was pleased with the package. The interior was attractive wit

h its two-tone gray color scheme, comfortable seats and logical layout. A standard tilt-tele wheel was a surprise. Power door locks, windows and driver’s seat are standard too. My only interior complaint was the wide chrome strip surrounding the shift gate, which occasionally reflected
sunlight directly into my eyes. Higher seating compared to many sedans combined with a range of seat height adjustment means you can sit quite high if you choose.

With 173 horsepower pushing a mid-size sedan, acceleration is not quick, but is certainly adequate for most needs and delivers good fuel economy. The ride was smooth, fairly quiet, and very comfortable. Handling was also adequate, the greatest limitation being its all-season 60-series tires. It didn’t take much cornering force to make them squeal, but then again, they are fine for a family sedan. If you want to go screaming a

round corners, you’d be happier in the 6-cylinder RT with upgraded suspension and stickier tires.

Dodge’s Caliber is a practical but fun fwd compact hatchback (or is it a wagon?) that replaced the Neon and has unique styling—you won’t confuse it with anything else. Mine was the upper level RT version with a larger 172-hp 4-cylinder and 5-speed stick. You also have a choice of smaller 148- and 158-hp engines. The RT also comes with anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes and offers an AWD option.

With said stick shift and lower-profile tires the RT was entertaining to drive and had good cornering ability. The ride quality was
“sporting” meaning firm but still fairly comfortable.

It appeared to have the same seats as the Avenger, but somehow the Caliber fit me perfectly for seating, steering and all controls. The RT comes with power windows and mirrors, and a manual seat height adjuster that can bring you up quite high.

Its two-tone gray interior had an added splash of body-color-red seat inserts and center stack frame. With rear seats folded down the cargo area is quite large, offering more height than many wagons. The center console features a 115-volt, 150-watt house-type outlet. Plug in your electric shaver or your home cell phone charger—cool!

Speaking of cool, both Avenger and Caliber also feature the “Cool Zone” drink cooler that routes cold AC air to a special compartment to keep your 12-ounce cans chilled.

The Avenger SXT is EPA-rated at 21-city, 30-highway mpg under the new, tougher 2008 EPArating system, and is priced at $19,795 including destination. The 2007 Caliber RT is EPA-rated 26-city, 31-highway and was priced at $18,215. Both are blessed with solid value, unique styling and fun features.