2008 Dodge Magnum

Flexible Flyer

Depending on your preferences, the Dodge Magnum can perform as a passive family wagon, a high-performance model or a true muscle car.

The Dodge Magnum is a modern rendition of what was once the typical family car. It is a large station wagon in a market that long since abandoned them in favor of minivans and SUVs. The Magnum was the first four-door, rear-wheel-drive Dodge in more than two decades when it was introduced in spring 2004 as an early 2005 model, and one that offers V8 power to boot. The Magnum recieves a face-lift, including exterior styling updates, for the 2008 model year.

• Get a Dodge Magnum price quote

The Dodge Magnum was designed as an alternative to truck-based SUVs that would appeal to automotive enthusiasts and casual motorists alike. Enthusiasts have long preferred rear-wheel drive, which offers superior ride and handling characteristics. Performance- and luxury-car builders like BMW and Mercedes-Benz have used it consistently for decades.

The Dodge Magnum is one of the most aggressively styled station wagons ever built. The front end is dominated by a massive version of Dodge’s trademark crosshairs grille. The roofline slopes sharply downward to the rear, which gives it a sporty appearance. The sloping roofline compromises cargo capacity and rear access, so the tailgate is hinged several inches into the roofline to afford easier loading and unloading. The rear seat backs fold flat to hold larger items.

• See Dodge Magnum specs

The base Dodge Magnum SE version has a 2.7-liter V6 engine and four-speed automatic transmission. It’s both underpowered and unadorned, and it seems tailored for rental-car companies and fleet use.

The Magnum SXT is more satisfying, with its livelier, 3.5-liter V6 engine, which does a better job of getting this weighty wagon up to highway speeds. It comes with a smoother-shifting, five-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual-shift mode.

• Dodge Magnum Vehicle Summary

The SXT has a host of standard chassis control features, like antilock brakes, all-speed traction control, and  electronic stability control. For even greater stability and traction, an all-wheel-drive version is available, which also includes larger wheels and tires.

The Dodge Magnum R/T model features a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. The V8 comes with the company’s Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates half the engine's cylinders under low to moderate throttle. The system helps boost fuel economy as much as 20 percent.

The 3.5-liter V6 should be sufficient for most motorists. The R/T is available with either rear- or all-wheel drive.

• See all Dodge models in the Dodge Showroom

A high-performance Dodge Magnum SRT8 version was added to the line for the 2006 model year. It is a true muscle car. Its modified 6.1-liter Hemi V8 engine produces an explosive 425 hp — enough to propel the five-passenger wagon from 0-60 miles per hour in around 5 seconds. You’ll pay dearly at the pump to go that fast, however, and premium fuel is required. The SRT8 has an optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system that includes Kicker Mobile Surround Sound.