2012 Dodge Avenger vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 7.4 out of 10

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

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Feb 6, 2012

A new powertrain and a better interior elevate the Avenger, but it's not up to the level yet of the best mid-size sedans.

The Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata both were new in 2011, with striking styling a hallmark of either car, as well as new Hybrid and turbo models--and no V-6s.

We're a little more fond of the Kia's styling and its UVO voice control system.

The Ford Fusion and Mazda6 have a similar family bond, but here the Fusion's Hybrid model wins us over, with 41-mpg city gas mileage ratings to go with a great hybrid integration.

The new Volkswagen Jetta is also an interesting alternative to the Avenger.

It has a bargain-feeling interior on base versions, but better than the Dodge, it has a cohesive driving feel and an optional turbodiesel engine with 42-mpg highway fuel economy.

2012 Dodge Avenger Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Ford Fusion Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Hyundai Sonata Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Kia Optima Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Mazda MAZDA6 Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan Get FREE Price Quote
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
7.4 With a better interior and a better V-6, the 2012 Dodge Avenger has grown more interesting--but it execution, it still leaves a lot to be desired.	8.2 The 2012 Ford Fusion stays at the top of its game, especially as a Hybrid, with perky handling and its cut-above looks.	8.6 After more than a decade on the market, the latest Hyundai Sonata's an overnight success--thanks to great gas mileage, grabby styling, and exceptional value for the dollar.	8.6 The basics don't have to be boring: the 2012 Kia Optima evades design and driving boredom with suave looks, good performance and great gas mileage and features.	8.2 The 2012 Mazda6 is just as comfortable, practical, and refined as most other mid-size sedans, but it's a little more enjoyable to drive.	7.8 The 2012 VW Jetta delivers a better driving feel and more back-seat room than many other compact sedans; skip the cost-cutter base versions in favor of the TDI or the GLI for a distinctive choice in the compact class.
MSRP From
$18,995	$20,705	$19,795	$19,500	$20,480	$15,515
Gas Mileage
19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	17 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy	22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy	22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy	18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy	23 MPG City / 42 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4
EPA Class
Mid-Size	Mid-Size Sedan	Large Cars	Midsize Cars	Midsize	Compact Cars
Style Name
4dr Sedan SE	4dr Sedan S FWD	4dr Sedan 2.4L Man GLS	4dr Sedan 2.4L Man LX	4dr Sedan Man i Sport	4dr Manual Base
Drivetrain
Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	4
Body Style
Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan	Sedan	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Sedan
Transmission
Automatic	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual w/OD	Manual