2013 Honda Accord V6 Touring: Driven
The Honda Accord is now in its ninth generation, and as we reported in our First Drive of the 2013... Read More
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We're genuinely shocked -- considering just how terrible the last Avenger was -- at how much we enjoyed driving the new one.
For now, the new six-speed automatic transmission is standard with the V6, but later in 2011 an advanced dual-clutch, six-speed transmission will be available.
PERFORMANCE | 6 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
We're genuinely shocked -- considering just how terrible the last Avenger was -- at how much we enjoyed driving the new one.
Motor Trend
For now, the new six-speed automatic transmission is standard with the V6, but later in 2011 an advanced dual-clutch, six-speed transmission will be available.
Vehix.com
The new Chrysler V-6 drops 283 horsepower in the front-drive Avenger's engine bay, with 260 pound-feet of torque twisting through a six-speed automatic transmission. On the spec sheet, that's higher output than the new Sonata 2.0T turbo, the Fusion V-6 and the Regal GS. In practice, the smooth windup of the six just can't be controlled with the Avenger's small-car strut-and-multilink suspension. Mash the gas hard and the Avenger weaves on takeoff with corresponding steroidal twitches of torque steer before it takes a straight-ahead set.
Chrysler's new six-speed automatic isn't the best companion for the power. Especially in manual-shift mode, the Avenger lags out some downshifts with slow torque-converter lockup that feels like a drivetrain burp. A dual-clutch transmission is coming, but even with the stock six-speed automatic, a pair of paddles on the steering wheel would be safer and less distracting than the lever-controlled sport-shift mode.
The Avenger still has hydraulic power steering, augmented by a lower ride height in front than in back, which leaves it with more natural feedback and bite in its steering than most other mid-size sedans. Somehow, the effort still comes across as somewhat uninspired when matched with the powertrain issues, however.
Conclusion
The 2011 Dodge Avenger has improved powertrains, but it still lacks a cohesive driving feel, and an eagerness to use all its talents.
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