2011 Dodge Avenger vs. Its Competition

2011 Dodge Avenger
Bengt Halvorson Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The 2011 Dodge Avenger lands right in the thick of things, in the hotly contested mid-size sedan market.

Versus the new Kia Optima and Mazda6, the Avenger's interior feels cramped; the new Optima in particular has plentiful cabin space in front and in back.

Also, the Avenger fails to provide a compelling driving experience over sportier standouts like the Altima, Fusion, or Mazda6.

While ride quality has been improved in the Avenger, the base powertrain still lacks the refinement of some rival models.

The new 2011 Volkswagen Jetta remains an especially interesting alternative, and it has what the Avenger still lacks: a cohesive driving feel, and an eagerness to use all its talents.

2011 Dodge Avenger2011 Dodge Avenger
Browse Used Listings		2011 Ford Fusion Sport2011 Ford Fusion
Browse Used Listings		2011 Kia Optima2011 Kia Optima
Browse Used Listings		2010 Mazda MAZDA6 4-door Sedan Auto i Grand Touring Angular Front Exterior View2011 Mazda MAZDA6
Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
7.4
A new V-6 and interior refresh makes the 2011 Dodge Avenger more intriguing, but in execution this mid-sizer still leaves a lot to be desired.
8.4
The 2011 Ford Fusion comes in a few finely developed flavors; Sport, Hybrid and base are a few of the best tastes.
8.6
Kia simply gets it; basic doesn't have to be boring, and the 2011 Kia Optima shows that mid-size sedan shoppers don't have to settle to design boredom or a lack of features.
8.2
The 2011 Mazda Mazda6 is a great pick for practically-minded family-car shoppers who also value driving enjoyment.
MSRP From   
$19,245$19,850$19,200$19,990
Gas Mileage   
19 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy17 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy18 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy
Engine   
Gas I4Gas I4Gas I4Gas I4
EPA Class   
Mid-SizeMid-Size SedanMidsize CarsMidsize
Style Name   
4-Door Sedan Express4-Door Sedan S FWD4-Door Sedan 2.4L Manual LX4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport
Drivetrain   
Front Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity   
5555
Passenger Doors   
N/AN/AN/AN/A
Body Style   
4 Door Sedan4 Door Sedan4 Door Sedan4 Door Sedan
Transmission   
AutomaticManualManualManual w/OD
Detailed Spec Comparison
 2011 Dodge Avenger vs. 2011 Ford Fusion2011 Dodge Avenger vs. 2011 Kia Optima2011 Dodge Avenger vs. 2011 Mazda MAZDA6