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.
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 2012 Dodge AvengerBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Ford FusionBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Hyundai SonataBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Kia OptimaBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Mazda MAZDA6Browse Used Listings |
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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. |
The 2012 Ford Fusion stays at the top of its game, especially as a Hybrid, with perky handling and its cut-above looks. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $18,995 | $20,705 | $19,795 | $19,500 | $20,480 |
| 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 |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Mid-Size | Mid-Size Sedan | Large Cars | Midsize Cars | Midsize |
| Style Name | ||||
| 4-Door Sedan SE | 4-Door Sedan S FWD | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Manual GLS | 4-Door Sedan 2.4L Manual LX | 4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic | Manual | Manual | Manual | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2012 Dodge Avenger vs. 2012 Ford Fusion | 2012 Dodge Avenger vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata | 2012 Dodge Avenger vs. 2012 Kia Optima | 2012 Dodge Avenger vs. 2012 Mazda MAZDA6 | |
