2011 Dodge Lineup Revamped With New Models, Trims, Pricing

2011 Dodge Charger

November 1, 2010

2011 Dodge Avenger

Chrysler's model line is on the way toward the fruits of Fiat ownership, but for 2011 it's rehabbing its model lines with a refreshed look and feel on most models—repackaged and repriced them, too. Now, for Dodge, its sporty mainstream brand, it's released pricing for several key models: the all-new 2011 Dodge Durango, as well as significantly updated versions of the 2011 Dodge Charger, Challenger, Journey, Avenger, and Grand Caravan.

A new lineup of trims also looks to be an attempt to consolidate the confusing trim names that the brand had already started to introduce. For 2011, most Dodge models start with budget-priced Express models, then include mid-range Crew and top-of-the-line R/T and/or Lux models. Sporty models like the Challenger and Charger carry on with the former SE, R/T, and SRT8 nomenclature.

The base 2010 Dodge Durango Express is up only slightly compared to the base 2009 Dodge Durango SE (the model sat out the 2010 model year), but the model takes after the completely redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a much better-designed, better-performing, and more refined model than what it replaces. The 2011 Durango lineup ranges from $29,195 for a rear-wheel-drive Durango Express to $43,795 for a 2011 Dodge Durango Citadel, also including destination.

And with a more powerful standard V-6—a 305-hp, high-output version of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that also made its debut in the Grand Cherokee. With the upgrade, prices go up substantially, from $23,245 in 2010 to $24,670 in 2011. Pricing for the Hemi V-8-powered R/T has fallen about $800 to a base $29,670, while Dodge has added Plus and Classic packages. The Challenger SRT8 remains at the top of the lineup, priced more than $1,300 higher for 2011, at $42,555.

The 2011 Dodge Charger sedan, which has also been given a facelift for 2011, along with a new base 3.6-liter V-6, starts at $25,170 in 2011 Charger SE form. That's up from last year's base price (a 2.7-liter engine was standard though), but lower than the base 3.5-liter model from last year.

The Dodge Journey crossover has been given a significant mid-cycle refresh for 2011, including a retuned suspension, a 283-hp version of the new Pentastar V-6, and a newly appointed interior. The 2011 Journey gets new PowerNet electrical architecture, as well as a new touch-screen command center.

The 2011 Dodge Avenger, which gets an interior refresh this year, as well as a new, more powerful V-6 option—a version of the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, making 283 horsepower—sees its prices go significantly down this year. Prices on the Avenger now start $19,245—about $1,000 lower than in 2010. SXT, Express, and R/T models are replaced by Express, Mainstreet, Heat, and Lux models.

Pricing for the base 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan Express, meanwhile, is up slightly versus 2010, to a base price of $24,995. Mainstreet, Crew, and R/T trims fill out the line for 2011, replacing Grand Caravan Hero, SXT, and Crew models from 2010.

Dodge Caliber and Nitro models come with different trim names, including Express, Mainstreet, Uptown, Heat, and Rush for the 2011 Dodge Caliber and Heat, Detonator, and Shock for the 2011 Dodge Nitro. The Caliber gets a number of equipment changes and a retuned steering feel, while the Nitro now has 20-inch wheels standard on all models, upgraded seat materials, and new colors.

[Dodge]

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