2000 Dodge Stratus: Road Test
Archived Review
2000 Dodge Stratus ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $16,330 -$20,230
- Invoice: $14,984 -$18,455
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Dodge Stratus
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2000 Dodge Stratus includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Dodge Stratus from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Dodge Stratus, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Dodge Stratus help you decide if a 2000 Dodge Stratus is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.7 |
The fours furnish adequate acceleration and passing power. The V6 provides good acceleration from a stop and in around-town driving, but like the fours, isn't nearly as refined as competitive engines in Japanese-brand rivals. Automatic transmissions insert a frustrating pause before downshifting in passing situations, but Stratus ES's "Autostick" manual-shift feature adds a welcome measure of engine control.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Good for this class. Our Autostick test '99 Stratus averaged 21 mpg. A 2.0-liter 5-speed test car returned 21.2 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 |
The suspension does a poor job of absorbing bumpy pavement and filtering out road noise, though smaller bumps and ridges come through less harshly.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 |
Any Stratus or Cirrus is a fairly agile family sedan that feels well-planted on twisting roads. The ES has slightly less cornering lean than the softer-sprung SE.
QUIETNESS
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 |
Not really, with relatively intrusive engine, wind, and road noise. It's one of Stratus/Cirrus's biggest demerits and a clue to a rather elderly design that will be replaced for 2001.
CONTROLS
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Placed for maximum visibility and accessibility. However, most cabin materials are a grade below average for this class.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Chrysler no longer touts "cab forward" styling, but the benefits are evident here, especially in leg room.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
These midsize sedans are uncommonly roomy in back, with enough seat width for three medium-size adults to ride without feeling like sardines.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
A large trunk with a flat floor and low liftover, plus a standard folding rear seatback, add up to good cargo-carrying ability.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.3 |
They're not long on refinement, but Stratus and Cirrus are roomy and competent. Loaded versions costs about as much as mid-level models of some rivals. And with redesigned replacements on the way, discounts and incentives are available.
Total Score
| Base, 2.0 4 cyl, man. | ES, V6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | 47 | 50.2 |
Total Score: 47
Scores for all Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
