2001-2006 Dodge Stratus: Road Test

The new V6 engines used in Stratus and its Sebring cousins took a clear step forward in both power and refinement. The Chrysler-made 2.7-liter in sedans feels markedly smoother than the coupe's Mitsubishi 3.0--though not quite as quick. Compared to domestic and import rivals with larger V6s, any V6 Stratus has acceleration that's easily adequate for most needs. Quickest of the lot, the R/T with manual shift could reach 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. Four-cylinder models are noisier and slower, even though both 2.4-liters are an improvement over their predecessors. Regardless of engine, automatic transmission performance is improved, with smoother upshifts and reasonably prompt downshifts. Optional Autostick is a welcome addition to coupe models, and the Stratus ES, somewhat improving throttle responses. Sedans with V6 engines have averaged 17.5 to 18.3 mpg, while an R/T coupe with stick shift averaged 19.2 mpg. Manual gearboxes, though, fail to match the imports for mechanical smoothness. Uplevel models handle noticeably better than base cars, with little penalty in ride quality. All feel competent on twisty roads, with better grip and less body lean than a Camry, and comfortably absorb most bumps. Coupes are slightly more nimble than the sedans, but don't filter out bad pavement as well. Low-profile 17-inch tires and a firmer suspension make the R/T feel agitated on all but smooth pavement. Steering feedback is good, but four-cylinder versions have excessive power assistance. Stopping power with ABS is a high point, feeling sure and stable, with good pedal modulation. No Stratus suppresses tire noise completely. Overall refinement still isn't up to that of Japanese-brand rivals, but these cars are fairly quiet. Drivetrain vibration is greatly reduced from the previous generation. Suppression of wind noise is admirable. Stratus sedans have airy, uncommonly roomy interiors for their exterior size, despite a slight loss of rear head clearance compared to prior models. With only a little squeezing, three adults can fit in the sedan's back seat. They'll enjoy generous leg room, but head space is a tad snug. Coupes have three rear seatbelts, but even two adults will feel crowded, the seat cushion is uncomfortably low, and seatbacks recline too much. Sedan gauges are clear and readable, but until 2003, coupe instruments echo the gimmicky design in Mitsubishi two-doors and coupe drivers sit low to the floor. Getting in or out of the sedans is easy, but a low roofline hampers entry/exit to the coupes' front seat and limits head room for taller folks. Interference from the front seatbelts worsens getting into the back. Cargo space is average for the class, though coupe trunklid hinges dip into the luggage bay. Interior storage is adequate in two-door models.

Value for the Money
Despite improvements in driveline smoothness and overall refinement, the latest Stratus sedans and coupes lack the polished feel of some import-brand rivals. Still, both body styles offer competitive value and sedans rank as sporty-feeling family carriers. Each model fulfills its mission, and the R/T appeals for its performance image.