2005 Dodge Magnum: Road Test
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2005 Dodge Magnum ▼
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- MSRP: $22,020 -$32,070
- Invoice: $20,488 -$29,533
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Our road test for the 2005 Dodge Magnum includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Dodge Magnum from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Dodge Magnum, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Dodge Magnum help you decide if a 2005 Dodge Magnum is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 5.8 |
SE with 2.7-liter V6 feels tepid, and passing requires lots of room; Dodge says 11.3 sec 0-60 mph. The 3.5 V6 feels responsive enough around town, but has only adequate passing power; Dodge says 9.3 sec 0-60 in rear-drive versions. AWD SXT feels little different. Test RT did 5.8 sec 0-60, with ready muscle from any speed. V8's Multi-Displacement System switches between 4 and 8 cylinders without interrupting power delivery, though some testers detect slight drivetrain shudder as it activates/deactivates. RT can tow up to 3800 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
No opportunity to measure with a V6 or AWD Magnum, but rear-drive 3.5 V6 Chrysler 300 averaged 19.5 mpg in our tests. Extended-use-test rear-drive Magnum RT averaging 16.0 mpg over its first 10,059 mi. Other test rear-drive RTs averaged 15.9 mpg in mostly city driving, 18.4 with more highway work. Dodge says Multi-Displacement System boosts V8 by 2 mpg city, 5 mpg highway. It recommends 87-octane fuel for the 2.7, 89 octane for other engines. Note: AWD versions and RT have 19-gal fuel capacity vs. 18.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.6 |
Independent rear suspension patterned on design from parent-company Mercedes-Benz helps deliver generally smooth, composed ride. However, rippled pavement triggers annoying jiggling, especially in RT with its firmer suspension. And all versions tested suffered unwanted float over highway-speed dips and swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Linear steering with good road feel. Stable at highway speeds. Not as agile as European sport sedans in quick changes of direction, but good balance and grip in smooth turns. Depending on speed, bumpy corners can compromise control. Confident stopping power, but some testers complain of numb brake-pedal feel. Test rear-drive RTs negotiated rainy roads without undue slip. But extended-use-test rear-drive RT proved difficult to maneuver through 6 inches of fresh snow despite traction control and all-season tires. AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction.
QUIETNESS
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Noticeable roar from V6s during acceleration. V8 has throaty growl. Magnum admits more road ruckus than 300, mostly because of open rear cargo area vs. closed-off trunk, and RT has more tire roar than other Magnums. Wind rush evident at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
Instruments large, easy to read, but steering-wheel rim cuts into view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls within easy reach, though those for climate system are too low to easily adjust while driving. Navigation system takes time to learn, but simpler than most to operate. Interior materials a slight grade below those of 300, but feel solid enough with nice array of padded panels--entirely appropriate for Magnum's price level.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.6 |
Spacious. Ample head and leg room. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. Thick front roof pillars block some drivers' view to front corners. Low roofline obstructs visibility to sides and rear.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Easy entry/exit. Great room for two. Plenty of leg and toe space even with front seats pushed well back. Lots of head clearance. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but middle rider must straddle intrusive driveline hump.
CARGO ROOM
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Wagon body style with 60/40 split rear seatback provides lots of room, augmented by seatbacks that fold--albeit not perfectly flat. Low roofline means laying most objects flat. Available cargo nets/bins are a convenience for small-items transport.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 6.6 |
Magnum is a Best Buy that proves aggressive styling and functionality are not mutually exclusive. The 2.7 V6 can't move this large wagon with enough verve, but a Magnum with the 3.5 V6 is an acceptable performer, and the RT is a muscle car. Cargo versatility, passenger room, available AWD, and solid construction inside and out make most any Magnum an outstanding value.
Total Score
| SE | SXT | AWD SXT | RT w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 66 | 66 | 66 | 61.8 |
Total Score: 65
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