Overview & Reviews

The Dodge Magnum welcomed us to the American station wagon, Version 2.0. Most of us are familiar with the first version, the one that populated American roadways in the 1950s, '60s and '70s before being displaced by minivans and SUVs. Station wagon 2.0 was supposed to be a rebirth of sorts. The Dodge Magnum was intended to prove that the wagon could be cool again.

In terms of style, power and utility, there was nothing else quite like the Magnum. It attracted plenty of well-deserved attention because of its styling. Its long, low stance and flat tail end called to mind those wagons of decades past, but a rising beltline, tapering roof line, short overhangs, trucklike grille and prominent wheels gave it a contemporary and sporty appearance.

Sadly, Wagon Version 2.0 lived a short life. Apparently Dodge couldn't shake the Country Squire memories of Version 1.0, because it pulled the plug on the Magnum following 2008 due to slow sales. The Magnum still makes for an intriguing used car, though, particularly in V8-powered guise.

Most Recent Dodge Magnum

The Dodge Magnum was sold from 2005-'08. When last sighted at Dodge dealerships, the Magnum was available in four trim levels -- SE, SXT, R/T and SRT8 -- which provided increasing levels of standard equipment and performance features. For power, the Magnum SE was equipped with a 200-horsepower V6. It provided adequate acceleration at best. Most will prefer either the 250-hp V6 in the SXT or the R/T's 340-hp V8. The SRT8 had an even larger V8 good for 425 hp. An automatic transmission was standard with all four engines.

Most Magnums were rear-wheel drive, but Dodge offered all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions of the SXT and RT. Because of their added traction capabilities, these AWD wagons could serve well as an SUV alternative for consumers living in poor-weather climates. No Magnum was really meant for towing, however.

In reviews of the Dodge Magnum, our editors praised the vehicle's roomy and comfortable interior, useful cargo area and inspiring performance. Though their fuel economy is naturally on the low side, the V8-equipped models are well suited for both long-distance cruising and stoplight encounters. The Magnum SRT8, for instance, can clear the quarter-mile mark in fewer than 14 seconds. Handling capabilities are also surprisingly composed on the higher level trims.

When the Magnum debuted for the 2005 model year, the RWD SXT model had a four-speed automatic transmission, but it was upgraded to a five-speed unit later in 2006 (AWD SXTs always had a five-speed). The optional R/T Performance Group model that arrived for 2007 added 10 horses, and an inside-out update for 2008 included higher-quality cabin materials and a more upscale appearance.

User Reviews:

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  Suprised - 2008 Dodge Magnum
  By Pleased - February 3 - 4:08 pm

  I thought I would not like the base Magnum SE with the 2.7L engine, I was wrong. The base engine has plenty of power for my needs. Have you mind, if youre in it for power, then go for the 3.5 or the HEMI. My whole reason for buying is, comfort and gas mileage. I strongly believe that the Magnum SE for me is the best bang for the buck. Its a lot more comfortable than than the Charger SE. One other thing, it comes with a lifetime powertrain. So what if the motor or trans goes out while you own it, just get it replaced for free. Go test drive the 2.7L and youll be surprised.

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  love it - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By bird948 - January 23 - 10:00 am

  My husband and I had a Ford Truck previously. Last Sunday we went looking around for a family yet luxury feeling car,and we found that the dodge magnum was so appealing. It has plenty of room for the 6ft and up husband and plenty of room for our children. The hatchback is great with a lot of room for groceries, etc. I wasnt sure about the dodge magnum at first, but after the 1st week of driving it I love it!!

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  Worth A look Great balance if you need.. - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Wayne - January 23 - 9:25 am

  A family vehicle but want something with some go. Have had my R/T for three years now (35k miles). This is the first 4 door car I have ever owned (traded in a 04 GTO on this one). Very quiet and comfortable drive with a ton of room. She definately will move out although the Magnum is a heavy car and dont expect cornering like a Vette or pure sports car. Gas mileage really depends on your foot. I typically get about 21 mpg (75% highway 25% around town). Only issues with the car Ive had which many have already noted: 1) Small tranny leak at 15k miles (was O-ring replaced by dealer and no further issues) 2) The OEM tires (Contis) didnt last long and really stunk in rain/bad weather.

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  What a Car! - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By lovethiscar - January 22 - 4:36 pm

  Traded my Civic for this (too small) knowing that I would be giving up my great fuel economy and it was worth it! Tons of room, a blast to drive. Took it 3000 mi. to Florida and back and it drove like a dream. 23 MPG HWY and 17 City. Came back to a blizzard and this car is a tank! Worried about the RWD but it goes through snow like butter. Trying to keep my foot light on the gas to improve fuel economy but its so hard! Even my husband and kids love it!

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  Rate this vehicle - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By magnum - January 20 - 11:32 am

  The best all around vehicle Ive ever owned. Sporty, family fun, looks great inside and out. Rides, drives like I said all around.

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  Its a HEMI - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By got hemi? - January 8 - 4:09 pm

  I have 52,000 miles on my Magnum RT. Its an awsome car. Great exterior design, and the Hemi is a plus. I had a tranny leak 8 months ago. It was a seal...the dealership replaced it at no charge. The thermostat was replaced 3 months ago. Other than those 2 discrepancies, I really enjoy driving my Magnum. It is a little slipery to drive in the rain, I think that is typical of any RWD. I plan on keeping my Magnum for a long time...unless I can find another car that is as comfortable and looks just as cool.

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  SRT8 Power House - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By William Miller - January 6 - 3:02 pm

  I first owned a 2005 SXT Magnum, black w/tinted windows and 17" alloy rims, I loved that car. My daughter said it looked like a hearse. It could have been an instant muscle car but the 3.5 L V6 just didnt have it.I mean the 3.5 is a great motor just not the Horse power I wanted. So I bought a 2006 SRT8 w/ the 6.1 L Hemi. Wow! Its balck just like the one before and a whole lot faster. The power is almost unbelivable between the two. I miss the all leather seats and moon roof the SXT had. The 20" rims make for a little more bumpy ride but the handling is superior. Lots of power and good looks!Its what I wanted when I bought my first Magnum.

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  Stay Away! - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Unhappy Tom - January 6 - 11:21 am

  Ive owned this car just over 2 years & already Ive gone through 2 inner tie- rods, 2 rack & pinion, & 3 sets of front brake rotors (warping...although they say its not a common problem). The CD player & sunroof (doesnt open) stopped working 3000 miles ago & now the transmission is slipping! Some of this was covered under warranty but much of it has occurred just after the warranty ended. While the trans is still covered, the CD player/navigation system isnt ($2300). This is a fun car to drive when its working! I never bought a Dodge before and will never again. Be forewarned!

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  Husband wanted it, Ive taken it over! - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Diana Drake - January 5 - 10:30 pm

  We bought the RT-fully loaded. The driving pleasure and comfort is extraordinary. Acceleration is firm and steady, with no delayed action. There is a very snug feeling with the lowered windows. The storage capacity is surprisingly ample. It is dressy enough to take clients to lunch, while still having the ability to "truck" some things around.

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  Fun and Practical - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Steve Miley - December 23 - 2:36 pm

  I travel all over the country and I carry a large amount of cargo (clothes, golf clubs, household items, etc...) and my Magnum has been OUTSTANDING! Even with the 2.7L the acceleration is adequate in almost any situation and the fuel economy has been fantastic for such a large vehicle (averaging 22-28 depending on speed) even when loaded down. The styling is what drew me to it, the quality is why Im keeping it until the V6 gives out. Then I can put my own version of the Hemi in it! The ride is so smooth and quiet, even at high speed, and it handles like a car 1000 lbs. lighter (Thanks Mercedes). Got mine for under $20,000, and Im astounded with its features and looks. Go Dodge!