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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  Needs Subtle Changes - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By Jim Farmer - December 28 - 10:33 am

  The SRT8 Magnum is a thrill to drive and brings back muscle car excitment! As your heartbeat increases and your palms get moist, you accelerate from a complete stop, the G-forces press you into the seat and you smile as the speedometer eclipses the century mark in under 13 seconds. The highly bolstered seat holds you comfortably in place as you execute corners like youre glued to the road. This automobile is also practical because you can take along three passengers and their luggage with ease. I would recommend you at least test drive a SRT8 vehicle before you buy anything else!

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  Family mans sprts car - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By lovemesomesrt8 - December 27 - 12:52 am

  When you need a car that can haul and haul your stuff this is it. A true sleeper. I stepped up from a SRT4 and never looked back. If only it had the 300C interior and a bigger rumble out the exhaust. You have to go with black as your color choice. It looks so mean in black. Uses a lot of gas but what 6.1L station wagon doesnt? Ride is smooth and seats are great for long trips. Easy to drive with a great turn radius. U-turns are a breeze. Stops on a dime and handles better than most cars on the road. If you can afford a SRT8 go for it.

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  Dodge Magnum - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By TOM - December 22 - 4:42 pm

  The most comfortable car to drive on a trip. Has plenty of get up and go for a 6 cylinder. I love my Magnum.

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  German Influence - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Lars - December 22 - 9:51 am

  You can tell that Mercedes has been involved in the quality of this car. Good tight feeling when you are driving. Handles well in any weather-I live in Northeast Ohio. I bought the car used and have 38,000 miles on it at present. The only problem I had was the tie rod ends needed replaced at 35,000 miles. Started to hear tire noise in the front end and realized the tread was beginning to wear uneven. Not happy with having to spend money on this at 38,000 miles. Mileage good be better. Drove to Wilmington NC and averaged 21 mpg. Love the engine and transmission though-good reponse.

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  Love My Mag - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Deanna - December 20 - 3:33 pm

  This has got to be the best looking car I have owned. Its fun to drive and own. The only drawback to this car has been the lousy tires the car came with. I kept the tires on the car everytime I purchased until now. I just purchased my 4th set of tires since I purchased my car in 05-05. Other than that I love it.

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  Brendas - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By srt8* - December 15 - 7:12 pm

  I love my SRT8 and am still amazed at its driving capabilies and stopping power. This car is a must for a hot rod momma!

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  Suckered by great styling - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Chuck B - December 6 - 3:38 pm

  I loved the styling of this car and had to purchase it shortly after it was released. I have had buyers remorse ever since. The reliability of this car has been atrocious and has been in the shop over 10 times within 15 months. #1- the car has pulled to the right since day 1 and they cant fix it. #2- periodic fuel injection issues that took 15 months to diagnose. #3- loud rear wheel noise that they cant repair. I also have to say that dealing with the 3 Dodge service centers and corporate has been a horrible experience. Lease is up in 7 months. I pity whoever gets it after me. I will never buy a Chrysler product again!

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  Great Fun Family Wagon - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By Manny - November 27 - 4:47 pm

  A great excuse to buy a hotrod and say its for the family. Amazing perforance as expected. You sink into the deep bucket seats when you step on the gas. A lot of looks and compliments from other drivers and curious onlookers. Fun and functional, I can carry my boys in the back and still have plenty of room in the front for me. Im 6-4 so that was important. A real sleeper for people that dont recognize what exactly the SRT-8 badge means. I have routinely smoked other unsuspecting sports cars. Always great fun.

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  Comfortable, great ride, nice handling - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By nocruelty - November 22 - 11:39 am

  This is a company car for us. The 2.7 liter engine provides merely adequate performance from a stop and at speed, and Id recommend one of the larger engines. The legroom is excellent for front and back passengers. The headroom is very good. The telescoping steering wheel is extremely helpful and complements the power drivers seat to find an ideal driving position relative to the fixed position pedals. The ride is excellent. Cornering feels solid and not as though its a 4000 pound vehicle. Rear cargo space is limited, unless folding the rear seats. Weve needed to use the optional roof rack during trips. Coupled with a bigger engine, this is a very fun, comfortable car.

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  Awesome car Dad! - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By javaguyinaz - November 16 - 3:05 pm

  I have only had it 4 weeks, and I love the car. I have been approached twice asking about the car. I bought the car used, saved myself $4K. I will not miss my Surburban. My 8 yr old will only go with Dad, forget about the minivan.