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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  Mommys Car - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By Mary-Anne - January 26 - 9:44 pm

  I have owned this car for 9 months now. I ordered in January of last year wanting the best hot rod that I could get for my money. What a dream! It goes like stink, looks like nothing else on the road and feels like a Mercedes inside. All of my other cars have been Chryslers except for one foray into the Jetta Wagon TDI. This car tops everything combining the rush of our 600+HP Valiant race car with the luxury of our 73 New Yorker Brougham It handles whether its on ice or gravel, and keeps me comfortable at all times. Once in a blue moon, I even let my husband drive it. I thought of trading it on the SRT8 until I realized that then Id have to put it away for the winter. Not a chance!

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  My Mag RT - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By John Comon - January 25 - 12:30 pm

  I have had my Magnum Rt for 6 months now and find it is as much fun to drive as the day I bought it. With the engine management system, its gets very good mileage for the engine size. Ive had many compiments about it from strangers and havent found one person that didnt think it is one bad dude!!! It has so many great options I wont even list them here. I had it on a long trip and find it is one of the easiest cars to drive at highway speed. Daimler-Chrysler has hit the mother lode!! I recommend this vehicle highly and believe me, this isnt your dads wagon LOL!!

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  The Amercian Wagon - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By gb2 - January 22 - 10:06 pm

  Great car, engineering, features for the money even if you have to pay sticker. Be careful of blind spots on either side. You must use sideview mirrors along with rearview. Hemi power is awesome but still smooth and quiet. Ride quality and quietness at high speed is excellent. Plenty of room to haul stuff and still have a vehicle that handles like a sedan.

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  A New Standard - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By HemiDave - January 21 - 10:00 am

  This is a car that will set a new standard for American cars. The performance is mind blowing in a "family car." Its got looks that wont quit & all the comfort, bells & whistles that anyone could ask for. It is the perfect combination of German engineering, fit & finish, and good old American MUSCLE. Its a car that I will enjoy driving for many years to come.

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  Who would have thought wed buy a Dodge? - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By cgorra - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Smooth, quiet, roomy and comfortable! We traded a Passat wagon for the Magnum, and really feel as if we traded up. the 3.5 liter engine and automatic transmission have ample performance, and the handling and ride are a revelation. Who would have thought that RWD was this good? Lots of space for a growing family, comfortable seating, good storage space and head-turning looks make this a car to be proud of!

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  Magnum Rocks - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By KB - January 14 - 5:56 pm

  Use the seat belt, youll need it. One awesome powerhouse. And still mid 20s for economy when you need it.

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  Wow, Some car - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By E - January 9 - 2:20 am

  Once you buy a Magnum, expect to have people walking by the vehicle ask you what kind of car rhis is and how do you like it. I bought the Mgnum 3 months ago and at least every other day someone approches me when I park to comment on the great styling and how I like it.

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  2006 Dodge Magnum RT - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By Jessicana - January 8 - 9:56 pm

  Stunningly elegant vehicle with an aggressive, no-nonsense attitude. Buy the V-8 only: the V-6 is just too frivolous for this big a wagon.

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  Most Fun Ive Had Driving in 20 Years - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Leo - January 6 - 8:13 am

  Simply put, it has been the perfect car. Incredibly fast and smooth, very comfortable, plus loads of utility. Had an 03 Explorer before and sold it to a family member. Recently drove it again and couldnt believe the difference between it and my Magnum. The Dodges handling and ride are incredible and you feel so much more in command when driving it. Now Im spoiled for life! People seeing it think that because it sits lower and the windows are narrower, theres not much space inside, but the interior is incredibly roomy and comfortable, and you can easily seat three in the back. This car has made station wagons cool again!

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  New Muscle! - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By HJ - January 2 - 10:00 pm

  Sure the cool almost chopped look is what catches your eye, but tromp on de Hemi and visions of Trans Ams & Z28s start dancing in your head. What happened to the muscle cars? Theyre back!