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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The Mad Grocery Getter - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By ynghng73 - May 15 - 10:00 amAll of a sudden its not so bad to drive something that resembles what looks to be a station wagon, or a hearse, or an SUV?! WOW, what the hell is that thing, is the look I most frequently get while driving around in the Magnum. Such an original and unique style that carries the class of a Mercedes, provides the leg room to a sports car, undeniable Dodge strength, and the confidence of a tank, and you can still paralell with ease. Great Job Dodge!
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Great car - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By DarChew - May 15 - 10:00 amThis is a great car, Mine happens to be out of allignment or something is wrong with the front end with only 600 miles. I hope the dealership will be able to fix it.
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What a car - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By GREG - April 24 - 1:56 pmHavent had a car turn my head like the Magnum did in many years. As soon as they came out, I told my wife Im getting one. I did,and now Im happy. It not only looks great, its very versitile. Lots of room to haul stuff, and very comfortable to drive. I also get a lot of compliments about it.
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One Word Hemi - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By 1 Word - April 23 - 11:46 amI had a 560 SEC MB coupe before this, and my Hemi would blow the doors off it. People stop me and ask about this machine. The last time this happened is when I had a 68 Shelby GT350 convertible and a 62 Thunderbird Sports Roadster with the tonneau, top down. BUY IT NOW!
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White Lightning - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By Bill - April 7 - 5:26 pmI took my white RT on a trip from South Bend, IN to Tampa, FL during record setting snow falls in Kentucky and Tennesse. I was able to open it up on Rt. 57 thru Illinois which was real fun. Got lots of looks. I hit the snow in Kentucky. I was extremely pleased with the handling of the ESP system. I was able to run at 40 mph, which in those conditions was flying! I was amazed at all of the high priced cars off the road in ditches ect... Spent pretty much of Xmas eve on I-24 in Tennesse. Things finally got moving again about 2pm and I was off to the races. I want you to know that this car makes you forget that you are diving long distances. Oh yeah!!! 22 mpg SWEET:)
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Love My Magnum - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By Steve S. - April 4 - 12:36 pmI have had the car only two months, but I feel at this time, it may be the best overall car I have owned. The car turns heads with its unique styling. It is fun to drive, and hauls a lot of stuff.
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My Magnum SXT - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By thegunny - April 2 - 10:00 amAbsolutely the best riding car I have owned or even test driven. I like the fact that it uses supsension from Mercedes, and the ride is proof that it works as advertised. I have only 900 miles on mine so far, and have yet to take a trip with it. Biggest problem withthe car is the attention you get while driving it. People ride alongside of you just to look at it and they wont pass, or they take alot of time in passing you. Its one sweet looking ride.
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SUV Replacement - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By Dan - March 29 - 10:30 amMy wife and I were looking for a vehicle to replace our 16 year old 4Runner. We wanted some thing that would give us the same utility for carrying cargo but we did not want the same typical looking SUV we were looking for some thing that would stand out on the road plus have good perrmance and handlig.We have had our Magnum for 3 months now and have several comments and looks from other people on the road.
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Make it faster! - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By Black Cat 1 - March 28 - 10:00 amI cut off the restristers just in back of the chrome pipes and gaind 35+ more HP! Dynoned mine at 375 HP at rear tires after removing the restricters. A chip would also be nice, or free flow exhaust. May be even a super charger. Now theres a thought.
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Mazsmag - 2005 Dodge Magnum
By craig - March 24 - 3:00 pmI like the inside and out. Its fast and fun to drive. Keep up the outstanding job.
