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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  Exquisite Touring Car - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By laspalmasdesign - March 17 - 8:36 am

  I couldnt be any happier than I am with the purchase of my 2005 Magnum R/T. Its everything I had hoped for and more. Its powerful engine makes driving up twisty mountain roads nearly effortless not to mention the superb handling which makes the car feel "glued" to the road.. The interior is very quiet, the seats are comfortable and the ride is supple without being mushy.

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  Nice car - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By chuggs - February 25 - 9:00 am

  Id done months of research on cars, and the Magnum was the first one I wanted to look at, but I couldnt find one under $20K. We found ours (black with dark tinted windows - beautiful car) for around $16K with 22K miles on it. Its a great car, coming from a 1999 Grand Am with one kid and one on the way. the 2.7L isnt torque happy, but we didnt need a racer, just a daily driver with room for 5 that got good mpg. Weve had a couple of problems (brakes and visor clip so far), but it was used, so I wasnt expecting "new-car" functionality. Thank God for warranties, right? If someone asked me what car to get for a family of 4, this would be it. Thanks Dodge!

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  I Like it! - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By Bearing Rep - February 24 - 3:00 am

  I have been watching the Magnum for some time now and have been so impressed. It was recently offered as a choice for our company vehicle, so I had to get it. I love the looks, room, quiet ride, and handling. I am at an age, with two kids and a business, that I need the wagon, but really do not want to drive "my Fathers Oldsmoblie"! Since mine is an SE (fleet car), I had no choice but to accept the 2.7 eng. It is adequate, but weak. The 3.5 should be the minimum engine for this size of car. Traction control and ABS was added. I run 35K business miles per year, plus personal miles and this car is fun and nice to drive. Overall, I love it, but wish that it had a bigger power plant.

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  The best car I ever bought - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By james mack - January 22 - 3:26 am

  You would have-to-have one to understand. This is what I needed in a car and I have the 3.5 high output v6. I love it. The Hemi is great too, but you could keep up with it no problem trust me.

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  A Different Wagon - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Roy Pratt - January 15 - 5:53 pm

  After seeing the introductory annoncement on the Magnum I was pleased to see eye catching styling, but that is only exterior appeal. The real test came, after a lot of research, to the test drive. I found the advertisements to be every bit as honest as the researchers/road test folks had stated. A GREAT RIDE AND EXCEPTIIONAL PERFORMANCE!

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  My first Dodge - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Goodys - January 12 - 11:36 pm

  I love this car! It looks great, handles even better and will FLY. Plus the Boston Acoustic sound system rocks.

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  My New Dodge - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By mdlcitz - January 2 - 9:56 am

  Handling, Power, Style. This car has it all. I bought this car because it had everything I needed to get me to work and to help me to play on the weekends. If youre over 50 like me, you know about rear wheel drive. It really helps with the driving experience. This is not your fathers station wagon. I cant tell you how happy I am with this car. WOW.

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  Do not buy this car! - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Robert in Atlanta - December 21 - 4:13 am

  I had this car for 4 days before the engine blew (200 miles on it!). I was convinced that it was a lemon, but the dealership said it was a problem with the car and would not be covered by warranty. Ill take their word and assume it is an awful car. And Daimler Chrysler has backed the dealership! Beware-if you buy this car (or the 300, Charger, or any other car with the same platform) and you have problems, they will not take responsibility. I had heard similar things but wanted this car so badly, I took a chance on it anyway. Biggest mistake of my life. I am actually left hoping that the engine problems continue so I can take them to task and claim it as a lemon. I am a VERY angry consumer!

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  RT - Best deal in 2005 - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By MagnumMike - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This is the smoothest, fastest, and quietest car Ive ever driven. I can forgive the malfunctioning CD Changer, jammed rear seatbelt, and finicky tailgate for a ride like this. I keep thinking of reasons to go run errands. The engine is effortlessly powerful and the tranny is silky smooth. The 5 Speed Autostick is even becoming fun. I never really understood the appeal of a fake manual, but its fun to downshift to slow the car. You will never need to downshift for acceleration. The car can do it better without you. Ill admit Im enjoying all the people stopping to admire and ask about the car.

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  great - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By gorwnwt2@aol.com - November 21 - 10:00 am

  The Magnum drives and rides like a dream