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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  Outstanding Replacement - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Carl Burk - August 26 - 2:45 pm

  I replaced my 1999 Dodge Intrepid with a 2005 AWD SXT and also a 2005 SXT Inferno Red Magnum. Both cars have performed well and are fun to drive. The AWD has 36,000 miles now and averages 22-24 mpg while the RWD SXT averages 28-30 on trips at 60 mph, freeway mileage drops to 27+ at 70+. Excellent Car with the advantage of looking space age and ready for flight. When purchased I added the 8 - 80 protection and havent needed anything but normal maintenance and fun to drive.

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  Nice - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Rocked - August 13 - 2:02 pm

  Great Car. Bought new in 05 and have had no problems. Outstanding performance with 340 HP and 390 tourque. Car still gets attention and favorable comments. Most surprising is gas mileage with MDS. Average MPG for life of vehicle is 20+.

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  Dodge Magnum - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By motabwa - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I just got my Magnum and I love it. I was very surprised to see how easy it handled, despite its large size. I was very impressed with the safety features that come standard and the extras. I feel very safe driving with my two children in the car.

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  2005 Dodge Magnum RT - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By froggie doggie - August 6 - 10:00 am

  This is the finest, fastest vehicle I have ever owned. The Hemi delivers smooth, rapid acceleration and superior performance in all driving situations. The fuel economy for a Hemi powered vehicle is really amazing. I actually averaged 26.1 MPG on a trip. The only thing I dont like about it is the front end is too low to the ground resulting in the front lower clip hitting curbs sometimes when parking. Overall I would rate it as a 10. A very wise buy for the buyer looking for a great car with all the luxuries of many higher priced luxury cars.

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  SE RWD 2.7L - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Dog1952 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I think this car is one of the best all around vehicles ever built. The 2.7 engine is a little under power but the rest of the car is perfect, lots of room for driver and passengers, with plenty of room in cargo area for golf clubs etc.

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  Magnum Keeps on Rolling - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By Commuter - July 31 - 5:33 pm

  My All Wheel Drive V6 Magnum SXT is coming up on 59,000 miles and has averaged over 21 mpg. It accelerates like a small V8 (with no wheel spin) and goes through rain, snow and anything else on my 45 mile one way commute. Tracking is excellent--and improved with my only major expense, a new set of Goodyear Comfortred tires at 34,000 miles replacing the original Continentals (which quickly cupped and wore and provided a rough ride). My only other expenses have been oil changes and turning the two front brake rotors at 49,000 miles to eliminate a minor shudder when braking. This is a great car pool vehicle, with plenty of seating and storage room for everyone.

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  Should have listened to the wife - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By firelieutenant16 - July 30 - 8:05 pm

  Love the look. Thats it. Got car with 70 miles on it. Have had it in the shop many many times. Cylinder 2 misfire 5 time, trans leak, both rear window motors replaced, 3 radios replaced, 3 sets of leather seat covers, air bags disable themselves, heat seat works on and off, rattle in the dash, brakes at 24000, warped rotors, E brake need to be replaced vibration in the front end at 45 to 60 MPR and 3 sets of tires. If you can get by all of that its a great car.

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  This is not your family wagon - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By pfeiffer - July 24 - 11:41 am

  I purchased the Magnum with 1500 miles on the odo. It is loaded. Tarted the boring dash up a bit and put a K7N air intake on it. I have thoroughly enjoyed the car. It drives great accelerates like mad and sounds like and old school muscle car. Only two issues sent it to the shop: rear hatch struts failed and the sat/nav joystick went dead. Minor issues that were replaced under warranty. My dealer, New Century Dodge in Paola, KS, is the best. Only two complaints: The stock tires (Continentals) were terrible. lated 10,00 miles. Class Action suit pending. Sice Crysler tanked, my resale value took a dive. Im glad I dont want to sell it. Too bad they pulled the plug on this car. Its Classic.

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  What fun - 2005 Dodge Magnum
  By jose1951 - July 17 - 5:50 pm

  Best car I have ever owned. Turns heads. Fun to drive and very useful. The RT city gas mileage isnt great, but coming from a large SUV, its just as good or better. If I could afford it I would get rid of my other car and buy another one just like it.

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  Satisfied in PA with black R/T AWD - 2006 Dodge Magnum
  By ACM - July 1 - 9:58 am

  Traved to Michigan from PA to by this car used with 28,000 on it.Downsized from a 01 AWD Towne and Country Limited.This car is fast without a doubt and functional to boot. I have hauled my 20 extension ladder and wheelbarrow in the back with the seats folded down. More than enough room for the dog. Had to replace both outer tie rods(under warranty) and o2 sensor (warranty ran out) but still happy with the vehicle. Will add roof rack.Great in the snow with snow tires as I have owned 4 wheel drive and AWD before.Got to have it here in this area. Have to wait and see how it holds up but so far so good.