Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the mid-'90s, the Dodge Stratus was a replacement for the aging and boxy Spirit. It was one of three sedans based on Chrysler's "JA" platform, including the Plymouth Breeze and Chrysler Cirrus. Among these triplets, the Stratus was touted as the sportiest, and it took the role as the midsize car in Dodge's lineup.

The first-generation Dodge Stratus was known mostly for its sharp styling, roomy interior and value. Dodge followed it up with a redesigned model for the start of the new millennium that featured additional safety equipment and a more powerful V6 engine. A coupe model also debuted.

The Stratus had a decent run but ultimately never achieved the superstar status that Dodge had hoped for. In terms of refinement, build quality and reputation for reliability, it couldn't match top import models. Production ended after the second generation. As a used sedan or coupe, the Stratus is a fair choice. Consumers prioritizing price or exterior styling might find it worth a look.

Most Recent Dodge Stratus

The second and last generation of the Dodge Stratus covered model years 2001-'06. Sedan and coupe body styles were offered. Mechanically, there is a fair amount of difference between the two. The Stratus coupe (formerly known as the Avenger) was actually based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse of the time and differed from its Japanese cousin mainly in its sheet metal. The Stratus sedan was still a Chrysler design.

A large trunk and fairly roomy interior, thanks to Chrysler's "Cab Forward" design philosophy, were two of the Stratus sedan's strong points. Another was the car's handling -- it felt sportier than many other mid-priced, midsize sedans of the time. Even so, most used Stratus shoppers will likely be attracted mainly by the price, as the cars haven't really held their value the way Japanese sedans of the same size would. The Stratus coupe could be a good buy for someone who wants a comfy, V6-powered coupe as opposed to a small, high-strung sports car.

In general, coupes were available in base SXT and sporty R/T versions. Sedans came in base SE, midgrade SXT, luxury-oriented ES and R/T guise. Stratus coupes were powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 producing 147 horsepower; R/T versions had a 3.0-liter V6 rated at 200 ponies. Both engines could be had with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

The sedans had Chrysler engines. Some models were fitted with a 150-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder, but most had a 200-hp 2.7-liter V6. All sedans came with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Past Dodge Stratus Models

The first generation Dodge Stratus was available from 1995-2000. The sedan (there was no coupe) was originally offered in two trim levels: base and slightly more luxurious ES. Base models had a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine making 132 hp. Optional was a larger 2.4-liter making 150 hp. For the ES, Dodge offered a 168-hp, 2.5-liter V6.

There were no major changes to this generation, so potential buyers shouldn't feel a need to focus on any particular year. At the time, the Stratus earned high marks for its edgy styling and larger-than-expected interior and trunk.

User Reviews:

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  180k and still going - 1995 Dodge Stratus
  By 4Man - August 5 - 2:00 am

  Im glad I picked the SE with the Mitsubishi V6. After 184k Ive only had to replace the water pump and AC compressor. The only other problems include inoperable power remote on the passenger side mirror (drivers side is still OK) and a broken air recirculation selector knob on the heat/AC console (stuck in the outside air mode). 95% of the miles have been highway and I use only Mobil 1 synthetic. Even the receptionist at the dealership seemed amazed to find a Stratus still kicking with 150+k miles on it. Hmmm - makes one wonder. Overall, this has been a very good value.

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  Dodgie - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By Dodgie - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Poor handling in snow! If you plan on driving this in snow, then Id reconsider. Traction is poor and has difficulty stopping. Airconditioning is weak, but if you plan on being up in the front, its ok. If you are going to having rear passengers, this could be a problem.

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  Mom, can I take the STRATUS?!?!?! - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By mee-moo - July 14 - 2:00 am

  My Stratus ES (1999 w/ Autostick) has been a very good car. I only had one, minor problem with it the alternator cable to the battery came loose, which resulted in some arching and a bad smell. Nothing serious at all. It took no time to fix and was covered by warranty. One other problem--very, very minor--the print on the radio buttons seems to be wearing off way too early, and those shouldnt wear at all...ever.

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  Good Value - 2000 Dodge Stratus
  By NMchop - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I really wanted an SUV or truck, but found I couldnt really afford one and got a great deal on the Stratus ES, V6, loaded (except sunroof). The car rides smooth as glass. I had two minor problems with it that were fixed under warranty right after purchase (A/C leak and fuel gauge sent bad readings). Both were fixed quickly. My only gripe with the car is that its cupholders are inconvenient for me, they cant hold the bigger drinks of today. I could use a bigger trunk too but for a midsize car, the trunk and cabin size are good. Its comfortable and rides excellent. The gas mileage isnt bad either for a V6.

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  SOLID PERFORMER - 2000 Dodge Stratus
  By antelucio - June 19 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle used with 30,000 miles one year ago. Had to have the spark plugs changed. Put in a drop- in K&N air filter which did improve gas mileage slightly. No noticeable performance increase. Overall very pleased with the car. Fairly comfortable on long trips. Put Dunlop SP Sport A2 tires on it 6 months ago which significantly reduced road noise and improved handling slightly.

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  Brakes Stop Short of Brilliance - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By andymac - June 14 - 2:00 am

  The brakes were replaced at 43000 miles, just prior to my purchase of the vehicle. They were replaced again 10 months and 20000 miles later. They were replaced again at 99000 miles in June 2002. The head gasket had a leak which went from bad to worse from 43000 miles until its replacement 60000 miles. Heat and A/C only work from windshield and floor, not from dash. Check Engine light appears every other month, sometimes disappearing on its own, other times requiring a trip to the garage. Great gas mileage, comfort- -even on long trips, appearance, room, and handling.

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  Think before you buy... - 1995 Dodge Stratus
  By Pam - June 4 - 2:00 am

  This car has had its share of time in the shop. I have replaced the head gasket twice and am working on a third time, and this time someone else can pay for it. I have found no easy fixes to this car as every little thing is part of a bigger package. You cant buy little parts as they are all part of a bigger part that cant be broken down. This vehicle leaks oil constantly.

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  A great sedan - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By Tim Walters - June 3 - 2:00 am

  I have 101,000 miles on my 1998 Stratus ES. I bought it as a program car and have put many miles on it. I havent had any mechanical problems at all. All Ive had done to it, besides routine maintenance, is a replaced windshield (rock from road), New trans. gasket that was leaking (it was due for service anyway).

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  Sqeaky Noise - 2001 Dodge Stratus
  By Gena - May 30 - 2:00 am

  My dodge stratus makes a loud annoying sqeaky noise when i hit about 70 mph. The noise is consistant and extreamily annoying especially when i go on road trips. Other then the noise, that the dealership cant fix i love my car. The drive is nice and it acclerates really well.

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  1996 Dodge Stratus ES - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By misanthropicelle - May 24 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this car a few days ago, but it is great! I love manual cars, and this one is definitely perfect for my needs. I drove the car 45 miles on the highway and the gas gauge didnt even move. The mileage is amazing and perfect for anyone that has to drive distances often!