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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  Ok car, not without its faults - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By Tleasy - July 28 - 2:00 am

  Front seats are not very comfortable. Not recommended for long trips. History of trouble with heads on motor. Common problem at around 60,000 miles to have heads warp. Can cause extensive motor damage if not checked regularly.

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  2004 Dodge Stratus R/T - 2004 Dodge Stratus
  By Lee Ann - July 27 - 2:00 am

  I have nothing but great things to say about my Stratus. I am very glad I chose to buy it! The gas mileage is exactly what the window sticker said it would be, handles great and fun to drive!

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  My Dodge - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By carmesin - July 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had many problems including needing a new head gasket, radiator and transmission. It has been nothing but problems since I bought it. I only have 80,000 miles on it. I am looking for a new car.

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  I love this car!! - 2004 Dodge Stratus
  By gwenniepooh - July 24 - 2:00 am

  is there really anything not to love about this car? I get so many compliments on this car, the color is gorgeous! (pearly light blue)

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  my mistake - 2004 Dodge Stratus
  By feather - July 24 - 2:00 am

  This car drives so fine. Excellent sound system. But it is much to small. Seat hurts my back and I tried to return it before 24 hours or get another model it bothered my back so badly but the dealer would not let me exchange for another car or return it,

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  Best Used Car I Ever Purchased! - 2000 Dodge Stratus
  By Making me repost. - July 22 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this car almost 4 years now, and have only had one major repair to the fuel system. I agree with the squeeky brakes and minor road noise assessments, but it also gets great fuel economy for a 4 door sedan! the only minor problem Ive seen is with the wiring harness to the lights on the air conditioning console (they intermitenly go out). Overall, I am VERY satisfied with the vehicle. I am now over 100,000 miles and still going strong!

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  Dodge Stratus SXT 2 door - 2004 Dodge Stratus
  By Carmen24 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  It is so much fun to drive. They look very nice, and they turn a few heads. The sound system that comes stock, is very good as well. It is very easily upgradeable. I love it and would recommend it to anyone.

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  love the stratus - 2004 Dodge Stratus
  By stratusdriver2004 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  all around good reliable car

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  Best buy for the money - 2000 Dodge Stratus
  By Eugene Hudd - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car new in 1999, now has 45K miles, replaced brakes at 42K, needed new Oxygen sensor at 38K, still has original tires, they look to be good for at least another 15K. Needed new gas cap at 44K (gas cap failed emissions test), Sunroof needs a new motor, works but only in warm weather. Otherwise, no problems, very dependable, auto-stick is fun, cabin space is very good for a car this size. Power and economy is an excellent balance. I dont htink that I could get a better car for the money!

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  96 stratus good car - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By jennig - July 15 - 2:00 am

  This car so far for me has bee pretty good. I bought it with 107000 miles and it now has 113000. I have had no major problems with it execpt normal age/miles related problems (tires, brakes).