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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  2002 4dr- sedan Stratus - 2002 Dodge Stratus
  By SkyyBlueGirl - February 29 - 2:00 am

  I had a 96 Stratus before so naturally I went for the 2002 when it became time for a new car. I love the pretty color (sky blue) and the body style. I think the interior is an improvement from the older models. But I have to say I am REALLY disappointed that my car is leaking transmission fluid all over the place for no reason...the older version was (I have a feeling) way more reliable than the 2002. Other than the whole "transmission" problem (which is like, probably pretty bad for the outcome of my car over the years), the car is lovely. Hopefully you all have better luck...maybe I just got a bad seed.

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  Looks will fool you - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By Stabone - February 26 - 2:00 am

  Chrysler has failed with this engine and mechanical elements. The head gasket WILL begin to leak around 50K, in addition to many other repairs that go beyond ware and tear. Do not buy this model after 50K or you will end up spending well over $3,000 in repairs. Dont let the looks and extra features fool you. Chrysler should be ashamed of themsevles. I cant wait to get rid of this vehicle.

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  My airport car - 1997 Dodge Stratus
  By canad - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had mine for about a year. It needed brakes when I bought it, and the A/C was not working after the second week (a dealership issue not a car issue.) Its peppy, handles well in all conditions including rain and snow (autostick.)

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  0-60 in 1min - 2002 Dodge Stratus
  By Roger M - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Although I didnt buy the Stratus for its performance, I was figuring it would have a little more "get up and go." The car handles like a dream though. Very good choice of tires. The car handles bumps and potholes very well with little or no kickback from the suspension. I am a fairly large man, and I am very comfortable in the cars seat. I upgraded the stereo. The interior is very durable. The woodgrain dash and the white face gauges are a nice adddition.

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  Nightmare - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By lindap - February 21 - 2:00 am

  It has been a nightmare! We have replaced the head gasket, transmission, speed sensor twice, serpentine belt, alternater twice and the starter. This car has been in the shop more than out and Chrysler has been no help. We would never buy another Chrysler product

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  Good, economical car - 1995 Dodge Stratus
  By Shewinked - February 14 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car with 50K miles on it. Ive had to replace the oxygen sensor 3 times (engine light stays on), and the electical system goes out where the radio, heat/ac and lights dont work. If I stop and turn the car off and then back on, its restored. Otherwise, its been a great car. It was cheap and great in-between car. It looks great, people always think its newer than it actually is.

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  1998 Dodge Stratus ES - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By Jax Tom - February 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 98 ES at the end of 2000 when it had 61,000 miles on it and I have over 113,000 miles on it now. Its been a great car, solid, fun to drive, decent gas mileage, good power when you need it. Other than routine maintenance and new tires, I havent had to do anything to it except that the A/C has just lost its charge so Ill be needing to get new hoses and refridgerant. Hope to get many more miles from it.

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  Glad its gone - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By thumbingaride - February 10 - 2:00 am

  Very disappointed.Front end rattles and speed sensors have gone out twice in 50,000 miles.$400.00 Interior design needs improvement.

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  Nightmare - 2002 Dodge Stratus
  By mwaltjr - February 3 - 2:00 am

  After 18,000 miles, the transmission needs to be replaced. Excessive brake dust is a constant problem. Good in poor weather and lots of passenger/cargo room. B/c of poor transmission issues, I cant recommend this car.

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  03 R/T Coupe - 2003 Dodge Stratus
  By StratusOwner - January 24 - 2:00 am

  I love my stratus. It looks great, rides great, and there are so many aftermarket modifications available due to its common engine with the sebring and eclipse.