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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  pretty good car - 2002 Dodge Stratus
  By Bucket - April 25 - 2:00 am

  This is a company car, so I didnt really have much of a choice. I probably wouldnt buy one myself. That said, I do think this is a pretty decent car. The seats are very uncomfortable (I do a lot of driving for work), and the interior is unimpressive. But I do like the speedy engine. This car has gotten me through quite a few bad passing decisions on my part with flying colors. Other than a freak problem with all of my tires unexplainably and constantly losing pressure, Ive had no problems.

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  Warranty Scam - 2000 Dodge Stratus
  By wendywoowoo - March 5 - 2:00 am

  We puchased our Stratus with remaining manufacturer warranty and the salesman told us our In service date was 3/30/00 and that the Out service date would be 3/30/03. On 2/24/03 our transmission was doing some weird things(fluid leak). Took vehicle to local Dodge service department on 2/25/03 and they tell me warranty expired on 2/23/03. Called Chrysler and they inform me of the same thing. Make sure when purchasing a Dodge/Chrysler you get written documentation of the In service date and Out service date, because Chrysler corporation will only file a complaint, but wont do anything to help. Also having problems with door locks and power windows.

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  Could have done better - 1999 Dodge Stratus
  By pcotrash - March 4 - 2:00 am

  My Dodge Status still gets me back and forth to work but I have had several problems with it that shouldnt happen when you buy a brand new vehicle. Gas gauge stopped working and left me stranded in the middle of nowhere at 1130pm. Also have had to replace speed sensor, had the rotors turned 6 months ago and they alreadly need turning again. Several other problems also.

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  Lets be honest... - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By jelenap - March 2 - 2:00 am

  Lets be honest: this car is fun to drive ony when it is not in the shop (and bills are not fun at all). And it is a reliable only after you replace a transmission, engine and brakes.

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  It costs how much? - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By hatedodge - December 12 - 2:00 am

  I have the 2.4 DOHC in my Stratus and have had problems every December since purchase. Ive gone through 2 head gaskets and a head (it was cracked AND warped) and just took it to the shop for my 3rd round of head work. Chrysler has covered 2/3 of the cost each time, but they should just recall the suckers and get the problem solved!! I used to love Chryslers, but this one has soured me forever.

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  Designed fast, fast is not always good. - 1995 Dodge Stratus
  By gbelo - November 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car the 1st year it came out . It was attrative and cheap. problem is that the designers designed it so fast they did not pay attention to the engine. $800 head gasket replacement. Would I buy another Stratus, maybe ..A couple of drinks would help with the decision.

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  Engine problems with the 1998 Stratus - 1998 Dodge Stratus
  By jandm5254 - October 15 - 2:00 am

  This car has gone through 2 headgaskets in the first 60,000 miles. It is currently in need of ball joint replacement. It is difficult to see out of the rear window. I guess you get what you pay for.

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  Cloud car grounded too often - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By Stvkrenim - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Stratus is a great-looking car with superb road manners. Theres plenty of room for people and the trunk is huge. Visibility forward is incredible. But the cars tendancy to blow head gaskets, have electrical problems, have brake problems, have transmission problems, etc. all contribute to a car that never inspired confidence. I always wondered if it would start when I needed it to.

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  Cloud car grounded too often - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By stvkrenim - October 5 - 2:00 am

  Stratus is a great-looking car with superb road manners. Theres plenty of room for people and the trunk is huge. Visibility forward is incredible. But the cars tendancy to blow head gaskets, have electrical problems, have brake problems, have transmission problems, etc. all contribute to a car that never inspired confidence. I always wondered if it would start when I needed it to.

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  1996 Dodge stratus - 1996 Dodge Stratus
  By VAYASTEVE - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Good car well bulit but many minor problems which can be a headache.Better off with the V-6 for more power.2.4 4 cyl is good for local driving but it,s not enough power for passing and acclerating.Brakes good.All in all its a good car and Chrysler has doone a lot to inprove their automobiles.But I feel that the service at bayside Dodge after I biught the car was poor.