2008 Dodge Magnum Review

Four different Magnum models are offered, each having a different engine underhood and a different appeal based on its equipment and price. First, there's the value-minded base SE, which includes a 186-horsepower, 2.7L V6 engine. Next up is the mid-range, more luxurious SXT model, which gets a 250-horsepower, 3.5L V6. Near the top of the line is the sporty and very well equipped R/T model, which brings the popular and powerful Hemi V8, rated at 335 horsepower and 375 lb-ft. For those who want the most performance and exclusivity there's the track-ready SRT8, which includes a 425-horsepower, 6.1L version of the Hemi.

SXT and R/T models can be equipped with an all-wheel drive system, though SE and SRT8 models are only available with rear-wheel drive. The SE and SXT rear-wheel drive come with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the rest of the models get a five-speed automatic with AutoStick manual control.

The Magnum's wagon body style affords more flexibility than a sedan, with space for five and a roomy back seat that's also split 60/40 and folds forward to expand the rear cargo area to an impressive 72 cubic feet.

New Popular Equipment Packages now apply to each trim level and bring some of the upgraded equipment from higher trim levels. For instance, the SE Popular Equipment Package includes 17-inch machined aluminum wheels, a power driver's seat, and Sirius satellite radio. On the SXT, the Package includes dual-zone climate control, power heated leather seats, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels, and a 276-watt Boston Acoustics sound system. For the R/T, it brings a premium sound system with DVD-compatible six-disc changer and steering-wheel audio controls, remote start, a garage-door opener, and LED interior lighting.

Also of note is the Road/Track Performance Package, which brings more serious performance equipment to the R/T, in the form of 20-inch chrome-clad wheels with performance tires; a sport suspension; load-leveling shocks; performance steering, brakes, exhaust, and induction; heated front seats with suede inserts; front and rear decklid spoilers. With the changes, the engine makes 10 more horsepower, for a total of 350 horsepower. The package also includes seat-mounted aide air bags, which are otherwise available as a standalone option.

At the top of the range is the high-performance SRT8, which includes a 425-horsepower, 6.1L version of the Hemi V8, along with a specially calibrated five-speed automatic that has AutoStick manual control. The SRT8 rides a half-inch lower than other Chargers, and the suspension and ESP stability control system are performance-tunes. SRT-exclusive aluminum-forged 20-inch wheels, a functional hood scoop for added cooling, big Brembo vented brakes, and dual 3.5-inch exhaust tips are also included. Inside, the SRT8 includes special accent stitching, carbon-fiber and leather trim, and LED interior lighting, along with expanded instrumentation.

The SRT8 can accelerate to 60 mph in the low five-second range, brake from 60 to zero in about 110 feet, and get to 100 mph and back to a standstill in under 17 seconds, according to Dodge.
The Dodge Magnum gets a new look in front for 2008, along with some touches to give the interior a more upscale appearance. The grille has been lowered and stretched horizontally, with added chrome and new detailing around the fog lamps. All-new wheel covers and wheels are offered for the lineup, including optional chrome-clad 20-inchers.

Inside, the instrument panel, center console, and door panels have been redesigned, new cloth upholstery adorns the seats, and the cruise control stalk has been relocated to the four o'clock position. The instrument panel, center console, and door panels receive satin chrome bezels, and the armrests, center console, and door trim have been fitted with soft-touch surfaces.

Heated front seats, a power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, express up/down windows, and an auto dimming mirror are all newly standard on the R/T, and remote start and xenon headlamps are available. Power adjustable pedals are now standard on the SXT, and all models but the base model now have air filtration for the climate control system.

Also, sound systems have been revamped, Sirius Backseat TV is available, and the MyGig multimedia and entertainment audio system is offered with available navigation. Other options have been regrouped into Popular Equipment Packages.

In the palette of colors, Dark Titanium Metallic and Light Sandstone Metallic replace Marine Blue Pearl and Silver Steel Metallic. see less