As it has with pretty much every auto show introduction this year, DaimlerChrysler turned to slightly stale dramatics when it came time for the Dodge Avenger concept, a little disguised version of the production Avenger sedan (successor to Stratus), to leave its protective tent. After a soundtrack of thunderclaps and torrential rains, a wind machine flattened photographers' hair as they attempted to record the heady moment.
Although mechanically identical to the '07 Chrysler Sebring, the Avenger shirks its twin's somewhat ungainly, tenative stance for a deliberate, haunchy squat. It may be front-wheel-drive, but it borrows many of its lines from the rear-drive Charger and, provided you like the idea of an over-the-top aggressive family sedan, manages to pull it off. However, the sharp rise of the beltline as it meets up with the C-pillar is jarring. Chief Designer Ryan Nagodi makes no apologies: "In a sea of other sedans, we really wanted some cues where you really get this strong gesture."
Dodge wasn't ready to discuss performance or equipment specfics, but we can only hope the company decides to back up those swollen wheel arches with stiffer chassis tuning than the modest setup on the Sebring. The car on display here in Paris has a 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder, which would likely be the most popular engine option for Avengers sold in Europe. In the U.S., though, the Sebring's engine lineup (2.4-liter gasoline four, 2.7-liter V6 and 3.5-liter V6) should carry over to the Dodge when it debuts for 2008.
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