[3] The Avenger nameplate returned as a 2023 subcompact Jeep model available as a plug-in hybrid version or an all-electric drivetrain.
The four-cylinder was coupled to a five-speed manual transmission, shared with the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon, or a four-speed automatic.
[5] The Avengers featured a fully independent double wishbone suspension and variable-speed rack-and-pinion steering.
Trims included the Highline base model (the V6 engine, among other options, were made standard in 2000) and the ES.
A SOHC 24-valve 2.5 L V6 engine and an automatic transmission (155 hp (116 kW; 157 PS) and 160 lb⋅ft (217 N⋅m) of torque) are optional on the ES.
Next-generation driver and front passenger airbags are added, as well as a new exterior color: Shark Blue.
The ES coupes now come with standard leather upholstery, keyless remote entry, and a power driver's seat.
Like its Dodge Journey stablemate, the Avenger's exterior was styled by Chrysler's Ryan Nagode.
It was launched in Europe and marketed in the United Kingdom, filling a gap in the Chrysler range left by the Neon's discontinuation four years earlier.
According to some reports, the Avenger and the redesigned Chrysler Sebring share a DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi Motors platform called JS, which used the Mitsubishi GS as a starting point.
Another television spot likened the Avenger to the "superhero" vehicle for the everyman, depicting a driver piloting his Avenger through Gotham-like streets and alleys, speaking to the MyGig entertainment system in distinctly Batman-reminiscent tones, to arrive home, pull into a two-car garage, and open the rear door to a sleeping child in the rear car seat.
[10] The Avenger competed directly with the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion, with the 2007 and later Chrysler Sebring being aimed at the higher-priced American cars such as the Mercury Milan, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura.
Sales of the Avenger continued in the Republic of Ireland and Western Europe until late 2009, following Fiat's takeover of Chrysler Group.
[11] The Avenger featured a soft ride while the R/T versions included a firmer suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, and 18-inch wheels.
Exterior changes include slightly revised sheet metal with a new crosshair grille displaying the new Dodge logo on the lower right corner of the grille, a sleeker bumper cut design, and standard LED combination taillights.
Changes to the interior are more noticeable with a completely redesigned dashboard and instrument panel featuring an available 6.5-inch navigation/media center screen.
Higher-quality soft-touch plastics for dashboard, door, and trim panels replaced the old materials, which were criticized for their poor fit and finish quality, as well as being unpleasant to the touch.
The car received an overall "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap test due to marginal dummy kinematics and slight intrusion into the passenger compartment.
[33][34][35] The discontinuation of the Dodge Avenger was announced by the automaker in early 2014, along with the end of the Chrysler 200 convertible model.
It appeared in Dodge Avenger grille, headlights, and taillights as the standard "spec" Car of Tomorrow (CoT) model.