2005 DODGE MAGNUM NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Dodge Magnum?
The new for 2005 Dodge Magnum is the latest entry in the "Sport Tourer" section of the crossover category, representing the marriage of a sports sedan, a station wagon and an SUV. The 2005 Dodge Magnum features a chiseled, cut exterior that takes design influences from the Ram pickup. The unusually large rear cargo door, hinged midway between the C- and D-pillar, allows bulky items to be loaded easily. For foul weather, all-wheel-drive is available as an option. Muscle car fans will gravitate to the sporty RT model, which is fitted with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Mid-year, a Special Edition package groups together a power sunroof, satellite radio, and a stereo capable of playing MP3 discs. Another mid-year package titled Performance Appearance adds fog lights, power heated folding exterior mirrors, and a "3.5L High Output" badge for the Magnum's flanks. 'Cuz, you know, badges and mirrors and lights make it look fast.

Advantages of the 2005 Dodge Magnum:

• Muscular 5.7-liter Hemi V8 in the RT model
• Spacious cabin is nicely appointed
• Cargo convenience of a wagon
• Optional Boston Acoustics sound system
• Optional voice-operated, DVD-based navigation system
• Available all-wheel-drive

Objections to the 2005 Dodge Magnum:

• Cargo space is on the small side
• Wimpy base 2.7-liter V6 engine
• Fuel-thirsty 5.7-liter Hemi V8

Editor's Advice:
The new burgeoning sport tourer segment, championed by Chrysler's Pacifica, now has a heavy hitter in the form of the 2005 Dodge Magnum. Though the base Magnum SE will get you the looks and good fuel economy, we'd opt for the adequately powerful Magnum SXT for daily driving chores or the Hemi-powered RT that provides buckets of thrills. Any 2005 Dodge Magnum can haul the family in comfort, and perform double duty on weekends carting supplies from the home improvement center. While it won't carry as much cargo as a midsize SUV, it's certainly distinctive in the sea of soccer mom sport 'utes, and sometimes form is far more important than function.