With a choice of engines, a range of models and good mileage ratings, the Avenger mates value and features with prices that are hard to beat. The major attraction of the 2014 Avenger will likely be its entry-level affordable price. Changes for the 2014 Dodge Avenger are minimal, being limited to the Blacktop and Rallye packages being extended to availability on the SE model with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine.

'14 Dodge Avenger Exterior

2014 Dodge Avenger Interior

'14 Dodge Avenger Design

The 2014 Dodge Avenger is a nice-looking car with smooth, clean lines and sharp creases. Its clean look is emphasized by the lack of cladding or ding strips on the sides and body-colored door handles and mirrors. The bumpers, front and rear, are smooth. The black egg-crate grille adds visual interest. The dashboard is big and slabby, perhaps described as monolithic. In the front seats, Avenger feels a little more enclosed than the roomiest cars in its class, partly for the massive impact of the dash, but it doesn't feel confining. Some of the Avenger's rear-seat dimensions are smaller than the competition's, but we found no shortage of space. The trunk is lined with surprisingly rich carpet, almost as good as what's inside the cabin.

Powering the 2014 Avenger

The 2014 Dodge Avenger's base engine is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder of 173 horsepower. The 6-speed automatic transmission, standard on all but the base Avenger SE, is fine for everyday driving. In Drive, around town, the upshifts are quick enough, and smooth. It's entirely adequate, though not a model of smoothness or refinement. In addition, it has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 29 mpg on the highway. Enthusiasts will be pleasantly surprised by the fun-to-drive characteristics of the front-drive 2014 Dodge Avenger. The Avenger keeps things smooth on the daily drive and participates willingly when the road takes twists and turns. Brakes might be the weakest point in the dynamic package of the Avenger. Pedal feel is fine, and you'll notice nothing untoward around town.

Conclusions

Dodge calls the Avenger America's most affordable mid-size sedan, and based on current retail prices, we can't disagree. The 2014 Dodge Avenger is agreeable enough, its interior still isn't the richest or most sophisticated in this class, but it's roomy, quiet, straightforward and effective, like the car in general.