For 2009, the all-wheel-drive version of the Dodge Avenger R/T has been dropped. The SXT and R/T trims get a few more standard features including a rear spoiler, foglights, antilock brakes and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The premium convenience package for the SXT now includes heated exterior mirrors, automatic headlamps, heated cloth seats, a heated and cooled cupholder, remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic temperature control and a garage door opener. In addition, all trim levels have more sound insulation to promote a quieter ride.
The 2009 Dodge Avenger comes in three trim levels: base SE, well-equipped SXT and sporty R/T. The SE comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, full power accessories, air-conditioning, cruise control, a cooled front storage compartment and a four-speaker audio system with a single-CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The Avenger SXT bumps the standard wheel size to 17 inches and adds a rear spoiler, foglights, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, stain-resistant cloth upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat, a fold-flat passenger seat and two more speakers and a six-CD changer for the audio system.
Powering the 2009 Dodge Avenger SE and SXT models is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 173 hp and 166 pound-feet of torque. A 2.7-liter V6, initially optional on the SXT but later in the year only available for fleet sales, makes 186 hp and 191 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired to a four-speed automatic transmission.
The standard powertrain on the Avenger R/T is a 3.5-liter V6 capable of 235 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque, matched to a more sophisticated six-speed automatic. However, later in the year the performance-themed R/T can also be had with the 2.4-liter four and four-speed automatic powertrain.
All 2009 Dodge Avenger models are front-wheel drive and Dodge claims a respectable 0-60-mph time of 7.7 seconds for the 3.5-liter V6-powered R/T. With the smaller V6, an Avenger SXT takes about a second longer.
The four-cylinder Avenger offers good fuel economy, but it comes at the expense of performance. Acceleration is sluggish, and gearchanges feel unrefined. The optional V6 on the SXT feels stronger on the highway but is still relatively unimpressive. Brakes on all trim levels are below average.