2008 Dodge Magnum Preview

Dodge Magnum Preview – 2007 Detroit Auto Show: Lots of people want to buy the Magnum, and many do. For those who don’t it’s more a case of what the Magnum is than what it’s not. It’s an unabashedly macho, gas guzzling, low riding ’tude wagon that looks great when you’re off with friends from your bowling league, but not so hot when you’re driving to that all-important corporate lunch. Dodge aims to change that – but only slightly – with changes to the 2008 Dodge Magnum, by making it as macho but more refined, and more comfortable to sit inside.

Why it Matters

Going into year four, the Magnum has won and lost buyers without compromising (unless you consider that V6 engine a compromise). It looks nothing like an SUV, or a crossover, or anything besides what it is: The wagon you owned when you were 18, the one you still wish you had tucked away in the garage somewhere. Few vehicles have such strong personalities anymore, so it’s refreshing that the Magnum’s refresh has kept much of that personality intact. Indeed, by knocking a few corners off the design and improving the interior, the folks at Dodge just may convince more people that it’s okay to love a wagon that looks like a wagon – on ’roids.

What it Looks Like

Dodge designers knocked a few rough corners off the Magnum by enhancing the side creases and stretching the front end, lowering the hoodline and adding chrome accents under the headlights. High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights are also available. Overall, the design looks more smooth and refined. For SRT8 models, changes include a restyled front fascia and a functional hood scoop.

What’s Inside

Changes inside the Magnum cabin include higher quality materials, chrome trim and the now trendy LED backlighting.

What Dodge Says

“The 2008 Dodge Magnum offers interior and exterior refinements in a boldly-styled package that delivers comfort, functionality and performance.”

What We Think

We’re glad the Magnum kept its aggressive, no compromise styling. This is a true Dodge in that it gives no apologies for what it is, gets right up in your face and makes you choose. No one ever needs to think twice when they see a Magnum coming – it’s either love or hate. Unfortunately, most people fall out of love when they sit inside the cabin and experience the rough plastics and poor fit and finish. We hope the 2008 model goes to significant lengths to improve the interior materials and overall driver/rider experience.

Photos courtesy of The Chrysler Group, Ron Perry