NYIAS 2011: Dodge Avenger R/T

Being in essence an event meant for the US, the New York International Auto Show is the perfect venue for the three major car builders in the country to showcase their might. For the models that are predominantly sold in the US, the NYIAS event if of even greater importance, as it is used as an important advertising tool on the East Coast.

Chrysler is presenting in New York pretty much its entire lineup of models. And since it has nearly no new models to show, it decided to present a few special editions or new trims of the existing nameplates.

Among them is the new R/T version for the newly launched Avenger. Packing both visual and performance tweaks, the R/T comes to complete a lineup that was already interesting enough for Dodge lovers.

The R/T is powered by a 3.6l Pentastar V6 engine, paired to a six-speed automatic, which develops 283 horsepower. Using this transmission and, the model provides fuel economy figures of 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

Visually, the new R/T sets itself apart from the regular models (Dodge Avenger is available in four different configurations) thanks to the 18-inch aluminum wheels or the “war paint” R/T decal on the front quarter panel at the exterior and the leather-trimmed bolsters or the Boston Acoustic sound system on the interior.

“The Avenger R/T offers performance design cues both inside and out, as well as unique handling characteristics and a sport-tuned suspension. It’s a vehicle that is ready to earn its stripes as part of the Dodge performance family of vehicles,” said Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO