Sedan buyers once had to settle for boxy cars with mediocre performance, but cars such as the racy
1999 Dodge Intrepid have changed that situation.
The Intrepid has the gorgeous styling of an auto show concept car, commodious interior and sparkling performance. This is one car that doesn't need the overheated rhetoric of an auto company ``brand manager'' to help sell it.
The Intrepid was revamped for 1998, with much use of advanced computer design techniques. It has stronger construction and quality than the 1993-97 model, which had quality glitches that have caused some sales resistance to the new Intrepid.
Changes are minor for 1999. They include a quieter interior, new seat materials and a theft-deterrence system that disables the ignition unless the correct key is used.
The Intrepid comes as the $19,945 base model with a 2.7-liter, 200-horsepower V-6 and as the $22,790 ES with a 3.2-liter 225-horsepower V-6.
Both models are well-equipped, although the ES is sportier with the larger V-6, wider tires and an automatic transmission that allows clutchless manual shifting.
Both sophisticated, aluminum V-6s have overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Smooth and quiet, they deliver lively acceleration.
However, the 3.2 has a performance edge because it's larger. And the 2.7 must work harder. Load the Intrepid with occupants and you'll want the 3.2 in tight passing situations.
Steering is quick and precise with the right amount of power assist, but feels a bit spongy. Handling is excellent, thanks to a good suspension and wide stance. The car feels light on its feet, although it weighs a fairly hefty 3,500 pounds.
Stopping distances are acceptable, but it takes some getting used to the rather long-throw, somewhat mushy brake pedal.
The supple suspension easily soaks up road imperfections without disturbing Intrepid occupants.
Estimated fuel economy is approximately the same with both engines: upper teens in the city and high 20s on the highway. Not bad for a big, fast car.
Both engines work with a responsive four-speed automatic transmission. The ES automatic's manual shift feature is handy if driving, say, in the mountains or if there's a need to keep the Intrepid in a specific gear for better control on slippery roads. However, most will just leave the transmission in the ``Drive'' mode most of the time.
Four tall adults easily fit in the cavernous interior, and there's decent room for a third tall occupant in the rear during short trips. The Intrepid has big doors that allow easy entry and exit, although rear doors have a somewhat awkward design to accommodate the car's zoomy styling.
Front seats are large and supportive in the right places and there are hefty interior grab handles above the doors. There are easily read black-on-white gauges and smooth, nicely placed controls, although some may prefer the radio controls to be above the climate controls. There also are sturdy pop-out front cupholders. Even the glove box is roomy, with a conveniently flat bottom.
Visibility generally is good. But shorter drivers may find the wide windshield posts intrude on forward vision. And the low hood and high rear parcel shelf can make it a hassle for even taller drivers to park easily without scraping sheet metal. Also, the rearview mirrors should be larger.
The trunk is commendably large, but has a high, rather narrow opening that doesn't help loading or unloading heavy objects. However, the trunk lid uses struts instead of old-fashioned hinges and pops well up and out of the way to prevent head-banging.
The front hood also is supported by struts, not an old-style prop rod. And the nicely arranged engine compartment puts fluid filler openings for things such as engine oil and steering fluid where they can be easily reached without fear of getting dirt or grease on clothes.
The Intrepid has high style, practicality, performance and handling going for it. This car loves being driven.