2001 Dodge Intrepid Review

The legendary 1960s Dodge R/T muscle cars had monster V-8s and were widely respected by fans of high-performance autos.


Such cars were expected from Dodge, which had been Chrysler Corp.'s hot car division since the mid-1950s. Dodge still holds that position, although it's now a DaimlerChrysler unit.

The hottest Dodge R/T model is the 450-horsepower Viper sports car. But the 2001 Intrepid R/T model is far more practical and is among the top high-performance domestic sedans.

The main feature of the $24,975 Intrepid R/T is its 3.5-liter, 242-horsepower V-6--a version of the 253-horsepower V-6 in the European-style Chrysler 300M sedan.

The old R/T models had heavy-duty components, and the Intrepid R/T has been beefed up to handle the 3.5 V-6's power and torque.

Thus, compared to other Intrepid models, the R/T has revised power steering, sport suspension, wider tires on bigger 17-inch wheels and a performance-tuned exhaust that emits a muscular sound. The R/T also features anti-lock brakes and a traction control system.

The 1960s rear-drive R/T models could be had with a manual transmission, but the front-drive Intrepid R/T comes only with a four-speed automatic transmission. Still, this AutoStick transmission can be shifted like a clutchless manual.

The Intrepid R/T doesn't have bold striping or other such flashy cosmetic items found on the old R/T models. Rather, there's tasteful "R/T" badging and discreet sporty interior touches including a leather-wrapped steering wheel.


But you can't get the handy split-folding rear seat that enlarges the cargo area unless you order the $1,795 R/T option package, which includes leather upholstery, power front seats and a rear center armrest.


The R/T's "firm-feel" steering is quick, but rather heavy. The all-independent suspension is firm, but provides a supple ride and good handling. The easily modulated brake pedal has a reassuringly firm feel.

The R/T is the top-line Intrepid. The base $20,910 Intrepid has been renamed SE for the new model year and is powered by a 2.7-liter V-6 with a slightly higher 202-horsepower rating. The mid-range $22,605 ES model also comes with the 2.7 V-6, but can be had with an optional ($500) 3.2-liter V-6, which has horsepower raised from 222 to 225.

The 2.7 V-6 is smooth, but works hard when an Intrepid is filled with people. The R/T V-6 is more relaxed with a heavy load and loafs at 2,100 rpm at 65 mph.

But the 2.7 V-6 delivers an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 on highways, compared with 18 and 26 for the other two V-6s. All use 87-octane gasoline. They're sophisticated, with overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder.

New features for the 2001 Intrepid line are optional ($350) air bags up front, a three-point shoulder/lap belt for the center rear passenger, internal emergency trunk release and thicker side glass for a quieter interior.

Also, the 3.5-liter V-6 has an upgraded cooling module used in the R/T for additional cooling during towing and extended idle periods.

Like all Intrepids, the R/T has unusually racy styling for a full-size domestic sedan. The quiet interior has a nice dashboard. It easily swallows four to five tall adults, although the center of the rear seat is too hard for comfort on long trips.

Large front doors allow quick access, but rear doors have an awkward shape. Vision is good to the front and sides, but a high rear parcel shelf blocks visibility.

The big trunk has a high opening that is rather small because of the car's racy design. At least the lid uses struts instead of manual hinges that eat into cargo room.

The Intrepid R/T is generally impressive. Few big family sedans in its price range offer its performance and utility.