2006 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 Review

Who says station wagons have to be dull? The bold looking Dodge Magnum SRT8 wagon has an awesome 425-horsepower Hemi V-8 and can be driven with Old Wild West gunfighter confidence anywhere you care to go.

The SRT8 is the ultimate Magnum, and probably will become a collector's item somewhere down the road.

Regular Magnums range from the $22,320 rear-drive SE with a 2.7-liter, 190-horsepower V-6 to the $32,235 R/T with all-wheel drive and a 5.7-liter 340-horsepower Hemi V-8 that has power-producing hemispherical combustion chambers.

The $37,320 SRT8 is a special Magnum because it was developed by the Street and Racing Technology high-performance unit of DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler group -- hence the "SRT'' designation.

The SRT8 lacks the fuel-saving cylinder deactivation feature of the Hemi V-8 in the R/T. Estimated fuel economy is 14 mpg in the city and 20 on highways, about right for a big 4,260-pound wagon that streaks to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and hits 100 mph in 12.1 seconds.

The SRT8 lacks all-wheel drive, but has an anti-skid system, high-performance lowered suspension, strong anti-lock brakes and wide tires on huge 20-inch wheels that help keep it firmly planted on roads.

The King Kong Hemi V-8, though, is the main feature of the SRT8. Chrysler wanted to match the 425-horsepower rating of Chrysler's legendary 1960s "Street Hemi,'' which was larger at 426 cubic inches and not saddled with current horsepower-robbing emissions controls and stricter new power rating standards. The 1960s Hemi has been the muscle car Holy Grail for decades.

The SRT unit increased the 345-cubic-inch displacement of the 5.7-liter, 340-horsepower Hemi V-8 to 6.1 liters, or 370 cubic inches, because increasing engine displacement helps produce more power.

The unit then modified the SRT8 engine with -- take a deep breath -- big-valve cylinder heads, different intake/exhaust manifolds, exhaust headers, high-performance camshaft, reinforced engine block, forged-steel crankshaft, high-strength connecting rods, pistons cooled by oil squirters and sodium-filled exhaust valve stems to dissipate heat. The compression ratio also was raised to 10.3:1 from 9.6:1, because higher compression allows more power.

Lift the hood and you'll see the classic orange-painted cylinder block and black valve covers of that 1960s Street Hemi V-8.

Power is channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission designed by DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes-Benz group. The transmission allows manual shifting, but the engine provides such staggering power and torque that manual shifting is superfluous

Steering is accurate, although slightly heavy. An extra-long 120-inch wheelbase and a firm-but-supple suspension provide a good ride, although it gets a bit jerky on some roads. Solid handling encourages spirited driving, and braking is impressive, with good pedal feel, vented rotors and high-performance Brembo calipers finished in the red color characteristic of Dodge SRT-modified vehicles.

The regular Magnum has lots of street rod swagger with its high window line, low roofline and muscular shape. But the SRT8 looks bolder. The more aggressive-looking front fascia with its special mesh grille insert and air dam increase brake cooling and prevent high speed body "lift.'' The new rear fascia allows better aero- dynamics and has aggressive cut-outs for large, chromed dual exhaust tips. There's also body color mirrors and door handles. The trunk has a small "SRT8'' badge, and each front fender has a small "Hemi'' insignia.

Oversized door handles help make it easy to enter or leave the quiet, spacious interior, which has power front bucket seats with contrasting red stitching; they're deeply sculpted and highly bolstered with suede inserts to help hold occupants during maneuvering. Carbon fiber leather trim allows a better grip on the steering wheel, and special satin silver finishing is on the center dashboard area.

Controls are easily reached, and those for the climate system are commendably large. All doors have storage pockets, and the console has a deep, covered storage bin and easily used cupholders. But the 180-mph speedometer and other gauges are too deeply set to be easily read during certain daytime lighting conditions.

The hatch has no separate-opening glass window, but pops up well out of the way in tight spots for easier loading. The roomy cargo area is long, but rather shallow. Rear seatbacks flip forward to enlarge the area, but don't sit completely flat.

The SRT8 can be had in Brilliant Black, Bright Silver or Inferno Red, with a Dark Slate Gray or Slate Gray interior.

This Magnum model has many comfort, convenience and safety features, which include the usual power accessories and power-adjustable pedals. Options include a power sun roof, heated seats and side air bags. Also available is Sirius satellite radio.

All Magnums positioned below the SRT8 offer outstanding value, but the SRT8 provides an especially compelling combination of utility and high performance. 

2006 DODGE MAGNUM SRT8 

PRICE: $37,320

LIKES: Ultimate American station wagon. Very fast. Solid handling. Roomy. Comfortable.

DISLIKES: Deeply set gauges. Occasional jerky ride. Rear seatbacks don't fold entirely flat.