Dodge Desperately Needs a New FWD Passenger Car

Dodge has muscle cars, SUVs, and electric performance, but what it doesn’t have is a true entry-level car that speaks to younger drivers or people who just want something fast, fun, and affordable. It’s time for Dodge to build a new front-wheel-drive (FWD) car that revives the spirit of the old Avenger and Stratus, but with modern power and attitude.

Think about it: from 1994 to 2005, Dodge offered stylish, affordable two-door coupes in the form of the Avenger and later the Stratus Coupe. These weren’t fire-breathing V8 monsters, but they were sporty, practical, and accessible—exactly what the brand needs again today. When the Stratus Coupe disappeared after 2005, so did Dodge’s entire FWD car lineup for the everyday buyer.

That’s a big problem now. The price of new vehicles has skyrocketed, and Dodge has nothing under $40,000 that isn’t a crossover or SUV. So, where does a young enthusiast go when they want a Dodge that’s cool, compact, and attainable? Right now, they’re going to other brands—or skipping new cars entirely.

Dodge already has the right engine for the job: the 2.0-liter turbocharged GME-T4 I4 engine, found in vehicles like the Dodge Hornet, Jeep® Wrangler, Compass, and even Alfa Romeo Giulia. In the Hornet, this little four-cylinder makes 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That’s a huge step up from the 3.0-liter V6 that powered the old Stratus Coupe, which only made 200 horsepower and 205 lb-ft.

Now imagine wrapping that turbo powertrain in a sleek, modern body that takes its cues from the new Dodge Charger Daytona, just scaled down for the compact car class. Give it bold lines, an aggressive grille, and maybe even a hatchback-style rear to keep it practical. A sporty coupe with Direct Connection performance parts and a real personality could be the perfect antidote to today’s cookie-cutter cars.

Dodge doesn’t need to build a $50,000 EV for everyone. It needs to build a $30,000 gas-powered coupe or even a sedan that turns heads and gets people back into showrooms. A car that gets young drivers excited about Dodge again. A car that’s fun, fast, and affordable.

Bring back the Avenger or Stratus name. Build it on a compact STLA Medium platform with FWD and a turbocharged heart. Keep the price below $35,000, give it the styling of the Daytona, and you’ve got a winner.

It’s not just a good idea. It’s what Dodge is missing.