The Dodge Intrepid offers abundant power and decent fuel efficiency. It handles rough roads very well and delivers a comfortable ride. Handing is sharp and precise. There's plenty of room for five passengers.
In 1998, the Intrepid underwent massive design changes. These included an especially striking front end, and a substantially revised chassis. Dodge now offers the Intrepid in SE, ES and SXT trim levels. The SXT is a more powerful version of the ES. It is loaded with equipment and aggressively priced. (The R/T model has been discontinued.) All Intrepid models come standard with a four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission. SE, priced at $21,155, is powered by a 200hp, 2.7-liter V6 with dual overhead camshafts. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, four-wheel-disc brakes, power windows and door locks, and tilt steering. ES ($24,475) and SXT ($24,005) are powered by a 3.5-liter V6.
Both engines are smooth and quiet, and road noise is less noticeable than in earlier Intrepids. As for economy, the ES average 20.7 mpg. There are low levels of body shake, reduced noise, vibration and harshness, and improved handling and stability.
The Intrepid is a spacious and comfortable car. The standard bucket seats provide good support. Reversed, black-on-white gauges add to the sporty atmosphere. Dodge now offers an in-dash, six-disc CD changer. At 18 cubic feet, the trunk is pretty huge. The hinges fold cleanly out of the way instead of crushing cargo when the trunk is stuffed.
The Intrepid offers good value for money. Its stiff body structure means that it is a reliable car.
