The Dodge brand is the volume seller for Chrysler, and has the most complete lineup of vehicles. Dodge products range from the compact Caliber to a full complement of trucks. Dodge offers high-performance SRT models of most of its product line.

The new Ram pickup truck holds the key to the Dodge brand's success. With revamped interior and exterior styling, plus a new coil spring rear suspension, the Ram aims to hold its own in an increasingly competitive full-sized truck market. The Ram differentiates itself from other pickups with its signature bold looks, innovative features and the widely recognized Hemi V-8 engine.

After a limited run in 2008, the full lineup of Challenger coupes reaches dealerships this year. The model range includes a V-6 Challenger SE and intermediate V-8 R/T models. Dodge eliminated the slow-selling Dodge Magnum wagon to make production room for the Challenger.

Although the Magnum is gone, Dodge has a new wagon to plug the hole. The Dodge Journey is an all-new crossover vehicle with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. The Journey is conceptually a wagon version of the Avenger sedan, but rides on a 5-inch longer wheelbase. In the US, the Journey offers a choice of 2.4L four-cylinder, or 3.5L V-6 power. All-wheel-drive is available.

The Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen become Chrysler's first hybrid models. Both models pair the 5.7L Hemi V-8 to the two-mode hybrid system used in General Motors vehicles.

An updated 5.7L Hemi V-8 offers increased horsepower and fuel economy in non-hybrid Durango models and the Charger sedan.

The next new Dodge vehicles will be small cars sourced from Nissan.

• What's new for Dodge
• Dodge for 2009
• Read more on Dodge
• Official Site
• Parent Site

Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2009 Dodge Challenger seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2009 Dodge Viper Coupe
• 2009 Dodge Challenger
• 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
• 2009 Dodge Avenger
• 2009 Dodge Journey