Dodge Avenger and Chrysler 200/Lancia Flavia have suspension upgrades, new V6 (or old four), and six-speed automatic standard on all but the base model, which is limited to 5% of production. Dual-clutch automatics will be available for four-cylinder models midyear 2011.
Both cars will be scrapped — Avenger in calendar-year 2012 for new cars using modified Fiat platforms (CUSW), which be sold by Fiat in other markets.
Avenger is being engineered by Chrysler; the 200 might be engineered by Lancia people. Key dimensions will also to be used for a new Liberty and at least one crossover. See our 2011 Chrysler 200 and 2011 Dodge Avenger car pages.
The standard 2.4-liter World Gas Engine has been recalibrated, and is now optionally mated to a new smooth-shifting six-speed transmission. Avenger customers also can o
pt for the new Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that gives customers a best-in-class 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque with competitive fuel economy.
Fiat will reportedly adopt a similar refresh schedule for several other Chrysler products, including the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans; Dodge Journey and Caliber; Jeep Compass and Patriot, and even the lame-duck Chrysler PT Cruiser. The refreshes will be complete by 2011, with a new, Fiat-based lineup set to hit the market by 2012 or 2013.
