The Good
The 2008 Dodge Magnum offers strong performance, especially in R/T and SRT8 trims. Its distinctive design appeals to those seeking a unique look. Practical buyers appreciate the cargo space and comfortable ride. While not the most fuel-efficient, it provides good value for its power and versatility. It's a fun and functional choice.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2008 Dodge Magnum include potential electrical issues, rust (especially in colder climates), and some reported issues with the suspension. Fuel economy can be poor, particularly with the larger engines. Check for proper maintenance records and signs of wear or neglect before purchasing.
2008 Dodge Magnum: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L V6 (SE): 190 hp
- 3.5L V6 (SXT): 250 hp
- 5.7L HEMI V8 (R/T): 340 hp
- 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8): 425 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 190 hp to 425 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.7L V6: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 3.5L V6: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 5.7L V8: 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 6.1L V8: 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 6.1L SRT8: ~5 seconds
- 5.7L R/T: ~6.3 seconds
- 3.5L SXT: ~8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity (R/T): Up to 3,800 lbs (with proper equipment)
- Trim Level Features:
- SE: Cloth seats, basic audio system, steel wheels.
- SXT: Alloy wheels, upgraded audio, power driver seat, available leather.
- R/T: HEMI V8 engine, performance suspension, leather seats, premium audio.
- SRT8: High-performance engine, Brembo brakes, sport seats, unique styling.
2008 Dodge Magnum Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2008 |
Make | Dodge |
Model | Magnum |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Wagon |
Category | 2WD Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | TOLEDO |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3752 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
Overall Height | 58.3 inches |
Overall Length | 197.7 inches |
Overall Width | 74.1 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 120 inches |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | Gasoline V-6 2.7L/167 |
Engine Size | 2.7L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | 4 Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS (Optional) |
Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $23,420 |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Dodge Magnum Have?
Recalls for the 2008 Magnum have addressed issues such as potential problems with the fuel tank, airbag systems, and the electronic throttle control (ETC). It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the aforementioned electrical problems and rust. Maintenance is key to mitigating these issues. Regular fluid changes, inspections of suspension components, and rust prevention measures can help extend the vehicle's lifespan. Owners should also be aware of potential TIPM failures and be prepared to address them if they occur.
How long will the 2008 Dodge Magnum last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. Front and side airbags were also standard. Optional features included a navigation system (available on higher trims) and a sunroof.
Crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) varied. The Magnum generally scored well in frontal crash tests but performed less favorably in side-impact tests. It's important to research specific NHTSA ratings for the 2008 model year to get a comprehensive understanding of its safety performance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also conducted crash tests, and their ratings should be reviewed as well. Overall, the Magnum offered decent safety features for its era, but lacked the advanced driver-assistance technologies found in newer vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Dodge Magnum Prices and Market Value
2008 Dodge Magnum Cost of Ownership
2008 Dodge Magnum Fuel Efficiency
2008 Dodge Magnum Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Dodge Magnum Recalls & Defects
Power Train:axle Hubs
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Electrical System:ignition
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
2008 Dodge Magnum Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2008 Dodge Magnum Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Dodge Magnum Compare to Other Wagon?
Reliability is where the Magnum falls short compared to some competitors. The Ford Taurus X, for example, is generally considered more reliable. Price-wise, the Magnum was competitive when new, but used prices reflect its depreciation and potential maintenance costs.
Similar alternatives to consider include the Chrysler 300 (shares a platform and offers similar styling) and the Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon (more luxurious, but potentially more expensive to maintain). A potentially "better" alternative, depending on needs, might be a newer and more reliable wagon or SUV, even if it lacks the Magnum's unique styling and V8 performance. If practicality is paramount, a modern minivan might be a more sensible choice.
Ranks #85 Wagon
1 | 2015 Toyota Venza | (5.0★) |
2 | 2009 Honda Odyssey | (5.0★) |
3 | 2024 Subaru Impreza | (4.0★) |
4 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | (5.0★) |
5 | 2023 Ford Transit Connect Wagon | (0.0★) |
6 | 2023 Audi A6 allroad | (0.0★) |
7 | 2021 Ram ProMaster City | (0.0★) |
8 | 2019 Volvo V60 | (5.0★) |
9 | 2015 Scion xB | (0.0★) |
10 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | (5.0★) |
11 | 2008 Pontiac Vibe | (0.0★) |
12 | 2006 Land Rover Range Rover | (0.0★) |
85 | 2008 Dodge Magnum | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Dodge Magnum a Good Wagon?
KMB on October 22, 2024
135k miles, 2nd owner since 2013, added over 100k miles135k miles, 2nd owner since 2013, added over 100k miles since purchase. Minimal repairs, excellent road/highway car, quiet, stable and smooth; Holds everything needed for long family trips. Stay on top of oil and fluid changes and it will run another 100k.
Ashleigh on October 17, 2018
Depend and ReliableMy husband and I have owned our 2008 Dodge Magnum for almost 10 years, and we have had to have a few normal wear and tear things fixed over the last year. Our Magnum is currently at 230,000 miles, and it still has a lot of life left! The interior has held up very well and the durability of thw car has been way better than we expected (being that this was the 1st Dodge we owned). I definitely recommend the 2008 Magnum!
Gooseygirl on August 13, 2018
My husband & I fell in love with our magnum wagonWe loved it! Powerful, Sleek,Fast, cornered beautifully, very roomy, Worth every penny. Comfortable. Only car that ever caught my eye. Just be careful when purchasing a extended warrenty. Beware of small print.read everything.
sjkfly on April 26, 2018
Will keep my '08 AWD Magnum SXT foreverA great example of a sleek, comfortable AWD wagon that beats any SUV. The 2008, sadly the last year and with many improvements, is essentially a rodded-look wagon based on a Charger. The AWD system is from the Mercedes E-Class (when Daimler & Chrysler were friends). The Chryco 3.5L six is good on the highway, and medium (not high) performance, but it has great ride, looks, and just plain comfort (seats, adjustable pedals, etc.). I am taking steps now to preserve it--body and mechanicals, and have three other cars, DODGE--BRING THIS BACK! These '08 AWDs will be a classic.
Lkm on February 19, 2018
I love itI love my mag is perfect is big and comfortable has great power has the space of suv i wanted it for so long but i finally got it
gretsch95 on October 4, 2017
Best combination of versatility and performance.I LOVE my 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T. I've wanted one since I could start driving. Even after 4 years of ownership I still love this car. It's worth mentioning it's quite a rare car. 2008 was the last model year for the Magnum; it was then replaced by the Journey. One of the most surprising experiences I've had with the car is its dependability. No matter the weather, hot, freezing, rain, snow... it has started and ran every time. Since it's basically a stationwagon version of the Charger, there's no shortage of storage space, especially with the rear seats folded down. Perhaps the best part about the car is how it drives, the handling is surprisingly good for a big car. Putting a HEMI in a stationwagon is a marvelous decision. You can't complain too much from getting 340 horsepower and 24 mpg highway for big car pre-2010. This car is happiest on the highway doing 65 mph. Great road-trip car. The Boston Acoustic sound system does not disappoint either. If I were to be picky, the only two downfalls of this car in my opinion is the 5-speed transmission and minor discomfort in the front seats after long periods of driving. I'm 6'1 so there isn't much upper-back support for me. The 5 speed isn't problematic it's just slow to downshifting to lower gears from when you need to accelerate to pass someone.
Tammit on August 11, 2017
Great style.Very reliable. Lots of leg room. Very spacious interior. Easy to add aftermarket products. great engine performance.
demodregon on April 2, 2012
Great choiceI just drove from el paso to austin and back, then to odessa and back, and it was one of the most comfortable trips in a car i have ever driven. the deal from the dealer was great, aside from the "as is" clause, but a great deal nonetheless. The response from the site was spot-on. I put in the request and had a response within 24 hours, and an offer within 4 days. I will be using this site again if I choose to purchase another vehicle.
Mommy Magnum on November 15, 2011
I likeI like the room in the interior. I do not like that the flashers stay on even after you turn, you have to manually turn them off. i dont like the fact that there aren't over head lights on the interior that light the whole car, there are some in the front and some by the doors in the back seat, that is not enough lighting. I also do not like that there aren't more heating vents in the back. These are all minor the major dislike is no awd, which would have cost a few thousand more to purchase. Overall I am happy with the car, it seems safe.
Muscle Car for Dad on October 4, 2011
Muscle Car with utilityI bought Magnum after owning many SUV's, a sports sedan and a crossover. This car has performance, a great sounding engine and you can fit the dog, 2 kids and your wife! I get as many compliments on the Magnum as I do for my Ragtop Mustang GT. With cylinder deactivation Fuel economy is good on the highway at about 22 but subpar around town at 15. It probably doesn help that I use the 0-60 automatic timing feature standard on the RT. The all wheel drive handles well for performance and in poor weather conditions. The fit and finish is typical mediocre Dodge type stuff ( if you are familiar with imports tighter gaps, softer materials and less rattles). However there is no import that looks, sounds or has the utility of an RT AWD Magnum. They should've never cancelled the model as those of that have the unique look, fun and practicality they offer over almost anything.