The Dodge Intrepid II 2.7i V6 24V SE represents a significant iteration of the full-size sedan offered by Dodge from 1998 to 2003. Part of the LH platform (second generation), this variant occupied a middle ground within the Intrepid lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It aimed to provide comfortable, spacious transportation for families while delivering respectable power from its modern V6 engine. The Intrepid, as a whole, was Dodge’s answer to the growing popularity of large, American-made sedans, competing with models like the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Lumina.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Intrepid |
| Generation | Intrepid II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 i V6 24V SE (203 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 203 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 257 Nm @ 4850 rpm (189.55 lb.-ft. @ 4850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EER |
| Engine displacement | 2736 cm3 (166.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.5 mm (3.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1605 kg (3538.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 521 l (18.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 5175 mm (203.74 in.) |
| Width | 1898 mm (74.72 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2870 mm (112.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Intrepid II 2.7i SE is the EER engine, a 2.7-liter, 24-valve V6. This engine was part of Chrysler’s modular engine family, designed for flexibility and ease of manufacturing. The 2.7L V6 utilizes a 60-degree V-angle, contributing to a smoother engine operation. It features a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s valvetrain employs double overhead camshafts (DOHC), enhancing volumetric efficiency and contributing to its 203 horsepower output. Paired with this engine is a 4-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for American sedans prioritizing comfort and ease of use. This transmission, while not known for its sportiness, provided smooth shifts and adequate performance for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L V6 automatic combination in the Intrepid II delivered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.9 seconds, placing it in line with other family sedans of the era. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration. While the engine provided sufficient power for highway merging and passing maneuvers, it lacked the punch of the higher-output V6 options available in the Intrepid lineup. The front-wheel-drive configuration offered predictable handling, but didn’t provide the dynamic feel of rear-wheel-drive alternatives. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards comfort and practicality.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “SE” trim level of the Intrepid II 2.7i represented a well-equipped mid-range offering. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras could include leather seats, a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The interior design was functional and spacious, prioritizing comfort for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Intrepid II utilized a traditional front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with an independent coil spring suspension at all four corners. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front suspension incorporated stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during hard braking situations. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Intrepid II 2.7i SE was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable family sedan. However, it wasn’t often lauded for its performance or handling. Compared to the higher-output V6 models, the 2.7L version offered less excitement but better fuel economy. The 2.7L engine provided an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, making it an attractive option for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency. Reliability was generally considered average for the era, with some reports of minor issues with the automatic transmission and electrical components. Compared to competitors like the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Lumina, the Intrepid offered a more modern design and a more spacious interior.
Legacy
The Dodge Intrepid II 2.7i V6 24V SE, while not a standout performer, remains a relatively affordable and practical option in the used car market. The 2.7L engine, while not known for its longevity like some of Chrysler’s older engines, can provide reliable service with proper maintenance. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. Parts availability is generally good, and the Intrepid’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it accessible to DIY mechanics. Today, the Intrepid II represents a snapshot of American automotive design and engineering from the late 1990s and early 2000s, offering a comfortable and spacious ride at a budget-friendly price.
