The Dodge Intrepid II 3.5i V6 24V ES, produced from 2002 to 2004, represented the final iteration of the second-generation Intrepid (XH). Positioned as a near-top-of-the-line trim, the ES model offered a blend of performance and comfort within the Intrepid lineup, slotting above the base and SE models but below any potential special editions. The Intrepid, as a whole, was Dodge’s entry into the large, front-wheel-drive sedan segment, aiming to compete with established American brands like Ford and Chevrolet, as well as import competitors. This generation, built on the LH platform, focused on improving interior space and refinement over its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Intrepid |
| Generation | Intrepid II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 i V6 24V ES (237 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 202.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 237 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 327 Nm @ 4400 rpm (241.18 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EGG |
| Engine displacement | 3518 cm3 (214.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| 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 | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1615 kg (3560.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 521 l (18.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 5175 mm (203.74 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 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 3.5i ES is the EGG engine, a 3.5-liter (3518 cc) naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of the Chrysler/Dodge’s third-generation 3.5L V6 family. It features a 60-degree V-angle, four valves per cylinder, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection (MPI) system, delivering fuel directly into each intake port. The 9.9:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for American sedans of this era, prioritizing smooth operation over outright performance. This transmission was designed for durability and ease of maintenance, rather than advanced features like manual shift modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 237 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque provided by the 3.5L V6 and four-speed automatic resulted in respectable, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.2 seconds, making it competitive with other large sedans of the time. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to the available manual transmission in other Intrepid trims. Gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising and adequate passing power, rather than aggressive acceleration. The front-wheel-drive layout provided predictable handling, but lacked the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive competitors. The overall driving experience was geared towards comfort and ease of use, making it a suitable choice for long highway journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ES trim level of the Intrepid II was well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a premium sound system, cruise control, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, though leather was often an available option. The dashboard featured a straightforward layout with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded sound system with a CD changer, and automatic temperature control. The ES trim aimed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience without the added cost of a fully loaded luxury model.
Chassis & Braking
The Intrepid II utilized a traditional front-wheel-drive chassis with independent coil spring suspension at all four corners. The front suspension incorporated stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. The rear suspension was designed for ride comfort, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning was geared towards providing a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Intrepid II 3.5i ES received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong engine performance. However, some critics noted that the handling was not as sharp as some of its competitors, and the interior materials were not as luxurious as those found in some import sedans. Compared to the base and SE models, the 3.5i ES offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Compared to the higher-output R/T trim (if available), the ES prioritized comfort and fuel economy over outright performance. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with EPA estimates around 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Legacy
The Dodge Intrepid II, particularly the 3.5i V6 variants, has developed a reputation for reasonable reliability, though long-term maintenance can be a concern due to the age of the vehicles. The 42LE four-speed automatic transmission, while durable, can experience issues with solenoid packs and valve body wear. The 3.5L V6 engine is generally considered reliable, but regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial. Today, the Intrepid II is often found as an affordable used car, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable sedan. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it accessible for DIY repairs, but finding replacement parts can become increasingly challenging as the vehicle ages. The Intrepid II represents a significant chapter in Dodge’s history, showcasing the brand’s attempt to compete in the large sedan segment with a focus on American comfort and value.
