The Dodge Intrepid II 3.5 i V6 24V R/T, produced from 2000 to 2003, represented the performance-oriented pinnacle of the second-generation Intrepid lineup. Part of the LH platform (specifically the second iteration, hence “II”), the Intrepid was Dodge’s entry into the large, front-wheel-drive sedan segment, aiming to offer a more stylish and engaging alternative to traditional American land yachts. The R/T trim, powered by the 3.5-liter V6, was positioned as the sportiest offering, boasting increased horsepower and a more aggressive appearance package compared to the base and ES models. It was Dodge’s attempt to capture a segment of the market seeking a domestic sedan with a degree of performance and modern styling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Intrepid |
| Generation | Intrepid II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 i V6 24V R/T (247 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| 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 | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 247 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 3950 rpm (250.03 lb.-ft. @ 3950 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 | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2070 kg (4563.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 225/55 VR17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Intrepid R/T was the 3.5-liter EGG V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s third-generation V6 family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection system delivered fuel directly to each intake port, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine’s 9.9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on readily available 87 octane gasoline. Paired with the engine was a 4-speed automatic transmission, specifically the 42RE unit. This transmission was known for its durability but wasn’t particularly sophisticated by modern standards, prioritizing smooth shifts over outright performance. The transmission was tuned for comfortable cruising, with relatively conservative gear ratios.
Driving Characteristics
The Intrepid R/T, with its 247 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, offered respectable acceleration for its size and class. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 7.3 seconds, making it noticeably quicker than the base Intrepid models. However, the front-wheel-drive layout and the automatic transmission did result in some torque steer under hard acceleration. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer the driver much control, and the gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy and relaxed highway cruising rather than aggressive cornering. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Intrepid (which wasn’t offered with the 3.5L engine), the R/T felt less engaging, but it provided a more accessible and comfortable driving experience for a wider range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The R/T trim came standard with a number of features designed to enhance both comfort and performance. These included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Exterior styling cues included a unique front fascia, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and a navigation system. The interior generally featured a dark color scheme with metallic accents, aiming for a sporty yet refined aesthetic. The dashboard layout was typical of early 2000s American cars, prioritizing ease of use over cutting-edge design.
Chassis & Braking
The Intrepid II utilized a traditional front-wheel-drive chassis with independent coil spring suspension at all four corners. The front suspension featured MacPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link design. The R/T trim typically featured a slightly stiffer suspension tuning compared to the base models, aimed at improving handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard equipment. While adequate for everyday driving, the braking system wasn’t particularly powerful or sophisticated compared to some European competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Intrepid R/T received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong engine, it was often criticized for its somewhat bland styling and lack of handling precision. Compared to the base Intrepid and the ES trim, the R/T offered a significant performance upgrade, but its fuel economy was noticeably lower. Against competitors like the Toyota Avalon and Honda Accord, the Intrepid R/T offered a more powerful engine but lacked the refinement and reputation for reliability of the Japanese alternatives. The R/T’s price point positioned it as a value-oriented performance sedan.
Legacy
The Dodge Intrepid R/T, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, holds a place in automotive history as a representative of the American large sedan in the early 2000s. The 3.5-liter EGG V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, although routine maintenance, such as timing belt replacement, was crucial. Today, the Intrepid R/T is a relatively affordable used car, appealing to those seeking a spacious and comfortable sedan with a bit of extra power. However, finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, and parts availability may become an issue as the vehicle ages. It remains a reminder of a time when American automakers were attempting to blend performance, comfort, and value in a large, front-wheel-drive package.
