The Dodge Stratus II 2.0 (132 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2001 and 2006, represented a mid-range offering within the second generation of the Dodge Stratus sedan. Positioned as a balance between affordability and performance, this variant aimed to provide comfortable transportation for families and commuters. The Stratus II, built on the Chrysler JA platform, was Dodge’s entry into the mid-size sedan segment, competing with vehicles like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. This particular 2.0-liter, four-cylinder automatic configuration was a popular choice, offering a step up from the base engine while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance V6 options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Stratus |
| Generation | Stratus II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (132 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 130.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 5000 rpm (128.34 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3 (121.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1334 kg (2940.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4724 mm (185.98 in.) |
| Width | 1821 mm (71.69 in.) |
| Height | 1377 mm (54.21 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2743 mm (107.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1529 mm (60.2 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 | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Stratus II 2.0 Automatic is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, often referred to by its internal code, was a relatively simple and robust design. It featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate atomization for efficient combustion. The engine produced 132 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 174 Nm (128.34 lb-ft) of torque at 5000 rpm. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed for smooth and comfortable shifting. While not particularly sporty, it was well-suited to the engine’s power characteristics and the intended use of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter engine paired with the four-speed automatic transmission delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was reasonable for everyday driving, but passing maneuvers required planning. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright speed. Compared to the available 2.4-liter four-cylinder or the 2.7-liter V6, the 2.0-liter felt noticeably less powerful. However, the automatic transmission provided a smoother driving experience than the manual transmission available with the higher-output engines. The power delivery was linear, making it easy to modulate the throttle, and the transmission generally shifted smoothly, although it could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Stratus II 2.0 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the SE or ES, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and a CD player. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system. The interior generally featured durable, if somewhat basic, materials. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. Safety features included dual front airbags and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Chassis & Braking
The Stratus II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a double wishbone suspension in the front and a coil spring suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering effort. The 195/70 R14 tires offered a good balance of ride comfort and handling, although they weren’t particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Stratus II 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable mid-size sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the 2.0-liter engine felt underpowered, especially when compared to competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for the class. Compared to the V6-powered Stratus models, the 2.0-liter automatic offered significantly better fuel economy but at the cost of performance. The 2.4L engine offered a good middle ground, providing more power without a substantial fuel economy penalty. Reliability was generally considered acceptable, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Dodge Stratus II 2.0 Automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car lots today. The 2.0-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission are generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. Parts availability is good, and repair costs are typically reasonable. While it may not offer the performance or refinement of more modern vehicles, the Stratus II 2.0 Automatic provides a comfortable and affordable transportation option for those seeking a basic, dependable mid-size sedan. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers and those looking for a reliable first car.
