Speaking of safety, Dodge equips every Magnum with multistage airbags that include an occupant classification system to detect

Final analysis deems this car a great needs-based purchase. (Photo: Jonathan Yarkony, Canadian Auto Press)

the whereabouts of passengers before they discharge, as well as three-point seat belts at all three positions in the rear, child seat anchors, and mine came with the optional front and rear curtain airbags, a worthwhile option for $390, and a necessity if you carry more than 2x4s and sheets of plywood in the back.

Where does that leave us? Final analysis deems this car a great needs-based purchase. And if you need a rush of adrenaline every time you leave a set of stoplights, Dodge has the upgrades to make it happen, in the form of the 340-hp Magnum R/T or even better, the 425-hp SRT-8. With the base Magnum SE, cargo capacity and sheer space are unmatched, and the driving experience is comfortable and settled, so if you need to haul a lot of stuff around with you and can't afford the expense of the HEMI (and the gas bill it will continue to kick you back with), the Magnum SE is the ticket.

Specifications (SE):

• Price Range (MSRP): $28,135 - $30,785
• Price as tested: $32,185
• Body Type: 5-door wagon
• Layout: front engine, RWD       
• Engine: 190-hp, 190 lb-ft torque, 2.7L, 24-valve DOHC V6
• Transmission: 4-spd auto
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EBD
• Steering: rack and pinion, powered
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.1 seconds
• Maximum Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph)
• Fuel Consumption (city / highway): 11.4 / 7.7 L/100 km   
• Exterior Dimensions (L/W/H/ WB) 5,022 / 1,882 / 1,481 / 3,048 mm (197.7 / 74.1 / 58.3 / 120.0 in)
• Curb Weight: 1,750 kg (3,858 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (min / max): 770 - 2,027 L (27.2 - 71.6 cu ft)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60 / 100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Audi A4 Avant / A6 Avant, BMW 325xi Touring / 525xi Touring, Ford Freestyle, Jaguar X-Type Estate, Mazda6 Wagon, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon, Volvo V50 / V70
• Web Site: www.dodge.ca