2012 Dodge Avenger: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Dodge Avenger's main change is the new R/T performance trim, with a 283-hp V6, firmer suspension, and model-specific styling. Otherwise, this is a modest update after the larger 2011 refresh.
About the 2012 Dodge Avenger
2nd gen (2008-2014), second year after the major 2011 refresh
Dodge positions the Avenger as the midsize sedan with more attitude than the usual conservative four-door. The 2012 brochure leans on bold styling, strong available V6 power, soft-touch cabin materials, safety, and a more energetic personality than a typical family sedan. In plain terms, it is the Avenger for shoppers who want everyday sedan usefulness but prefer sharper styling and a sportier feel over a purely comfort-first approach.
The 2012 lineup runs from the value-focused SE to the four-cylinder SXT, V6-powered SXT Plus, and sport-focused R/T. The SXT has automatic climate control and a power driver's seat, while the SXT Plus has a 6.5-inch touchscreen and the R/T pairs heated sport seats with Bluetooth and upgraded audio.
What changed, by category
2012 Dodge Avenger specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.4 Liter / V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter | V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.4 Liter | V6, Flex Fuel, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd / Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd / Automatic, 4-Spd | Automatic, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Flexible Fuel | Gas | Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 19–21 mpg | 19 mpg | 20–21 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29–30 mpg | 29 mpg | 30–31 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Horsepower | 173–283 hp | 283 hp | 173 hp | 283 hp |
| Torque | 166–260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 166 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.5 cu-ft | 13.5 cu-ft | 13.5 cu-ft | 13.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.2 in | 36.2 in | 36.2 in | 36.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| LED Tail Lights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Dodge Avenger?
The biggest change is the new R/T trim. It combines a 283-hp 3.6-liter V6 with firmer suspension tuning, heated sport seats, Bluetooth, upgraded audio, and unique appearance details.
Was the 2012 Dodge Avenger fully redesigned?
No, the 2012 Avenger was not fully redesigned. It received modest trim and equipment changes one year after the much larger 2011 refresh.
How did the Dodge Avenger trim lineup change for 2012?
The 2012 lineup consists of SE, SXT, SXT Plus, and R/T. SE, SXT Plus, and R/T joined the lineup, while the 2011 Express, Mainstreet, and Lux names were dropped; SXT continued as the four-cylinder middle trim.
Does the 2012 Dodge Avenger SXT have the V6?
No, the 2012 Avenger SXT uses the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 3.6-liter V6 is found in the SXT Plus and R/T trims.
Did the 2012 Dodge Avenger get major new safety or infotainment systems?
No major new safety, structural, or infotainment system arrived for 2012. Most of those systems carry over from 2011, although satellite radio changed from optional to standard equipment.