The 2001 DODGE INTREPID R/T- When ever an R/T trim follows a name, one can't help but ask how many horsepower are in the beast. Well, DaimlerChrysler has certainly gave the power to fit the old R/T's, however the big V-8s and rear-drive configurations are no where to be found. By means of technology and efficiency, Dodge hopes to offer an R/T version with all of its models, from the baby Neon to the mighty Viper, which proudly bears the RT/10 on its roadster. Even the Dakotas and Durangos come alla-R/T, showing it off with the lighting-blue paint and white racing strips running hood to trunk.

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Dodge hopes to offer an R/T version with all of its models, from the baby Neon to the mighty Viper.

The Intrepid R/T, a large family sedan with a modicum of extra performance, is the 4-door flagship of the R/T family, showing that even 4-doors can be a little fun. The R/T is a neat way to move the 3.5-liter V-6 used in the upmarket 300M and LHS onto the Dodge side and provide a bit of differentiation between the Intrepid and the Chrysler Concorde. Both models offer a choice of the 200-bhp 2.7-liter V-6 or a 225-bhp 3.2-liter V-6; now the R/T gives Dodge buyers a third engine option.The larger powerplant produces 248 bhp at 6400 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, a noticeable improvement over the 3.2, but still 11 bhp and 5 lb.-ft. short of the 300M/LHS.

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As evident with the increase in performance, a little power goes a long way: Though subtle, some R/T styig helps distinguish the sedan. Ono racing stripes for the conservative family car, there's tasteful R/T badging along with a Magnum nameplate, which calls attention to the beefier engine. R/Ts also come with 5-spoke 17-in. wheels, a chromed 3.5-in. exhaust tip and foglamps. Inside, the seats sport embroidered R/T logos, and there are a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and white-faced gauges. R/Ts are available in four muted metallic paint schemes in red, silver, slate and white.

For those of you looking for some acoustic enhancements, the R/T doesn't leave you short: A larger exhaust provides a muscular sound. Some other performance tweaks include a stiffer sport suspension which provides a much more agile feel. The Intrepid does offer a bit more grip, because of its larger P225/55R-17 Goodyear Eagle LS touring tires as compared with the 16-in. package on the 300M sport. The steering in the R/T is power-assisted rack-and-pinion, which has a nice linear feel, and allows the car to turn in smartly. Body roll is kept to a minimum, and corning is very controlled. A brake upgrade is more than enough with some higher-performing brake pads coupled with the standard ABS.

The interior is well-appointed and very ergonomic, Buttons and controls are traditional Dodge Ð smartly placed and easy to use. Large gauges tell you what's going, and supportive buckets complete on of the most comfortable and spacious executive-class sedans out there. Using the AutoStick 4-Speed automatic, the Intrepid can be hustled quickly along twisty two-lanes and easily please a sprited driver.

On the other hand, the sticker price of the Intrepid R/T is inviting: It lists for $25,020, completely equipped from air conditioning to stereo. In fact, there are only a few options, the most expensive of which is an $895 sunroof. The Intrepid R/T may give a little away in performance to the 300M, but it also costs somewhere in the neighborhood of $3000 less. In the overall scheme of things, there are few family-size cars in this price range on the market today that can offer this combination of surefooted ride and handling, understated good looks and value. AZ/AutoNetDirect.com

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SEE BELOW FOR THE NEW DODGE INTREPID R/T SPECIFICATIONS

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