The 2012 Dodge Avenger was offered with two gasoline-powered engines: a 2.4-liter inline-4 and a 3.6-liter V6. The four-cylinder served as the base option, while the six-cylinder was available on higher trims for extra performance.
What you could get under the hood
Below are the two engine choices that were available for the 2012 Avenger, along with their core specifications and how they typically paired with transmissions.
- 2.4-liter inline-4 (Tigershark): about 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. This was the base engine and generally paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- 3.6-liter V6 (Pentastar): about 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available on higher trims and typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
These two options defined the Avenger’s lineup, with the 2.4L prioritizing efficiency and the 3.6L delivering stronger performance for buyers seeking more power.
How engine choice aligned with trims
Engine availability varied by trim level and regional market, influencing both performance and features. The base SE commonly used the 2.4L engine, while the 3.6L V6 was more frequently associated with higher trims and sport-oriented variants.
SE and SXT
In typical configurations, these trims leaned on the 2.4L engine for efficiency and lower cost, with the 3.6L option available as part of optional packages or regional offerings.
R/T
The performance-focused R/T trim more often paired with the 3.6-liter V6 to provide stronger acceleration and highway passing power, reflecting its sport-oriented positioning.
Performance at a glance
For quick reference, here’s how the two engines generally translated to driving feel and efficiency, recognizing that exact figures depend on drivetrain, tires, and optional equipment.
- 2.4L I-4: modest power with better fuel economy, suited to daily driving and commuting.
- 3.6L V6: significantly more power and torque, delivering stronger acceleration at the cost of lower fuel economy.
Whenever evaluating a used 2012 Avenger, verify the specific engine and transmission combination on the vehicle you’re considering, as options could vary by market and production year.
Summary
The 2012 Dodge Avenger offered two main engine choices: a 2.4-liter inline-4 for everyday efficiency and a 3.6-liter V6 for enhanced performance. The four-cylinder appeared on base trims, while the six-cylinder was reserved for higher trims, typically paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup gave buyers a straightforward path between efficiency and performance within a single model year.
Summary: The Avenger’s engine lineup for 2012 centers on a 2.4L I-4 and a 3.6L V6, with trim-based availability and transmission options shaping the driving experience.