For 2007, the Dodge Magnum receives minor upgrades. On SE models, sunscreen glass becomes standard, and there are new optional 17-inch aluminum wheels; navigation radio with a six-CD stereo, automatic temperature control, automatic headlamps and one-touch windows are available on SXT models; and there is a new 18-inch chrome-clad wheel option for SXT and R/T models. A new Road/Track Performance Group adds 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, performance steering, suspension, tires and seats, and an extra 10 hp.

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The Magnum is the wagon version of DaimlerChrysler’s LX line-up, alongside its siblings Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. Like those, it is available in rear- or all-wheel drive.

Available engines are a 2.7-litre V6, 3.5-litre V6, 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and in the SRT8 version, a 6.1-litre Hemi V8. The 2.7-litre mates to a four-speed automatic transmission; all others use a five-speed automatic with manual mode.

The SE uses the 2.7-litre V6 and include 17-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, power mirrors, power locks with keyless entry, power windows, engine immobilizer, CD stereo with auxiliary input jack, sunscreen privacy glass, outside temperature display, 60/40 split folding rear seat, and tilt and telescopic column.

The SXT uses the 3.5-litre V6 and adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, eight-way power driver’s seat, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, fog lamps, cargo cover, heated mirrors, bright grille inserts, and leather-wrapped wheel and shifter knob. All-wheel drive models receive 18-inch wheels.

The R/T uses the 5.7-litre V8 and adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, leather seats, automatic headlamps, premium sound system, dual exhaust, power-adjustable pedals, driver’s one-touch window and tire pressure monitoring lamp.

With the Road/Track Performance Group, the R/T gains 10 hp and adds 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, performance steering, heavy-duty brakes, performance suspension, and performance heated bucket seats with suede microfibre inserts.

The SRT8 uses the 6.1-litre V8 and builds on the R/T with 20-inch wheels, three-season performance tires, Hemi Orange engine block, SRT-unique stability control calibration, performance suspension, lowered ride height, Brembo four-piston brake calipers, heavy-duty cooling system, rear spoiler, tire pressure monitor, garage door opener and red accent stitching on seats, steering wheel and shifter knob.

Aggressively styled, the Magnum features a muscular stance and “chopped” styling, but that low profile and high beltline can make rear-seat passengers feel a little lost in its depths, and compromises rear visibility.

The rear hatch is cut deeply into the roof and it swings up and out of the way, making it easy to load the bi-level floor. Valuables can be hidden under its tri-fold panel, or the panel can be locked into position to create various-sized cargo areas.

The interior contains more plastic than its Chrysler 300 sibling, and can look somewhat downscale, but the seats are comfortable and the car is very roomy. The full-size station wagon fell out of favour for a while, but it’s back, and if you want more than just a family hauler, the SRT8 makes it fun, too.