2002 Dodge Intrepid Trims and Specs

Not much changed in the base model 2002 Dodge Intrepid SE from 2001. It was still powered by the 2.7-liter, 200-hp V6 engine and 4-speed auto tran. But even though it's the base model, a lot of features normally offered as options on other cars came standard, including power heated mirrors, center console, power windows and locks, and lighted entry.

Options often worth the extra money are the 3.5-liter, 234-hp V6 engine, traction control, power sunroof, power driver's seat, ABS brakes, and cruise control, front side airbags, and rear split bench. With 20/28 mpg, the SE is a comfortable and practical family car that can also fly, particularly with the 3.5 V6. Most drivers love their Intrepid SE, which doesn't seem to be plagued with the mechanical problems that existed in other years. The sporty look, great handling, and huge trunk are always mentioned. Some owners complaing about blind spots caused by the high front and rear deck and the lack of engine power with the 2.7 V6.

There were a few changes in the Dodge Intrepid ES in 2002, most notably a new standard engine. It no longer carries the 2.7 V6, but the 3.5-liter, 234-hp V6 engine, previously only offered as an option. However, unlike last year, it is not offered with the AutoStick transmission. All other standard features remain the same -- rear split bench, fog lights, lighted entry, 16-inch wheels, power driver's seat, power windows and locks, cruise control, and keyless entry.

ABS brakes are still just an option, as are leather seats and steering wheel trim, garage door opener, power sunroof, and a trip computer. Most owners rave about their 2001 Intrepid ES, praising its comfort and roomy interior and trunk. It handles confidently, and it's a lot of fun to drive. Not bad for a family car. Problems with rear blind spots, road noise, a plain interior, and a small trunk opening are often mentioned.

New in 2002 is the Dodge Intrepid SXT, which falls somewhere vaguely in between the ES and R/T. It offers as standard a lot of the same features as the R/T, including the high-output 3.5-liter V6 rated at 244, fog lights, 17-inch chrome wheels, and a security system, but without some of the high-performance bells and whistles such as a trip computer, garage door opener, and traction control and ABS brakes.

The ABS system, leather seats, and power sunroof all come optional in the SXT. It offers much of what you'll find in the R/T, but at a more affordable price. It's hard to find a driver who doesn't like their Intrepid SXT, not only for its power, but also for its comfort, especially on long drives. It is roomy inside, with an easy to use dash, and all the extras only add to the fun. Drivers also love the way this aggressively sporty car looks. Most complaints mention the loud road noise, poor visiblity out the back, and an inadequate sound system.

Though it shares the same 3.5-liter V6 engine with the ES, the engine in the 2002 Dodge Intrepid R/T was performance-enhanced to receive 244-horsepower when paired with the AutoStick transmission. It had a worse fuel economy (18/26), but it was fast and fun.

The R/T was quickly becoming the top-of-the-line car, offering a lot more standard features this year than the ES. Those features unique to the R/T include traction control, trip computer, leather-trimmed gear shift and steering wheel, garage door opener, overhead console, ABS brakes, 17-inch wheels, a security system, and automatic climate control. The R/T also comes equipped with a performance-tuned suspension, steering, and exhaust system. It goes fast and hugs the road. Luxurious, roomy, and blazing, the R/T is perfect whether you're transporting your family or trying to impress your friends.