It's a challenge to find a family car that gives you both riding comfort, room to stretch out for long trips, and a sports-like acceleration and handling on the highway, but the four-door Dodge Intrepid fills all those criteria. The cab-forward design proved to be a big hit, since it expanded the interior, while still maintaining the handling and cornering of a mid-size sedan.

The 1997 Intrepid offered a Sports package on all base models. This included the 3.5-liter, 214-hp V6 engine that was previously only an option on ES models. The 3.5 V6 was paired with an AutoStick transmission that let you switch between auto and manual shifting. New in 1997 as a special option is a power driver's seat that can be adjusted and configured into various positions for maximum seating comfort. Leather-wrapped steering wheel, special badging, and a digital message center rounded out the package.

The 1997 Intrepid is large inside, with seating for five or six (if you opt for the 50/50 split bench in the front). The instrument panel is given a bold look with black on white gauges that are easy to read. Drivers love the powerful 3.5 V6 engine, which gives them confidence when merging or passing, but also sends a few thrills up their spine as they hit the gas. And at 18/26 mpg, the gas costs don't hurt either. Drivers love the well-designed interior, huge trunk, plenty of head and legroom, and the speed. Repair nightmares continue to plague the Intrepid, as does annoying road and wind noise.