Spy Shots: Facelift, V6 and a Six-Speed for 2011 Dodge Avenger

Chrysler has been on a roll with product development, as Brenda Priddy’s cameras have recently caught the ’11 Town & Country minivan, forthcoming Jeep Patriot and the ’11 Dodge Journey. Now Priddy’s lenses have found the ’11 Dodge Avenger R/T.

The Avenger looks like it might be in for a more significant upgrade than its linemates, starting with a new grille and bumper up front. In back, the Charger-like shoulder appears to be smoothed out (unless this is a trick of the camouflage).

As with much of the Chrysler lineup, the Avenger will get the new 3.6L Pentastar V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and the possible addition of Multi-Air technology (a variable valve timing innovation from parent company Fiat) in later models. Priddy says the base 2.4L four-cylinder has also been retuned for more efficiency. Production of the 2011 Avenger will start at the Sterling Heights, Michigan, plant in November.