Carscoop: Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Dodge Magnum

Now this is what we call a "facelift" and we mean it literally as the most significant change on the Dodge’s 2008 Magnum is, well, its brand new face. While we’ll have wait a while to get used to it for a final decision, our first impression is that the 2008 Magnum’s front end seems to have lost that “bad to the bone” attitude of the previous model. And while it may be ok for the R/T, SXT & SE versions, it kinda hurts our feelings seeing the 425Hp Hemi V8 powered SRT8 with that new somber face.-Continued: Click “Read More…” below to see the official press release and a high-res gallery

2008 DODGE MAGNUM SRT8 - Aggressive Performance-inspired Exterior and Race-inspired Interior: A redesigned hood, front fascia and new grille highlight the extensive changes on the new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8. A functional performance hood scoop has also been added. The black honeycomb insert of the crosshair grille and air inlet of the front fascia increases brake cooling. The front fascia itself provides an aerodynamic benefit by reducing lift. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 rides on 20-inch aluminum, SRT-designed wheels wearing 245/45/ZR20 (front) and 255/45/ZR20 (back) F1 Goodyear tires. On the inside, the new 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 maintains its race-inspired environment. Enhancements for 2008 include agate-color accent stitching, carbon-fiber leather-trim door handles, and LED lighting in the cup holders and door-map pockets.

2008 DODGE MAGNUM R/T, SXT AND SE - Refined Exterior Enhancements: Design changes to the 2008 Dodge Magnum R/T, SXT and SE can be seen in the signature Dodge crosshair front grille which has been lowered and stretched horizontally to create a more aggressive look. Chrome elements added to the front fascia and grille and extra detailing around the fog lamps provide additional interest and refinement to the face of the new Magnum. The Magnum R/T features optional Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) elements in the headlamps for greater visibility while adding a sophisticated, high-tech look to the exterior.

The hood of 2008 Dodge Magnum models features expressive accent lines that run from the leading edge toward the windshield, highlighting its muscular character and hinting at the power beneath. Optional chrome-clad aluminum wheels and 245/45R20 all-season performance tires contribute to the bold, powerful image that is pure Dodge. New exterior paint colors include Light Pebble Beige and Titanium.

More Upscale, Bright Interior: The 2008 Dodge Magnum continues to offer a no-nonsense functional interior with well-appointed upgrades including soft-touch surfaces on the arm rests and the top of the center console, a new cruise control stalk and optional LED lighting, which illuminates the cup holders and door-map pockets. Brighter, chromed highlights have been added to the interior cabin of the R/T and SXT models. The instrument panel has been redesigned to offer a more driver-oriented layout. The clean lines and easy-to-read gauges are highlighted with chrome bezels to deliver additional interest.