Is the Dodge Magnum AWD?
In short: No—the Dodge Magnum was not offered with all-wheel drive (AWD) in its U.S. production years (2005–2008). The wagon was available with rear-wheel drive across the lineup, and there was no factory AWD option for the Magnum in these markets. This article explains the drivetrain options by trim and what buyers should know when shopping for a used Magnum.
Drivetrain options and what they mean for Magnum buyers
To simplify the landscape, here are the typical drivetrain configurations by Magnum trim. Note that AWD was not part of the Magnum’s factory options in the United States.
- SE/SXT: Offered with V6 engines such as the 2.7L and/or 3.5L, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard. All-wheel drive was not available from the factory.
- RT: Equipped with the 5.7L Hemi V8, typically in RWD configuration. No factory AWD option.
- SRT8: Featured the 6.1L Hemi V8 and was rear-wheel drive. AWD was not offered from the factory.
Bottom line: There was no factory-all-wheel-drive Magnum in the U.S. during its production run. If AWD is a priority, buyers typically look to alternative models in the broader Chrysler LX lineup, such as the 300 or Charger, which did offer AWD in certain years and trims.
Production context and market notes
The Dodge Magnum was produced from 2005 through 2008 and shared its LX platform with other rear-drive-oriented sedans and wagons. While AWD was available on several LX family members in various markets, the Magnum line itself did not include a factory AWD option in its U.S. configuration. As a result, most Magnums on the resale market are RWD, with other drivetrain considerations determined by engine choice and transmission pairing rather than an all-wheel-drive system.
What to check when evaluating a used Magnum
If you’re shopping for a Dodge Magnum, keep these guidance points in mind to avoid drivetrain-related confusion or misinterpretation of a car’s capabilities:
- Verify the drivetrain on the VIN and the window sticker to confirm RWD configuration.
- Note the engine and trim level (2.7L/3.5L for base trims, 4.7L for some configurations, 5.7L Hemi for RT, and 6.1L Hemi for SRT8) to understand performance characteristics—these are typically paired with RWD in the Magnum.
- Beware of aftermarket AWD conversions; they can exist but are not factory-supported and may affect reliability, insurance, and resale value.
For buyers who specifically need all-wheel traction, consider comparing with other LX-platform models like the Dodge Charger or Chrysler 300, which offered AWD options in several model years.
Summary
The Dodge Magnum did not come with a factory all-wheel-drive option in its U.S. lineup from 2005 to 2008. It was designed and sold as a rear-wheel-drive wagon across its available trims, with V6 and V8 engine choices depending on the model. If AWD is essential, shoppers should look at other LX-platform sedans and wagons that offered AWD during that era, or explore modern alternatives for all-wheel-drive capability.
Context and closing thoughts
As a practical station wagon built on the LX architecture, the Magnum prioritized roomy cargo space and V8 performance variants for enthusiasts. While AWD remains a desirable feature for some buyers, the Magnum’s historical configuration focused on rear-drive layouts, mirroring its performance-oriented ethos within the lineup it shared with other rear-drive models of its era.
Bottom line
For those asking whether the Dodge Magnum is AWD: generally speaking, no—the factory lineup did not include an all-wheel-drive Magnum in the U.S. market. If AWD is a must-have, consider looking at contemporaries in the LX family or other newer models that officially offered AWD options.
How to tell if a Dodge Magnum is AWD?
If the calipers are in front of center on the front, it is AWD. RWD has the front caliper behind center of axle.
Which Dodge has AWD?
Dodge offers all-wheel-drive (AWD) on the Charger, Durango, and Hornet models. The Challenger also has an AWD option, but it is limited to specific trims. The Journey previously offered available AWD, but is not a current model.
You can watch this video to see a review of the Dodge Charger with a twin-turbo inline-six engine: 51sThatDudeinBlueYouTube · Nov 16, 2025
- Dodge Charger: The Charger is a full-size sedan available with AWD on certain trims (SXT, GT, Scat Pack). The system can seamlessly switch between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive for optimal efficiency.
- Dodge Durango: This three-row SUV offers AWD as an option to improve traction and handling. AWD is available on various trims, including the SRT version.
- Dodge Hornet: The compact SUV is available with AWD on its various trims.
- Dodge Challenger: The Challenger offers an AWD system on specific models, such as the GT trim, which is equipped with an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect.
- Dodge Journey: This model previously had an available AWD system, but is no longer in production.
Was the Dodge Magnum AWD?
All-wheel drive became an option in 2005 on SXT and RT models. The SRT8, AWD SXT, and the RT use a Mercedes-Benz-derived 5-speed automatic transmission, while all other models use a four-speed automatic.
Is a 2005 Dodge Magnum rear wheel drive?
For a base price of $22,495, the stripper Magnum SE delivers an encyclopedia of German rear-drive expertise propelled by a 190-hp, 2.7-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6.
