What is the Chrysler version of the Magnum?
In Chrysler's lineup, the Magnum name is tied to a family of V8 engines rather than a single car model. The Chrysler version of the Magnum refers to the Magnum V8 engine family—primarily the 5.2-liter and 5.9-liter versions—used across Dodge, Jeep, and other Chrysler Group vehicles in the 1990s and early 2000s. A later 4.7-liter variant expanded the family, while branding evolved with the company’s shift to new powertrains.
What is the Magnum engine family?
Key facts about the Magnum engine family include its displacement range, notable features, and the vehicles that used it. The technology marked a departure from earlier LA engines and became a staple in trucks and large SUVs for Chrysler Group.
- 5.2 L (318 cu in) Magnum V8 introduced in 1992; used in Dodge Ram pickups, Durango, and various Jeep/Chrysler models.
- 5.9 L (360 cu in) Magnum V8 introduced in the early 1990s; offered more torque for heavy-duty applications; used in Dodge Ram and Durango and some Jeep variants.
- 4.7 L PowerTech/Magnum V8 introduced around 1999–2000 as an evolution of the Magnum family; used in later Grand Cherokee, Durango, Dakota, and Ram trucks.
These engines are commonly described in consumer materials as the "Magnum V8" family. Over time Chrysler's branding shifted toward newer Hemi designs, but the Magnum name remains a defining chapter in the company's powertrain history.
In short, the Magnum V8 family became a core part of Chrysler's engine lineup during the 1990s and early 2000s, spanning several displacements and vehicle types.
Vehicles that used the Chrysler Magnum engines
The Magnum V8 engines powered core Dodge and Jeep models through the 1990s and early 2000s, especially in trucks and utilities. Here are representative examples.
- Dodge Ram pickup trucks (various generations, particularly 1990s–2000s).
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ/WJ platforms, mid-late 1990s to early 2000s).
- Dodge Durango (1990s–early 2000s variants).
- Dodge Dakota (mid-size pickup in the 1990s–early 2000s).
Note: The Magnum branding also appeared on other Chrysler-group products in certain markets and years. In later years, production shifted toward the Hemi and other engine families, but the Magnum engines remain a defining chapter in Chrysler’s powertrain history.
Summary
The Chrysler version of the Magnum refers to the Magnum V8 engine family—the 5.2-liter and 5.9-liter variants introduced in the 1990s—with later expansion to a 4.7-liter version. These engines powered Dodge Ram trucks, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Durango, and Dakota models, forming a distinctive era of Chrysler powertrains. While the Magnum name is less prominent on new models today, it remains a recognizable part of Chrysler’s engineering legacy.
