The Dodge Stratus I 2.4, produced from 1995 to 2001, represented Dodge’s entry into the mid-size sedan market, aiming to provide a comfortable and affordable option for American families. This first generation Stratus, built on the JA platform shared with the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze, was a significant departure from the K-car based models that previously defined Dodge’s sedan offerings. The 2.4-liter engine variant, producing 152 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the Stratus lineup, positioned between the base 2.0-liter engine and the more powerful V6 options. It was designed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate performance for everyday driving needs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Stratus |
| Generation | Stratus I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (152 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 152 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 226 Nm @ 4000 rpm (166.69 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EDZ |
| Engine displacement | 2429 cm3 (148.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 101 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1475 kg (3251.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 445 l (15.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4725 mm (186.02 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Height | 1330 mm (52.36 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2743 mm (107.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Stratus I 2.4 was the EDZ engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, which contributed to its respectable power output for its displacement. The 9.4:1 compression ratio was a typical value for naturally aspirated engines of the era, balancing performance and fuel economy. The four-speed automatic transmission was a crucial component of this variant, offering smooth shifts and ease of use, particularly appealing to the target demographic of family car buyers. This transmission, while not known for its sportiness, was reliable and well-suited to the engine’s torque curve.
Driving Characteristics
The 152 horsepower and 166.69 lb.-ft. of torque produced by the 2.4-liter engine, when paired with the four-speed automatic, resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the 9-10 second range. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.4-liter, the automatic offered less driver engagement but greater convenience. The V6-powered Stratus models offered significantly more power and quicker acceleration, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The 2.4L automatic provided a smoother, more relaxed driving experience than the base 2.0L engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Stratus I 2.4 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels, such as the EX and LX, added features like cruise control, upgraded upholstery, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with optional leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and anti-lock brakes (ABS), which became increasingly common as the production run progressed.
Chassis & Braking
The Stratus I utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a double wishbone suspension in the front and a coil spring suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. ABS was available as an option, enhancing braking performance and safety. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between handling and ride comfort, leaning more towards the latter.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Stratus I 2.4 was generally well-received by critics as a competent and affordable mid-size sedan. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy. However, it was often criticized for its somewhat bland styling and lack of sporty handling. Compared to competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Stratus offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and reputation for reliability. The 2.4-liter automatic variant offered a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who prioritized practicality over driving excitement. Fuel economy averaged around 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
Legacy
The Dodge Stratus I 2.4, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in Dodge’s transition to more modern sedan designs. The EDZ engine proved to be reasonably reliable, although routine maintenance was essential to prevent issues such as oil leaks and timing belt failures. Today, the Stratus I 2.4 can be found in the used car market at very affordable prices. While not a collector’s item, it remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a simple and dependable transportation. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it easier and less expensive to maintain compared to more complex modern vehicles. The 2.4L automatic powertrain, while not known for its performance, has proven to be durable and capable of providing years of service with proper care.
