DETROIT, MI - Back in 1978, Dodge introduced the first Magnum, a sporty coupe based upon the Chrysler Cordoba personal luxury car. Later, Magnum was used for Dodge's lineup of truck engines as a brand name designed to connote strength and power. For 2005, a new Dodge Magnum appears, this time a rear-wheel-drive station wagon that replaces the Dodge Intrepid sedan in the automaker's lineup.

Dodge showed critics and consumers a concept version of the Magnum last year, and the production model is faithful to the promises made by that Hemi-powered beast. Dodge says it's the most powerful car for less than $30,000 because the top-shelf, 340-horsepower Magnum RT starts at $29,995 including the destination charge.

Buyers with less than $30,000 to spend can choose the Dodge Magnum SE or the Dodge Magnum SXT. The Magnum SE costs $22,495, and is powered by a 190-horsepower, 2.7-liter V6 engine that strains to get the 3,800-pound wagon to 60 mph in less than 11 seconds. The standard four-speed automatic doesn't help matters, and we'd guess that with a full load of passengers and cargo that the 2005 Dodge Magnum SE is a real slug. Well, Thrifty rental car is going to need something to replace all of its Intrepids sooner or later.

Standard equipment on the Magnum SE includes keyless entry, a CD player, an outside temperature display, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and a reversible cargo load floor.