It had been some time since driving the Dodge Intrepid. I liked it the first time and expected to feel the same this time around. I did. And not only driving it, but looking at, as well. The Intrepid has up-to-date styling and remains an eye-catcher ever since its restyling in 1998.

Our test vehicle came equipped with close to $5,000 worth of options, including ABS, the optional 3.2-liter V-6 engine and a Preferred package with all kinds of upgrades. Available in a base and ES model, the Dodge Intrepid offers two optional engines on the ES version; the 3.2-liter and 3.5-liter all-aluminum V-6 engines, each providing enhanced performance and better fuel economy.

The Intrepid falls into the Large car category, and indeed, it lends itself well to a family of from four to six, as well as the single sports-minded driver. It’s sleek styling is reminiscent of Dodge’s Avenger and Stealth models, carrying over a few good points from these two decent looking models. The interior in the Intrepid is cockpit style, with white background on the dials. All controls are within reach, and the large center console, complete with cupholders is a good armrest, and catchall.

This muscular sports-sedan is an attractive package for those wanting the four-door car that offers a quiet, comfortable ride, and plenty of leg, head and trunk room. Known for its sportiness, the Dodge brand has offered a number of attractive, well-packaged vehicles that appeal to a varied group of auto buyers.

The Intrepid is assembled in Chrysler’s Bramalea Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada, and has been a good seller for Dodge. It’s trademark “cross hair” grille, slopping roofline and cockpit-style interior sets it apart from its cousin the Chrysler Concorde. Less stuffy than the Concorde, the Intrepid has sold well. The Intrepid has been one of Car & Driver’s “10 Bests’ in 1998 and 1999, and a “best buy” according to Consumer Guide.

In its favor is front-wheel-drive, a feature many drivers have opted for over the past several years. Dodge’s biggest car in the lineup, Intrepid received only minor changes for ’99 and 2000. In the same category are Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight/LSS, Toyota Avalon and Pontiac Bonneville. The Intrepid provides a different ride and drive when compared to such vehicles as the Avalon, new redesigned 2000 Bonneville, and of course, Buick’s LeSabre. By that, we mean, Dodge’s ride is more performance-oriented than its contenders, and provides a Domestic-car feel to it. Less plush, and more performance and handling is Intrepid’s forte.

Among the best handling of other vehicles in its category, Intrepid takes bumps without undue harshness. Those accustomed to a softer ride may not resonate with Intrepid’s performance feel. We prefer it. Both models are equipped with the same suspension tuning, however, the ES’ wider tires provide a little sharper stance when changing lanes and taking corners.

Having driven the base engine, we much prefer the 3.2-liter, and even more so, the top-of-the-line 3.5-liter. The base 2.7-liter is adequate, the 3.2-liter somewhat of an improvement , especially when passing, or entering expressways. AutoStick helps boost power for passing, merging and just plain sportscar-like driving.

The Customer Preferred Package (24M, 43.045)) on our test vehicle included such things as air conditioning with automatic temperature control, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night mirror, nine Infinity speakers (in 7 locations), 4-discin-dash CD-changer, leather trimmed bucket seats, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, trip computer, sentry key theft deterrent system, security alarm and power driver and passenger seats. several luxury items, to be sure, but ones most fitting to the ES model.

Optional antilock brakes is $775 and the optional 3.2-liter engine, $500. Customer preferred discount was $370, and an additional discount for ES equipment at $115 brought the total price to $26,480. Base price for the ES model is $22,085, about average for many of today’s automobiles.

The Dodge Intrepid is clearly one of our choices for those options in the Large car category. We found ourselves choosing it over other test cars that week. A clear favorite for all driving activities.