Review
Introduction
Dodge dusted off the Charger name in 2006 and slapped it on a full-size, rear-wheel-drive (all-wheel drive is an option) sedan closely related to the Chrysler 300. Although the 300 will appeal to those seeking luxury, the Charger is intended to attract buyers looking for performance in the family-sedan segment. Larger than some of the run-of-the-mill front-drive family sedans such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Charger sports aggressive and polarizing styling.
Four engines are offered in the Charger. Basic SE versions are powered by a 2.7-liter V-6 with 178 hp coupled to a four-speed automatic. Acceleration with the 2.7-liter is tepid, as the engine works hard to move the Charger. Fuel economy for the base engine is an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Moving up to the SXT yields a 3.5-liter V-6 with 250 hp and a four-speed automatic. SXT models are available with optional all-wheel drive that comes standard with a five-speed automatic transmission. The larger V-6 moves the Charger with much more spirit than the base engine, but it will seem a bit slow if one samples the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. The 3.5’s larger displacement hurts fuel economy slightly; the rear-drive SXT returns an estimated 17 mpg city and 25 highway. All-wheel-drive versions achieve an estimated 17/23 mpg.
Two V-8s are offered in the Charger. R/T models get a 368-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 and a five-speed automatic transmission, a combo that really wakes up the Charger. Like the SXT, the R/T is available with rear- or all-wheel drive. To improve fuel economy, the 5.7-liter features cylinder deactivation, which allows the V-8 to run on just four cylinders when cruising or coasting. Fuel mileage comes in at 16 city and 25 highway for rear-drive models. All-wheel-drive R/Ts achieve the same city number and fall to 23 mpg on the highway.
For the few who aren’t satisfied by the pull of 368 horses, Dodge offers the 425-hp Charger SRT8, which has a number of chassis tweaks, larger brakes, and unique trim in addition to its 6.1-liter V-8. The SRT8 is a big-time blast to drive and will run with far more expensive and exotic machinery. The downside of its horsepower hysteria is seen in the fuel-economy numbers, which come in at 13 city/19 highway.
Inside, the Charger features a roomy interior but suffers from having plastics that don’t look or feel particularly rich. The Charger makes up for it by driving with a solid refinement that is often missing in most of the front-wheel-drive competition.
In a recent comparison test, we pitted a Charger R/T against Pontiac’s new G8. The Charger finished second to the newer Pontiac but drew raves for its handsome exterior styling, supportive front seats, and easy-to-use controls. The Charger fell behind the G8 in steering feel and long stopping distances. The 2008 Charger R/T in the comparo was slower to accelerate to 60 mph than the G8, but a power upgrade for the 5.7-liter Hemi (up 28 hp for 2009) should help close the gap.
Verdict
In all its guises, the Charger offers a refined driving experience and a commodious interior. Available all-wheel drive can allay any rear-drive reservations, and the Charger returns respectable fuel economy for a car this size. The R/T offers incredible acceleration; the SRT8 is likely overkill for most buyers, but it will put a stupid grin on the face of any enthusiast.
Click here to read our full review of the Dodge Charger.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Dodge Charger.
What’s New for 2009
The Charger sees only a few minor changes for 2009, including a new taillight design, cup-holder lighting, a rear-window-mounted antenna, and newly standard aluminum wheels. The SE gets interior upgrades; 5.7-liter models get 28 additional hp, an ECO light that illuminates when in cylinder-deactivation mode, and a taller rear-axle ratio to aid fuel economy.
All-wheel-drive models now alert the driver when the car is powering all four wheels and also receive a taller axle ratio to boost fuel economy. SRT8 Chargers get two-zone automatic climate control, one-touch power windows, heated front seats, remote start, a retuned suspension, and automatic headlights.
Highlights and Recommendations
The 2.7-liter V-6 lacks the punch to move the Charger around with any semblance of speed. Most buyers would be wise to consider the 250-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 or the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. Although 368 hp is likely overkill, the 5.7-liter V-8 brings the spirit of the Charger alive, and the fuel costs over the 3.5-liter aren’t unreasonable. The SRT8 is for those interested in a high-performance sports sedan.
Safety
Dual front airbags and tire-pressure monitors are standard on all models. Disappointingly, curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags aren’t standard; they’re options on all trim levels except the SE, on which they’re not available at all. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control are optional on the SE but standard throughout the rest of the lineup.
