If you’re ready to purchase a new ride, your choices include a dozen vehicles made by Dodge. The automaker’s sporty models include the 2010 Dodge Charger, which can offer a muscle-car feel for under $30,000. Examining the differences between Charger trim levels can help you select the vehicle that’s right for you.
Choose an engine. The base-model Dodge Charger SE has a 2.7-liter, six-cylinder engine that produces 178 horsepower. The 2010 3.5L and Rallye come with 3.5-liter, V6 engines that offer 250 horsepower. The Charger R/T is equipped with a 5.7-liter, V8 engine that cranks out 368 horsepower. Buyers of the Charger SRT8 get 425 horsepower from a 6.1-liter, eight-cylinder engine.
Pick a drivetrain. You can choose from rear-wheel or all-wheel drive when buying a Charger. If you want all-wheel drive, your options narrow to the Charger 3.5L, Rallye and R/T.
Set a price range. If you want to keep your purchase price below $30,000, you’ll need to look at the SE, 3.5L, and Rallye. The SRT8 has a starting price of $39,880, while the R/T Plus pricing begins at $32,345.
Select a color. Your new 2010 Dodge Charger can come in black, bright red, dark red, dark blue, silver, dark gray, white or cream. However, the SRT8 model is only available in black, bright red, silver or dark blue.
Check the wheels. The SE and 3.5L come with 17-inch wheels, while the Rallye and the R/T with the automaker’s chrome and sound package have 18-inch wheels. You’ll get 20-inch wheels if you buy the R/T with the road and track package or the Charger SRT8.
Compare other features. The features available on the 2010 Dodge Charger vary considerably among trim levels, so examining what’s included with each type can help you select your car. For example, the SE and 3.5L have seats that adjust manually, while the R/T Plus and SRT8 have power front seats that are heated. Higher-end models include a folding rear seat, fog lamps and satellite radio capabilities.
Read reviews. Visit the websites of “Car and Driver,” “Motortrend” magazines and the Edmunds website to hear what professional test drivers have to say about Dodge Chargers (see References).
Try them out. Visit a local dealership and test drive the models that interest you most. Note the power, handling and features of each car to help determine the best fit for you.
