The Dodge Charger range consists of the SXT, GT, R/T, Scat Pack, and Scat Pack Widebody; there is also the SRT Hellcat Widebody and Hellcat Redeye Widebody, which we review separately. The SXT and GT are equipped with a V6 engine developing around 300 hp. These models can be fitted with an AWD system, which also adds several additional features. The R/T is equipped with a 370-hp/395-lb-ft 5.7-liter V8, while the Scat Pack gets a 6.4-liter V8 with 485 hp and 475 lb-ft on tap.
Standard features on the base trim include 17-inch alloy wheels, auto headlamps, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, cloth upholstery, an eight-way power driver's seat, and a seven-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and two USB ports. Further up in the range, you get some added niceties like heated seats, leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, paddle shifters, and an 8.4-inch infotainment screen. Still, most of the safety and comfort features are optional extras.
The entry-level SXT RWD has an MSRP of $31,350. You will need to add on $3,600 if you want the SXT with AWD. The RWD GT starts at $33,625, with only $3,000 needed to add AWD from this trim upwards. Then, it's a hefty price jump to the R/T V8, which retails for $39,350. The Scat Pack starts at $43,675, with another big leap to get to the Scat Pack Widebody at $49,670. These prices exclude Dodge's destination charge of $1,595, and other licensing and registration fees.
We think Dodge's approach to standard features is quite smart. It caters to the customer who wants a bare-bones muscle car, and the person who wants to add more safety and convenience.
While there are many packages on offer, there are three worth highlighting. The first is the Plus Group, which is both a style and convenience package. It includes 20-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and the 8.4-inch version of the infotainment system, to name just a few. The price depends on the model you opt for, but expect to pay $3,095 on the SXT and $2,095 on the Widebody. The Technology Group adds adaptive cruise control, advanced brake assist, auto high beams, full-speed forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and rain-sensing wipers, at a cost of $1,895. Annoyingly, if you want blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic assist you'll have to pay extra for the Driver Convenience Group, which adds these features, amongst a few other niceties and a new deluxe security alarm from this year.
Other packages include a Cold Weather Package for $695, to add heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, while navigation and the upgraded Uconnect 4C with the larger display can be optioned on for $995 via the Navigation & Travel Group package.
All models are essentially the same car, with only minor feature differences between them. All of them will transport a family of five in comfort. The real choice here is in engine specs. Every drivetrain has its merits, apart from the 5.7-liter V8, which is just old and out of place compared to the larger V8. The V6s are underwhelming, but thanks to the optional AWD, they're the safest vehicle from this lineup if you live in a cold-weather state.
Since this is a muscle car, we'd have the Scat Pack. It has 475 hp on tap and a soundtrack that will make your ears bleed. Dodge also ensures the engine doesn't overpower the rest of the car and adds more powerful brakes and a sportier suspension. It also has the right kit for smokey burnouts. If you want something even more aggressive, you can add the Widebody kit and even larger brakes, and adaptive suspension. These trims also benefit from a few additional luxuries such as heated seats and a heated steering wheel.
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