Overview:
This is the 2016 Dodge Charger SXT Rear Wheel Drive Blacktop 4-door sedan.
Mike Mavilia has the same model as I’m reviewing so I asked him to give his take on his own Dodge Charger. He will have a Video link photo on the website version of this review at www.atthewheel.com.
Mike’s opening comments:
Since the rebirth of the Charger in 2006, Dodge has continually injected new life into this American Classic. This eye catching 4 door sedan has a sporty interior, ample seating, 4 powerful engine options ranging from the 292 horsepower V6 to the 707 horsepower supercharged V8. It’s not the only sedan on the market with Performance and Style, but when you look at the alternatives it sure does stand out. Other domestic considerations may be the Ford, Chevy, Buick or Chrysler, but none with attitude as is the personality of Charger.
General Information: It is assembled in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Parts – US/Canadian 64%, Mexico 26%; Engine – USA – Transmission – Germany; Classification is Large cars; Cars from Dodge: Avenger, Challenger, Charger, Dart, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey and Viper.
Handling & Performance:
Listed as the base engine, the 3.6 liter, 292 horsepower V6 has enough power to maneuver the highways while still allowing for satisfying fuel economy. The V6 does not have the unique “purr” of the V8 but acceleration between the two is only slightly noticeable. The smooth shifting of the 8 speed automatic transmission has sporty low gears and transitions to a very quiet cruiser at high gears.
If you are looking for power, then look no further! The supercharged 6.2 liter 707 horsepower Hellcat Charger must be driven to be believed. Its upgraded performance package doesn’t stop at the engine. The most important features of a vehicle with this much power is the ability to handle the turns and stop when needed because of its enhanced tight suspension and responsive upgraded disc braking system.
Safety features of note that have been available since 2011.
Rain Brake Support: The system uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
Ready Alert Braking: the system anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application.
Styling:
A performance car persona with attitude.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Competitive in this segment of the market.
Conveniences and comfort:
The interior options are plentiful and allows you to tailor your ride with a sporty yet comfortable driving experience. Those in need of super tech, the feature rich touch screen display with Navigation, Bluetooth and additional apps to enhance your daily drive may be a must-have to some.
Consumer Recommendation:
Surely you will want to include all of these offerings when you make such an important buying decision. I know you will have your favorites but you could surprise yourself and find others may trump your usual brand preference. In this class all the big three are represented . . . so some who prefer to “Buy American” will lean that way.
Recognized Competition:
Dodge Charger $31,000, Buick LaCrosse $32,000, Chevrolet Impala $31,000, Chrysler 300 $33,000, Kia Cadenza $34,000, Ford Taurus $37,000, Toyota Avalon $38,000.
Good News:
Made in America muscle car that is not only powerful it looks the part, is comfortable, plus it can deliver decent fuel economy if you can keep your foot under control.
Bad News:
n/a.
Standard Equipment:
3.6 liter V6 engine, 8-speed auto transmission, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist, rain brake support, ready alert braking, stability and traction control, electric power steering, hill start assist, keyless entry, tire pressure monitor, theft deterrent system, remote start system, front, front seat side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, Uconnect.
Options:
Plus Group:Leather trim seats, 18” polished painted aluminum wheels, power front seats, vewntillated front seats, heated second row seats, heated steering wheel, rear back up camera, park sense rear park assist system, memory settings, power heated memory mirrors, security alarm, special illumination ($2,495); Bracktop appearance: 20” Gloss Black Painted Aluminum wheels, Satin Black one-piece spoiler, dark brushed interior accents, Gloss black interior and exterior accents, leather wrapped performance steering wheel, black edged premium floor mats ($495); Navigation / rear back up camera group, Sirius XM traffic and travel link 5-year subscription, Uconnect 8.4, GPS Navigation, HD radio ($695); Rallye Group: all season performance tires, sport suspension, Glass Black facia applique, 300 HP rating, Beats premium speakers, 552 watt amplifier, steering wheel mounted shift controls. ($1,595); Super track Pak: 3.07 rear axle ratio, Performance brakes, ($495);
Gas Stats:
$2.69/ Gal avg. June 10, 2016
for more information.
19 City 31 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $29,995 (Base price before options).