New Dodge Charger Ditches V8 for Turbo-Six: Is It Too Little, Too Late?

Dodge Charger’s Turbocharged Future Arrives, But Will Fans Follow?

The arrival of the new Dodge Charger has been a bumpy ride, sparking debate among enthusiasts. Gone is the beloved V8 rumble, replaced by a new turbocharged inline-six engine. Dodge is betting big on this change, but early sales figures suggest the brand’s loyal following might be hesitant. The question now is: can this new Charger win over hearts and minds, or is it too late to capture the magic of its predecessors?

Performance: A New Heartbeat

Under the hood, the Charger ditches the iconic Hemi V8 for a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, dubbed the “Sixpack.” This new engine comes in two flavors. The RT model offers a solid 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque, while the more potent Scat Pack boosts that to 550 horsepower. Dodge claims a 0-60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds for the Scat Pack, making it seriously quick. The RT, while less powerful, still packs a punch, delivering around 50 more horsepower than the outgoing V8 Charger.

The engine’s character is surprisingly refined, drawing comparisons to BMW’s smooth twin-turbo inline-six engines. Unlike some turbocharged motors that deliver power low in the rev range, this new powerplant allows for a bit more revving, rewarding drivers who push it. The exhaust note has a distinct, almost BMW-like tone, which, while different from the old Charger’s roar, is not necessarily a bad thing for a modern performance car.

However, the Charger’s massive size is undeniable. Measuring over 206 inches long, it’s larger than many three-row SUVs. Coupled with a curb weight approaching 5,000 pounds, you might expect it to handle like a boat. Yet, with the optional performance package, which includes wider 275/40 tires and a sport-tuned suspension, the Charger surprises. It feels remarkably planted and composed, even when pushed. Body movements are well-controlled, and while the steering lacks some of the sharp feedback of German luxury sedans, it offers decent communication when loaded up. The Brembo brakes are also up to the task of slowing this hefty machine.

Interior: Modern Comfort and Tech

Inside, the new Charger is a significant upgrade over its predecessor. The cabin feels much more modern, with better build quality and comfort. A large 12.3-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, running Dodge’s Uconnect 5 system, which is responsive and user-friendly. The digital instrument cluster is also impressive, with sharp graphics and quick reactions. Drivers will appreciate the pistol-grip shifter and the available 12-way adjustable performance bucket seats, which offer good support, though those with broader shoulders might prefer the optional comfort seats.

There are a few minor quibbles. Some touch-sensitive controls feel a bit gimmicky, and the stitching alignment on the dashboard isn’t perfect. A quirk of the four-door model is the tight door opening and the placement of the B-pillar, which can make resting your elbow uncomfortable due to a hard piece of plastic. Despite these small issues, the interior is a vast improvement, offering a more premium and tech-savvy experience.

Practicality: Space for Everything

The Charger’s significant length translates into impressive practicality. The hatchback design opens up a massive 38 cubic feet of cargo space, rivaling that of midsize trucks. For those needing even more room, the rear seats fold down, creating a cavernous area where even a 6-foot-tall person can comfortably lay flat. The back seat itself is also incredibly spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers.

Value and Target Buyer

The new Dodge Charger starts around $50,000 for a two-door RT, with the Scat Pack priced around $55,000 and the electric Daytona starting near $60,000. As tested, this RT model tipped the scales at a hefty $63,000. This puts the Charger in a competitive segment, directly challenging cars like the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe or Audi RS7, albeit at a lower price point. The question of value hinges on what buyers prioritize. For those seeking the raw, tire-shredding experience of the old V8 Charger, this new model might feel like a compromise. Sales figures so far indicate that the traditional Dodge audience isn’t fully embracing the shift.

However, if you view the Charger not as a replacement for the old V8 beast, but as a sophisticated, all-weather grand tourer with a powerful engine and a comfortable, tech-filled interior, then it starts to make sense. It’s a car for someone who wants a stylish, fast, and practical vehicle that can handle four seasons, offering a more refined and grown-up driving experience than its predecessor. For those looking to extract maximum power, the Scat Pack with its forged internals is likely the better choice for tuning potential, akin to an “American 2JZ.”

Verdict: A New Era, Not a Replacement

The new Dodge Charger represents a significant shift in the model’s identity. It’s no longer the loud, unapologetic muscle car of the past. Instead, it’s a more refined, capable, and modern grand tourer. While the loss of the V8 will undoubtedly disappoint many, the new turbocharged inline-six offers plenty of power and a smooth, engaging driving experience. The improved interior, massive cargo space, and all-wheel-drive capability make it a compelling option for a broader audience.

Is it too little, too late? It’s hard to say definitively. The initial sales numbers suggest a disconnect with the core Dodge fanbase. However, as a sophisticated performance sedan, it holds its own. If you’re looking for a car that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and performance, and you can look past the V8 legacy, the new Charger is worth considering. Dodge is known for offering deals, so patience might be rewarded with a better price down the line. And for those holding out for ultimate power, the rumored Hellcat version, though likely expensive, promises to be the ultimate expression of this new platform.

Source: We Need to Talk About the New Dodge Charger… (YouTube)