Dodge Charger Sixpack Returns With Gas Power, Impresses

Dodge Charger Sixpack Returns With Gas Power, Impresses

The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is here, and it’s a significant improvement over its initial electric-only debut. Dodge has listened to feedback, bringing back a gasoline engine and hinting at a four-door version to satisfy enthusiasts. This new Charger aims to recapture the spirit of its predecessors while embracing modern technology.

Performance: Six-Cylinder Punch

Under the hood, the new Charger ditches the V8 for a potent twin-turbo straight-six engine, dubbed the “Sixpack.” This engine is shared with other new Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models. It comes in two flavors: a standard output with 420 horsepower, capable of 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds, and a high-output version delivering a strong 550 horsepower, hitting 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds. Both versions come standard with all-wheel drive, a departure from the rear-wheel-drive past.

While the absence of a V8 might disappoint some, these six-cylinder engines offer robust performance. The “Sixpack” badging on the engine cover and even a fake vent on the hood proudly display the engine’s configuration. For those seeking ultimate power, the electric Charger remains available, offering a monstrous 670 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time in the low 3-second range, though at a higher price point.

Exterior: Retro Charm and Modern Size

The 2026 Charger sports a retro design inspired by the late 1960s Charger models. This two-door coupe features a handsome, albeit massive, exterior. At 206.6 inches long, it’s nearly 10 inches longer than the outgoing Challenger, making it one of the largest coupes on the market. Dodge plans to release a four-door version soon, which should address practicality concerns for families.

Interestingly, there’s no traditional Dodge badging on the exterior. Instead, you’ll find the “Sixpack” logo, an angry wheel bee emblem reminiscent of the Super Bee, and the revived “fratzog” triangle logo. The fratzog appears prominently on the wheel centers, the front lighting, and the rear light bar, adding a unique retro-futuristic touch. A surprising feature is the hatchback design, offering more cargo versatility than a traditional trunk. The cargo area is reasonably sized, and the rear seats fold down for even more space.

Interior: A Blend of Old and New

Inside, the Charger’s cabin is distinctly Dodge, with a bold, emotive design featuring swooping lines and vibrant interior mood lighting. The shifter has an old-school, retro feel. Material quality is a mix, with some cheap plastics alongside premium Alcantara on the seats and dashboard, plus nice stitching, leather, and carbon fiber trim. This hodgepodge of materials fits the car’s personality.

Climate controls are separate from the infotainment screen but use a touch-sensitive panel, requiring multiple taps to adjust. However, frequently used controls like the heated steering wheel, heated/cooled seats, and volume knob have dedicated physical buttons, which is a welcome touch. A “Launch” button activates a checklist for launch control, adding a bit of drama. Traditional door handles are replaced by electronic door poppers, with a manual release as a backup. Accessing the hood is surprisingly easy via a button near the headlights, a remnant from its EV origins, while the trunk release is less conveniently located on the ceiling.

The infotainment screen can be laggy, a surprising drawback for a 2026 model. However, it offers unique features like “Attitude Adjustment” to customize interior lighting and robust “Performance Pages” to track driving metrics. The digital gauge cluster is a highlight, offering multiple configurable layouts for a personalized display.

Rear Seats and Practicality

Even as a two-door coupe, the Charger’s rear seats offer good access thanks to the front seats automatically moving forward. Passengers get USB-C ports, heated rear seats, climate vents, and storage compartments. The center armrest reveals cup holders or an extra seat, allowing for five-person capacity. The large glass roof panel enhances the sense of space.

On the Road: A Modern Muscle Car Experience

Driving the Charger Sixpack is a pleasure. The twin-turbo six-cylinder engine provides strong, responsive power with no noticeable turbo lag. The 420 horsepower standard output makes the car feel genuinely fast, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures stability. While it’s not a V8, this engine is a capable performer, offering a potent mid-range torque band. The car drives like a modern muscle car – powerful, muscular, and surprisingly composed compared to its predecessors.

Value and Verdict

The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack starts around $52,000 for the standard output model, with the high-output version in the high $50,000s. This pricing positions it competitively against other performance coupes, especially considering its size and features. While the initial electric-only launch faced criticism, the return of the gasoline engine, the impressive performance of the Sixpack, and the promise of a four-door model and potentially a V8 make the new Charger a compelling and desirable vehicle. It successfully blends retro styling with modern driving dynamics, offering a significant improvement and a strong contender in the muscle car segment.

Source: The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Is Better Than You Think (YouTube)