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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Overview
The 2021 Dodge Charger recalls the days when most full-size sedans had rear-wheel drive and rumbly V-8 engines. But the big Dodge sedan also caters to modern society with popular options such as all-wheel drive and contemporary technology.
The latter consists of extensive driver assists as well as an excellent infotainment system. Of course, the Charger's broad appeal also stems from its cool appearance packages, alluring performance equipment, and largely affordable pricing.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
While its interior suffers from some low-quality materials, and models rolling on the largest wheels have a harsher ride, its roomy cabin and large trunk essentially make it a practical muscle car.
Sure, there's nothing too muscular about the standard V-6, but either of the optional Hemi V-8s have the sound and power to tug.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
What's New for 2021?
For 2021, the Charger lineup receives the smallest of updates. The GT AWD model now comes standard with 20-inch wheels, which are also newly optional on the SXT AWD.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Pricing and Which One to Buy
I think the Charger R/T, with its 370-hp 5.7-liter V-8, has the perfect mix of power and features. Those who want all-wheel drive are limited to the V-6 versions.
The bigger 485-hp V-8 that comes with the Scat Pack makes accelerating great again but costs about $5000 more than the R/T.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Along with a standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, My choice includes a throbbing dual-mode exhaust, a leather-wrapped performance steering wheel, and 20-inch rims.
I'd also add the Driver Convenience Group (blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, heated exterior mirrors, and upgraded headlights) and the Performance Handling Group (20-inch wheels with all-season performance tires, Brembo brakes, and sport-tuned suspension).
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Charger channels its NASCAR roots with big V-8 power and rowdy sounds. However, not every Charger has a mighty Hemi V-8 under the hood—what a pity—but they do all share an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive.
In contrast, the V-6 is subdued but does add the availability of all-wheel drive. Dodge doesn't build a Charger with a manual gearbox, but it would be so much cooler if it did. The standard V-6 is no slouch, yet it lacks the giddy-up of front-drivers such as the Nissan Maxima.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
The more powerful versions excel at the strip, where the 485-hp Charger R/T Scat Pack posts an impressive 3.8-second to 60 mph. The 370-hp Charger has enough HPs to outrun most family sedans. The big-bodied sedan is remarkably balanced when cornering, too.
Although the V-6 version has nearly identical cornering grip, the Daytona's hefty horsepower advantage amplified the fun. The electrically assisted power steering contributes to the Charger's purposeful control, but its feedback is too heavy and slow to be engaging.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Charger's interior is highly functional yet the opposite of luxurious, with more rubberized materials than the set of an adult film.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Apart from excellent rear-seat legroom, its passenger space is slightly below average. The cabin's simplistic design is classic muscle car, but options are plentiful.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Although its trunk volume is similar to those of most rivals, the Charger is able to fit an extra carry-on box than its rivals. It holds 18 total with the rear seat stowed, beating the Maxima and the fastback-hatchback Kia Stinger by three.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Its center console features plenty of spots for small items and a slot alongside the shifter that is perfect for storing your smartphone.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Challenger has a version of the excellent Uconnect infotainment system.
That means standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as part of a 7.0-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen. Some optional controls can only be accessed via the touchscreen; a Wi-Fi hotspot also is unavailable.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Charger earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the last version evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) had only average scores.
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| 2021 Dodge Charger |
The Dodge sedan does offer a host of driver-assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking.
However, these features cost extra, and base models are excluded from the most advanced options.
Key safety features include:
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available forward collision warning
2021 Dodge Charger
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Dodge provides an average limited and power-train warranty set that aligns with the Maxima's coverage, but the Kia Cadenza has a significantly longer power-train warranty and the Toyota Avalon offers complimentary maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Power-train warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance.
2021 Dodge Charger
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