Just walking up to the bright red Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack, a high-performance version of this otherwise-ordinary midsize sedan, is enough to make the heart beat a little faster. With its Widebody package of bulging fenders hiding steamroller-sized tires, this is an automobile that isn’t about to take any guff.
As manufacturers did with the original muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s, the Dodge engineering team squeezed in the biggest motor they could fit under the hood: a huge 6.4-liter V8 putting out a beastly 485 horsepower. Once you get past its visceral exhaust note, you have an engine that will propel this Charger variant from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a supercar-like 4.2 seconds.
Its performance aside, the regular Charger sedan is also a fine family car. with appointments such as an adult-friendly back seat, a large trunk and a long list of desirable standard features.
Despite these common-sense qualities, this car’s appeal speaks more to the heart than it does to the head.
STRENGTHS
- Exhilarating to drive
- Large 16.5 cubic-foot trunk
WEAKNESSES
- Fuel economy is disappointing
- Front seats may be a snug fit for larger individuals.
BOTTOM LINE
- This is a car that no one needs—but lots of folks want anyway.
PRICING
- Base Price: $39,995
- As Tested: $51,570
SAFETY
- NHTSA: Overall 5 Stars (top rating)
M.P.G. (city/highway)
- 15/24 (6.4L V8/automatic)
