Dodge Charger 2025: The Last Year of the Classic Muscle Car

Last Updated: 04.12.2024

The current generation Charger has been around since 2008 and it makes sense to see a replacement as soon as possible. Looking at the numbers, however, it’s hard to argue with Dodge’s management. It’s still one of the most popular muscle cars on the market and as such, the company is in no rush to make any changes. Presumably, the current generation will remain in production for a few more years, with the Dodge Charger being the final version of the current car.

Dodge Charger sedan

This suggests a lack of major modifications, be it engines, styling or anything else. We’re looking forward to a familiar layout, although there’s always the possibility of seeing a special version on offer. Remember, this is the last year of production and versions like this are always a great way to say goodbye.

What’s new ?

For , Dodge is making only minor changes to the Charger lineup. The Driver Convenience Group package now includes a deluxe security alarm, which should come in handy should someone try to boost (read: steal) an owner’s prized ride. The alarm is now standard on Scat Pack models as well.

Dodge Charger – Image: Disclosure / Dodge

In our opinion, the Charger R/T, with its 370-hp 5.7-liter V-8, offers the perfect blend of performance and features. Those who want all-wheel drive are limited to the V-6 versions. The larger 485-hp V-8 that comes with the Scat package makes acceleration great again, but costs about $4,300 more than the R/T.

In addition to a standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, our picks include a pulsating dual-mode exhaust, leather-wrapped performance steering wheel and 20-inch rims. We’d also add the Driver Convenience Group (blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, heated outside mirrors and upgraded headlights) and the Performance Handling Group (20-inch wheels with all-season tires, Brembo brakes and sport-tuned suspension).

Engine, transmission and performance

The Charger channels its NASCAR roots with big V-8 power and loud sounds. However, not every Charger has a mighty Hemi V-8 under the hood – too bad – but all share an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive. In contrast, the V-6 is muted, but adds the availability of all-wheel drive. Dodge doesn’t build a Charger with a manual transmission, but it would be so much cooler if it did. The standard V-6 isn’t lazy, but it lacks the giddiness of front-drivers like the Nissan Maxima EV .

The more powerful versions excel at the strip, where the 485-hp Charger R/T Scat Pack posted an impressive 3.8-second sprint to 60 mph. The 370-hp Charger has enough ponies to outrun most family sedans. The bright (Green Go) Charger we drove around town had a smooth and composed ride. Its big 20-inch wheels were relaxed on most surfaces, but obstacles like railroad crossings and potholes disrupted its composure. The big-displacement sedan was also remarkably balanced around corners. Although the V-6 version we tested had nearly identical cornering grip, the Daytona’s hefty horsepower advantage added to the fun. The electrically assisted power steering adds to the Charger’s focused control, but its feedback is too heavy and too slow to intervene. We tested several emergency braking chargers and the best results came from the heavy-duty models with improved brakes and stickier summer tires.

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 movie. Aside from excellent rear-seat legroom, passenger space is slightly below average. The cabin’s simple design is classic muscle car, but options are plentiful.

Although its trunk capacity is similar to most rivals, the Charger was able to fit one more carry-on bag than its competitors. It held a total of 18 with the rear seat stowed, beating the Maxima and Kia Stinger hatchback by three. The center console offers plenty of storage for small items and a slot next to the gearshift lever that’s perfect for stashing your smartphone.

Infotainment and connectivity

Every Challenger comes with 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. Although the system we tested produces good response times, some optional controls are only accessible via the touchscreen; a Wi-Fi hotspot is also unavailable.