Overview

Sharing platforms with the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Charger replaced the Dodge Intrepid when it was launched in 2006. The rear-wheel-drive sedan is offered with a choice of 6- and 8-cylinder engines in rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations. Like the Dodge Challenger, the Charger is available in a performance-tuned SRT8 trim with a 425-horsepower, 6.1-liter, HEMI V-8 engine. The 2010 model year improvements are minor. They include standard side curtain air bags across the model range and cosmetic enhancements to the exterior.

• Standard side curtain air bags on all models
• New black rocker-sill cladding on all models
• New chrome grille with black inserts for the SE model

The Dodge charger has been through three distinct incarnations: as a high-performance coupe in the 1960s and 70s, a subcompact in the 80s, and a full-size sedan since the 2006 model year. The 2010 Dodge Charger straddles the line between a muscle car and a powerful family sedan.

The 2010 Charger is offered in five trim levels, each one building on the previous in terms of features and luxuries. The base trim has rear-wheel drive and 17-inch wheels, full power accessories, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, and a four-speaker sound system. The 3.5 trim offers 18-inch wheels with an all-wheel-drive option. The Rallye trim has the larger wheels as standard, and adds foglamps and upgraded seats, with various option packages available. The R/T trim adds many of the Rallye options as standard, and steps up to a V8 engine. Options packages can add larger wheels, sport steering and suspension, higher-performance tires, and other amenities.

The top-line trim, SRT8, adds a bigger V8 engine, high-performance brakes, limited-slip rear differential, and upgraded exterior trim, with options that include upgraded instruments, sound system, and media center.

The base-level engine is a 178-hp, 2.7-liter V6 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5 and Rallye trim levels receive a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 250 hp, plus a choice of a four- or five-speed automatic gearbox. The top two trims have V8 engines. The R/T's powertrain includes a 368-hp, 5.7-liter V8 that produces 368 hp, while the SRT8 has a 6.1-liter V8 that delivers 425 hp and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. EPA fuel estimates range from 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the smallest V6 engine to 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the SRT8 V8.

Starting MSRP for the 2010 Dodge Charger ranges from $24,590 to $38,180.