2006 Dodge Charger Road & Track Test

I like the silver metallic bits and pieces that give the car a more upscale appearance, the centre stack being the most

The 2.7-litre SE is pretty inexpensive at $27,495, especially when tallying up all of the standard features. The 3.5-litre SXT, however, doesn't cost much more at $31,385, considering the many upgrades. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

liberal application of this treatment. The interior trim transforms from silver to body-colour when the current top-line Daytona model is chosen (a 425-horsepower SRT8 version will be available later in the year), a package that also adds perforated suede and leather sport seats, a front lip spoiler, rear wing, retro decal package and increase of 10-horsepower over the stock 5.7-litre HEMI, among other things, but more on this later.

While I want to just start gushing at how fun the car is to drive when equipped with the HEMI V8, there are a lot of reasons for choosing one of the V6 models. First of all, the 2.7-litre SE is pretty inexpensive at $27,495, especially when tallying up all of the standard features such as those 17-inch wheels and tires I previously mentioned, its AM/FM/CD audio system, and standard safety features. The latter includes electronic stability control (ESP),

Cruise control is standard, which will help optimize the Charger SE's rather thrifty fuel economy when on the highway. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

all-speed traction control, 4-wheel discs with antilock (ABS), and multiple airbags - impressive.

Of course the SE comes with standard power windows and locks, but the inclusion of remote keyless entry on the base car is a bonus. The tilt steering, expected, is enhanced by a telescopic feature which is normally relegated to higher priced models as well. Cruise control is also standard, which will help optimize the Charger SE's rather thrifty fuel economy when on the highway, a figure, at 7.7 L/100 km, that seems in sharp contrast to the car's substantial size. Its city rating is a thirstier 11.4 L/100 km, and the fuel needed is regular, thank goodness, the same throughout the model range, even the powerful HEMI. This last point saves big bucks at the pump.