2006 Dodge Charger R/T Daytona Road & Track Test

What was most impressive, mind you, was the car's braking performance. Normally, a track as punishing as the VIR and a car that

Normally, a track as punishing as the VIR and a car that weighed as much as the Daytona would be a recipe for overcooked pads and potentially, warped rotors, but not with the top-line Charger. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

weighed as much as the Daytona would be a recipe for overcooked pads and potentially, warped rotors, but not with the top-line Charger. Instead, it kept on charging while the brakes kept on stopping lap after grueling lap; no wafts of brake dust billowing from between the wheel spokes, no smoke rising from under the wheel arches and definitely no flames.

Maybe it was the speed attainable down the straight that helped the brakes to cool off, thanks to that glorious sounding HEMI at full throttle. I should mention the car's right foot pedal features Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), just another reminder that this is no '60s muscle car.

Another technology that might not be as exciting to the driver but will nevertheless help inure the Daytona to the younger set is an optional DVD entertainment system, turning the comfortable rear seats into a movie theatre. The unit fits into the rear

The trunk is also practical, being 459-litres (16.2 cu ft) in size and easily accessible through a large opening. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

half of the centre console, tucking neatly out of the way when not in use.

Those who might be directionally challenged or simply away from home will appreciate the available navigation system. It's fairly simple to setup and use, and features a large, colour display that makes glancing over when driving less dangerous, but still not recommended with any nav system.

I mentioned that the rear seats are comfortable, and partially because of their ample head, hip, shoulder and foot room. The trunk is also practical, being 459-litres (16.2 cu ft) in size and easily accessible through a large opening.