On the new Charger's styling, Ken says "The latest reincarnation continues the trend from the past. The front end demands instant attention and respect while the overall impression is tough and meaty." Ken isn't crazy about the extra pair of doors, by the way.
That aside, we agreed on one thing after spending an hour looking at nearly 40 years of Charger history- the aggressive face. He explains "When I witness this new model coming at me in my rear view mirror I immediately think back to a definition of the word Charger I read recently, "To hunt down or descend upon rapidly." With that fiery furnace boiling under their hoods, no statement could be truer!"
I took Ken for a ride in the test car, where he commented on how smooth, quiet and refined the ride was, an amazing feat considering the new sedan model is quicker and better on fuel than either of his. The Hemi engine in the new model barely makes a peep in light cruising, though it snaps to attention with a testosterone laced bark when the right foot gets heavy. He was impressed, I think, but maybe a little reluctant to admit it.
So the question is: is the new Charger still a Charger? Or have the additional doors ruined the name? A checklist will help to decide. Performance? Check. With the 350 horsepower my tester offered, it will outrun most old Chargers with ease. Radical styling? It's got that too. The front end is angry and menacing, staring fear into the eyes of lesser machines. If Arnold Schwarzenegger drove a Dodge, it would be this one. Award Winning? Yes- Chryslers LX platform has a long list of acclamations and awards under its belt.
Add to all of that the warranty coverage, relative economy, comfort and refinement and you've got yourself a package that not only lives up to its namesake but also puts most modern day competition to shame.
Do you still want to overlook the new Charger R/T because of its extra doors? Didn't think so.
A nicely equipped piece of American history for the whole family is priced at $40,000.
 |
| (Photo: Justin Pritchard, Auto123.com) |
I took Ken for a ride in the test car, where he commented on how smooth, quiet and refined the ride was, an amazing feat considering the new sedan model is quicker and better on fuel than either of his. The Hemi engine in the new model barely makes a peep in light cruising, though it snaps to attention with a testosterone laced bark when the right foot gets heavy. He was impressed, I think, but maybe a little reluctant to admit it.
 |
| (Photo: Justin Pritchard, Auto123.com) |
Add to all of that the warranty coverage, relative economy, comfort and refinement and you've got yourself a package that not only lives up to its namesake but also puts most modern day competition to shame.
Do you still want to overlook the new Charger R/T because of its extra doors? Didn't think so.
A nicely equipped piece of American history for the whole family is priced at $40,000.
Article Gallery