Dodge last updated the Charger in 2015. The effort included redesigned front and rear fascias, new wheel and color combinations, and updated switchgear. In that time, the model remains competitive. For 2019, its maker gives the Charger minor updates.
With the shift to SUVs and crossovers, many sedans have seen their powertrain lineups pared down to one or two popular, mainstream options. The Charger is the exception to this, with four engine options across its five trims. Drivers can find the volume engine in the SXT and GT grades. It features a 292-horsepower, 260 pound-foot 3.6-liter V6 coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Previously, the SXT was rear-wheel drive (RWD) only and the GT was all-wheel drive (AWD) only. For 2019, each is available with standard RWD or optional AWD. AWD models see performance increase to 300 hp and 264 lb-ft. The full-size Charger returns 19 mpg, 30 highway, and 23 combined.
Next is the R/T trim. It employs a 5.7-liter V8, rated at 370 hp and 395 lb-ft to drive the rear wheels. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic. For 2019, Dodge makes the entire performance suite standard on the R/T trim. This includes an optimized hood, front fascia, sculpted side seals, spoiler, and bolstered seats. There’s also a performance suspension, enhanced steering, a sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, and special performance menus in the infotainment system.
The R/T Scat Pack comes with a 6.4-liter V8, putting out 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with the same 8-speed automatic and also features upgraded Brembo brakes. Launch assist and Line Lock are two new standard features for 2019. These allow the car to automatically optimize launch performance from a standstill. Drivers can access these features, along with Launch Control, from a new switch on the dashboard. Along with that, R/T Scat Pack sees airflow upgrades and new appearance options.
Finally, there's the infamous SRT Hellcat. It employs a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 capable of an earth-shattering 707 hp and 650 lb-ft, plus a heavy-duty 8-speed automatic. For 2019, there's a new performance grille with dual inlets that force cooler air into the engine bay. There's also Launch Assist, Line Lock, and an after-run chiller; the latter continues actively cooling the supercharger and charge air cooler after the engine turns off. Like some of the other trims, the SRT Hellcat has other appearance options to choose from for 2019. One of these options is a new set of 20-inch “Brass Monkey” forged wheels, as well as an Alcantara interior package.
Standard amenities on the Charger include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 17-inch wheels, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless access and start, LED daytime-running lights, and LED taillights. Options, depending on trim, include HID headlights, myriad upgraded wheels, remote start, LED fog lights, leather upholstery, a larger 8.4-inch infotainment system with navigation, heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, satellite radio, navigation, upgraded sound systems.
Every Charger comes standard with a reversing camera, reversing sensors, rain brake support, and rear cross-path detection. Options include full-speed forward-collision warning with active braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high-beam headlights. As an older model, the Charger achieved average crash scores in its most recent round of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests.
The Charger is one of the few cars defending the virtues of the classic American sedan. With handsome proportions, plenty of space and technology, and powertrains ranging from the everyday to the extraordinary, it continues to hold appeal for a wide range of people.
