After almost twenty years of absence, the Dodge Charger re-entered the automotive scene for the 2006 model year. Instead of a large coupe platform, the Charger now featured a four-door sedan body.
The Dodge Charger Hellcat Widebody is one of the coolest family cars money can buy in today’s market. Moreover, with almost 800 horsepower and about 700 lb-ft of torque, the SRT Hellcat Redeye is born-ready to put exotic cars to shame.
Most car manufacturers are headed towards electrification, and Dodge is no exception. Recently, the company revealed a fully-electric Charger concept to the public that received mixed reviews from the public. However, Dodge is preparing to end the current-gen Charger’s lineup with a banger, dubbed the ‘Last Call Edition.’
On the other hand, many buyers might prefer opting for earlier models on the used market for a lower price tag and better value. Sixth-gen Dodge Chargers offer immense power and impressive practicality without drilling a hole into your pocket. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the sixth-gen Charger’s most notable trims.
Best Performance: The 2010 Charger SRT8 Is Armed With A Hemi V8 Motor
If you want the best performance a sixth-gen Charger can offer, you should opt for a 2010 SRT8 model on the market. Dodge has armed this edition of the Charger with a massive 6.1L Hemi V8 engine that boasts as much as 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission system aids the engine to motivate the sedan’s rear wheels.
With all of that output from a naturally-aspirated V8, it is no surprise that the 2010 Charger SRT8 doesn’t offer anything remotely economical in the fuel consumption department. According to official ratings, the 2010 SRT8 puts out 13 miles to the gallon in the city and 19 on the highway (15 MPG combined). With a full tank, you can expect up to 361 before you run out of gas.
With the SRT8 trim, Dodge offers 20-inch alloy SRT design wheels, a performance-oriented suspension system, a functional hood scoop, and a rear body-color spoiler.
Most Budget-Friendly: The 2007 Charger Offers Much More Value Than Its Previous Model Year
Although 2006 Chargers are priced relatively lower than 2007 models on the used market, we highly recommend avoiding them due to many alarming problems at low mileage. According to the Car Complaints website, the 2006 edition has the most overall complaints among all Dodge Charger model years.
The most frequently-reported issue with the 2006 Charger pertains to the engine failing completely below the 100,000-mile mark. The problem was so severe that owners either had to rebuild the entire engine or swap it with a new one. Other than that, owners have complained about suspension and transmission problems, fuel system malfunctions, and flawed brakes.
The 2007 Model has significantly fewer owner complaints and is a more reliable sedan to buy. The base model comes with a 3.5L motor that puts out 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Like the previously discussed model, the 2007 Charger Base trim comes with a five-speed automatic transmission system. Since it has the lowest capacity, the base engine offers the best fuel consumption rates. Based on EPA estimations, the 3.5L powertrain offers 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway.
According to the Kelley Blue Book prices, you can find a used 2007 Charger base model well below the $8,000 mark.
Best Value: The 2009 Dodge Charger R/T Is A Reliable And Potent Sports Sedan
Last but not least, the 2009 Charger R/T offers excellent value for a performance sedan under the $10,000 mark. The R/T trim features a 5.7L Hemi V8 that puts out 368 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, you can expect 16 MPG in the city and up to 25 on the highway.
According to Car Complaints, the 2009 model was the least problematic year among sixth-gen Charger models. Besides some minor engine stalls and coolant issues, 2009 Chargers generally haven’t caused any significant headaches for the owners.
With the R/T trim, the 2009 Dodge Charger comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped seats, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats.
According to the Repair Pal website, the annual cost of ownership for a 2009 Charger sits at $630, about average for a muscle car of that era.
The 2009 Charger has no problem reaching 200,000 miles on the odometer with regular maintenance. However, if you’re the third or the fourth owner of one, it’s best to expect major engine and transmission overhauls around the 150,000-mile mark.