2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (2024)

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (1)
2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (2)
2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (3)

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2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car

by Gerhard Horn

The Dodge Charger continues to be one of the best-selling full-size sedans in the US market. The reason? Dodge steadfastly sticks to the tried-and-trusted muscle car recipe: a big engine up front with the power going to the rear wheels. A V6 is standard in the base car, but a HEMI V8 with 485 horsepower is available. Its more contemporary rivals like the Nissan Maxima and Toyota Avalon have moved on to front-wheel drive for packaging and efficiency reasons, but the Charger soldiers on with right-wheel drive. And, let's not forget about the inherent all-American charm - we'll just gloss over the fact that it's actually built in Canada. The Charger is essentially a muscle car made for everyday duty: it can complete the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds (Charger Scat Pack Widebody) and take the kids to school in relative comfort.

Read in this review:

  • Exterior Design 9 /10
  • Performance 8 /10
  • Fuel Economy 6 /10
  • 8 /10
  • Infotainment & Features 9 /10
  • Reliability 9 /10
  • Safety 7 /10
  • Value For Money 9 /10

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (4)

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (5) 8.1

What is BuzzScore?

2022 Dodge Charger Changes: What’s the Difference vs the 2021 Dodge Charger?

There were very few changes last year and this year, there are even fewer. A deluxe security alarm is now fitted as standard on all trims from the Scat Pack upwards, which means that, for the purposes of this review, the only normal Charger model affected by this change is the Scat Pack. The higher SRT and SRT Hellcat models are covered in their own separate review. However, if you spec the optional Driver Convenience Group package on the lower SXT, GT, and R/T trims, this security alarm has now become part of that package too.

Pros and Cons

  • Lots of power
  • Affordable
  • Large trunk
  • Relatively comfortable
  • Loads of customization options
  • No manual transmission option
  • Low-grade interior
  • Needs more driver-assistance features
  • The V8 is thirsty

Best Deals on 2022 Dodge Charger

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (6)

2022 Dodge Charger SXT

$28,995

24,646 miles

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (7)

2022 Dodge Charger GT

$37,737

3,843 miles

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (9)

2022 Dodge Charger GT

$27,933

30,754 miles

See All Charger For Sale

2022 Dodge Charger Trims

See trim levels and configurations:

Trim Engine Transmission Drivetrain Price (MSRP)
SXT

3.6L V6 Gas

8-Speed Automatic

Rear-Wheel Drive

All-Wheel Drive

$32,645
GT

3.6L V6 Gas

8-Speed Automatic

Rear-Wheel Drive

All-Wheel Drive

$35,345
Police

3.6L V6 Gas

5.7L V8 Gas

8-Speed Automatic

Rear-Wheel Drive

All-Wheel Drive

$36,355
R/T

5.7L V8 Gas

8-Speed Automatic

Rear-Wheel Drive

$42,385
Scat Pack

6.4L V8 Gas

8-Speed Automatic

Rear-Wheel Drive

$48,745

See All 2022 Dodge Charger Trims and Specs

2022 Charger Exterior

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See All 2022 Dodge Charger Exterior Photos

Dimensions

  • Length 198.4 in

  • Wheelbase 120.2 in

  • Height 58.4 in

  • Max Width 75.0 in

  • Front Width 63.4 in

  • Rear Width 63.8 in

  • Curb Weight 4,091.0 lbs

Exterior Colors

  • F8 Green +$95
  • Frostbite +$95
  • Granite Pearlcoat +$95
  • Indigo Blue +$95
  • Smoke Show +$95
  • Triple Nickel Clearcoat +$95
  • Stinger Yellow Clearcoat, Build Out:11/05/2021 +$95
  • Stinger Yellow Clearcoat, (DISC), Build Out:11/05/2021 +$95
  • Stinger Yellow Clearcoat, Build Out:10/07/2021 +$95
  • Stinger Yellow Clearcoat, Build Out: 10/07/2021 +$95
  • Go Mango +$395
  • Hellraisin +$395
  • Octane Red Pearlcoat +$395
  • Sinamon Stick +$395
  • Electric Blue Pearlcoat, Hang on parts are black with special police paints +$500

See all 23 colors

2022 Charger Performance

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Engine and Transmission

Handling and Driving Impressions

When it comes to handling and driving, the V6 models feel more contemporary, but still cumbersome compared to its front-wheel-drive competitors from Japan. It serves a purpose, but that's about it. The V8 models are way more fun, even when driven slowly. In fact, the Charger is surprisingly fun at slow speeds. It emits a low grumble, letting other drivers in the area know that there's something dangerous in the neighborhood. Step on it, and it will growl like an old-school muscle car. Noise plays a significant role in the Charger's overall character, and the V8s provide a soundtrack that grabs your soul by the neck and throws it around like a limp doll - but in a good way.

The Dodge Charger sedan has traditionally been slated for not handling properly, opting for a comfy ride instead of a pleasurable driving experience. Yet Dodge claims the Scat Pack can pull .98g on a skidpad. For those who don't speak car nerd, it basically means there's enough grip to corner with confidence, and then some. The steering is indeed vague, but you can add some weight on models where you can select driving modes.

In Track Mode, the traction control will let you have some wayward fun before it intervenes. Even in this supposedly stiff setup, the Charger provides a compliant ride, with only larger bumps finding their way into the cabin. And the cabin is well-insulated, but the V8 soundtrack reigns supreme. Those who don't like an ever-present growl may find it annoying.

2022 Charger Interior

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See All 2022 Dodge Charger Interior Photos

Seating and Interior Space

  • 2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (31)

    Seating capacity

    5-seater

  • Front Leg Room 41.8 in

  • Front Head Room 38.6 in

  • Rear Leg Room 40.1 in

  • Rear Head Room 36.6 in

2022 Charger Trunk and Cargo Space

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  • 2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (38)

    Trunk Volume

    16.1 ft³

2022 Charger Safety and Reliability

Warranty

  • Basic:

    3 Years\36,000 Miles

  • Drivetrain:

    5 Years\100,000 Miles

  • Corrosion:

    5 Years\Unlimited Miles

  • Roadside Assistance:

    5 Years\60,000 Miles

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

  • Overall Rating

  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating

  • Side Crash Rating

  • Rollover Rating

Verdict: Is the 2022 Dodge Charger A Good Car?

Looking at rivals for the Dodge Charger in the same price bracket, you'll note that it's a sea of drab and dreary. Perhaps the sedan is responsible for its own demise, with crossovers at least offering something interesting to look at and a lifestyle to go with it. Dodge's main aim for the Charger was obviously performance and driver enjoyment. It's a laugh-out-loud kinda car, and we respect that.

To keep it cheap, sacrifices had to be made. Every model in the line-up has a somewhat shoddy interior, and the standard features list is not exactly comprehensive. All of the good stuff is stuck behind a paywall, and you have to add extra if you want any kind of luxury tech or driver assistance systems. The infotainment system deserves to be praised, however.

What the Dodge lacks in features, it makes up for in character. By saving a penny here, and a few bucks there, Dodge provides real muscle cars at an affordable price. You get a comfortable interior with the basics, rear-wheel drive, and a massive engine up front. The Charger is unashamedly honest about what it is, and we appreciate that.

Check out other Dodge Charger Styles

Charger SRT Hellcat Compare

2022 Dodge Charger Comparisons

2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (40) Chrysler
2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (41) Dodge
CompetitorHorsepowerMPGPrice (MSRP)
Dodge Charger370 hp16/25 mpg$34,730
Chrysler 300292 hp19/30 mpg$35,515
Dodge Challenger303 hp19/30 mpg$32,465

2022 Dodge Charger vs Chrysler 300

There are various sedans available in this price range, but only the Chrysler 300 offers the same blend of V8 power and American pride in comparison to the new Dodge Charger. Sold by the same mother ship, Stellantis made sure they don't tread on each other's turf too much. The Chrysler is more of a luxury offering, while the Charger is built for performance. This much is apparent by just looking at them. The Dodge Charger is a car with an aggressive stance, while the 300 is more elegant. The Charger can also be had with a 475-hp V8, while the most powerful engine available in the 300 is the same 5.7-liter V8 used in the mid-spec Charger, but putting out slightly less power at 363 hp. It depends entirely on how much luxury or fun you want to have when deciding on a winner in this competition. The Chrysler offers leather seats with heating and cooling functions and even climate-controlled cupholders. The Dodge comes with line lock and can smoke a set of rear tires within one glorious afternoon. Choose your weapon.

See Chrysler 300 Review

2022 Dodge Charger vs Dodge Challenger

Due to the lack of V8-powered sedans, there is only one other rival that provides a combination of reasonable space and old-school muscle, and that's the Dodge Challenger. It uses the same platform and engines as the Charger, and its interior is more spacious than its natural rivals, the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro. Everything said in this review is true of the Challenger as well. The main difference is a lack of rear doors and an obvious dip in rear headroom and legroom. Still, it's perfectly fine for two adults over short distances. The 16.2 cube trunk is also nearly as big.

Choosing between these two boils down to choosing style over practicality. The Challenger's retro design is appealing, and there's just a $2,000 difference in cost between the Dodge Charger and Challenger. If practicality isn't a priority, it might be worth looking at the Challenger as a more interesting, yet equally enjoyable, alternative; if you need the rear-seat space, the Dodge Charger is best.

See Dodge Challenger Review

2022 Dodge Charger Popular Comparisons

The most popular competitors of 2022 Dodge Charger:

Chrysler 300 $35,515 - $55,000 Price (MSRP)

Compare

Ford Mustang Coupe $27,770 - $32,795 Price (MSRP)

Compare

Chevrolet Camaro Coupe $26,400 - $44,900 Price (MSRP)

Compare

Nissan Maxima $38,340 - $44,450 Price (MSRP)

Compare

Toyota Avalon $36,825 - $43,525 Price (MSRP)

Compare

Toyota Avalon Hybrid $37,850 - $44,150 Price (MSRP)

Compare

See All 6 Comparisons

Dodge Charger News

Muscle Cars 10 Vote For America's Best Looking Police Cruiser Police departments have submitted some incredible designs Rumor 9 UPDATE: New Dodge Challenger And Charger WON'T Retain V8 Engines Sources suggest the next generation Charger and Challenger will be made available with V8 power and rear-wheel drive. Opinion 10 Why An EV Muscle Car Could Be The Greatest Thing Ever EVs and muscle cars already do the same job.
2022 Dodge Charger Review: Everyday Muscle Car (2024)

FAQs

Is the Dodge Charger a true muscle car? ›

For more than a decade, modern-day muscle cars like the Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger have been built for protection, with steel safety frames and side guard door beams engineered to protect the cabin in case of impact.

Is it hard to maintain a Dodge Charger? ›

The average maintenance cost of a Dodge Charger is $652 per year. This amount is lower than the industry average maintenance costs for vehicles, which is $792 annually. This popular vehicle also has an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is an above-average score.

What is so good about a Dodge Charger? ›

Dodge Charger Energetic V8 Motor

The Dodge Charger is a muscle car that is known for its powerful V8 engines. These engines are capable of providing high levels of performance, making the Charger a great choice for those who want a fast and fun car to drive.

Why is Dodge getting rid of muscle cars? ›

Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has announced that the current versions of the Charger and Challenger will be their last, at least for the foreseeable future. Production officially ended in December 2023 due to the parent company's transition to cleaner and more efficient electric vehicles (EVs).

Is a Dodge Charger a practical car? ›

The Dodge Charger is a great choice for families who want a practical car with plenty of room and impressive performance. If you're looking for a family-friendly sports car, the Dodge Charger is an excellent choice. It has plenty of space, it's safe, and it's fun to drive.

Is a Charger a sports or muscle car? ›

The modern age recognises it as a high-performance sedan with the characteristics of a muscle car. However, older generations and classic car enthusiasts look at it as a redefining and muscular car. The Dodge Charger is, without doubt, one of the most iconic American cars to have ever existed.

What is the lifespan of a Dodge Charger? ›

Longevity and Durability

Generally, Chargers are expected to last between 150,000 to 250,000 miles, a range supported by user experiences shared on forums and automotive communities.

Do Dodge Chargers hold their value well? ›

The 2022 Dodge Charger is our top pick for the best model year value for the Charger. With the 2022, you would only pay, on average, 100% of the price as new, with 100% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2021 and 2014 model years are also attractive years for the Charger, and provide a relatively good value.

How many miles can a Dodge Charger go on a full tank? ›

The Charger has a driving range of over 425 miles on a single tank of gas when you combine the city and highway miles per gallon numbers. Looking at fuel economy, the 2022 Charger sports 18 miles per gallon city, 23 highway MPG, and 30 combined MPG.

Why do police like Dodge Chargers? ›

The Charger is fast enough to keep up with pretty much any high-speed chase on the road, which is another factor as to why the police love it so much. After all, if people rob a bank and hop into a car to speed off, you'll be wanting the Dodge Charger to go after it rather than another, less powerful car.

What is the best year for Dodge Chargers? ›

2020 Dodge Charger

Specifically, 2020 is one of the best Dodge Charger model years because it introduced the highest-performance version of the Charger: the Dodge Charger Hellcat Redeye. This year also followed in the footsteps of 2019's top-rated reliability.

Why do people love Dodge Chargers? ›

It Embodies a Cool Style

The wide stance exterior, trademark grill, and distinctive sheet metal mean the Charger looks the part of an American muscle icon. Americans also love wide-open spaces, and the cabin of the Dodge Charger is spacious, with high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces throughout.

Which is the best Dodge muscle car? ›

Turns out, the Dodge Challenger is still the #1 muscle car in their hearts, garnering 42.5% of the votes. Commenters praised its retro styling, calling it a modern classic.

Why muscle cars are dying? ›

Design constraints were soon introduced in the 1970s, producing cars that looked generally the same regardless of manufacturer. This killed the aggressive styling of traditional muscle cars, while many of these iconic vehicles simply became far too expensive for most drivers to insure.

Why are muscle cars not popular anymore? ›

As those model years indicate, the heyday of the muscle car was the late 1960s and early 1970s, before the 1970s oil crisis made them unsustainable for most drivers.

What makes a true muscle car? ›

Features of muscle cars

Powerful engine: Muscle cars have engines typically V8 or larger and have more horsepower than most cars. High speed: The powerful engine in a muscle car allows it to reach high speeds. While sports cars can safely speed through tight turns, muscle cars need to slow down while turning.

What is a Dodge Charger classified as? ›

The Dodge Charger is considered a muscle car. WHAT DOES GT MEAN ON A DODGE CHARGER? The abbreviation GT in the Dodge Charger trim name derives from the Italian term Gran Turismo, or Grand Touring in English.

Is Dodge SRT a muscle car? ›

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT® is available in six jaw-dropping models, including the Challenger SRT Super Stock—the quickest muscle car 1.

Is the Dodge Charger Daytona a muscle car? ›

STILL THE WORLD'S MOST POWERFUL MUSCLE CAR 2

With 670 horsepower, the Charger Daytona Scat Pack is expected to target 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds and target a 1/4 mile in 11.5 seconds.

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