2017 Dodge Charger Pros vs Cons

The 2017 Dodge Charger is part family sedan and part performance vehicle, and an all-around great car. One of the top American performance sedans available today, the Charger blends technology, comfort, utility, and power into one winning package. With tons of available options both inside and out, this vehicle is a recommended choice for any driver. The 2017 Charger has a wide range of excellent features, but it also has a few drawbacks that need to be considered.

What’s New For 2017

With the arrival of the 2017 model year, Dodge has unveiled a number of changes for the Charger. The popular Daytona trim package has returned, and some of the other available trim packages have also added new performance and styling features. Inside, the Charger’s available Uconnect infotainment system has received an upgrade, now boasting an 8.4-inch touchscreen as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Dodge Charger – The Pros

1. Exciting Exterior Styling

The 2017 Dodge Charger is a gorgeous, aggressively-styled vehicle. From its grille to its tail, the Charger has a sleek and athletic look. It takes styling cues from the classic muscle cars of the past and the luxury performance vehicles of today. The optional twin pinstripes on the higher-level models make it look even better.

2. A Large Number of Great Trim Packages

The 2017 Dodge Charger boasts a wide array of trim packages and stand-alone options. The base model SE already comes equipped with some great features, and the SXT model adds the Uconnect infotainment system and more. The R/T and Daytona models come with a larger V8 engine and tack on even more performance and cosmetic features. Finally, the SRT Hellcat boasts a supercharged engine with an amazing amount of power. Automatic and Manual Transmissions are available.

3. Powerful Engine Options

Chief among the choices given to buyers of new 2017 Dodge Charger’s are three distinct engine options. The base V6 engine has a solid 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, and also delivers great fuel economy. The available 5.7-liter V8 ups the power to 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque, and it delivers power at all speeds. Finally, the Hellcat has a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 power plant under the hood and delivers over 700 horsepower. All three engines are among the best available among four-door sedans.

4. Available All-Wheel Drive System

The 2017 Dodge Charger features a great all-wheel drive system in its V6 models. Equipped with this excellent transmission, the Charger handles great in all road conditions and gives drivers the confidence that they will maintain traction no matter how poor the weather may become.

5. Great Fuel Economy with V6 Engine

The 2017 Charger’s base model V6 engine performs well, and it does so efficiently. The Charger’s 30 highway and 23 combined miles per gallon fuel economy is among the leaders in its category, despite the vehicle’s relatively heavy weight.

6. Powerful Hellcat Model

All of the available models of the 2017 Charger boast great power and acceleration, but the top-of-the-line SRT Hellcat model is a whole other level of performance. Its supercharged 6.2-liter engine is one of the most powerful on the market today, boasting an incredible 707 horsepower and rocketing from 0-60 in just 3.7 seconds.

7. Smooth Ride

The 2017 Dodge Charger features a soft, smooth suspension that is forgiving and comfortable even over the roughest terrain. With a host of sport-tuned suspensions available, drivers can choose which blend of comfort and responsiveness suits them best.

8. Responsive Handling

Speaking of the available sport-tuned suspension models available, those at the more performance end of the scale give the 2017 Dodge Charger some of the best handling in its class. Steering is tightened considerably over the base models, and the car stays level even on tight, high-speed turns. At all levels of suspension, the 2017 Charger drives great.

9. Roomy Interior

The 2017 Dodge Charger was conceived and designed as a powerful performance vehicle. Dodge could probably have gotten away with a spare, cramped interior, given how well the car drives. However, the Charger’s cabin is roomy and well-designed, with plenty of space for occupants in both rows of seats. The dash is attractive, and the optional leather and suede upholstery both look and feel great.

10. Uconnect Infotainment System

With its well-engineered, easy to use design, the Charger’s available Uconnect system allows drivers to control the vehicles various entertainment and information systems quickly and easily. Its new, larger screen for the 2017 model year makes the system more user-friendly, and more attractive, than ever.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Dodge Charger – The Cons

1. Poor Gas Mileage in V8 models

The Dodge Charger’s optional V8 is a heavy, high-performing engine, and as a result, it has less than ideal gas mileage. The R/T model manages only 19 combined mpg, and the ultra-high powered Hellcat 16 mpg combined. Drivers looking for a more efficient drive should consider the smaller V6 engine.

2. Basic Interior

The Charger’s interior is less refined than some of its rivals. While it still functional and attractive, those drivers looking for a luxury cabin might find this vehicle’s lacking. Still, for the majority of drivers, the Charger’s spacious interior will give them no complaints.

3. Firm ride with Sport Suspension

The Dodge Charger’s base suspension provides a smooth, comfortable ride. Drivers looking for more performance might choose the sport-tuned suspension upgrade, and though this feature results in excellent handling, it also results in a somewhat stiff ride. Buyers should think carefully about what kind of driving experience they are looking for when choosing between suspension options.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The 2017 Dodge Charger occupies a unique position among four-door sedans. Tamer vehicles like the Toyota Avalon or the Buick LaCrosse might be a bit more practical and refined, but the Charger is far more stylish and powerful. The Chevrolet Camaro SS can keep pace with the Charger in performance but lags behind in versatility. Overall, the Charger offers a good blend of excitement and utility that is comparable or better than the best vehicles in its class.

Conclusion

The 2017 Dodge Charger is a four-door sedan that both looks and drives great. It has numerous powerful engine and transmission options, and it has style both inside and out. It is a fun vehicle, while at the same time it is still somewhat practical. Drivers that want a four-door vehicle they will love to drive for years to come would be well served by checking out the new Charger.