2021 Dodge Charger Pros vs Cons
With over two decades in automotive experience, Norman Ruckpaul leverages his extensive background to help readers at Car Buying Strategies. His career in dealer management includes test driving and appraising hundreds of vehicles at the dealership level. At Car Buying Strategies, Norman uses his deep expertise of vehicle performance and shopping tactics to guide readers in selecting optimal cars and securing the best deals, while maintaining a customer-first philosophy.
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Muscle car fans who prioritize practicality should take a serious look at the 2021 Dodge Charger. Not only does the new Charger offer enough room for families, but it also packs a serious amount of performance. Meanwhile, an available AWD system makes this large sedan ideal for rough winters. Here’s why car shoppers should consider buying a new Dodge Charger.
What’s New for 2021?
The big news for 2021 is the release of the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye, which is the most powerful model in the car’s history. Dodge also equips the AWD-equipped Charger models with a new set of 20-inch wheels.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Dodge Charger – The Pros
1. V6 Models Are Great for Daily Commuting
Drivers who aren’t seeking an adrenaline rush should strongly consider the V6-powered Charger. It’s ideal for drivers who need a daily family vehicle. Fuel economy maxes out at a rewarding 30 mpg on the freeway. However, there’s still more than enough motivation under the hood. Dodge tunes it to develop up to 300 horsepower. Whether accelerating past a slow-moving vehicle or merging onto the interstate, the V6-powered Charger is definitely up to the task.
2. Very Fun V8 Models
Folks seeking more fun should choose one of the Charger’s available Hemi V8 engines. The 5.7-liter engine cranks out a grin-inducing 485 horsepower. This is enough muscle to produce a swift 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. Meanwhile, Dodge’s available supercharged V8 engine raises the performance meter with 717 horsepower. Drivers can accelerate to 60 mph in as quickly as 3.6 seconds. All Charger models equipped with a V8 engine have an aggressive sound.
3. Handles and Rides Well
Tipping the scales at over 4,000 pounds, the 2021 Dodge Charger is quite heavy. However, don’t let this car’s extra heft fool you. It handles surprisingly well on twisty roads. To experience the best possible handling, choose a model that comes equipped with a Widebody package. This kit adds an extra-wide set of performance tires, which instantly transform the Charger into a more athletic car. Meanwhile, travelers will appreciate this sedan’s supple ride.
4. All-New SRT Hellcat Redeye
For 2021, a new SRT Hellcat Redeye model hits the Charger’s lineup. It’s the quickest and most potent Charger to ever hit the streets. Dodge specially tunes its supercharged engine to unleash 797 horsepower. When behind the wheel of the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye, drivers will be able to shame the average sports car. A cool Torque Reserve feature enables this beast to accelerate aggressively when called upon. A few other performance goodies come standard on the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye, including the previously mentioned Widebody kit.
5. Has an Intimidating Look That Catches the Eye
The 2021 Dodge Charge will rarely be mistaken for another vehicle. It has several distinguishing design cues. On the front, onlookers will notice the Charger’s chic headlights. Performance models come equipped with a vented hood. There are some intriguing appearance packages on the car’s list of options. Dodge’s new Brass Monkey package adds exclusive 20-inch brass wheels and a satin black spoiler. The car’s popular Blacktop appearance package also returns this year, which decks out the exterior with a number of blacked-out treatments.
6. More Practical Than a Traditional Muscle Car
The 2021 Dodge Charger gets top marks in the practicality department. It’s a superb alternative to a traditional muscle car. Many people buy the Charger for its overall spaciousness. Even tall people will find the Charger to be more than adequate. Its backseat provides the legroom that a growing family needs. Upgraded amenities, like heated/ventilated seats, further improve comfort. Families will also appreciate the Charger’s 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space.
7. All-Wheel Drive Offered
In the past, the Charger was only offered with a rear-wheel-drive system. This feature limited the sedan’s ability to handle wintry conditions. Luckily, models equipped with a V6 engine now offer an optional AWD system. When snow is in the weather forecast, owners will be thankful for the enhanced traction. As you approach slippery pavement, the AWD-equipped Charger automatically seeks to improve grip. Other modern-day muscle cars, like the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro, still do not offer all-wheel drive.
8. Top-Rated Uconnect Infotainment System
Although there are some other great infotainment units on the market, Dodge’s Uconnect system continues to impress. Many users adore this touchscreen interface’s easy-to-use design. From accessing navigation maps to streaming mobile apps, Uconnect simplifies every task. High-output versions of the Charger feature a built-in Performance Pages app. With the use of this app, drivers can retrieve a long list of performance data. This includes 0-60 mph times, oil pressure, and battery voltage.
9. Harman Kardon Premium Sound System
Two premium audio systems are available for the 2021 Dodge Charger. Most drivers will be happy with the nine-speaker Alpine unit. However, music listeners seeking the best possible sound should upgrade to the Harman Kardon unit. This 19-speaker unit consistently ranks among the best-sounding audio systems in the business. A 12-channel amplifier and a 10.0-inch subwoofer help ensure excellent bass.
10. Advanced Safety Technologies
Even the Charger’s high-performance models offer advanced safety technologies. According to reviewers, the sedan’s adaptive cruise control system performs exceptionally well. It smoothly lowers your speed when traffic begins to slow. Drivers will also benefit from the blind-spot monitor, which produces a warning when it’s unsafe to change lanes. Automatic emergency braking, active lane control, and auto high beams are a few of the other advanced driving aids.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Dodge Charger – The Cons
1. High-Performance Models Deliver Poor City Fuel Economy
Drivers who opt for one of the Charger’s high-performance models should plan on spending extra at the pump. According to the latest EPA fuel economy ratings, trims outfitted with a 6.4-liter Hemi engine will deliver around 15 mpg in town. Meanwhile, upgrading to the supercharged Hemi engine lowers efficiency in the city to only 12 mpg. Prospective buyers should also consider the fact that premium gasoline is a necessity.
2. Low Reliability Rating
Don’t expect the new 2021 Dodge Charger to be the most dependable car in the class. In terms of long-term reliability, the Charger receives a two out of five rating. Most competitors have a higher rating. After Dodge’s original warranty expires, Charger owners should set aside some extra money for repairs.
3. High-Performance Models Cost More
The Dodge Charger is considered to be a great value for a high-powered muscle car. Nevertheless, some models are a bit too expensive for the average motorist. Prices for the Charger SRT Hellcat start at nearly $70,000 before adding any upgrades. Expect the new SRT Hellcat Redeye model to approach $80,000.
4. No All-Wheel-Drive V8
Dodge doesn’t offer all-wheel drive on any V8 Charger model. Folks who need more traction must settle from the standard V6 engine. This means a major reduction in performance.
5. Rear Outward Visibility Could Be Better
Some people have complained about this sedan’s rearward visibility. Its smaller rear window and thick pillars can block the driver’s view from certain angles. On the bright side, the Charger’s standard rearview camera proves to be a big help when backing up. Buyers also have access to an optional blind-spot monitor.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
2021 Dodge Charger Vs 2021 Kia Stinger
Some car shoppers will be comparing the new Charger to the 2021 Kia Stinger. A longer, 100,000-mile warranty gives the Stinger an edge in long-term value. Meanwhile, drivers who need to haul extra cargo will enjoy the Stinger’s hatchback design. While the Stinger is quick, it’s no match for the Charger SRT Hellcat. There’s also more passenger room inside the Charger.
2021 Dodge Charger Vs 2021 Acura TLX
The redesigned Acura TLX is one of today’s most improved sports sedans. Automotive reviewers applaud the new TLX for its high-tech cabin and athletic handling. However, drivers can expect the Charger to have a more powerful road presence. Dodge also offers far more special appearance upgrades for the Charger.
2021 Dodge Charger Vs 2021 Dodge Challenger
When hunting for a new muscle car, many Dodge fans will be deciding between the Charger and the Challenger. Some drivers will ultimately favor the Challenger’s retro styling. You can also get the Challenger with a traditional manual transmission. While the Challenger is a great pick, a two-door design makes it less suitable for families.
Conclusion
The 2021 Dodge Charger remains a multipurpose muscle car. Not only does the Charger boast enough performance to thrill driving enthusiasts, but it’s also practical enough to be a family vehicle. Even the most expensive European sedans will have trouble keeping up with the all-new SRT Hellcat Redeye model. Although the Charger looks great in its standard form, models outfitted with a Widebody package will really turn heads.
There are a few weak areas for the 2021 Dodge Charger. Some models deliver rather poor fuel economy in heavy traffic. Reliability also isn’t a strong point. If these issues don't turn you away, the Charger is bound to be a satisfying choice.
