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2006 Dodge Charger ::
The venerable Dodge Charger returns but this time it's a sedan. It's not that we think the Charger can't be a coupe, it's just that we know a four-door sedan with Dodge Charger badging on the trunk is bound to cause controversy. Frankly, we're thankful Dodge altered the Charger's course. Armchair automotive designers seem to forget that the last Charger was a four-cylinder, front-wheel-drive car based on the deplorable Dodge Omni. First introduced as a 1966 model, the Dodge Charger had a unique look with a sweeping fastback and concealed headlights.
But it's the second generation of the Charger that was most popular. This was the one the Duke boys drove, the one that was turned into a race-wining Daytona and the one most enthusiasts associate with the name Charger. In 1999 Dodge started showing an all-new Charger concept that drew heavily on the 1968-'70 look. Although hopes were high for that great-looking show car, it simply wasn't meant to be. A few years later Dodge introduced the new Charger as a 2006 model without the dramatic sheet metal. But the new Charger is aggressive-looking in its own way, and true to its roots, it's rear-wheel drive. The angled headlights and large grille give the car a sneering look, while the distinctive character line that begins the rear flanks adds some styling flair. Unfortunately the rear of the car is plain. Some liken it to a wider Mitsubishi Galant.
Based on the Mercedes-derived platform that carries the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum, the Dodge Charger also offers a roomy interior and smooth ride. But in keeping with its more aggressive personality, the Charger's handling is sportier than its siblings'. The interior of the Charger looks almost identical to that of the Magnum, and the engine choices are very similar. While the Magnum and 300 are available with a 2.7-liter V6 making less than 200 hp, the Charger skips that anemic power plant and starts things off with a 3.5-liter V6. Of course a Hemi V8 is available as well. The Charger SXT and V8-powered Charger R/T have a lot going for them. The car is comfortable, offers more than adequate performance, looks different and is priced competitively when compared to smaller V6-powered import sedans. Add the Road/Track Performance Group to the R/T and you've got a fast sedan that can carve up a twisty road if you're so inclined. It may not be the two-door muscle car you remember from the '60s, but the new Dodge Charger takes that formula and adds things like a usable interior, lots of standard equipment and refined ride and handling characteristics. Think of it as a muscle car the whole family can enjoy. |
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