2022 Dodge Charger Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

In terms of driving fun, few full-size sedans compare to the 2022 Dodge Charger. It gives drivers several muscular powertrains to choose from. While the Charger is billed as a performance car, a spacious interior and modern safety technologies make it a more than suitable family hauler. Of course, this sedan’s powerful styling remains a big attraction. Here’s why you should consider buying a new Charger.

What’s New for 2022?

This year, Dodge offers the Charger with a more advanced security system. An all-new Jailbreak package arrives as well, which gives buyers access to a greater number of customizations.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Dodge Charger – The Pros

1. Satisfying V6 Powertrain

Although the 2022 Dodge Charger may offer some high-performance powertrains, drivers seeking the best fuel economy will want the base V6 engine. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which promotes enhanced efficiency on the open highway. According to the latest EPA fuel economy estimates, the V6-equipped Charger will return around 19 mpg town/30 mpg freeway. Dodge also tunes the Charger’s V6 powertrain to crank out up to 300 horsepower. Many drivers are pleasantly surprised by the sedan’s effortless acceleration and ample passing power.

2. Powerful Hemi V8 Engines

Folks who crave the excitement of a traditional muscle car will be interested in one of the Charger’s available Hemi V8 engines. Even the car’s least potent V8 engine develops 370 horsepower. To enjoy truly blistering acceleration, drivers should step up to the supercharged Hellcat engine. The top version now presses out an insane 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. Expect the new Jailbreak Edition model to have a 0-60 mph time of around 3.5 seconds and a top speed in excess of 200 mph.

3. Classic Muscle Car Sound

When fitted with a V8 engine, the 2022 Dodge Charger sounds like the legendary muscle cars of yesteryear. As soon as the car is started, drivers immediately hear a deep rumble under the hood. When stepping on the accelerator, models equipped with a supercharged engine produce a distinctive whine. Dodge also outfits V8-powered Charger models with a dual-mode exhaust system. While the normal mode is perfect for driving through quiet neighborhoods, switching to the sport setting gives you maximum sound.

4. Great Ride & Surprisingly Nimble

Although the 2022 Dodge Charger is a full-size car, it still manages to deliver a nimble performance. This big sedan feels remarkably stable at all times. Even the V6-equipped Charger GT features a performance suspension, which helps promote even better control. An available Widebody kit takes the Charger’s handling capabilities to the next stage. This package adds super-wide performance tires for enhanced grip around corners. Of course, passengers especially appreciate the Charger’s pleasant highway ride.

5. One of Today’s Coolest-Looking Cars

Many people consider the Charger’s cool exterior styling to be among their favorite qualities. Even the base SXT model has a rather menacing front fascia. However, higher trim levels feature a powerful hood scoop and larger sport wheels. Aside from enhancing grip and handling, Dodge’s available Widebody kit also gives the Charger an especially intimidating stance. Eye-catching appearance packages add more flair. Just a few of the most extraordinary paint color options include Indigo Blue, Hellraisen, and Go mango.

6. A Four-Door Performance Car for the Family

The 2022 Dodge Charger is a great performance car for drivers who need maximum passenger space. With more than adequate head- and legroom in both rows, it has no trouble accommodating a family of five. Bigger drivers who have difficulty squeezing into a small sports car will love the new Charger. Optional amenities, such as climate-controlled front seats, enable passengers to experience a more relaxing trip. Another highlight is the Charger’s large trunk, which provides more than 16.0 cubic feet of storage space.

7. Provides a Safe Ride

When last crash-tested by the federal government, the Charger snatched a five-star overall safety rating. This sedan received a flawless rollover score, which is a testament to its excellent stability. Some helpful safety features are offered as well. By preventing the brake pads from getting wet, standard Rain Brake Support helps ensure reliable stopping power. A few of the available accident-avoidance tech includes full-speed forward collision warning, a blind-spot detector, and smart cruise control.

8. All-New Deluxe Security Alarm

There has been a rise in the theft of Chargers. Luckily, Dodge now offers the sedan with a more advanced Deluxe Security Alarm system. It’s designed to give owners an extra degree of protection against thieves. If someone attempts to steal the car, it will go no faster than 3 mph. Furthermore, a new module helps prevent criminals from producing replica keys. In the event that a person attempts to break through a window or unlawfully tow the car, the new security alarm will also start to blare.

9. Dodge Performance Pages App

Most trims come standard with a built-in Dodge Performance Pages app. It allows drivers to access real-time information relating to the car’s performance. Everything can be seen right on the touchscreen display. Dodge Performance Pages also enables drivers to customize the Charger’s driving dynamics. From steering feel to suspension stiffness, a number of parameters can be adjusted while behind the wheel.

10. Premium Audio Systems Bring a Thumping Sound

There are two premium sound systems in the Charger’s lineup. The available Alpine unit sounds good enough for most music fans. It feeds power to a total of nine speakers. However, drivers seeking class-leading sound quality will want the 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. A 900-watt amplifier ensures a beautiful soundtrack. This system also features dual rear subwoofers for especially strong bass.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Dodge Charger – The Cons

1. High-Output V8 Engines Sacrifice Fuel Economy

The Charger’s smaller 5.7-liter, V8 engine returns a decent 25 mpg on the highway. Don’t expect the supercharged V8 engines to be nearly as efficient. Fuel economy in urban areas is especially low. Drivers can anticipate getting around 12 mpg. Punching the accelerator will lead to increased fuel consumption. Supercharged versions of the Charger are not ideal for drivers who spend a lot of time in city traffic.

2. All-Wheel Drive is Not Offered On V8 Models

An optional AWD system makes the 2022 Dodge Charger a great car for the winter. Unfortunately, this feature is only offered with the sedan’s V6 engine. Charger models equipped with a V8 engine feature a rear-wheel-drive system. While RWD cars handle great in dry weather, traction can be a concern when traveling on snowy roads.

3. Advanced Driver-Assist Safety Tech Costs Extra

The 2022 Dodge Charger offers some highly beneficial safety technologies. Aside from an advanced traction and stability control system, no other driver-assist features come standard. To get features like active emergency braking and active lane assistance, buyers must pay extra. Some of today’s other sedans come standard with these popular accident-avoidance features.

4. High-Performance Models Can Be Expensive

Some models can be rather pricey. Even before adding any options, the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody starts at more than $83,000. The ultra-powerful Jailbreak model is a tad more expensive. Drivers who are on a tighter budget will find the lower trim levels to be just as entertaining.

5. Reliability Could Be Better

Research shows that the Charger has just an average reliability rating. Drivers can plan on encountering some repair costs after the car begins to rack up the miles. Keep in mind that Dodge covers the Charger with a 60,000-mile drivetrain warranty and a 36,000-mile basic warranty.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Kia Stinger

The Kia Stinger is a performance bargain. Kia’s 100,000-mile powertrain adds to the car’s value. However, far more personalizations and appearance upgrades are available for the 2022 Dodge Charger. Stronger top engines give the Charger another edge over the Stinger. Another big highlight is the Charger’s more spacious rear seat.

2022 Dodge Charger vs BMW 5-Series

Drivers seeking the most luxury will favor the 2022 BMW 5-Series. However, it’s a more expensive car. When it comes to sheer driving excitement, the Dodge Charger comes out on top. A higher cost of maintenance puts the 5-Series at another disadvantage.

2022 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Chrysler 300

The Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Charger are built on the same platform. They come standard with the same V6 engine and offer virtually the same amount of rear legroom. While many people like the Chrysler 300’s styling, it does not offer any high-performance models.

Conclusion

Drivers who need a family car that offers lots of performance will love the 2022 Dodge Charger. Good crash scores and spacious accommodations help make this sedan a fine choice. Cool exterior styling also helps the Charger to draw plenty of attention on the street. While the base V6 engine is a good choice for daily commuting, folks seeking more thrills will want one of the available Hemi V8 engines.

Before you decide to buy a V8-powered Charger, be aware of its lower city fuel economy rating. Dodge fans who desire one of the top trim levels should prepare to reach deeper into their pockets. Furthermore, only the V6 models offer all-wheel-drive traction.