2006 Dodge Charger: Road Test
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2006 Dodge Charger ▼
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- MSRP: $22,570 -$35,320
- Invoice: $20,983 -$32,893
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Our road test for the 2006 Dodge Charger includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Dodge Charger from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Dodge Charger, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Dodge Charger help you decide if a 2006 Dodge Charger is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 7 | 9 | 5.6 |
The 3.5 V6 is OK in town, but has only adequate passing punch. Dodge claims 9.3 sec 0-60 mph. Test R/T did 5.8 sec 0-60, showed ready muscle from any speed. Extra 10 hp of Daytona R/T Package undetectable. Multi-Displacement System switches between 4 and 8 cylinders without interrupting power flow, but some testers say it causes a slight driveline shudder. Dodge says SRT8 models do 0-60 mph in around 5.0 sec, which seemed credible. SRT8s aren't rated for towing, but other V8s are good for up to 3800 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
Test Charger SE averaged 21.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test Charger R/T averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving. Dodge recommends 89-octane fuel for 3.5 V6 and 5.7 V8, 91 octane for 6.1-liter V8.
RIDE QUALITY
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Little difference between Charger and more-luxurious Chrysler 300. Ride generally smooth, composed, but rippled pavement triggers annoying jiggling, especially in V8 models with their firmer suspensions. SRT8s have firmest ride, may be too stiff for some buyers. All versions tested suffered unwanted float over highway-speed dips and swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 5.9 |
Again, little difference between Charger and Chrysler 300 models. Linear steering with good road feel. Stable at highway speeds. Not as agile as most like-sized European sedans in quick direction changes, but good balance and grip in turns. SRT8s have sharpest handling, abundant grip. Confident stopping power, but some testers complain of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive V8 models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip.
QUIETNESS
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.8 |
Noticeable roar from V6s during acceleration. V8s make throaty full-throttle growl, but are quiet enough in gentle cruising. Wind rush evident at highway speeds. Note: Charger's Daytona R/T Package includes aggressive-sounding performance exhaust tuning that some testers found tiresome on long trips.
CONTROLS
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.5 |
Instruments large and easy to read, but steering-wheel rim cuts into view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls within easy reach, though some are too low to easily adjust while driving. Navigation system simpler than most to operate. Interior materials a slight grade below those of 300, but feel solid enough with nice array of padded panels--entirely appropriate for the price level.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.8 |
Spacious. Ample head and leg room. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. SRT8, Daytona, and R/T with Road/Track Performance package address this problem with sport buckets. SRT8 seats have good lateral support, outstanding comfort. Thick front roof pillars block some drivers' view to front corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Easy entry/exit. Great room for two. Plenty of leg and toe space, even with front seats pushed well back. Head clearance just OK for six-footers. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but middle rider must straddle bulky driveline hump.
CARGO ROOM
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Charger trunk usefully sized and shaped, but opening among smallest in class. Versatility enhanced by standard split folding 60/40 rear seatbacks in Magnums and V8 Chargers, but they don't lay completely flat.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 7 | 7.1 |
The 3.5 V6 offers acceptable performance, and the R/T and SRT8 are muscle cars. Charger trades wagon functionality for more rakish sedan styling and doesn't offer AWD, but shares most of Magnum's other Best Buy virtues.
Total Score
| Charger SE | Charger RT w/nav. sys. | Charger SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 64 | 65 | 63.8 |
Total Score: 63
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