2006-2008 Dodge Charger: Full Review

Vehicle Highlights

Dodge revived a name from the past for a sedan companion to its Magnum wagon, which had debuted as a 2005 model. At the same time, for 2006, the company added high-performance versions of both cars. Both models shared their underskin design with the Chrysler 300 sedan, but Charger was available only with rear-wheel drive versus Magnum's choice of rear-drive or all-wheel drive. Like the Magnum, the Charger seated five and could have either V6 or V8 power. Chargers came in three models: SE with a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6; R/T with Chrysler's 340-horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V8; and high-performance SRT8, with a 425-hp 6.1-liter version of the Hemi V8. The 5.7 V8 had Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivated four cylinders under light throttle conditions to save fuel. All Chargers had an automatic transmission: a four-speed with the V6 and a five-speed on other versions. Magnums also were available with a 2.7-liter V6, but that engine did not go into Chargers. Antilocking four-wheel disc brakes were standard, along with antiskid/traction control. Available but not standard on all were front side airbags and front/rear head-protecting curtain side airbags. SE models had 17-inch wheels; 18-inchers were optional on the SE and standard on every other model except the SRT8s, which rode on 20-inch rubber. Charger R/T and SRT8 models added firmer suspension tuning. SRT8s also had Brembo-brand brakes, plus special seats and trim. Split folding rear seatbacks were standard on all except Charger SEs. Leather upholstery was standard on R/T and SRT8 models, optional on SE. Available were adjustable pedals, satellite radio, and Chrysler's UConnect hands-free wireless cell phone link. Available for Charger R/T was the Road/Track Performance Group with special suspension tuning and a 350-hp version of the 5.7 V8. A Daytona R/T Package, with the same engine, added throatier exhaust tuning and unique trim. Dodge's Charger competed against the Chrysler 300, Ford Five Hundred, and Ford Freestyle.

Year to Year Changes

Our road test for the 2006-2008 Dodge Charger includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2006-2008 Dodge Charger and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2006-2008 Dodge Charger is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

Vehicle Dimensions

Powertrain Options and Availability

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.