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2007 Dodge Charger Full Review
Date Published: 5/28/08
2007 Dodge Charger Review
An all-wheel drive model joins Dodge's large-sedan lineup for 2007. Charger shares a basic design with Dodge's Magnum wagon and Chrysler's 300 sedan. Chargers offer V6 and V8 engines. SE models have a 190-hp V6. SEs with the available SXT package include a 250-hp V6. R/Ts have Chrysler's 340-hp Hemi V8, and the high-performance SRT8 has a 425-hp Hemi V8. The 340-hp V8 has Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System cylinder deactivation. All Chargers have automatic transmission: a 4-speed on 190-hp SEs, a 5-speed on the others. Rear-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is available on SXT and R/T versions; Charger was previously rear-drive only.

ABS and traction/antiskid control are optional on SE, standard on others. Curtain side airbags are available on all. R/T, SRT8, and AWD SXT models have firmer suspension tuning. SRT8s add Brembo-brand brakes and specific trim. Power-adjustable pedals and a wireless cell phone link are available. The Road/Track performance Group option gives R/T models 350 hp and adds 20-inch wheels and special suspension tuning; a Charger Daytona R/T Package adds specific exhaust tuning and trim.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large, inside and out, they offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Magnum. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego.
News
Charger is getting a kid brother in the 2007 replacement for Dodge's midsize Stratus sedan. Called Avenger, it shares a platform, powertrain and many features with Chrysler's just-launched Sebring sedan, but looks like a scaled-down Charger. Dodge hasn't released particulars yet, but Avengers should have fewer standard features and lower list prices than Sebring sedans. More news soon, so keep checking back.

Meantime, Dodge says the Charger SRT8 will offer a special cosmetic option reviving the "Super Bee" name from the muscle-car 1960s. The exterior wears "Detonator Yellow" paint set off by black patches on hood and rear deck and large Super Bee logos in the original style. Yellow stitching adorns seats, steering wheel and shift knob.

Further out, sources say the big Dodges and Chrysler's 300 will be "restyled and reengineered" for 2009, which likely means a full makeover. Also expected for Chrysler's LX-platform trio is more parts-sharing with the C- and E-Class lines at corporate cousin Mercedes-Benz. This is said to involve a new vehicle-electronics system and, from model-year 2010, replacement V6 engines designed for higher mpg.

Last but not least is the promised 2008 return of Dodge's early-1970s Challenger "ponycar." Already previewed in concept form, this sporty coupe wears modernized styling on a Charger platform with a 4-inch shorter wheelbase. Dodge will shun an entry-level V6 for 5.7- and 6.1-liter Hemi V8 models. Sources expect prices upstream of equivalent Ford Mustangs. Convertibles are not assured, but might be offered later on.
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2007 Dodge Charger Road Test
Pros Cons
Ride/handling Fuel economy (R/T)
Passenger and cargo room Rear visibility
Acceleration (R/T)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
6 7 9 6.1

The 3.5 V6 is fine in town, and has good passing punch. Dodge says 9.3 sec 0-60 mph with rear-drive. No opportunity yet to test Charger with AWD, but similar test AWD Dodge Magnums with 3.5 V6 feel little different from rear-drive versions. R/T has ready power from any speed; similar test Magnum R/T did 5.8 sec 0-60. Extra 10 hp of R/T Performance Group undetectable. Multi-Displacement System switches between four and eight cylinders without interrupting power flow, but some testers say it causes a slight driveline shudder. SRT8 models are bona fide muscle cars at about 5.0 sec 0-60 mph.
Fuel Economy

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
5 4 3 4.5

No opportunity to measure with 2.7 V6 or AWD. Test rear-drive 3.5 V6 models averaged 17.9-21.6 mpg; extended-use-test Charger SE with SXT package averaged 19.4 mpg over 6147 miles.

Test R/T averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving, 18.4 with more highway work. SRT8 averaged 14.3 mpg in mostly city driving, 16.9 in mostly highway driving. Dodge recommends 87-octane fuel for 190-hp V6, 89 for the 250-hp V6 and 340-hp V8, 91 octane for the 425-hp V8.
Ride Quality

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
7 6 5 6.8

Generally smooth, composed, but rippled pavement can trigger annoying jiggling, especially in V8 models with their firmer suspensions. SRT8s and Road/Track Performance Group versions are even stiffer, but never punishing.
Steering/Handling/Braking

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
6 7 8 5.9

Linear steering with good road feel. Stable at highway speeds. These big cars aren't nimble in quick direction changes, but they have fine balance and grip in turns, SRT8s in particular. All have confident stopping control, but some testers complain of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive V8 models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip. Similar test rear-drive Magnum R/T was difficult to maneuver in 6 inches of fresh snow, despite traction control and all-season tires. AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction.
Quietness

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
6 6 5 6.9

Noticeable roar from V6 during acceleration. V8s make throaty full-throttle growl--SRT8s sound like race cars--but are quiet enough in gentle cruising. R/Ts and SRT8s have more tire roar than other Chargers. 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

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
7 6 7 6.5

Instruments large, 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 Chrysler 300, but are appropriate for these prices, with solid feel and nice array of padded surfaces.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
7 7 8 7.9

Spacious. Ample head and leg room. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. SRT8, Charger Daytona, and Charger R/T with Road/Track Performance Group address this problem with sport buckets. SRT8 seats have good lateral support, outstanding comfort. Thick front roof pillars obscure view to front corners.
Room/Comfort (rear)

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
6 6 6 7

Easy entry/exit. Great room for two. Plenty of leg and toe space, even with front seats pushed well back. Head clearance tight for six-footers. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but middle rider must straddle bulky driveline hump.
Cargo Room

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
5 5 5 5.5

Charger trunk usefully sized and shaped, but relatively small opening complicates loading bulky objects. Standard split folding 60/40 rear seatbacks enhance versatility, though they don't lay completely flat.
Value within Class

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
10 9 6 7.2

Passenger room, available all-wheel drive, and solid construction make Charger a Best Buy value. The 2.7 V6 can't move this big car with much verve, but the 3.5 V6 provides more-than-adequate power, as does the R/T versions' Hemi V8. SRT8 models are muscle cars.
Total Score

SE w/SXT pkg. R/T w/nav. sys. SRT8 Class Average
65 63 62 64.3
Scores for all Large Cars

Low Score
56
Average Score
64
High Score
71
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2007 Dodge Charger Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/12/2007
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
SE 4-door sedan $22,100 $20,560 $675
AWD SXT 4-door sedan $25,765 $23,859 $675
R/T 4-door sedan $30,515 $28,134 $675
AWD R/T 4-door sedan $32,615 $30,024 $675
SRT8 4-door sedan $35,920 $33,433 $675
Price note: SE, AWD SXT require a Quick Order Pkg. SRT8 adds $2100 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SE
Powertrain
2.7-liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote entry system, AM/FM/CD player, digital-media player connection, digital clock, tachometer, passenger-side visor mirror, map lights, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 215/65R17 tires, wheel covers.
AWD SXT adds to SE:
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine, all-wheel drive, 5-speed manual transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Touring suspension, 225/60R18 tires, alloy wheels.
R/T adds to AWD SXT:
Powertrain
5.7-liter 340-horsepower V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, split folding rear seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated power mirrors, Boston Acoustics sound system, satellite radio w/one year service, illuminated visor mirrors, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: all-wheel drive.
Fog lights, touring suspension, AWD adds: all-wheel drive.
SRT8 adds to R/T:
Powertrain
6.1-liter V8 engine.
Safety
Uprated brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather/suede upholstery, power passenger seat, steering wheel radio controls, trip computer, compass, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, high-performance suspension, 245/45ZR20 front tires, 255/45ZR20 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
SE Quick Order Pkg. 23E
SE (credit)
$-900
$-828
SE w/3.5-liter V6 engine
$0
$0
Standard equipment.
SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G
AWD SXT
$2,790
$2,567
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat, split folding rear seat w/center armrest and cupholders, Boston Acoustics sound system, illuminated visor mirrors, floormats, unique interior and exterior trim.
Road/Track Performance Group
R/T
$3,350
$3,082
5.7-liter 350-horsepower V8 engine w/cylinder deactivation, high speed engine controller, uprated brakes, dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather/suede upholstery, heated front seats, power passenger seat, automatic headlights, unique interior and exterior trim, rear spoiler, load-leveling performance suspension, 245/45ZR20 tires, chrome alloy wheels. NA AWD
Daytona Quick Order Pkg. 28V
R/T
$3,700
$3,404
Road/Track Performance Group plus unique trim and badging. NA AWD.
Super Bee Special Edition
SRT8
$1,900
$1,748
Unique interior and exterior trim, bright alloy wheels. Requires SRT Option Group I.
SRT Option Group I
SRT8
$675
$621
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, heated front seats, automatic up/down front windows, automatic headlights.
SRT Option Group II
SRT8
$1,245
$1,145
SRT8 w/Option Group III
$845
$777
AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, upgraded sound system including subwoofer, alarm.
SRT Option Group III
SRT8
$2,355
$2,167
Navigation system, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror.
Convenience Group I
SE
$505
$465
Power-adjustable pedals, 8-way power driver seat, floormats. NA w/SXT Quick Order Pkg.
Convenience Group II
R/T
$1,005
$925
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated front seats, power passenger seat, automatic headlights.
Convenience Group III
SE, SXT
$375
$345
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, automatic up/down front windows, automatic headlights. SE requires SXT quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Comfort Seating Group
SE, SXT
$1,395
$1,283
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Protection Group
SE, SXT, R/T
$640
$589
R/T w/Road/Track Performance Group
$440
$405
R/T w/Daytona Pkg.
$590
$543
Front side airbags, curtain side airbags, interior air filter, all-season self-sealing tires.
Electronics Convenience Group
R/T
$630
$580
Steering wheel radio controls, universal garage door opener, compass, outside-temperature indicator, trip computer, instrument display screen, vehicle information center, alarm.
Sound Group II
R/T
$535
$492
AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, upgraded Boston Acoustics sound system.
Powertrain
3.5-liter V6 engine
SE
$1,100
$1,012
Includes 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control, antilock brakes, brake assist, antiskid system.
Safety
Curtain side airbags
SE, SRT8
$390
$359
Includes front airbags.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
SE, SXT, R/T
$1,895
$1,743
R/T w/Sound Group II
$1,495
$1,375
Includes AM/FM 6-disc CD/MP3 changer. SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Power sunroof
AWD SXT, R/T, SE, SRT8
$950
$874
SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Leather upholstery
SE, SXT
$640
$589
Includes leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Power-adjustable pedals
SE, SXT
$125
$115
SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
DVD entertainment system
AWD SXT, R/T, SE, SRT8
$1,150
$1,058
Requires AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer or navigation system. SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
SXT, R/T
$400
$368
Boston Acoustics sound system
SXT
$595
$547
Satellite radio
SE, SXT
$195
$179
SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
UConnect
SE, SXT, R/T
$360
$331
Wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night rearview mirror. SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Floormats
SE
$30
$28
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
AWD SXT, R/T, SE
$40
$37
NA SRT8.
Bodyside molding
SE
$75
$69
Std. SXT and SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Special paint
AWD SXT, R/T, SE, SRT8
$225
$207
Alloy wheels
SE
$325
$299
Polished alloy wheels
SE
$325
$299
Includes touring suspension, 225/60R18 tires. Requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G.
Chrome alloy wheels
SE
$950
$874
R/T
$625
$575
Includes touring suspension, 225/60R18 tires. SE requires SXT Quick Order Pkg. 27G. NA AWD.
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2007 Dodge Charger Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Dodge Charger 4-door sedan
Wheelbase, in. 120.0
Overall Length, in. 200.1
Overall Width, in. 74.5
Overall Height, in. 58.2
Curb Weight, lbs. 3820
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 16.2
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.0
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head Room, in. 38.7
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.8
Rear Head Room, in. 36.2
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 40.2
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc V6 sohc V6 ohv V8 ohv V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.7 /167 3.5 /215 5.7 /345 6.1 /370
Horsepower @ rpm. 190 @ 6400 250 @ 6400 340 @ 5000 425 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 190 @ 4000 250 @ 3800 390 @ 4000 420 @ 4800
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
4-speed automatic 21/28 --/-- --/-- --/--
5-speed automatic --/-- 19/27 17/25 14/20
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Dodge Charger 4-door sedan
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5
Rollover Resistance 4
Side Impact, Driver 4
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5
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%. Side-impact 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%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion None/-- --
Free roadside assistance 3/36,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: Canada
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
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