2009 Dodge Charger: Road Test
2009 Dodge Charger ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $24,835 - $38,970
- Invoice: $23,235 - $36,098
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Dodge Magnum and Charger
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Dodge Charger includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Dodge Charger from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Dodge Charger, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Dodge Charger help you decide if a 2009 Dodge Charger is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 9 | 6.6 |
The 2.7 V6 is tepid and requires lots of room for passing and merging. Dodge says 11.3 seconds 0-60 mph. The 3.5 V6 is fine in town and has good passing punch. Dodge says it does 0-60 mph in 9.3 seconds with rear-drive. No opportunity yet to test Charger with AWD. R/T has ready power from any speed. Multi-Displacement System switches between four and eight cylinder operation without interrupting power flow. SRT8 models are bona fide muscle cars, reaching 60 mph from a stop in just 5.0 seconds.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3 | 4.4 |
No opportunity to measure with the 2.7 V6 or AWD. In Consumer Guide testing, rear-drive 3.5 V6 models averaged 17.9-21.6 mpg; extended-use-test Charger SXT averaged 19.4 mpg over 6147 miles.
No opportunity to measure R/T with the new Hemi. SRT8 averaged 14.3 mpg in mostly city driving, 16.9 in mostly highway driving. Dodge recommends mid-grade 89-octane gas for the 2.7- and 3.5-liter V6. Premium-grade gas is recommended for both V8 engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
Generally smooth and composed, but rippled pavement can trigger annoying jiggling, especially in V8 models with their firmer suspensions. R/T versions display some float and wallow over uneven surfaces. SRT8s are even stiffer but never punishing.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 5.5 |
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. R/T models feel firm and planted. All have confident stopping control, but some testers complain of long pedal travel. Test rear-drive V8 models negotiated rainy roads without undue slip. AWD is the recommended solution for all-weather traction.
QUIETNESS
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.8 |
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.
CONTROLS
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
Instruments are large and easy to read, but the steering-wheel rim cuts into view of turn-signal arrows and gauges for fuel and temperature. Most controls are within easy reach, though some are too low to easily adjust while driving. The navigation system is fairly easy to operate, though some functions could require fewer button presses.
DETAILS
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Interior materials are a slight grade below those of Chrysler 300, but are appropriate for these prices, with solid feel and a nice array of padded surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.9 |
Spacious. Ample headroom and legroom. Generously sized seats, but flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering. SRT8 and Charger R/T with Road/Track Performance Group address this problem with sport buckets. SRT8 seats have good lateral support and outstanding comfort. Thick front roof pillars obscure view to front corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
Easy entry and exit. Great room for two. Legroom and foot space are plentiful, even with front seats lowered and pushed well back. Head clearance is tight for six-footers. Enough thigh support for long-trip comfort, but middle rider must straddle bulky driveline hump.
CARGO ROOM
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
Charger's trunk is usefully sized and shaped, but a relatively small opening complicates loading bulky objects. The available split-folding 60/40 rear seatbacks enhance versatility, though they don't lay completely flat.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 5 | 6.9 |
Passenger room, available all-wheel drive, and solid construction make Charger a Recommended pick. The 2.7-liter V6 can't move this big car with much verve, but the 3.5-liter V6 provides more-than-adequate power, as does the R/T versions' Hemi V8. SRT8 models are true modern muscle cars.
Total Score
| SXT | R/T | SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | 68 | 66 | 68.9 |
Total Score: 67
Scores for all Large Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
