2016 Dodge Challenger | Consumer Guide Auto

2016 Dodge Challenger R/T Plus

Pros: Classic muscle-car attitude; large size means a relatively spacious trunk and back seat; broad range of special appearance options; amazing acceleration of Hellcat model; broad range of available technology features

Cons: Too large and heavy to feel as agile as it looks; fuel economy in V8 models; low roofline and high door sills cause a closed-in feel

CG Says: After a major refresh last year, there are no significant changes for the 2016 Dodge Challenger. New paint and stripe options are about it. Challenger is an interesting player in this segment. It’s too big and heavy to be truly agile, but this is still a more-than-capable performance machine. That size does pay dividends in the form of a surprisingly smooth ride and excellent passenger and cargo room. Admittedly, these might not be the first things buyers of these cars put on their wish lists, but this is a good choice if you want something fun that you can also take on a cross-country road trip. Topping the range is the ferocious Hellcat model with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that puts out a jaw-dropping 707 horsepower. EPA fuel-economy estimates are 13 mpg city and 21-22 mpg highway. The Hellcat isn’t cheap, but it’s actually something of a bargain when measured against other ultra-performance cars. There are plenty of sporty coupes that feel more modern and nimble than the Challenger lineup, but few that can match its retro-muscle-car attitude and broad range of performance and appearance options.

The Facts

Class	Sporty/Performance Car
Body Style(s)	2-door coupe
Passenger Count	5
Drive Wheels	rear-wheel drive
Manufacturer	Dodge
Nation of Manufacture	Canada
Base Prices	SXT: $26,995 SXT Plus: $29,995 R/T: $31,995 R/T Plus: $34,995 R/T Shaker: $35,995 R/T Plus Shaker: $38,995 R/T Scat Pack: $38,995 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker: $43,795 SRT 392: $50,195 SRT Hellcat: $64,195