2014 Dodge Charger Road Test Review

by Martha Hindes

Who said a sedan can't be as bold, brash and as beckoning as a coupe? Or have the underlying gusto to part traffic in its way? When "sedan" simply means a mean, macho, muscle machine with more breathing room, like the full-size 2014 Dodge Charger SXT – Blacktop, any dissing should be banned, or relegated to the attitude of the uninitiated.

Since we have been initiated, we'll make waves.

Our test model was a rich shade of red one might expect to see on the ground after a thrilling bullfight, suggested by the name "TorRed." Our special edition had the addition of a dominating black layering across the top that lent meaning to the designation "muscle car." That showed authority in one, wide brush stroke along with 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels and blacked out grille snout. Never mind the guts underneath.

The 2014 Charger isn't a newbie. It's essentially an upgrade (prior to next year's makeover) of the waning seventh generation version that debuted two years ago and not only retains, but enhances its initial "Wow" factor. Think of that blazing full-width taillight band that announces to those in its wake that this is a car that means business. Despite the presence of a sedan's requisite rear doors, understated in the overall design flow that ends with a rear spoiler, it moves with a smooth, commanding, almost musclebound dominance meant to exude a visual perception of undeniable strength.

No softie here. Maybe that's a reason so many police departments have adopted the rear drive, or all-wheel-drive Charger as their no-compromise gotcha machine when a full gallop is needed. And don't think that impact is lost. See those tail lamps ahead of you and you almost automatically defer to a slower speed, tap the turn signals when changing lanes, start slow from a stoplight and so on. When you're the one behind the wheel, you appreciate that impact on others.

Our SXT test model sat on Chrysler's 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar powerplant that can grunt out 292 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of rubber-peeling torque. That's not as lofty as some in the performance stratosphere. But it doesn't shortchange someone wanting a thrilling surge as a response when accelerating from a standstill, the inbred DNA of all Chargers from day one even back in the mid-1960s when it took its first newborn breath.

This baby is no sylph. A full-size sedan rarely is. But don't let that make you think there's even a hint of slug in its conduct.  It definitely doesn't fall in the lag or lackluster category, especially when mated with the recently-introduced, available 8-speed automatic, That high-end ZF transmission, often found on European luxury cars, plays nicer with the driver than the older, less fuel-efficient and often maligned five-speed automatic reinstated from previous years that comes as standard equipment on the entry SE model. The 8-speed also spiffs up mileage numbers by some 4 MPG, giving our test model a 19-city/31-highway or 23-combined rating.

We won't call the Charger interior a woman or man cave, but it exudes a personal space feel with its black leather interior highlighted with contrast stitching. An IP centered 8.4-inch touchscreen is the heartbeat of electronic amenities, including Chrysler's acclaimed and easily usable Uconnect system that pulls together Garmin Navigation, rear back-up camera, communications and audio input. Our test model added a 10-speaker, 552-Watt "Beats" audio group as part of the $1,795 Blacktop Package.

Cold days are easily ignored inside thanks to the heated steering wheel and heated second row seats that make the entire vehicle a comfort zone, while a heated (or cooled) cup holder keeps beverages at an ideal temp.

Rain sensitive wipers, automatic high beam control, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and power adjustable pedals with memory and an optional power sunroof make pleasure driving -- well -- a pleasure. When we wanted to play we concentrated on takeoffs and landings as well as a keen knack for responsive maneuvering despite its zaftig size.

Adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning are among safety features that enhance the Charger's overall five-star safety rating. So does ready alert braking, rain brake support, electronic stability and all-speed traction control.

A responsive three-spoke sport steering wheel with paddle shifters transmits a solid connection with the road as it easily handles tight turns and, with the optional performance suspension, helps churn out a seriously fun drive.

The 2014 Charger starts life as a 3.6-liter base SE model then morphs to a much-enhanced SXT. Our Blacktop version of same, with more than $10k in options packages, brings the total price (not including $995 in destination charges) to $40,735.

A V-8 engine also is offered that gets the five-speed automatic rather than the new 8-speed trans -- an omission that has generated a lot of puzzled buzz.

Those with high test petrol in their veins can opt for two V8-powered versions that we haven't yet taken on the road, the R/T and SRT8, Chrysler's Special Racing Team's version designed to chew up any competitor that dares to pace it. Actually, we don't worry about what we are missing. The SXT - Blacktop had the credentials and performance to clear the pavement of any annoying equines.