Dodge brought back a famous model name from its muscle-car past for the 2006 model year with the launch of the Charger. From 1966 to the early 1970s, Charger coupes were among the most potent and most recognized muscle machines on the market. Chargers equipped with the legendary Hemi V-8 engine captured the imagination of countless young drivers. Chargers come in base SE and performance-oriented R/T trim levels. An SXT package is also offered. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but SXT and R/T models are available with all-wheel drive for 2007. Power-adjustable pedals and a one-year subscription to Sirius Satellite Radio are standard on R/T models, and SXT options include a new deck lid spoiler and 18-inch chrome wheels. Incorporating a fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System, the available 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 produces 340 horsepower, which is good for 0-to-60-mph acceleration in less than 6 seconds. A Daytona R/T package that packs a Hemi V-8 with an extra 10 hp is also offered. Selecting the high-performance SRT8 sedan gets you a 425-hp V-8, Brembo brakes, a race-bred suspension and 20-inch aluminum wheels. It's not really in the same league as smaller sport sedans, but the Charger is a cut above traditional family sedans in terms of performance capabilities. With a Hemi V-8 and Touring suspension, the Charger R/T has a somewhat light feel, which seems a bit out of character. Response is quick and reasonably precise going around curves, but it doesn't feel entirely confident all the time. Vigorous Hemi performance is present when passing. The ride is nearly blissful on smooth surfaces, and rougher spots are dealt with appropriately. Except for a throaty exhaust sound when the gas pedal hits the floor, the Charger R/T is quiet. The seats are comfortable. Aside from the trip odometer, the deep-set gauges are easy to read. Front occupants get plenty of elbowroom and legroom, and rear legroom is ample. Headroom in models equipped with a sunroof is good but not vast. Long side windows aid visibility, but the low roof and steep windshield can make it difficult to see some overhead traffic lights. Outside visibility for rear passengers may be obstructed by the C-pillars. A Charger R/T equipped with the tauter Road/Track Performance Group suspension was surprisingly stable, flat and eager to roar out of curves on a racecourse. With V-6 power, the Charger qualifies as satisfactory and impressively quiet, substituting a humdrum growl for the Hemi's exhaust note when floored.
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