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Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV Review

by | Apr 12, 2024 | 0 comments

Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV Review

Never pious but ever-rebellious, the hot-rod Dodge Hornet SUV “Coupe” is a looker with balanced proportions and a sleek profile

A side view of the Acapulco Gold Hornet in front of the Seahive makers market in Liberty Station san diego

For 2024, the Dodge Hornet will be sold in two all-wheel-drive models with two turbocharged hybrid powertrains in two trim levels of GT and GT Plus or R/T and R/T Plus. Today’s tester is the Hornet R/T Plus, which cost $52,525 with three options. (Photography by Stellantis or as credited)

Jump To Special Features

The Hornet Beehive
2024 Dodge Hornet Pricing
Sophisticated Extras
Hornet’s Hybrid Powertrains
Battery Power
Ride and Handling
Safety Features
Interior Function
Why Buy the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

Even before I hit the switch for Sport mode, I knew the Dodge Hornet R/T was not a typical gasoline-electric hybrid. Its power is unhesitating, the force is quick, and its cabin is rich in attitude. This new SUV “coupe” is all about performance, emerging from the wake of what was the Dodge brand’s Hemi V8 domain.

Hornet is a small, all-wheel-drive SUV crossover. It is an Italian import as a byproduct of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, also new for brand survival. A new “Fiat Fastback” SUV coupe is also sold in South America.

The Hornet’s well-muscled five-door body style is one of the Dodge brand’s new attempts at socially responsible performance. Both Hornet models are gasoline-electric hybrids, and the Hornet R/T is a plug-in hybrid. It has a battery driving range of 31 to 33 miles and has a sophisticated hybrid system that allows a blend of gas and electric power or electric alone. There is also an e-Save mode to bank battery power for use later, such as sneaking home late at night or in European city centers that ban gasoline-powered vehicles.

Never pious but ever-rebellious, the hot-rod Hornet is a looker with balanced proportions and a sleek profile. The front fascia is the most noticeable body styling difference from the Alfa Tonale. Sharp eyes will notice that this SUV coupe has no roof rails. And note the double red slash marks that replace a written Dodge nameplate.

The Dodge Hornet could be a sales contender if it weren’t so pricey — or if there were a third less-ferocious model more focused on fuel economy.

a broad view of the front seat area taken from the back seat

Premium interior touches for the Dodge Hornet R/T and GT include Alcantara seats with an embroidered Dodge Rhombi logo, included with the optional Track Pack.

The Hornet Beehive

Dodge is catching up in the compact SUV segment. The Dodge Brand’s “Never Lift” business plan is about power first and fuel economy second. Dodge has not been particularly good at small vehicles, and its last “compact” SUV was the V6-powered Nitro, which was discontinued in 2011.

After Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the Peugeot Group merged in 2021, the mega-conglomerate of Italian-French-American manufacturing was renamed Stellantis NV. Today, Stellantis represents 14 automotive brands: Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, and Vauxhall.

Dodge is the beneficiary of the long arm of global reach to Euro car brands. When bestowed with the luxury donor from Alfa Romeo, Dodge went full pedal with performance as a brand separator. However, as a “muscle hybrid,” it has some cultural growth pains.

Building the Dodge Hornet from a European model puts it at a size disadvantage in North America. European vehicle categories are slightly smaller than the corn-fed vehicles preferred by American motorists. Inch for inch, the Dodge Hornet (and Tonale) is a “tweener” in size, almost a class-below compact in all size specifications. Yet Hornet is fully priced for the midsize segment.

Consequently, the Hornet has flown into an unforgiving U.S.-spec “compact” segment. Among the Hornet competitors are the Chevrolet Equinox (new for 2024), Honda CR-V, Mazda CX5, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and VW Tiguan.

An open view into the front passenger area and the 8 way power seat

The passenger gets an 8-way power seat, too.

2024 Dodge Hornet Pricing

For 2024, the Dodge Hornet will be sold in two all-wheel-drive models with turbocharged hybrid powertrains in two trim levels: GT and GT Plus or R/T and R/T Plus.

Hornet GT pricing starts at $32,495 and the GT Plus at $38,590;

Hornet R/T pricing starts at $42,995 and the R/T Plus at $48,340.

The Hornet R/T Plus tester came to $52,525. It had options for Acapulco Gold metallic paint $595; Tech package, $2,245; and Track package, $2,595. (Package details are in the specifications chart at the end of this story.)

Retail pricing includes the $1,595 freight charge from the Alfa Romeo Giambattista Vico Stellantis plant in Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples, Italy.

Find current Dodge Hornet pricing here.  And look for special incentives and offers here.  A $500 National Retail Consumer Cash incentive was available for the Hornet GT at publication. The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T offers a $6,500 EV incentive when leasing through Stellantis Financial Services.

For comparison, the 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale is also sold in four trim levels with starting prices that range from $45,440 to $50,435. Check out the Tonale at Alfa Romeo USA.

A dual screen configurable infotainment screen shows the backup view

A dual-screen configurable infotainment screen. (Mark Maynard)

Hornet’s Sophisticated Extras 

Building a Dodge from an Alfa Romeo has its benefits. The Hornet has many sophisticated extras that are not always associated with a compact SUV, but these come at a price. Among the niceties I appreciated are:

  • Interior plastics and trim materials that are above basic;
  • Big Brembo brakes
  • Power heated and folding side mirrors;
  • ParkView split-screen backup camera;
  • 8-way power adjustable driver seat with 4-way lumbar and memory presets;
  • 8-way power adjustable passenger seat;
  • Techno leather (heated) steering wheel;
  • Illuminated glove box;
  • Pedestrian-cyclist emergency braking;
  • Full-width rear taillight bar with double red slashes;
  • Aluminum hood with functional air intake vents and dual strut supports;
  • Cargo floor support stops;
  • The engine has some practical engineering designs, such as placing the turbo wastegate high on the engine rather than the usual down-low position, where it is prone to grime and highway salt degradation. Check-and-fill points for fluids and the 12-volt battery are easily accessed and clearly marked.
Looking at the1.3 liter turbocharged four cylinder engine

The dual-motor powertrain in the Hornet R/T with a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. (Mark Maynard)

Hornet’s Hybrid Powertrains

With its curb weight of 3,715 pounds, the entry Hornet GT weighs 425 pounds less than the plug-in Hornet R/T. The GT’s Hurricane 2.0-liter has peak torque of 295 foot-pounds at 3,000 rpm, on its way to a 5,500 rpm. Dodge cites 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, making it among the quickest small SUVs on sale today. The nine-speed automatic transmission should keep acceleration on point, but I have not tested this model. But premium fuel is recommended for peak power. The gas tank of 13.5 gallons should provide around 364 miles of range, depending on how much and how frequently Sport mode is used.

The Hornet GT has a top speed of 140 mph vs.128 for the Hornet R/T. But the GT is 0.9 seconds slower to 60 mph than the R/T.

The 288-horsepower Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid is a slab of well-marbled beefcake. Going smaller goes big for the Hornet R/T PHEV. Its 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine has a combined 288 horsepower. The dual-motor powertrain pulls 199 foot-pounds of torque from the front motor and 184 from the rear motor. And it can travel up to 84 mph in battery mode.

Thank the Italian gods for the Hornet’s six-speed automatic transmission rather than a continuously variable (and continuously boring) transmission. The six-speed rolls easily through the gears to maximize force. But at 65 mph the engine revs slightly high at 2,000 rpm, and it is not a particularly quiet engine. The engine will rev higher on start-up and other times at idle, such as at a stoplight, to heat and keep the catalytic converter hot, Dodge says.

Techno leather (heated) steering wheel.

Techno leather (heated) steering wheel. (Mark Maynard)

a close up of the Klington battle-class regen paddle shifters are in the way of the turn signal and wiper stalks.

Klington battle-class regen paddle shifters are in the way of the turn signal and wiper stalks. (Mark Maynard)

Poke the Hive

Hitting the Sport mode button on the center console pokes the hive. It sharpens throttle response and shift points, tightens steering feel, and taps into the hybrid system’s power and torque. The ensuring angry buzz was a little much for around town. I would use it selectively when anticipating the need for a quick getaway.

There is also a Power Shot to the Sport mode. Pull back both battery regen paddles for an extra 30 hp boost lasting 30 seconds. (After a 15-second cooldown, it can be used again.) I tried it a few times. It’s not a scary exercise and seems to be a bigger marketing boost than a real-world asset.

Another view of the 10.25 inch main infotainment screen

The hybrid system has modes of hybrid, battery, or e-Save to bank battery power for later use. (Mark Maynard)

Battery Power

The 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, with nickel manganese cobalt graphite, provides a battery driving range of 33 miles, plus or minus a few. I recharged three times and could only get to 31 miles. However, aggressive energy recuperation can stretch the range. Official EPA mileage estimates are 29 mpg combined city/hwy or 77 mpg-e combined. With the 11.2-gallon fuel tank, Dodge cites a total driving range of 360 miles.

More useful is the bi-mode hybrid system. It can run as a hybrid using battery and engine power. At low speeds, it functions as a battery-electric, and the engine engages on the harder tip-in of the accelerator. Using the steering wheel thumb button (or via the navigation screen), the driver can select hybrid, battery, or e-Save to bank battery power for later use.

Dodge says a full recharge using a level 2 charger will take about 2 1/2 hours. Plugging into a household 110-volt charger will take almost seven hours.

A view of the The Blacktop Package, $1,595, includes 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires and black alloy wheels

The Blacktop Package, $1,595, includes 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires. (Mark Maynard)

Hornet R/T Ride and Handling

As quickly as the R/T can reach 60 mph, it can stop just as quickly. Big Brembo front and rear calipers have vented 13.53-inch front and 12.08-inch solid rear rotors.

Stopping power is amplified by the 9-inch-wide footprint of the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires (235/40). The Michelins, an upgrade in the Blacktop package, are quiet rolling despite a fairly stiff 540AAA treadwear rating.

The R/T ride quality is variable, with a continual settling of the suspension, as if, on long legs with a heavy body moving its hips to balance the load. The raised ride height and 20-inch Michelins might overwhelm comfort control.

Front MacPherson and rear Chapman struts are paired with Koni’s frequency selective damping shock absorbers. The shocks work to balance comfort and handling. However, suspension jolts can feel like steel knuckles.

The curb weight of the Hornet R/T is a stout 4,140 pounds, including the battery at 276 pounds.

Dodge media materials list a turning circle of 37.86 feet, but I expect that is for the base 17-inch tires.

Safety Features and Technologies

The Hornet’s Italian roots provide a vault of safety features, including:

  • 7 air bags,
  • Automatic electronic brake hold,
  • Blind spot and cross-path detection,
  • Full-speed forward-collision warning-plus,
  • Lane-keep assist,
  • ParkSense rear park-assist system,
  • Traffic sign information and recognition,
  • Automatic high-beam headlight control,
  • Pedestrian-cyclist emergency braking.
Looking at the tread face of the nine inch wide Michelin tires

The 9-inch footprint of the 235/40 Michelins.

With that safety suite, Dodge layers on optional Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance in the optional Tech Pack, $2,245. Among its features are:

Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC) maintains an appropriate speed and distance with stop and go functionality;

Intelligent Speed Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition detects the speed limit and also provides a one-click feature to adjust speeds;

Driver Attention Assist detects signs of fatigue and alerts weary drivers with a visual and acoustic warning on the gauge cluster;

Lateral Control and Lane Support system combines Lane Control and Traffic Jam Assist to keep the vehicle centered on the lane.

Interior Function

The Dodge Hornet cabin is front-seat biased and feels roomier than a compact. Headroom is tall at 38.8 inches with legroom of 41.7. Cornering sightlines, however, are complicated by the stretched-out windshield pillars and the large side mirrors.

With the comfortably bolstered sport seats in the Track package ($2,595), the driver is set for the slalom course. The black Alcantara seat upholstery with red accents is attractive and the seats are supportive. Large drivers, however, might feel a little cramped at the shoulders.

Some elements in creating a buzz for a hot-rod Hornet seem gratuitous, even gimmicky. For example, the Klingon-class regen paddles look cool but are in the way of the turn signal and wiper stalks. These metal paddles, like curved battle blades, are mounted to the steering column, not the steering wheel. I prefer the column placement because the driver always knows where the upshift and downshift modes are. But are these big blades necessary for regeneration?

Because of Hornet’s Italian roots, however, there is an awkward translation to commonly applied procedures, such as setting cruise control. Drivers should get this figured out before setting out.

Use care when opening the back doors to not be clipped by the protruding “bee” wing.

Use care when opening the back doors to not be clipped by the protruding “bee” wing.

Helpful Hornet Details

Other than the complicated sightlines, the interior layout is functional and contemporary. The driver faces a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that has three configurable zones.

The center 10.25-inch screen for the Uconnect 5 infotainment system is also configurable. Various modules, such as music and maps, can be displayed. The split backup camera screen includes an overhead view, handy in tight parking situations.

The electric parking brake, large wireless charging pad, sliding front armrest, and sun visors with lighted vanity mirrors are also appreciated.

I like the smart-locking doors with a “chiclet” in the door handle. It takes just a hand swipe at the grip, and the door(s) unlock. On exit, just press the chiclet. However, for $52K, I’d like to have smart locking for all side doors. It is a convenience not to have to swipe the front door first before gaining access to the back doors.

Looking into the back seat with the attractive alcantara black and red upholstery

More of the good Track pack upholstery in a subcompact back seat. (Mark Maynard)

Back Seat and Cargo Space

If the front seat area is compact, the back seat is subcompact but with more of the Track pack’s black-and-red upholstery. The fast roofline crops headroom, and legroom is snug, even with knees against the front seatbacks for taller passengers. The space might be small for young families with growing children.

The 60/40 folding back seat has a ski pass-through and fold-down armrest with two can holders. But when lowered, the broad armrest cuts uncomfortably into elbow room.

No budget was wasted on overhead grab handles, so just lay your dry cleaning across the seat. But the back seat does have two USBs ports (Types A and C), center air vents, and bottle slots in the doors.

Cargo space is more like trunk space, with 22.9 to 50.5 cubic feet measured to the headliner. Packaging of the battery downsized the R/T cargo space by 4.2 cubic feet.

There are no roof rails, so there is no other option for cargo, yet the roof height of 63 inches would be reachable by most.

Oddly, the cargo floor is almost square and does not contour around the rear fender wells for niche space. But there is usable basement space to store the charging cable and the little flat-tire inflation compressor.

Folding the 60/40 back seat gives about 5 ½ feet in length. Entry height, however, is low at 26 inches, and cargo entry width of 39 inches makes it too small to load that big-screen TV.

Conveniences include two side lights, two bag hooks, and four tiedowns.

An open view of the cargo space with a grocery bag on the bag hook

Squared-off cargo space of 22.9 cubic feet stacked to the headliner.  And underfloor storage, below. (Mark Maynard)

There is storage under the cargo floor for the charging cable and tire inflation system

Why Buy the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T?

Dodge Hornet seems to be in a strong pregrid position to introduce new buyers to the brand. It went on sale in 2023 and is currently lapping its 2024 model year. Early Hornet models were the subject of much concern, with owners experiencing a variety of electronic glitches. Software updates attended to most of those more or less promptly.

New buyers of Hornet can get good information from the Dodge Hornet Forum and the Dodge Hornet R/T & GT Facebook page

A rear view of the Acapulco Gold Hornet with a big gray Navy training ship in the background at Liberty Station

The Hornet R/T is branded as an electric muscle car, keeping it true to the Dodge Brotherhood. (Mark Maynard)

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-seat, 5-door AWD gasoline plug-in hybrid SUV

Engine: Turbocharged 1.3-liter 4-cylinder with stop-start at idle

Power, AWD: 288 net combined hp, 383 lb.-ft. torque, front motor 199 lb.-ft., 184 lb.-ft. rear (e-Motor)

Transmission: Aisin 6-speed automatic

Electric range: 31-33 miles

Combined driving range: 360 miles

Fuel economy: 29 mpg combined city/hwy; 77 mpg-e combined

0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds

Motors: Induction

Battery: 15.5 kWh lithium-ion, nickel manganese cobalt graphite; the battery is cooled by refrigerant gas

Battery weight: 276 pounds

Charging: A high-power inverter and 7.4-kW charging module; 2.5 hours for a full charge using a Level 2 charger

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 11.2 gallons

Cargo space: 22.9 to 50.5 cubic feet (vs. 27 and 54.7 cu.ft. in GT)

Front/rear shoulder room: 55.7/54.8 inches

Front head/leg room: 38.8/41.7 inches

Rear head/leg room: 38.2/38 inches

Front/rear shoulder room: 55.7/54.8 inches

Length/wheelbase: 178/103.8 inches

Curb weight: 4,140 pounds

Turning circle: 37.9 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Keyless Enter ‘n Go locking with push-button ignition, adaptive cruise control, aluminum steering-column-mounted paddle shifters, 12.3-Inch digital instrument cluster, electric parking brake, wireless charging pad, sun visors with lighted vanity mirrors, Uconnect 5 Nav with 10.25-Inch touch screen display, ParkView split-screen backup camera, illuminated ma pocket, 8-way power adjustable driver seat with 4-way lumbar and memory presets, 8-way power adjustable passenger seat, heated front seats, black headliner, Techno leather (heated) steering wheel, 60/40 rear seat with ski pass-through, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot trial, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual front A and C USB ports, media hub with 2 charge-only USB ports, front and rear floor mats;

Exterior: Hornet front fascia, rear body-color spoiler, GT upper and lower mesh grill, LED taillights, hands-free power liftgate, power heated and folding side mirrors;

Safety features and technologies: 7 air bags, automatic electronic brake-hold, blind spot and cross path detection, full-speed forward-collision warning-plus, lane-keep assist, ParkSense rear park-assist system, traffic sign information and recognition, automatic high-beam headlamp control, pedestrian-cyclist emergency braking

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: Brembo calipers front and rear; vented front rotors 13.53 inches, solid rear 12.08 inches

Steering: electric power, 37.9-foot turning circle

Tires-wheels: 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 235/40; 540AAA treadwear rating

Suspension: MacPherson struts front, rear Chapman struts, all with frequency selective damping

PRICING

Base price: $48,340, including $1,595 freight charge; price as tested $53,775

Options on test vehicle: Acapulco Gold paint $595

Tech package, $2,245, includes intelligent speed assist, active driving assist, surround-view camera, drowsy driver detection, Parksense front-rear-side park assist;

Track package, $2,595, includes black Alcantra seat upholstery with red accents, aluminum door sills, sport leather steering wheel, dual-mode suspension, metal-trimmed pedals, red painted Dodge calipers, 20-inch Abyss Finish wheels and 235/40 all-season tires.

Where assembled: Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples, Italy

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper, 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain and roadside assistance

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Overview

by | Mar 6, 2024 | 0 comments

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Overview

  • Production of the all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger two-door coupe will begin in mid-2024. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

  • Production of four-door Daytona Scat Pack and R/T models and gas-powered two-door Dodge Chargers are scheduled to start Q1 2025;

The all-new Dodge Charger presents a distillation of muscle car design through a modern muscular exterior that focuses on function, avoids excess and subtly acknowledges inspiration from the clean, timeless lines of its predecessors.

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona will be available first in R/T and Scat Pack trim levels. All Charger models will have standard all-wheel drive. (Photography courtesy of Stellantis)

Jump To Features

‘Multi-Energy’ Powertrains
Electric Driving Range
Performance Features
0-60 mph Acceleration
Charging Times
Daytona Suspension Hardware
2024 Charger Styling Elements
Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust
2023 vs. 2024 Charger Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

Dodge has just revealed its new electrified Charger Daytona, declaring it “the World’s First and Only Electric Muscle Car.” For all the old-school Dodge Charger enthusiasts, the 2024 model will be available as a two-door coupe or four-door sedan. And for enthusiasts with gasoline in their veins, Dodge also will offer “multi-energy” powertrains for the 2024 Charger. There will be two internal-combustion engine options, including the 550-horsepower Dodge Charger SIXPACK H.O. powered by the 3.0-liter Twin Turbo Hurricane High Output engine and the 420-hp Dodge Charger SIXPACK S.O. fueled by the 3.0-liter Twin Turbo Hurricane Standard Output engine. The new Dodge Charger features standard all-wheel drive for all models.

Electrified versions of the 2024 Dodge Charger will feature the 496-hp 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona R/T and the 670-hp Daytona Scat Pack, which can launch from 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds and run the quarter-mile in an estimated 11.5 seconds.

Two-door coupe versions of the all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack and 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona R/T will begin production in mid-2024.

Production of all-electric four-door Daytona Scat Pack and R/T models will begin in the first quarter of 2025.

Gas-powered two-door Dodge Charger SIXPACK H.O. and four-door Dodge Charger SIXPACK S.O. models are also scheduled to begin production in the first quarter of 2025.

The new Dodge Charger will be built at the Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant.

Interior shot of 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack.

Driver entry to a 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack.

‘Multi-Energy’ Powertrains

The next-generation Dodge Charger models are the first vehicles to debut on the STLA Large platform. Dodge calls this platform a highly flexible, battery-electric native platform with the potential to carry extreme power. A variety of suspension modules and powertrain cradles can be used for vehicle-specific performance objectives.

All-electric Charger Daytona models are powered by a 400-volt propulsion system, which Dodge says delivers supercharged V-8 performance with zero tailpipe emissions and instant torque response.

The propulsion system comprises a high-voltage battery pack, a dual integrated charge module, and front and rear electric drive modules. The battery pack is liquid-heated and cooled with a chiller. The lithium-ion-based battery features a high-energy density nickel cobalt aluminum chemistry.

The front drive module has a front-wheel-end disconnect to improve driving range, while the rear EDM includes a mechanical limited-slip differential to increase traction and performance. Both drive modules have a 3-in-1 architecture (inverter, gearbox, and motor); each generates 335 hp (250 kW) and 300 foot-pounds of torque.

Using paddle shifters, the force of regenerative braking — which converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy during deceleration into electricity — can be adjusted by 0.1g, 0.2g, or 0.3g regen.

All-electric, all-wheel-drive Dodge Charger Daytona models are driven by a 400V propulsion system that delivers supercharged V-8 power with zero tailpipe emissions and instant torque response. The partial vehicle image of the Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack highlights the wheels, half-shafts, front and rear electric drive modules and the high voltage battery pack.

All-electric, all-wheel-drive 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona models are driven by a 400-volt propulsion system. Below, a ghosted illustration of the Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack highlights the wheels, half-shafts, electric drive modules, and the high-voltage battery.

A ghost view of the Charger showing the skateboard powertrain

Electric Driving Range

The Dodge Charger Daytona R/T is expected to have a battery-driving range of 317 miles, while the higher-performance Charger Daytona Scat Pack provides 260 miles of all-electric range.

Optional Level 2 wall-charging units or public charging credits will be offered through Free2move Charge. In 2023, Stellantis launched the so-called 360-degree ecosystem.

Using a Level 3 DC CCS fast charger, both electric Chargers can be recharged from 20 percent to 80 percent in just over 27 minutes. A 350-kW fast charger will add 9.9 miles of range per minute for the Daytona R/T and 8.1 miles per minute for the Daytona Scat Pack.

When comparing the total cruising ranges of the gas-powered and electric Charger models, the gas model wins. Factoring in combined fuel mileage estimates and the 18.5-gallon fuel tank, the 2023 Dodge Charger has a possible maximum range of 425 miles and a low of 333 miles.

The steering wheel of the Dodge Charger is performance oriented and technical in feel, with a heated flat top/flat bottom design, and includes paddle shifters to manage regenerative braking and a PowerShot button — located on the front of the wheel for quick access — for the Charger Daytona Scat Pack and R/T.

The heated steering wheel of the 2024 Dodge Charger has a flat top/flat bottom design and includes paddle shifters to manage regenerative braking and a PowerShot button.

Charging Times

Level 2 AC11 kW 5-80 percent: about 7 hours, from 5 percent to 80 percent;

DC Fast Charge 175 kW: about 1 hour, from 5 percent to 80 percent;

DC Fast Charge 350 kW: about 30 minutes, from 5 percent to 80 percent;

  • 11 kW onboard charger, Level 2.
An all-new, modern "pistol-grip" shifter and the start/power button are packaged close together on the center console of the all-new Dodge Charger, which also incorporates a wireless phone charger.

The center console has a modern “pistol-grip” shifter, a start button, and a wireless phone charger.

Performance Features

Keeping true to the Dodge Brotherhood of Muscle, Charger Daytona models offer several levels of driver-selected performance. In addition to the Drag, Track, Drift, and Donut modes, there is the PowerShot mode, which adds 40 hp. With a throttle punch, the PowerShot gives a 15-second overboost.

Donut Mode: Enables the vehicle to spin only the rear wheels and to rotate around either of the front wheels without intervention from the traction control system;

Drift Mode: The driver can select three levels of slip angle, and torque is rear-axle biased, using the front axle to help maintain slip angle. Front dampers become full soft, and rear dampers go full stiff to enable an oversteer condition, and the traction control system allows for different wheel speed differentials without setting fault codes;

Line Lock: To prepare for a launch event, the driver can lock the front wheels, removing torque from the front axle to spin the rear tires to clean and warm them.

An optional augmented head-up display (HUD) for the all-new Dodge Charger projects a large field of view with an improved virtual image distance.

The augmented head-up display projects a large field of view and improved virtual image distance.

0-60 Acceleration

0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds R/T; 3.3 seconds Scat Pack

1/4 mile: 13.1 seconds R/T: 11.5 seconds Scat Pack

Top speed: 137 mph R/T; 134 mph Scat Pack

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack, shown in Triple Nickel.

The rear of all Charger models has the red “ring of fire” LED taillamps.

Daytona Suspension Hardware

Wheels and tires: The Track Package option for the Daytona Scat Pack adds the biggest tire package used to date by Dodge: 20-inch wheels and staggered Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 305/35ZR20XL (12 inches wide) front/325/35ZR20 rear tires (12.8 inches). The tire package is the first street or road-course-oriented staggered set-up for a Dodge Charger. Front and rear tires can be tuned independently, with the front tuned to achieve maximum lateral acceleration and the rear tuned for stability.

High-performance brakes: Available with the Track Package option on the Charger Daytona Scat Pack, 16-inch Brembo vented rotors with red six-piston front rotors and four-piston rear fixed calipers increase the swept area more than 30 percent from the outgoing SRT.

Suspension: Front multi-link with forged aluminum links. Independent rear suspension with a Charger-unique rear four-link geometry.

Dual-valve semi-active damping: Optional on the Charger Daytona Scat Pack with Track Package, the adaptive damping suspension uses dual valves, one for compression and one for rebound. Dodge says the suspension has three times the number of body accelerometers, four times the wheel-hub accelerometers, and four times the ride height sensors from the outgoing Charger. Using dual valves allows for more force in handling scenarios, a smoother ride over rough roads, and more personalization choices in each driving mode.

New wheels for the all-new Dodge Charger feature center caps with the Fratzog logo.

New Charger wheel designs feature center caps with the Fratzog logo.

2024 Charger Styling

Both two- and four-door body styles share a widebody stance and a common wheelbase. An optional full-length glass roof (a gloss black painted roof comes standard) provides an expansive glass canopy.

A patent-pending front R-Wing hood feature, exclusive to Charger Daytona models, is a callout to the original Charger Daytona. The R-Wing allows airflow to enhance downforce.

The new Charger brings back the three-pointed, triangular badge that Dodge used on its muscle cars from 1962 through 1976. The return of the Fratzog logo represents the electrified future of Dodge.

No automaker has such descriptive paint color names as Dodge (and Plymouth). The new Charger continues the creativity with eight paint choices: After Dark, Bludicrous (as in Be-Ludicrous), Destroyer Grey, Diamond Black, Peel Out, Redeye, Triple Nickel, and White Knuckle.

The patent-pending front R-Wing, exclusive to Dodge Charger Daytona models, is a callout to the original Charger Daytona design while also enabling air to flow through a front pass-through area, enhancing downforce while creating a unique visual profile.

The front R-Wing hood detail, exclusive to Dodge Charger Daytona models, is a callout to the original Charger Daytona design.

Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust

Gas-powered Dodge muscle cars have long had their unique exhaust sound. So, too, will the electric Chargers, using a patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system. Its two passive radiators create an exhaust tone that Dodge says has Hellcat (V-8) sound intensity, worthy of the Brotherhood of Muscle. The Fratzonic system also has a stealth sound mode.

The patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system for Dodge Charger Daytona models creates a unique exhaust profile with Hellcat levels of sound intensity that shatters the preconception of a typical quiet BEV.

The patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system for the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona models creates a unique exhaust profile, which Dodge claims has Hellcat sound intensity levels.

Interior Features

A driver-focused cockpit begins with a layered instrument panel with free-standing, wide-format 10.25-inch or 16-inch driver-info screens. A 12.3-inch center display in the center stack is angled toward the driver.

The heated flat top and flat bottom steering wheel includes paddle shifters for regenerative braking and the PowerShot button. A new “pistol-grip” shifter and the start button on the center console also incorporate a wireless phone charger.

Interior badging corresponds to the model: Daytona for the all-electric vehicles and Charger for gas-powered SIXPACK models.

Daytona Scat Pack and R/T models have a standard nine-speaker, 506-watt Alpine stereo with a subwoofer. An 18-speaker, 914-watt system is optional.

Cloth and leatherette seats are standard, with premium options for heated Black Nappa leather and Demonic Red Nappa leather seats. High-backed fixed headrest seats have a unique pass-through and are optional with the Plus Package, Track Package, and Carbon & Suede Package.

Charger’s “hidden hatch” roof design is about cargo capacity, including fold-flat back seats. The max rear cargo area is 38.5 cubic feet, which is 133 percent more cargo volume than the outgoing Charger. A “frunk” space adds 1.5 ft cubic feet of storage.

The optional full-length glass roof of the all-new Dodge Charger enhances the open-air feel of the cabin, and along with the large rear hatch provides an expansive glass canopy.

The optional full-length glass roof and large rear hatch create an expansive glass canopy.

2023 vs. 2024 Charger Specifications

Length/wheelbase: 198.4*/120 inches *SXT to Scat Pack Widebody

Width/height: 82.7*/57.6 to 59.5 (SRT Hellcat to SXT AWD) to *including mirrors

Track, front/rear: 63.3 to 65.6 inches (SXT to Scat Pack Widebody)

Turning circle: 37.7 to 39 feet, SXT to Scat Pack Widebody)

Curb weight: 3,940 to 4,594 pounds, SXT to SRT Hellcat

Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons

Fuel economy estimates

Pentastar V-6: 19/30/23 mpg (RWD), 18/27/21 (AWD);

345 Hemi V-8: 16/25/19 mpg (midgrade recommended)

392 Hemi V-8: 15/24/18 mpg (premium required)

Supercharged 6.2-Liter Hemi Hellcat V-8: (12/21/15 mpg (premium required)

For more information, the March 5, 2024, reveal of 2024 Dodge Charger can be viewed online at Dodge.com.

The New Dodge Challenger Convertible

by | Aug 16, 2022 | 0 comments

The New Dodge Challenger Convertible

The Drop Top Customs third-party Challenger convertible-top option will have a retail price of $25,999, though final pricing will be negotiated and confirmed with the dealer

A front three-quarter view of the new Challenger convertible made by Drop Top Customs

Dodge dealerships will provide an expedited ordering process for the 2022 Dodge Challenger through Drop Top Customs. (Photos courtesy of Stellantis)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Dodge peeled back the roof on a new third-party Challenger convertible during its three-day Dodge Speed Week event. The three-day event features three nights of Dodge product reveals on Aug. 15, 16, and 17, 2022. The series wraps up on Aug. 20 with a big Dodge brand display in conjunction with the Modern Street Hemi Shootout group
on Aug. 20 during the Dream Cruise Weekend.
.
The 2022 Dodge Challenger convertible will be the first convertible Challenger since the 1970 and 1971 model years for the original muscle car.

“Last Call” for ICE Muscle

Parent company Stellantis is using the event to signal a “Last Call” to its Dodge Challenger and Charger, which will be phased out of production at the end of 2023. Among the debuts at Dodge Speed Week was the 710-hp, 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat.

A 710 horsepower 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat in the newly available color of Frostbite.

“While we hit the throttle toward our new performance path, Dodge is also having fun on this victory lap by celebrating decades of muscle car power,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer, Stellantis. The future of performance for Dodge will be electrified, Kuniskis has said.

“What better way to commemorate how far we’ve come than to make it easier for Dodge Challenger customers to create a throwback convertible look,” Kuniskis said in a release.

Each 2023 Charger and Challenger will have a “Last Call” under-hood plaque with the vehicle name and silhouette showing their origin as “Designed in Auburn Hills” and “Assembled in Brampton.”

A side view of the Challenger convertible with the top down

The conversion will feature a padded roof and a heated glass rear window.

Challenger Convertible Ordering Process

Dodge dealerships will offer an expedited ordering process for third-party convertible modifications for the 2022 Dodge Challenger through Drop Top Customs. It is considered the oldest convertible coachbuilder in the U.S. and is based in Florida.

The new, integrated transportation ordering process allows customers to place third-party orders and pick up finished vehicles through participating Dodge dealers.

Dodge dealerships in the U.S. will begin taking retail convertible transportation orders on Aug. 16, 2022. Convertible third-party modifications through Drop Top Customs will also be available for the 2023 Dodge Challenger when orders open for the new model year.

Customers will work closely with Drop Top Customs and their Dodge dealership to order the vehicle to their specifications. Dodge dealerships will schedule unmodified customer vehicles to ship directly from Stellantis’ Brampton (Ontario, Canada) Assembly Plant to Drop Top Customs. Dodge says that the process will provide a more efficient build time, and allows owners to take the keys after completion.

Expedited shipment option to Drop Top Customs will be available for 2022 and 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and all Challenger SRT models.

A view of the open trunk space

Trunk space, to boot.

Challenger Convertible Pricing

The Drop Top Customs third-party Challenger convertible-top option will have a retail price of $25,999. However, final pricing will be negotiated and confirmed with the dealer.

Additional ordering information, including warranty information, is available through Drop Top Customs.

A convertible with the top up

The convertible conversions feature a fully hydraulic power top.

Drop Top Customs

Drop Top Customs has 46 years of modification experience, creating convertibles, including modern-era Dodge Challenger convertibles. The convertible conversions feature a fully hydraulic power top. Structural reinforcements will reduce body flex while retaining interior space. A padded roof and heated glass rear window provide sound and temperature insulation.

Learn more at Drop Top Customs www.droptopchallenger.com.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Review

by | Aug 4, 2022 | 0 comments

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Review

The 797-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak is a throwback union of old school and new school

The red Challenger with a Navy recruit training ship in the background

The 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak starts at $87,120. Today’s tester was $97,077 with 12 options and the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax. (Photography by Mark Maynard)

Table of Contents

Overview
Challenger Then and Now
Pricing
Dodge Challenger Build Order
SRT Hellcat V-8s
Jailbreak Performance
Why Buy the Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

I heard the car pull up before I saw it, and when I saw it, I muttered the enthusiast’s silent prayer, which goes something like: “Jeeziz, keep me from my own undoing.” I was looking at a 797-horsepower 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Widebody.

Driving this week’s test car, in its TorRed paint and a straight-through exhaust hustle, I’d be guilty until proven innocent.

The supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine tinked and tokked as it cooled. With its 12-inch-wide Pirelli P Zero gumshoe-sticky tires and body widened 3.5 inches by pronounced fender flares, the Challenger Jailbreak has the stance of a predator. Yet, the bright red paint and Warp-Speed satin carbon chrome wheels made it appear less of a hooligan and just gloriously badass.

First impressions might be to hate this musclebound coupe for its gas-guzzling ways. It’s a throwback, but there just ain’t nothing wrong with being all ate up with motor, even as it inhales premium-unleaded fuel.

As a five-seat sport coupe, the Challenger has some utility. The wife of a vintage-racing friend told her husband, who was considering a Hellcat: “Go ahead and get it, honey. It has a back seat, a big trunk, and the back seat folds.”

The Challenger is a big two-door with distinct American features. It has big front headroom of 39.3 inches and long legroom of 42 inches. Sightlines are unimpeded for cornering, and the 38.7-foot turning circle is quite manageable.

The ride quality can be comfortable, and the standard equipment list is mostly competitive. But the aging architecture is apparent in the lack of small-item storage, wireless charging, or even a dedicated place to lay a phone.

But when it comes to performance hardware and engineering, the Challenger SRT Hellcats are fully functional.

A underbody view of the Challenger exhaust system

The 2.75-inch electronically controlled, straight-through active exhaust system.

2022 Dodge Challenger Overview

The Dodge Challenger is old school and new school — and the same goes for those who embrace this champion of the Mopar Nation.

This big pony car has been in production so long — 14 years — that whatever wasn’t right has been made right. J.D. Power — a juggernaut among automotive research firms — named the Dodge Challenger the “Best Midsize Sporty Car of 2022.”

With detailed survey feedback from verified car owners, J.D. Power gives the Challenger an 85 out of 100 rating. The ratings include an overall rating and sub-ratings for quality and reliability (40 percent), driving experience (20 percent), resale value (20 percent), and dealership experience (20 percent).

The flat-bottom SRT steering wheel

The leather-wrapped flat-bottom and heated SRT steering wheel.

Dodge Challenger Then and Now

The Dodge Challenger is among the more elevated and choice-optimized sport coupes in modern history. It goes way beyond its spiritual predecessor of the 1970-1974 Dodge Challenger pony car. And even it had eight engine choices, which ranged from the Slant 6 (aka, “Leaning Tower of Power”) to the legendary 426-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 and the even more powerful 7.2-liter 440 V-8.

There were less illustrious “Challenger” models, too. The 1978-1983 “badge engineered” Mitsubishi Galant coupe was hopeful but hollow of performance. It was a dreadful offering during the 1980s “malaise” years in American cars, performance or otherwise.

And here’s a note of trivia. Dodge first applied the Challenger nameplate in 1959 for the “value version” of its full-sized Coronet Silver Challenger.

The modern-era Dodge Challenger has been the golden Hellcat of sales. It was early 2008 when the current generation made its U.S. debut. And the Challenger has rode out its 14 years with the same basic chassis architecture but with a few face-lifts, dozens of fresh option packages, and iconic paint colors. The current-gen Challenger was introduced in 2014 for the 2015 model year.

Through 2021, the Dodge Challenger has racked up 645,509 U.S. sales since 2008, backed up by 19,856 in Canada, 4,603 in Mexico, and 3,077 from Europe. The grand total comes to 673,045, according to the Challenger page on Wikipedia. Last year there were 54,314 Challengers sold in the U.S. . So far in 2022, the Challenger has brought in 25,682 sales, down just 3 percent from the second quarter of 2021.

And all that while weathering a pandemic, gasoline crisis, and the pangs of a threatening recession.

An open view inthe driver's side of the Challenger with the two-tone black-and-gray Laguna leather option

The Challenger has a tall 39.3 inches of front headroom.

The End Is Near, or might be

Alas, all good things come to an end, at least for Hellcat models.

According to a report in Automotive News,  Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis is quoted in a report that the supercharged models are in their last days. Redesigned versions of the Charger and Challenger muscle cars are expected to move to Stellantis’ electrified STLA Large platform, which is capable of up to 500 miles of range.

“I will have this car, this platform, this powertrain as we know it, through the end of ‘23,” Kuniskis said in an interview during the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show. “There’s two more years to buy a Hellcat, then it’s history.”

Dodge has said it plans to unveil an electric concept car that will give enthusiasts a taste of what’s to come when it debuts an electric muscle car in 2024. There is speculation that the upcoming vehicles could be an electric speedster and a plug-in hybrid.

The long gearshift console in the Jailbreak

All of the usual accommodations, except wireless charging.

Dodge Challenger Build Order

There are nine trim levels to the 2022 Dodge Challenger, with:

  • 6 choices for horsepower: One V-6 and five V-8 engines;
  • 2 choices of transmissions: six-speed manual (on certain trim levels) or eight-speed AutoStick automatic, with specific beefiness for each V-8, and;
  • Rear- or all-wheel drive (available on some models).

Paint colors

You have to love the marketing creativity of paint-color names for the 2022 Challenger:

  • Frostbite
  • F8 Green
  • Go Mango
  • Granite
  • Hellraisin
  • Indigo Blue
  • Octane Red
  • Pitch Black
  • Sinamon Stick
  • Smoke Show
  • TorRed
  • Triple Nickel
  • White Knuckle
The SRT performance page in the color infotainment touchscreen

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat SRT Performance Dashboard showing Sport mode.

SRT Hellcat V-8s

Decisions, decisions when it comes to power, but most Mopar disciples will buy the most their budget allows. There are five V-8s from which to choose:

375-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with fuel-saver (cylinder shutoff) technology

485-hp 392 Hemi V-8 SRT

717-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat V-8

797-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8

807-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8
Challenger SRT Super Stock.

The 797 horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 in the Challenger

797-hp, supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8.

2022 Dodge Challenger Pricing

Starting prices range from $32,025 for the entry Challenger SXT with 303-hp 3.6-liter V-6 to $89,125 for the Challenger SRT Super Stock. Pricing includes the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax and the $1,595 freight charge from Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Today’s 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak starts at $87,120 and was $97,077 with 12 options and the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax.

The $18,595 Jailbreak 27D package includes: a 220-mph speedometer, widebody fender flares, high-performance engine controller, widebody competition suspension, instrument panel Jailbreak badge, and SRT power chiller, which uses air conditioning refrigerant to further cool the air fed to the supercharged engine.
And that is just the tip of the options list. Buyers of the Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak can order unrestricted option combinations.

Among the more than 20 categories of upgrades are:

  • 7 choices for seats, body stripes, and wheels;
  • 6 brake caliper colors;
  • 5 exterior badging finishes;
  • 4 choices of steering wheels, seat belt colors, and floor mats, and;
  • 13 paint colors. 3 are no-cost, the others range in cost from $95 to $395;
The driver side interior door panel has a bottle holder and a small stash space

Carved-out elbow room at the door panels.

Buyer Be Aware

Challenger (and Charger) Hellcat buyers should know that the Monroney price is merely a suggestion. Dealers are routinely charging $20,000 and more above the sticker. Check the MoparInsider website for more details.

For current Dodge Challenger pricing and incentives, check the factory website here. . And Dodge is currently offering a National Retail Consumer Cash (22CN1) discount of $1,000.

Looking into the front passenger side of the Jailbreak

The front passenger has just manual adjustment.

Challenger Jailbreak Performance

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak runs with the 797-hp high-output V-8. Car and Driver says the Jailbreak can accelerate to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 203 mph.

Everybody loves a whiner when it’s the sound made by the Hellcat’s 2.7-liter supercharger, which spools up 14.5 pounds of boost. On hard acceleration, the supercharger’s industrial whine harmonizes with the gutty bellow of the Hellcat V-8 for a near-religious experience: “Sweet Jesus, take me home.”

As comfortable as a grand-tourer can be, the Challenger Jailbreak is not my choice for a road trip. There is significant drone in the cabin at highway speeds. And then there is the fuel-economy consideration.

Fuel economy ratings are a hopeful 13 mpg city, 21 highway, and 15 mpg combined using the required premium fuel. I might have been averaging 15 mpg, and the 18.5-gallon tank provides the range of a decent electric vehicle.

One of the 12-inch-wide Pirelli P Zero high-performance tires on the Jailbreakance grip, front and rear.

12 inches of 20-inch Pirelli P Zero 305/35ZR 20 all-season performance grip, front and rear.

Challenger Transmissions

Some models of Challenger models have the choice of a six-speed manual transmission — R/T, Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat. The Tremec TR-6060 features a twin-disc clutch and has the much-hated first-to-fourth-gear skip shift.

Hellcats with the high-output V-8 are uprated with a heavy-duty Torqueflite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic. It rolls through the gears with fuel-saving precision in the standard drive mode. Punch up Sport on the touchscreen, and steering, suspension, and shift points sharpen but are not overly aggressive. The Torqueflite also allows manual control. Gear changes can be made at the gear shift or steering-wheel paddle shifters with three SRT selectable performance modes of Street, Sport, and Track.

The AutoStick is probably easier on tires than the manual. But hit the gas and concentrate on steering as the Pirellis light up. The 20-inch rollers (305/35ZR) are of such a grippy recipe that some owners run through a set in four months. With restraint, the tires can last a year. Replacements for the Pirelli P Zero summer performance tires cost around $400 a pop.

The Pirellis contribute to a cushioned ride quality and extreme adhesion, whether in cornering at speed or in launch control. Tires are essential to suspension and car control, so don’t cheap out.

With a curb weight of 4,481 pounds, the Hellcat is more of a barrel-chested straight-line blacktop pounder than a road-course interceptor.

Unfortunately, the Active Exhaust lustily rumbles out the call to let ’er rip. Standard on all Hemi V-8 models, the dual 2.75-inch straight-through exhaust pipes have twin electronic exhaust valves. Black Vapor-chromed tips finish the appearance.

The pair of back seats in the Challenger

Get in, shut up and just hold on.

Why Buy the Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak?

Buy it now because you’ve always wanted a Hellcat. An 800-horsepower coupe is not a need, but neither is a four-carat diamond ring, which, if it is of high quality, can cost as much as a stock Hellcat.

Damn the price of gas, full speed ahead.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said, “The muscle cars are a very nice niche business that is now being prepared for full electrification with some amazing innovations that will bring even more passion from the fans of this brand in the near future.”

A rear three-quarter view of the red Challenger Jailbreak

The widebody treatment adds 3.5 inches at the fenders for an overall width of 78.3 inches.

Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak

Specifications

Body style: midsize, 5-seat 2-door rear-wheel-drive coupe

Engine: supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8; 797-hp at 6,300 rpm; 707 lb.-ft. torque at 4,500 rpm

Transmission: Torqueflite 8HP90 8-speed AutoStick automatic; adaptive electronic control with full manual control via gear selector or paddle shifters with 3 SRT-unique selectable modes: Street, Sport, and Track (features performance shifting and gear holding)

Fuel economy: 13/21/15 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium 91 octane fuel required

Top speed: 203 mph (per Car and Driver)

0-60 mph acceleration: 3.7 seconds (per Car and Driver)

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Trunk space: 16.2 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.3/42 inches

Rear head/leg room: 37.1/33.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 197.5/116 inches

Curb weight: 4,481 pounds

Turning circle: 38.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard Hellcat equipment includes: smart-key locking and push-button ignition, LED interior lighting, six-way power driver’s seat with lumbar, manual front passenger seat, heated front seats, power side mirrors, split-folding back seat, floor mats, leather-wrapped flat-bottom (heated) SRT steering wheel, leather-wrapped shift handle, tilt-telescoping steering column, Uconnect 4C infotainment with 8.4-inch color display (music, climate controls, and vehicle
Information), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 6-speaker Alpine audio system, satellite radio (trial subscription), integrated voice command, Bluetooth, phone and streaming audio, a media hub with audio input jack and two USB ports

SRT performance equipment: 2 ignition keys (one red and one black, which holds power at 500 hp), SRT Track Experience (DodgeGarage.com/SRT), competition suspension, Brembo 6-piston front calipers, line lock, anti-spin differential rear axle, launch control with launch assist, dual scoop hood, conical cold air intake, after-run chiller, active exhaust, SRT configurable drive modes, SRT performance pages, performance shift indicator;

Safety features include: 6 air bags, electronic roll mitigation, stability and all-speed traction controls, hill-start assist, ParkView rearview camera with guidance lines, ParkSense rear park-assist system, rain-brake support, and ready-alert braking;

PRICING

SRT Jailbreak base price: $87,120, including $1,595 freight charge and $2,100 gas-guzzler; price as tested $97,077

Options on test vehicle: Hammerhead-gray seat belts $395; Hammerhead Gray floor mat binding $99; Black and Hammerhead-Gray seats $295; satin chrome exterior badges; 305/35ZR Pirelli P Zero summer performance tires $695; Uconnect 4C Navigation with 8.4-inch color touchscreen display, $995, with 5-year subscriptions for SiriusXM Travel Link and Travel Plus; 20-inch-by-11-inch Warp Speed satin carbon wheels $1,295; chrome fuel-filler door $9;

SRT Jailbreak package, $18,595, includes: widebody fender flares, widebody competition suspension, SRT Power Chiller, 220 mph speedometer, high-performance engine controller, and Jailbreak dashboard badge

TorqueFlite 8-speed AutoStick transmission (standard) with steering wheel shift control and remote start;

Laguna leather front seats with SRT Hellcat logo, $3,890, package includes ventilated front seats, Laguna leather door trim, stitched dash top, memory presets for driver-radio-mirrors, power tilt-telescoping steering column;

Driver convenience group, $1,295, power side mirrors with manual fold function, HID headlights, blind-spot and rear cross-path detection;

Harmon Kardon 18-speaker, surround-sound audio system with subwoofer and GreenEdge amplifier $1,995;

Where assembled: Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

Warranty: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee Review

by | May 10, 2013 | 0 comments

Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee Review

2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee “Core” model packs power, pares price

a 2013 Dodge Charger SRT Super Bee

The Super Bee “core” model has all the power of the Dodge Charger SRT8, without the pricey option packages. (Photos courtesy of Stellantis)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Remember dog-dish hubcaps? Those “no-frills” nut covers were common on muscle cars of the ‘60s, including the Dodge Super Bee.

And when you saw those on a Super Bee – or a GTX or a Plymouth Road Runner or Dodge Challenger – you knew the driver was serious about speed. They were saving weight for a quicker quarter mile – or the next stoplight drag race.

The 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee is no “stripper,” but it is a “core performance” model of the brand. Dodge says it is reaching its “core” enthusiast, but really it means less content to save a few dollars. Pricy features were pared back to lighten the MSRP while not softening the punch.

Super Bee interior has Z stripe cloth seats

Interior features include Z-stripe cloth seats with silver striping and stitching.

The Super Bee has all the power of the Charger SRT8 – a 470-horsepower, 6.4-liter Hemi and five-speed automatic. But instead of the big, leather sport seats – with those steep side bolsters – the Super Bee has Z-stripe cloth seats with silver striping and stitching. The cloth seats are plenty grippy for performance driving.

Super Bee Pricing

Pricing for the 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee starts at $42,770, which is $2,720 less than the full-dress Charger SRT8. But the test car, with options and $1,000 gas-guzzler tax, came to $44,215.

The Super Bee is no “radio delete” model. Standard equipment includes: Smart key locking and push-button ignition, 4.3-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth streaming audio, dual-zone air conditioning, SRT leather steering wheel, 20-inch performance tires, six-way power driver’s seat and aluminum lithographic accents

There’s also a hive of Super Bee graphics, including on the black grille, a dash plaque and a color digitized Bee that hovers a bit in the center gauge on start-up.

Check here for current Doge Charging pricing and offers.

Front cloth seats with the silver Z stripe

The Z-stripe cloth seats are plenty grippy for performance driving.

Observations and Considerations

Missing from the equipment list is a rearview camera, which is always useful in mall parking. Also absent is the big 8.4-inch media screen and Uconnect system. This system is totally cool for its ability to read and send texts, provide navigation, and more.

The Super Bee is also missing the three-mode adaptive damping system, which includes a “Track” setting. But it does have standard Launch Control, to help “maximize straight-line acceleration,” Dodge says.

But the Super Bee does get the active exhaust system (2.75-inch pipes) with healthy 4-inch round tips. And there are SRT disc brakes with 14.2-inch vented and slotted front rotors with four-piston black Brembo calipers. And 13.8-inch vented and slotted rear rotors with four-piston black calipers. The full SRT8 has the same brake system but with red Brembo calipers.

Also standard are Bilstein shock absorbers and stabilizer bars front and rear.

Last year’s Super Bee was available only in yellow or black paint. The 2013 comes in Bright White, Pitch Black and TorRed with black interiors.

Snobs will sniff at the five-speed transmission, but the AutoStick rolls through the gears without hesitation. Soon, the eight-speed will be the standard shifter.

The Super Bee can be optioned with steering wheel paddle shifters for $295.

The leather wrapped three spoke steering wheel

The leather-wrapped steering wheel – with flat bottom – is standard on the core model.

Big Hemi Powertrain

There is power with a conscience, sort of: The big hemi has fuel economy ratings of 14 mpg city, 23 highway and 17 mpg combined. Helping stretch the premium-unleaded is Fuel Saver Technology that switches between eight and four cylinders when possible.

Whatever the mileage, it’s good enough for an enthusiast not to fret over filling up with the good stuff.

Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction as part of the SRT Track Experience. It is a smart way to ease owners into the power and ability of the car. The sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks. Info: DriveSRT.com.

Why Buy the Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee?

The SRT treatment is wicked to the core. The Charger SRT8 suspension was tweaked this year and the ride is more settled now. There’s something so old-school American about how this car is just butt-kicking fun. It is felt with every start of the Hemi, every dive into a corner and every wave of Mopar appreciators.

Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee Specifications

Body style: large, rear-wheel-drive fastback sedan with aluminum hood

Engine: 470-hp, 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) pushrod V-8; 470 lb.-ft. torque at 4,300 rpm

Transmission: 5-spd. AutoStick with Track mode with performance shifting and gear holding

Fuel economy: 14/23 mpg city/hwy.; premium fuel recommended

Fuel tank: 19.1 gal.

Trunk space: 16.3 cu. ft.

Front head/leg/shoulder room: 38.6/41.8/59.5 in.

Rear head/leg/shoulder room: 37.9*/40.1/57.5 in. 36.9 w/sunroof

Length/wheelbase: 200.3/120.2 in.

Curb weight: 4,365 lbs.

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Smart key locking and push-button ignition, 4.3-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth streaming audio, dual-zone air conditioning, SRT leather steering wheel, 6-way power driver’s seat, tilt-telescopic steering column, aluminum lithographic accents, 20-inch all-season tires and alloy wheels;

Safety features include: 7 air bags (including driver’s knee bag) electronic stability control, ABS, all-speed traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, Ready Alert Braking, Rain Brake Support, hill-start assist

Base price: $43,770, including $995 freight charge and $1,000 gas-guzzler tax; price as tested $44,215
Options on test vehicle: 245/45ZR20 Goodyear F1 Supercar performance tires $150; steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters $295;

Where assembled: Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper-to-bumper with roadside assistance; 5-years/100,000-miles powertrain

A yellow dodge coronet super bee

Here’s a blast from the past: a 1968 Dodge Coronet Super Bee convertible, from the Chrysler LLC archives.