Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2015 Dodge Charger SXT Premium 4-door sedan. Over the history of the automobile changes have had a great deal to do with the improvement of the industry. One of the newest alliances is Fiat and Chrysler Group. Referred to as FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) the influence of Fiat is good right off the git-go. Fiat is ranked 7th in the world behind Toyota, GM, VW, Hyundai, Ford and Nissan.
In this lineup of major manufacturers of autos the most impressive is Hyundai that is experiencing rapid rise in acceptance of their products. But only time will tell the final story in who will remain at the top of the heap.
General Information: Parts – US/Canadian 67%, Mexico 20%, Engine – Mexico & Transmission – USA. It is assembled in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Classification is Large. Cars from Dodge: Avenger, Challenger, Charger, Dart, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey and SRT Viper
Handling & Performance:
Smooth ride generally and that is aided by a new 8-speed automatic transmission. It is a rear wheel drive model that I tested but an All-Wheel is available. It is fast and like most muscle cars will appeal to performance car lovers. Some say the RWD is guilty of a bit of over-steer but I didn’t notice anything I couldn’t handle.
Rain Brake Support is featured and may improve braking performance in wet conditions. It will periodically apply a small amount of brake pressure to remove any water buildup on the front brake rotors. It only functions when the windshield wipers are in the LO or HI mode, it does not function in the intermittent mode. When Rain Brake Support is active, there is no notification to the driver and no driver interaction is required.
Styling:
Exterior and interior has taken on some of the flair brother John (auto expert and Ferrari owner) expects of Ferrari class cars. Not so hard to understand since this car is inspired by Ferrari, which is owned by Fiat. Most agree it is much improved over previous models. The seats are soft and comfy and I felt up to a long ride. There is ample legroom in the front and rear and they’ve provided average trunk space in class. Overall – Nice car.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Affordable and good for a large sporty sedan
Conveniences and comfort:
The basic features are well covered but I always recommend some options including back up camera, blind spot and cross path detection, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and ‘Lane Keep Assist’. According to NHTSA’s data 37% of all transportation fatalities in USA are caused by running off the road.
These features to me provide a reduced stressful driving experience since the sensors continue to think when our attention drifts or we’re distracted. They usually come with a host of other features you may or may not be interested in.
Consumer Recommendation:
All the competition noted are close in all respects. Ford Taurus is also close but not listed because Ford does not make their product available to the press for review so I can’t include in my review. I can only be fair if I drive the competition.
Recognized Competition:
Dodge Charger SXT $30,000, Chevrolet Impala $33,000, Toyota Avalon $33,000, Nissan Maxima $35,000.
Good News:
Good pricing, 31 HWY mpg, attractive comfortable ride.
Bad News:
n/a
Standard Equipment:
3.6 liter 300 horsepower V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes with rain brake support, stability and traction control, electric power steering, hill start assist, tire pressure monitor, auto headlights, keyless entry and go with push button start and remote start, sentry key theft deterrent system, 8.4” touchscreen, Uconnect, AM/FM/SXM/Bluetooth with integrated voice command, 6-speakers, 2-12 volt power outlets, auto dual zone climate control.
Gas Stats:
$2.25/ Gal avg. January 17, 2015
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
19 City and 31 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $29,995.