2010 Dodge Charger Review

Overview

The 2010 Dodge Charger is a four-door, five-passenger sedan available in three trim levels - the base SE, midlevel SXT, and the top-of-the-line R/T. A high-performance SRT8 version is also available. RWD is standard. The SXT and R/T are available with all-wheel drive. Body-color sill cladding (all models), chromed grille with black insert (standard on Charger SE) and supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags (standard on all models) are new for 2010.

Power and performance

Four different engine variants are available on the 2010 Dodge Charger. The SE trim comes with the 178-horsepower, 2.7-liter, DOHC V6 engine, while a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter high-output SOHC V6 engine is standard on the SXT version. The 368-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine is offered on the R/T model and a 425-horsepower 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8 engine is standard on the SRT8 vehicle. Two transmission types are available - a five-speed AutoStick that allows the driver to switch from automatic gear to manual operation with a simple move of the gearshift and a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while an all-wheel drive configuration is available on SXT and R/T models.

Body and styling

The charger is a modern sedan with four-door functionality. High beltlines, aggressive front grille, and prominent wheel arches enhance the powerful look of the Charger. It is equipped with various useful features that include sentry key; leather upholstery; illuminated entry; power/heated front seats (standard on R/T, SRT8, and optional on SXT); center console; glove box; leather-wrapped steering wheel-mounted audio controls; map pockets; 60/40 split-folding rear seats; front door bins (standard on all models and optional on SE); lumbar adjust for the driver and front passenger; Electronic Vehicle Information (standard on R/T and SRT8 trims); illuminated cup holders; AM/FM single-disc stereo with MP3 jack; and SIRIUS Satellite Radio (standard on all models and optional on SE). Eight-way power-adjustable driver?s seat; rear-seat armrest; and UConnect studios are some among numerous optional features available on the 2009 Charger. Buyers can choose any one of the 17- inch, 18- inch, or 20-inch aluminum wheels on the Charger.

Safety Features

The advanced front multistage air bags of the 2010 Dodge Charger sense the severity of the impact and inflate with different levels of force. The important safety features include the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Brake Assist, All-speed traction control and four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). The other passive and active safety features are rear-sill reinforcement and structure, energy-absorbing steering column, low-risk deployment air bags and supplemental side-curtain air bags.