Avik Roy Chowdhury 2026 Dodge Charger Review: Electric Muscle with New Six‑Pack Gas Option
The all-new 2026 Dodge Charger blends bold electric performance with a fresh inline‑6 gas engine. Whether you choose the zero-emission Daytona EV or the upcoming Sixpack sedan, this Charger delivers style, muscle, and cutting-edge driving thrills.
What’s New in the 2026 Charger?
- The Charger Daytona EV continues as a two-door electric coupe, delivering 670 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, zero-to-60 in about 3.3 sec, and adaptive suspension with Brembo brakes.
- A four-door Charger Sixpack arrives later in 2025 as a 2026 model, powered by Dodge’s 3.0 L “Hurricane” twin‑turbo inline‑6 engine, offering 420 hp (standard) and a 550‑hp high-output option.
- Dodge is also planning early trials of semi-solid‑state battery Chargers in 2026, which promise lighter weight, extended range, and faster charging The Verge.
Competitors
If you want electric muscle, top rivals include the Tesla Model 3 Performance, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, or Ioniq 6 N, all offering lower weight and smoother handling. The gas-powered Sixpack takes on domestic muscle like the Ford Mustang, but with four doors and more passenger space.
Pros and Cons
Expansive Pros
- Ferocious 670 hp from the EV and a punchy new inline‑6 gasoline option
- Iconic Dodge styling that still captures attention
- Spacious rear seats and cargo capacity in the sedan version
Noteworthy Cons
- Heavier EV platform affects agility and cornering response
- Interior software and vehicle tech feel unreliable in test fleets
- High pricing makes Charger the premium pick in a crowded performance EV space
Performance
Charge it up: The EV Scat Pack accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.3 seconds, thanks to instant electric torque across all wheels.
Gas power fans: The Sixpack sedan offers a 420-hp base output or a high-output 550-hp version with the new Hurricane engine, reviving the Charger nameplate for gas lovers.
Handling-wise, the Charger is heavy but stable—ideal for straight-line aggression, less so for tight curves or spirited twisty driving.
Comfort
Electric power adds quiet cruising—but overall, the EV Charger still feels noticeably heavy. Ride comfort improves thanks to adaptive suspension, but the large size and weight may reduce nimbleness in traffic or parking situations.
Interior
Charger interiors mix retro muscle with modernism: digital gauges, large touchscreens, and sport-inspired seating. The four-door Sixpack adds generous rear-seat space and practical cargo volume. However, software glitches and limited refinement in the infotainment system remain pain points.
Trim Levels & Pricing
- Charger Daytona EV (two-door coupe): estimated at $72,000–$73,000 with all-wheel drive and electrified performance.
- Charger Sixpack (four-door sedan): standard 420 hp model starts lower; higher-output version near premium range for four-door muscle vehicles.
Conclusion
The 2026 Dodge Charger marries iconic American muscle with modern propulsion. The EV Daytona offers unmatched straight-line performance, while the Sixpack six-cylinder sedan revives gas-powered legacy with four-door usability. It’s powerful, bold, and unapologetic—but not for those who prize agility or tech refinement. For drivers craving electric muscle or traditional power in a standout package, Charger delivers.
Learn more about the evolving Charger lineup and what makes each version unique—check out the full Chargers report on Edmunds for details and specs.
