Are challengers a good car?
Yes—Dodge’s Challenger can be a very good car for shoppers who crave bold styling, muscular performance, and a roomy cabin. For buyers who prioritize fuel economy, nimble handling, or the latest automotive tech, it may not measure up as well.
What makes the Challenger appealing
These are the qualities that often drive a positive verdict from buyers and critics alike.
- Distinctive retro-modern styling that stands out in traffic and at car shows
- Wide range of engines, from efficient V6 to fierce V8s and supercharged variants
- Spacious front seats and a forgiving, comfortable ride for a two-door muscle car
- Strong straight‑line performance, especially in the high‑output variants
- Vast aftermarket support and a large community of enthusiasts
For many buyers, these attributes combine to deliver a compelling balance of presence, power, and practicality within a two-door layout.
What to consider before buying
These are potential drawbacks that buyers should weigh against the positives.
- Poor fuel economy compared with most modern sedans and many rivals
- Heavier handling due to size and weight, which can diminish agility on twisty roads or a track
- Interior quality can feel less refined than some competitors, and noise levels can be noticeable at highway speed
- Higher maintenance and insurance costs for the most powerful variants
- Limited new-car availability in recent years as Dodge shifted toward other propulsion strategies
If you value a dramatic driving experience and an unmistakable look, these caveats may be acceptable; if you place a premium on efficiency, refinement, or everyday practicality, they could be meaningful drawbacks.
Performance lineup and what you should know
Across its generations, the Challenger has offered a broad spectrum of powertrains. Here is a high-level guide to what’s available and what it feels like in practice.
V6 models: everyday power and value
The base and mid-tier Challengers use a multi‑valve V6 engine that delivers more than enough everyday performance for many buyers, with a calmer ride and lower running costs than the V8 models. Expect modest acceleration but solid reliability and better fuel economy than the bigger engines.
V8 options: the backbone of the lineup
Several V8 variants have powered most of the Challenger’s performance lineup, including the 5.7-liter Hemi and the 6.4-liter Hemi. These models offer strong acceleration, a classic V8 soundtrack, and a more tangible sense of muscle compared with the V6, at the cost of higher fuel use and insurance.
Supercharged monsters: Hellcat, Redeye, and beyond
For peak straight‑line speed, the Hellcat family (and its higher‑output Redeye and Demon‑specific editions) represent the apex of the Challenger’s performance. These engines deliver hundreds of extra horsepower, delivering extreme acceleration and a drag-race ethos that’s become part of the Challenger’s identity. Ownership tends to involve higher maintenance costs, insurance, and more frequent service due to the stress placed on the powertrain and cooling systems.
Special and final editions: Last Call and Demon 170
The Challenger’s most extreme, limited-run models arrived as part of special “Last Call” events and the Demon 170 in 2023. These editions were designed to celebrate the end of the current generation and to offer the most track-focused, performance-oriented packages Dodge produced for the Challenger. Availability is limited, and pricing reflects the collector‑style desirability of these cars.
Is a Challenger right for you?
The Challenger suits buyers who want a bold, aspirational two‑door with serious horsepower options, a roomy interior, and a storied brand heritage. It may be less suitable for shoppers who prioritize pristine interior materials, high fuel economy, or cutting-edge driver-assistance features typical of newer compact sports cars.
Summary
In short, Challengers excel as expressive, high‑performance cruisers with broad engine options and a loyal enthusiast audience. They are less ideal if you need top‑tier fuel economy, nimble handling on tight roads, or the most modern luxury touchpoints. If you’re drawn to the look, roar of the engines, and a spacious cockpit, a Challenger can be a very good car—worth a test drive to see if its charms align with your priorities.
