Are Dodge Chargers FWD or RWD?
The Dodge Charger is primarily rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on many non-performance trims; the high-performance SRT/Hellcat variants are typically rear-drive. Note that Dodge ended new Charger production after the 2023 model year.
Drivetrain basics
Understanding how the Charger distributes power helps explain why the car behaves differently in various weather and driving conditions. The platform is tuned around rear-wheel drive, but Dodge has offered all-wheel drive as an option on several non-SRT models. The most extreme performance variants are generally rear-drive to maximize handling and acceleration.
Before listing how the drivetrain options typically map to Charger configurations, consider these key points about FWD/RWD and AWD in this model family.
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is the traditional and most common setup across the Charger lineup, especially on higher-performance variants.
- All-wheel drive (AWD) has been offered on many non-SRT trims, particularly with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, to boost traction in rain, sleet, or snow.
- High-performance SRT variants (such as Hellcat and Redeye versions) are predominantly rear-drive, prioritizing power delivery and handling characteristics.
In practice, buyers choosing AWD typically look to the non-SRT trims if they want improved all-weather traction, while those seeking maximum straight-line speed and track focus usually opt for RWD.
AWD vs. RWD by trim and model year
Here is a general guide to how drivetrain options have appeared across Charger trims and model years. The exact availability can vary by production year and regional market, so always verify with the dealer for a given used or new car.
- RWD is the default and most common configuration, especially on the higher-performance SRT and Hellcat lines where power delivery benefits from rear-wheel traction and weight transfer.
- AWD was offered on several non-SRT trims with the 3.6L V6, providing improved all-weather stability for daily driving.
- For the performance-focused models, AWD options were limited or not offered, reinforcing the preference for RWD in the sport-oriented Charger variants.
Prospective buyers wanting AWD should focus on non-SRT models, while those chasing peak performance should expect RWD on the top-tier variants.
What this means for buyers
Choosing between AWD and RWD for a Charger comes down to climate, usage, and performance priorities. If you live in an area with harsh winters or frequent rain, AWD can provide noticeable traction benefits. If you value the traditional Charger driving experience and maximum performance potential, RWD is the established setup for the sport-oriented trims.
Before you decide, consider these practical tips related to drivetrain choice. The following list outlines important factors to weigh when shopping for a Charger with the drivetrain that best fits your needs.
- For winter handling, AWD is advantageous, but winter tires are equally important regardless of drivetrain.
- RWD typically offers a leaner weight distribution for sport driving and can be less expensive to maintain in some configurations.
- Check the specific model year and trim to confirm whether AWD is offered, as availability varied across generations and editions.
Ultimately, the Charger’s appeal lies in its rear-drive performance with the option of AWD on many base and mid-range trims, balanced against the demand for high-power, track-ready capability in the SRT lineup.
Summary
In short, Dodge Chargers are built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, with all-wheel drive available on many non-SRT trims for better all-weather capability. The high-performance variants—the SRT/Hellcat models—are traditionally rear-drive. As a note of context for the modern era, Dodge stopped new Charger production after the 2023 model year, cementing its place in automotive history as a powerful, V8-oriented sedan with flexible drivetrain options on the non-performance side.
