Is a 2010 Dodge Charger front or rear wheel drive?
The 2010 Dodge Charger is rear-wheel drive (RWD); it did not offer factory all-wheel drive in that model year.
In the sections that follow, we examine the Charger’s drivetrain layout, explain how AWD appeared in later years, and outline what that means for buyers and drivers who rely on traction or performance characteristics.
Overview of the 2010 Charger drivetrain
The Charger is built on the Chrysler LX platform, with rear-wheel drive as the standard layout. The 2010 lineup included multiple engine choices, from V6 configurations to the high-performance Hemi V8s, including the SRT8 with a large V8. All versions in 2010 were configured for RWD; no factory AWD option was offered by the manufacturer that year.
All-wheel drive in later Charger models
While 2010 was strictly rear-wheel drive, Dodge expanded AWD availability on Charger models in subsequent years. Availability varied by trim and engine, and the high-performance SRT models generally remained rear‑wheel drive.
Below is a concise summary of AWD availability in Charger models after 2010:
- 2011-2014: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was offered on select Charger trims with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and, in some configurations, with the 5.7L Hemi; SRT models typically remained rear‑wheel drive.
- 2015: AWD continued to be available on certain trims as part of optional packages; SRT models generally remained RWD.
For any specific used-car inquiry, confirm the exact drivetrain with the vehicle’s VIN or original window sticker, since options varied by market and production year.
Summary
The 2010 Dodge Charger is clearly a rear-wheel-drive sedan. All-wheel drive was not offered in that year, but Dodge did introduce AWD as an option on later model years for certain trims, providing improved traction without altering the fundamental rear-drive performance of the lineup’s sportier variants.
Context and considerations
Drivetrain choice affects handling, fuel economy, and resale value. If you’re evaluating a 2010 Charger or a later AWD-equipped model, consider how the drivetrain, engine choice, and trim level work together to meet your driving needs.
Is the 2010 Dodge Charger front or rear-wheel drive?
The 2010 Dodge Charger is a modern, four-door coupe that combines rear-wheel-drive muscle-car power, sports-car handling, leading-edge technology and five-passenger comfort to deliver a thrilling, yet fuel-efficient driving experience.
What year Charger to stay away from?
The Dodge Charger years to avoid are generally the earlier models from 2006–2008 and some from the 2011–2012 and 2014 model years due to frequent recalls, electrical issues, and transmission problems. Specifically, the 2006-2008 models had teething problems with a new engine and electronics, while the 2011-2012 years are flagged for electrical and powertrain issues, and the 2014 model had numerous recalls, including critical ones for airbags and cruise control.
This video discusses some of the worst Dodge Charger years and their issues: 55sAntique TAGSYouTube · Jan 7, 2025
Dodge Charger years to avoid
- 2006–2008: These were the initial years of the redesigned model, and they suffered from "teething troubles," including issues with the new 5.7L Hemi engine and complex electronics. They also had a higher number of customer complaints and costly repairs.
- 2011–2012: These models were known for electrical problems and issues with the powertrain, including transmission concerns.
- 2014: This year saw a significant number of recalls, some of which were major and potentially dangerous. Issues included cruise control that wouldn't disengage, a faulty alternator, and problems with the airbags.
Common issues to watch for
- Transmission problems: Slippage, hard shifts, and intermittent shifting were reported across multiple generations, particularly in the 2006-2010 models and some of the 2011-present models.
- Electrical issues: This was a recurring problem, especially in the early models and 2011-2012 years.
- Engine issues: The early 5.7L Hemi in the 2006-2008 models had some problems, which were mostly resolved in later years.
- Recalls: Be sure to check the specific recall history for any year, especially 2014, as some recalls involved serious safety concerns.
How much horsepower does a 2010 Dodge Charger V6 have?
The 2010 Dodge Charger V6 had two horsepower options: the base model's 2.7-liter V6 produced 178 horsepower, while the SXT and Rally models' 3.5-liter V6 generated 250 horsepower.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2010 Dodge Charger's engine options and performance: 57sBuild Your OwnYouTube · Mar 23, 2021
- Base Model: The 2.7-liter V6 engine provided 178 horsepower.
- SXT and Rally Models: The 3.5-liter V6 engine provided 250 horsepower.
Is a Dodge Charger front wheel or rear wheel?
Calling it the “world's only all-wheel-drive muscle car,” the new Dodge Charger equally splits torque between the front and rear wheels and offers various driving modes that contribute to both thrilling and safe, confident driving in tough conditions.
