Is a Dodge Charger a RWD?
The Dodge Charger is predominantly rear-wheel-drive. All-wheel drive has appeared on some V6 models in certain years, but the high-performance variants have largely been RWD-only. Production for the Charger ended after the 2023 model year.
Drivetrain landscape across the Charger lineup
The Charger has long used a rear-wheel-drive underpinnings shared with other large Dodge sedans, prioritizing power delivery and handling characteristics associated with RWD layouts. All-wheel drive was offered intermittently on some V6 models, but the top-tier V8 variants remained RWD-focused for performance reasons.
All-wheel drive availability by trim
Before detailing the typical configurations, note that AWD availability varied by model year and market. The following summarizes common patterns seen over many years of production.
- SXT: V6 with RWD as standard; AWD was available as an option on some years.
- GT: V6 with RWD as standard; AWD available as an option on some years.
- R/T: V8; rear-wheel drive typically standard; AWD not offered.
- Scat Pack: V8; rear-wheel drive only.
- Hellcat/Redeye: V8 supercharged; rear-wheel drive only.
In practice, AWD was indeed offered on base and mid-range Charger's V6 models in many model years, but the most powerful variants remained rear-wheel-drive only.
Performance trims and drive configuration
For drivers seeking maximum launch traction and a traditional muscle-car feel, the RWD layout was the default on the most capable variants, while AWD was not widely offered on those high-performance trims in most years.
Ultimately, the Charger favored rear-wheel drive as its core experience, with all-wheel drive primarily tied to select V6 configurations rather than the range-topping V8 editions.
What this means for buyers
Here are practical takeaways for potential buyers evaluating Charger drivetrain options.
- Decide whether you need AWD for traction in adverse weather; choose SXT or GT if AWD matters and you are shopping a used or older Charger.
- Be aware that the most spirited Charger variants (R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, Redeye) were almost always rear-wheel-drive, prioritizing acceleration and driving dynamics over all-weather capability.
- Note that production for the Charger ended after the 2023 model year, which affects availability and pricing in the used market.
When evaluating a Charger, verify the drivetrain configuration on the window sticker or owner's manual, since AWD availability can vary by model year and market.
Summary
The Dodge Charger is fundamentally a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, with all-wheel drive offered on some V6 configurations in certain years but not on the top-tier V8 performance models. The model year 2023 marked the end of Charger production, making it a legacy performance sedan with limited new-purchase options; buyers should carefully confirm the drivetrain on any used example.
Is the Dodge Charger RWD or FWD?
Depending on the trim package you choose, the Charger is available with either all-wheel drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Which chargers are AWD?
Newer models like the 2026 Dodge Charger offer standard all-wheel drive (AWD) on all trims, including the Scat Pack and Daytona Scat Pack, which can also switch to rear-wheel drive. In previous years, AWD was available on specific trims, such as the SXT and GT models, which were typically equipped with the V6 engine, according to Dodge and Landers Dodge.
For newer models (2026 and later)
- All 2026 Charger models come with standard all-wheel drive.
- You can switch between AWD and rear-wheel drive at your command.
- Trims include Scat Pack, Daytona Scat Pack, and other models, all featuring AWD.
For older models
- Available AWD: All-wheel drive was an available option on models like the SXT and GT trims.
- Engine: These trims were typically equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 engine.
- Examples: You can find used AWD models from previous years, such as the 2021 or 2022 Dodge Charger GT and SXT.
How do I know if I have AWD or RWD?
You can tell if your car is AWD or RWD by checking for a badge on the car's exterior, looking for a rear differential underneath, or by checking the vehicle's VIN. The easiest and most reliable methods are checking the owner's manual or doing a VIN search online.
Check your car for identifying marks
- Exterior badges: Many vehicles have an emblem on the rear or sides indicating their drivetrain, such as "AWD," "4WD," or "Quattro".
- Rear differential: Get on your hands and knees and look underneath the rear of the car. If you see a circular, spherical casing connecting axles to the rear wheels, it is likely rear-wheel drive (RWD) or has an all-wheel drive (AWD) system. If you don't see a differential at the rear, but do see drive axles at the front, it's likely front-wheel drive (FWD).
Perform a VIN search
- Online search: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to search for your car's specifications online. Many free tools are available for this purpose.
- Check the report: The results will likely provide a "Vehicle Specifications" or "drivetrain" section, which will clearly state if your car is AWD.
Other methods
- Consult the owner's manual: This is the most straightforward and reliable way to find your car's specific drivetrain information.
- Look for axles: Crawl underneath the car and look for drive axles going to each wheel.
- If you see axles only going to the front wheels, it's FWD.
- If you see axles going to both the front and rear wheels, it is AWD or 4WD.
- Check the sticker on the driver's side door: Sometimes, a sticker here will have a code that indicates the drivetrain type.
Is Dodge rear-wheel drive?
This vehicle comes in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel or all-wheel drive (4WD or AWD). Learning how these drivetrains differ can help you select the best Durango for your needs. Here's some more information about 4WD vs RWD with the Dodge Durango.
