Is a Dodge Charger RWD or AWD?
The Dodge Charger is primarily rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on select trims in recent years, while the high-performance Hellcat and Redeye variants are typically rear-wheel drive only. Availability varies by model year and market, so check the exact configuration for the car you’re considering.
Current drivetrain options
Note: Availability varies by model year and region. The Charger lineup uses rear-wheel drive as the default configuration, with all-wheel drive offered on select V6 trims for added traction in everyday driving.
- Charger GT — all-wheel drive (AWD) with a 3.6L V6; designed for improved traction in diverse conditions.
- Charger SXT/Plus — typically rear-wheel drive by default; AWD may be offered on certain years/markets.
- Charger R/T — rear-wheel drive; AWD is not typically offered on this trim.
- Charger Scat Pack — rear-wheel drive; AWD not offered on this performance variant.
- Charger Hellcat / Redeye — rear-wheel drive only; AWD not offered on these high-performance models.
In practice, if you need AWD, the GT is the most straightforward option in recent Chargers. Always verify the drivetrain with the dealer for your exact year and market, since availability can change between model years.
Historical context
The Charger’s modern lineup sits on a history of evolving drivetrain options. While the LX-based Charger (2005–2010) was never offered with factory AWD, the current fifth‑generation models opened the door to AWD on some V6 trims starting in the mid‑2010s. High‑output variants—R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, Redeye—remain, for the most part, rear‑wheel drive to preserve performance characteristics.
Key milestones by generation:
- 2005–2010 (LX architecture): Rear-wheel drive standard; no factory AWD option.
- 2011–2014: Continued focus on RWD; AWD not widely available.
- 2015–present (current generation): AWD introduced on select V6 trims (notably GT); RWD remains standard for most high‑performance variants.
Bottom line: if you’re shopping for all‑wheel drive, focus on the GT and verify the year/market. For maximum straight‑line performance, expect RWD variants such as the Hellcat/Redeye.
Practical considerations for buyers
Besides drivetrain layout, consider tires, climate, and intended use. AWD helps with traction in rain or light snow but does not replace winter tires or careful driving in icy conditions. If you live in a harsh winter climate, confirm the exact AWD system, its behavior, and the availability of winter tires for the trim you’re considering.
Summary
The Dodge Charger is mainly rear‑wheel drive. All‑wheel drive is available on select V6 trims (notably the GT) in recent years, while the top-tier Hemi variants (R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, Redeye) have been predominantly rear‑wheel drive. Always check the specific year, trim, and market to confirm the drivetrain configuration before purchasing.
