Is Dodge Challenger RWD or AWD?

The Dodge Challenger is a rear-wheel drive (RWD) sports car. It does not offer an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, unlike some of its competitors in the muscle car segment.

Rear-Wheel Drive Configuration of the Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger has been designed and engineered as a classic rear-wheel drive muscle car. All Challenger models, regardless of trim level or engine, come standard with a rear-wheel drive powertrain. This configuration provides the Challenger with superior handling, performance, and the classic feel of a true muscle car.,

The rear-wheel drive layout of the Challenger allows for more power to be delivered to the rear wheels, enabling faster acceleration and better traction when launching from a stop. This setup is preferred by enthusiasts who value the dynamic driving experience of a rear-wheel drive sports car.

Why No All-Wheel Drive Option?

While some of the Challenger's competitors, such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, offer all-wheel drive variants, Dodge has chosen to keep the Challenger as a pure rear-wheel drive muscle car.,

• Maintaining the classic rear-wheel drive layout is a key part of the Challenger's identity and appeal to enthusiasts.


• All-wheel drive systems add complexity, weight, and cost, which could detract from the Challenger's performance-focused character.


• Dodge likely believes the target audience for the Challenger prefers the driving dynamics and feel of a rear-wheel drive setup.

By sticking with rear-wheel drive, Dodge has kept the Challenger true to its muscle car roots and the expectations of its loyal customer base.

Is a Dodge Charger AWD or RWD?

The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that combines classic muscle car styling with modern technology and performance. The Charger offers AWD on the SXT and GT trims, which come with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

How to tell if your car is AWD or RWD?

You can tell if your car is AWD or RWD by checking for axles under the front wheels (AWD has them front and rear, RWD only in front) or by looking at the center console for an AWD lock button. Other methods include checking the owner's manual, looking at the engine's orientation under the hood, or by performing an internet search using your car's VIN or model year. 
Visual inspection

• Look at the axles: AWD will have axles (the shafts that transfer power to the wheels) on both the front and rear wheels, while RWD will only have them in the front. For RWD, you will see a driveshaft running to a rear differential (a round housing between the rear wheels). 
• Check the interior: Some AWD vehicles have a button on the center console to manually lock the AWD system, often labeled "AWD" or with an icon of two car axles with "LOCK" underneath. 
• Inspect the engine (if accessible): If the engine is mounted sideways, it's likely front-wheel drive, and if it's mounted front-to-back, it's likely rear-wheel drive. For AWD, you would typically see components for both front and rear power delivery. 

This video demonstrates how to identify if your car is FWD, RWD, or AWD by inspecting the axles: 58sTowMan127YouTube · May 17, 2025
Documentation and online search

• Owner's manual: The most reliable and easiest method is to look for the drivetrain information in your car's owner's manual. 
• Online search or VIN check: You can search online for your car's model year and "drivetrain" to find out if it came with AWD as an option. Entering the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is also a quick way to get specific information about your car. 

How do I know if my Challenger is AWD?

You can tell if your Challenger is AWD by checking the dashboard for an AWD-to-RWD diagram, looking for a specific badge on the exterior, checking the front brake caliper's position, or by reviewing your vehicle's window sticker or VIN. AWD is typically found on the GT trim, and some models will automatically switch to AWD in certain conditions like cold weather or rain. 
This video shows how to check if your Challenger is in AWD or RWD mode: 56sMarspeedYouTube · May 1, 2021
On the dashboard

• Navigate through the digital cluster using the steering wheel's arrow buttons to find the "Vehicle Info" or a similar screen. 
• Look for a diagram that shows a car and indicates whether it's in Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) based on which wheels are lit up. 
• Some models may have a "Sport Mode," which can lock the vehicle into AWD. 

Exterior and interior clues 

• Look for an "AWD" badge on the rear spoiler or side of the car. Some models may have a "4" in a circle badge. 
• Check the front brake calipers. On AWD models, they may be positioned further forward than on RWD models. 
• The front passenger seat may have slightly less legroom compared to RWD models because of the transfer case. 

Supporting documentation

• Review the original window sticker for your vehicle. 
• Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) online to get detailed information about your car's original features. 

Is the Dodge Challenger RWD or AWD?

While the Challenger has traditionally been known for its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup, the introduction of AWD to the lineup has expanded its appeal and performance capabilities. The AWD system in the Dodge Challenger is a game-changer, especially for those who seek the perfect blend of power, traction, and handling.