Is the Dodge Challenger FWD or RWD?
The short answer: The Dodge Challenger is rear-wheel drive (RWD) in most configurations; there is an all-wheel-drive variant known as the Challenger GT, and there is no front-wheel-drive (FWD) option in the current lineup.
Drivetrain fundamentals across the lineup
Here's how the drivetrain breaks down across the Challenger family, including the AWD exception and the rest being RWD.
- Challenger GT — all-wheel drive (AWD) paired with a 3.6-liter V6 engine.
- Other trims (SXT, R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, Redeye, and related variants) — rear-wheel drive (RWD) as the standard configuration.
In practice, the GT’s AWD setup is the notable exception; for most buyers and enthusiasts, the Challenger remains a rear‑wheel‑drive muscle car with strong acceleration and handling characteristics on dry pavement.
Historical context and current stance
Historically, the Challenger began as a rear‑drive platform, and the modern lineup has continued to favor RWD as the default. The AWD Challenger GT was introduced in the mid‑2010s as a separate variant to offer improved traction in adverse conditions, while the higher‑performance R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, and Redeye trims focus on RWD performance.
AWD Challenger GT details
The Challenger GT uses all‑wheel drive to improve grip on wet or snowy roads, while maintaining the Challenger’s recognizable styling and overall driving dynamics. It shares most of its mechanicals with the rest of the lineup but adds AWD for traction.
RWD-focused performance trims
The R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, and Redeye models continue to emphasize rear‑wheel drive dynamics, delivering aggressive power delivery and traditional muscle‑car handling characteristics that enthusiasts expect from the Challenger lineup.
Summary
The Dodge Challenger is not front-wheel drive; it is primarily rear-wheel drive, with an all-wheel-drive option available on the Challenger GT. For most enthusiasts seeking a classic muscle-car experience, RWD is the standard; AWD is available for those who want extra traction in less-than-ideal weather.
Are Dodge Challengers FWD or RWD?
All trims pair the 2023 Dodge Challenger engine with an 8 speed automatic transmission and either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive.
Is a Challenger front wheel drive?
RT: This is where the Challenger is provided as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle; only the SXT and the GT is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Is a Hellcat RWD or AWD?
Average Price Paid
| Trim | SRT Hellcat RWD |
| Exterior Colors | |
| Drivetrain | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Manual |
| MPG | 13 City / 21 Hwy |
Are any Dodge Challengers AWD?
Last year, Dodge dropped a new iteration of its aging Challenger that seemingly no one was asking for: the AWD, V6-only and automatic transmission-only GT. Of course, just because no one was asking for a particular version of a popular car doesn't mean making one is a bad idea.
