What is the difference between Charger SXT and RT?
The Charger SXT is the base, V6-powered sedan, while the Charger RT is the performance-oriented V8 variant. The biggest gap is under the hood and how it drives, with additional differences in equipment, handling, and price.
Key differences at a glance
The following points summarize the core contrasts you’ll see when comparing SXT and RT models across years.
- Engine and power: SXT uses a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with roughly 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque; RT uses a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with around 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, delivering noticeably stronger acceleration.
- Performance feel: RT is built for quicker straight‑line speed and a more aggressive exhaust note; SXT prioritizes comfort and daily practicality with gentler performance.
- Drivetrain: SXT is commonly available with all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction in poor conditions; RT is primarily rear-wheel drive (RWD), with AWD being much less common and year-dependent in some markets.
- Transmission: Modern Chargers in both trims typically use an 8‑speed automatic; a smaller number of older RT models used a 5‑speed automatic.
- Fuel economy: SXT generally delivers better mileage due to the V6; RT consumes more fuel because of the V8 and stronger performance tuning.
- Brakes, suspension, and equipment: RT comes with larger brakes, a more performance-tuned suspension, and sport-oriented details (badging, exhaust, seats) that aren’t standard on SXT.
- Interior and features: RT often includes more premium or sport-oriented interior touches and trim options; SXT focuses on value with ample features and options that still feel modern.
- Price and value: When new, RT carried a higher price tag due to its powertrain and performance hardware; used examples reflect that gap depending on year, mileage, and options.
Across these factors, you should expect a clear split: the RT is a performance-focused upgrade over the SXT, with more power and sport-oriented equipment but less efficiency and higher cost.
Choosing between SXT and RT
To decide which Charger trim fits you, weigh the following considerations and how they align with your driving style and budget.
- Performance goals: If you want quicker acceleration, a deeper V8 soundtrack, and sport-oriented driving feel, choose RT. If you value smooth daily driving and easy reliability, SXT is a better fit.
- Budget and ownership costs: RT typically costs more upfront and has higher ongoing maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs. SXT offers a lower entry price and better efficiency.
- Usage patterns: For frequent highway cruising, winter commuting with AWD needs, or long daily drives, SXT (with AWD if you need it) can be more practical; for weekend speed runs or a more spirited drive, RT delivers the thrill.
- Options and year variations: Availability of AWD, trims, and features can change by model year; verify the exact specifications and packages on the window sticker for the car you’re evaluating.
- Practicality and space: Both trims share a similar four-door layout and trunk space, but the RT’s sport-focused interior and styling cues can feel more specialized.
In short, the decision hinges on how much you value V8 performance and sport styling versus daily usability, efficiency, and price.
Model-year caveats and availability
Important notes about specs and availability across years.
The Charger lineup evolved over its production span, with SXT and RT trims offered across many years. As of the 2023 model year, Dodge ended new Charger production, shifting focus away from new internal-combustion sedan releases. That means buyers today are typically looking at used examples, where exact horsepower, torque, transmission options, and available drivetrains depend on the specific model year and option packages. Always verify the window sticker or owner’s manual to confirm the precise configuration for the year you’re considering.
Year-by-year variations you should know
Engine choices, transmissions, and available drivetrains shift across model years, so confirm the exact specifications for the year you’re evaluating. In general, the modern SXT and RT models share the 8‑speed automatic across many years, with AWD more commonly associated with the SXT and less so with RT. Interior features, available packages, and exhaust setups can also vary by year, so a careful comparison of the specification sheet is essential when shopping used cars.
Summary
The Charger SXT and RT represent two ends of the same family. The SXT is the efficient, value-focused base trim with V6 power and occasional AWD, ideal for daily driving and cost-conscious ownership. The RT is the performance-oriented variant built around a V8, delivering stronger acceleration, sportier dynamics, and more aggressive styling—at the cost of higher price and reduced fuel economy. Because Charger production ended after 2023, buyers are left with a used-market landscape where year-to-year differences matter most. Always check the exact specifications for the year you’re considering to ensure you’re getting the configuration you want.
What's better, a SXT or RT Charger?
The SXT is generally more reliable than the R/T because it uses a simpler, less stressed V6 powertrain and fewer performance-specific components that can wear or fail earlier. That gap is modest for routine faults, larger for drivetrain and high-mileage issues tied to the R/T's V8 and performance options.
Can a SXT beat a RT?
In a 30 to 60 second race sxt could beat them. A lot of police cars are sxt with a tune. They run down rt. If they do 80 vs sxt and sxt is doing a 100 sxt beats rt in a quick street race.
What does SXT mean on a Charger?
Standard eXTra
What does SXT mean on a Dodge vehicle? SXT stands for "Standard eXTra". It is the base trim option for the Challenger, Charger, and Durango. Despite being the entry-level trim, the Standard eXTra offers incredible performance and technology.
Is SXt higher than RT?
But this is another difference between the Dodge Challenger SXT and R/T, as the MSRP for the SXT comes in lower than the Dodge Challenger R/T, since it sports the more powerful engine, and a few more features. Another way the Dodge Challenger SXT is a little more cost-effective is its slightly better fuel economy.
