What transmission does a V-6 Charger have?
In the modern Dodge Charger, the V-6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (TorqueFlite 8HP50) in most configurations.
Current setup for the V-6 Charger
The V-6 Charger uses a contemporary eight-speed automatic transmission that favors smooth shifts and efficient highway cruising. It’s typically paired with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and is designed to work with either rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, depending on the trim. The setup is aimed at balancing everyday reliability with decent performance, rather than offering a manual alternative.
Key characteristics of this transmission across modern Chargers include the following:
- Transmission: TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic (often referred to as 8HP50 in FCA/Dodge documentation)
- Engine pairing: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6
- Drivetrain options: Rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available on select trims
- ShiftingInterface: Electronic gear selector with paddle shifters; sport/automatic drive modes
- Model years: Widely used from around 2011 model year through the end of the modern Charger’s run in this configuration
In practice, this means most V-6 Chargers deliver a refined driving experience with quick upshifts and the ability to manually control shifts via paddles, without a traditional manual transmission option in contemporary configurations.
Historical context of the Charger’s transmissions
Throughout its modern history, the Charger’s V-6 powertrain options have evolved. Earlier generations used older four- or five-speed automatic transmissions, depending on the year and trim. The significant shift came with the 2011 redesign, when the V-6 models adopted the eight-speed automatic that continues to be used in most configurations today. This reflects a broader industry move toward eight-speed automatics for better performance and fuel efficiency.
Manual transmission options
For the modern V-6 Chargers, a manual transmission has not been offered in the U.S. market. The V-6 models have been paired almost exclusively with the eight-speed automatic since the 2011 refresh, with the focus on ease of use and improved efficiency rather than a manual driving experience.
What this means for buyers and enthusiasts
Choosing a V-6 Charger today typically means selecting an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth daily driving, solid passing power, and modern shifting logic. Enthusiasts seeking a manual experience would have to look to older models or different vehicle options, as the V-6 Charger line currently emphasizes the automatic transmission setup.
Summary
The V-6 Charger is designed around an eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically the TorqueFlite 8HP50 in modern configurations, paired with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. This pairing offers balanced performance and efficiency, with paddle-shift capability and selectable drive modes, while not offering a manual transmission option in current models.
