What year is a 3rd gen Dodge?
There isn’t a single year that defines a 3rd-generation Dodge. The designation depends on the specific model, so different Dodge vehicles mark their third generation in different year ranges. Below are the commonly cited 3rd-generation windows for several well-known Dodge models.
3rd-Generation Dodge Charger
The Charger’s third generation refers to a four-year run in the early 1970s.
Before listing the years, note that the Charger’s third generation spans the following model years.
- 1971
- 1972
- 1973
- 1974
Conclusion: The 3rd-generation Charger covers model years 1971 through 1974, after which the line saw further redesigns.
3rd-Generation Dodge Challenger
The modern Challenger, reintroduced in 2008, is considered the third generation of the model and remains in production with updates.
Before listing the years, the Challenger’s third generation begins with its 2008 model year and continues to the present.
- 2008–present
Conclusion: The Challenger has been in its 3rd generation since 2008 and continues as a current model with ongoing updates.
3rd-Generation Dodge Dakota
The Dakota’s third generation spanned the middle of the 2000s and ended after a single stretch of years.
Before listing the years, the Dakota’s third generation is defined by its model years.
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
Conclusion: The 3rd-generation Dakota ran from 2005 through 2011, with no further redesigns in the Dakota lineup during that period.
3rd-Generation Dodge Durango
Durango entered a new generation in the early 2010s and has continued since.
Before listing the years, the Durango’s third generation is defined by its introduction year and ongoing production.
- 2011–present
Conclusion: The Durango’s 3rd generation began in 2011 and remains in production in its current generation as of 2025.
3rd-Generation Ram 1500 (Dodge Ram)
Before the brand-wide shift to Ram, the Ram 1500’s third generation appeared in the early 2000s and served as a bridge to later redesigns.
Before listing the years, note that the Ram 1500’s third generation is defined by model-year windows around the early 2000s.
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
Conclusion: The 3rd-generation Ram 1500 covered model years 2002–2008, preceding the 4th-gen redesign that followed.
Notes for readers and buyers
Because “3rd gen” is model-specific, always confirm the exact model and production year when identifying a vehicle’s generation. VIN decoding, body codes, and dealer documentation can help verify the correct generation for a given Dodge model.
Summary: In Dodge history, “3rd generation” does not refer to a single year. It varies by model: Charger (1971–1974), Challenger (2008–present), Dakota (2005–2011), Durango (2011–present), and Ram 1500 (2002–2008) are common reference points. If you specify the exact model, I can pinpoint the precise 3rd-generation years for that vehicle.
