2018 Dodge Challenger AWD – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

An American Classic with Modern AWD

This week’s test drive is an exciting one where the Dodge Callenger GT meshes old American muscle classics with modernized AWD technology. That’s only available in the GT model, and you’re going to be grounded with a V6 Pentastar engine as opposed to other meaner engine alternatives offered in the more demonized SRT models with the 6.2L Hemi Hellcat V8 engine.

Unless you’re aiming to crush the drag strip, most would agree the 7 to 800 horsepower range offered by the SRT and SRT Demon models is a bit excessive. With that said, the V6 Pentastar equipped on the GT model  still does a fine job offering the pleasures of an all-American experience  weather-proofed by an AWD system utilizing an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system.

For 2018, the SRT Demon packs a mightly 840 horsepower and 770 lbs.ft of torque while the standard SRT model with the supercharged HEMI V8 stil gets a very respectable 707 horsepower. Most changes remain relativity intact and the GT model now comes with an available 19″ wheels as an upgrade option.  With the retirement of the Dodge Viper, the Challenger, and maybe the Charger are essentially the only remaining muscle car now available in the Dodge stall. You’ll be looking for the Ford Mustang for alternatives, in particular with the 302 Boss and GT models to compete within proximity of the Challenger SRT’s though.

All Without Sinister Looks

Despite a more relaxed drivetrain approach, the Challenger GT model still brings the best out of the American Muscle looks. And by that, size matters and the Challenger holds no exception to this clause. Spanning 75.7″ in width and 198 inches in length, the shear size of this beast is destined to turn heads especially in city driving.

There’s much to like about the red and black exterior color combination and the pure black suede interior really adds a nice touch to both comfort and quality.  You’ll also have a chance to indulge in the supersized suede leather bucket seats that offer nearly endless roominess and comfort. But all is not without pet peeves here especially with a complete blackout interior that makes for a more gloomy felt especially during night driving, but maybe that was the intent.

Street Performance

Underneath the hood of our Challenger GT comes with a V6 Pentastar engine capable of 306 horsepower and 268 lbs of torque. Gear shifts are managed by the 8-speed TorqueFlite transmission that has proven shifts to be smooth and fluent between gear transitions. Sequential shift mode is also offered via paddle shifters mounted on the back of the large diameter steering wheel, but the buttons have a cheap feel, and the paddles only extend half way down to the center steering column. Still, the driving experience was smooth and power was made available with minimal hiccup during acceleration – a competitive trait of the Pentastar V6. The AWD performance was not too shabby either and traction manages to grab on to wet road without fuss. Snow tires and larger 19″ wheels would further elevate driving confidence even in snow conditions for added immunity to harsh weather conditions.

Despite its massive form factor, the Challenger was relatively easy to drive. Steering was smooth and effortless and visibility was great;  albeit the parallel parking struggle. There was still a bit of body roll experienced around hard cornering, but nothing too drastic that would lead to discomfort and the lateral support in the seats secures you pretty well during the cornering process.

As it stands, it is only the Dodge Challenger GT that offers an AWD powertrain in the form of an All American classic and Dodge did a pretty good job on a first stab. The MSRP pricetag for the GT model comes in at $38,895. Optional uprades include the tech package including adaptive cruise control, forward collission warning, and rain sensing windshield wipers for an additional $895. An upgrade on our tester also included the 18 speaker Harmon Kardon audio sound system for an additional $1500 and the enlarged 8.4″ UConnect Infotainment system for an extra $770. The lower SX and SXT models can be had for a bit less at a starting base price of just $28,045 and $31,550 respectively with the same drivetrain performance specs.

In terms of competitors to the Challenger GT model, you’re looking at the Mustang EcoBoost, but that’s going to leave you in remorse with a buzz killing 2.3L four cylinder turbocharged engine. For the price, performance and weather proofing tech, the Dodge Challenger GT hits the spot – dead on.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2018 Dodge Challenger
• Model : Dodge Challenger GT AWD
• Price as Tested $45,275
• Vehicle Type : Coupe
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : AWD
• Engine : V6 Pentastar
• Transmission : 8-speed TorqueFlite Transmission

Pros

• Pure American Classic Looks
• Comfortable Interior and good quality suede leather material
• Smooth and powerful acceleration
• Relatively easy car to drive despite its size and power

Cons

• Parking visibility is difficult
• Completely dark interior makes the driving experience a bit gloomy
• Paddle shifter mounts are not well thought out