2020 Dodge Charger GT To Get AWD And 300hp V6
The Dodge Charger hasn’t changed much for a long time now but has remained a staple part of the Dodge portfolio for years, and for good reason. With the reveal of the new Charger GT, changes are afoot, with the main being the addition of an AWD option for the muscle car.
Launching next month, it will sit at a base price of $34,995, plus an additional $1,495 in destination charges, and will take its place next to the AWD Charger SXT AWD when it hits dealers in the first quarter of 2020. It looks muscular and boasts a bonnet scoop, but only a 6-cylinder is available.
A 3.6-litre V6 hides beneath its intimidating facade, and while it still produces 300hp and 264lb ft of torque, the heavy addition of the AWD system may produce too much slouch for some of the market. Power travels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox before reaching each wheel, with manual paddle shifters aiding a sporty feel. FCA’s Tim Kuniskis is feeling optimistic about this model:
“Most people think of Chargers and Challengers as high-performance muscle cars, which clearly they are, but they can also be four-season capable AWD performance cars,” he says. “Only Dodge offers vehicles that combine practicality and all-weather driving confidence without sacrificing muscle car attitude.”
With Charger sales still holding out, the addition of this AWD version is a good marketing move from the guys who know best. If they can persuade the casual driver that a Charger can be used all year round, then maybe they can coax in customers who would usually look towards the SUV market. It may not have a V8 squeezed under the bonnet, but if it helps save the sedan from extinction, then I’m all in.
