The Cheapest V6 Fast Sedan in 2023 Isn’t What You Think
When one thinks of fast sedans, many go straight to the Germans to ogle over high horsepower numbers. As the origin point of many of history’s greatest sports sedans, it’s no surprise. America has mounted valiant competition through the excessively-powered and wildly entertaining Dodge Charger. But that’s the Hellcat variant; everyone forgot that the bargain V6 version is a fast sedan, too.
Which Dodge Charger is the slowest?
Outside the U.S., many would assume the Charger is only built in shock-and-awe spec. Yet, it does come in a base, slowed-down version. The Dodge Charger SXT is stocked with a 3.6-liter V6 that provides 292 horsepower and 260 pounds-feet of torque. Although it’s by far the least powerful Charger, given Dodge’s reputation, it’s likely not that slow—and it isn’t.
Although Car and Driver tested the GT spec (300 horsepower and 264 pounds-feet of torque), it put down a 6.4-second 0 to 60 mph time. That’s not with a 1-mph rollout; that’s from a dig. Not bad for a 4,000-pound five-passenger family car. Though, it did have help from all-wheel drive.
How much is the Dodge Charger?
The rear-wheel drive-only Dodge Charger SXT has a starting MSRP of $32,645. All-wheel drive is a $3,995 optional extra, but it does boost the horsepower to 300. The GT is $35,345 for rear drive, and four-wheel propulsion is tagged at $38,440. But the trim level also includes a sports-tuned suspension, a spoiler, and better rubber at the corners.
Do any other fast sedan best it out on speed or price?
There isn’t a single sedan as large as the Charger and as fast as the Charger in that price range. For instance, the base model Nissan Maxima, with comparable speed and power, begins at $38,340. And you can’t even get all-wheel drive in Nissan’s “four-door sports car.”
The 2023 Toyota Camry TRD is less than $1,000 more than the base, rear-wheel drive Charger SXT. The Camry is also a bit quicker to 60 mph than the Charger. However, the V6 Camry can’t be configured with all-wheel drive, and all the other offerings from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda employ four-cylinder power. And, of course, the Acura Integra, while cheaper than the Dodge Charger, is slower.
Did Dodge discontinue the Charger?
In a word, yes. Dodge, rather, Stellantis, has nixed the Charger for now to make room for its electrification plans. This year is “Last Call” for the Chargers, but it’s not the presumed end for one of America’s favorite four-door family cars. It’s likely to return, but probably wearing an EV badge somewhere on the crosshairs.
Luckily, for the past 13 model years, little has changed mechanically for the Charger. That Pentastar V6 is a carryover from the sixth-generation sedan. Since it’s been around for a while, it’ll be easier to find replacement parts, which will likely be cheaper to keep the fast sedan going.