Toyota typically runs away with the most recommendations from Consumer Reports, but Dodge just scored a huge win. That’s right — the 2021 Dodge Charger has earned CR’s recommendation. But that’s not the biggest news. This is the first year the legendary muscle car has ever won Consumer Reports’ stamp of approval. 

Why hadn’t the Dodge Charger earned a CR recommendation until now?

What exactly does it take to impress Consumer Reports? That’s probably what Dodge has been wondering over the years as Charger after Charger failed to earn a CR Recommended badge. Despite garnering praise from other reviewers and kudos from Consumer Reports, the Charger couldn’t snag the coveted designation. 

One of the major reasons was the sedan’s poor visibility. It’s hard to do simple tasks like backing up when thick pillars and short windows obstruct the view. It’s even worse for drivers with back problems, who have to turn 180 degrees to look out the window. It’s even worse if the poor visibility causes a wreck.

Yet, the Dodge Charger continues to suffer from the same design problem. The visibility remains as poor on the 2021 model year as it did in previous iterations. So what made Consumer Reports fall in love this time?

It’s hard to say no to the 2021 Dodge Charger’s charms

Who couldn’t fall for a tough-looking muscle car with a 797-hp Hellcat Redeye engine? With that kind of power and speed, it’s impossible not to feel a little swoony. Of course, that could be due to the blood rushing to drivers’ heads as they whip around curves, but we won’t mention that.

We also won’t mention just how comfortable the Charger is. For most cars that can reach speeds of 203 mph, it’s understood the cabin will be cramped. But not the Dodge Charger. 

Consumer Reports couldn’t help but fall for the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, 8.4-inch infotainment system, comfortable seats, quiet cabin, and supple ride. In fact, the only things CR found wrong were the poor visibility, outdated door handles, and lack of all-wheel drive with the V8 engine.

Consumer Reports summed up its feelings for the 2021 Dodge Charger thus: “Want an old-school large American sedan, brash and bold, packing V8 muscle and a soundtrack that punctuates its lack of political correctness? That’s the Dodge Charger. Just don’t tell anyone that it’s also refined, comfortable, and luxurious. After all, it’s got a macho image to protect.”

The 2021 model finally snagged CR’s approval

Given that the Dodge Charger has never earned a Consumer Reports recommendation until now, one might think it must be a bad vehicle.

In some cases, yes, but not this time. The Dodge Charger enjoys a loyal following from many owners who refuse to drive any other vehicle. From its tough looks to its insanely potent engines, the Charger continues to enthrall car enthusiasts.

Although Consumer Reports hasn’t been all that impressed over the years, that doesn’t mean other critics haven’t liked the Dodge Charger. It continues to wow experts and consumers alike and will probably continue to do so for many years to come.