2008 Dodge Charger

*Est. $21,320 to $36,355

Pros

One of the 2008 Dodge Charger's most appealing attributes is its value within the segment -- it's stylish and eye-catching, with more muscular available engines. On a practical note, crash-test scores are excellent, reliability average or better, and resale value is expected to be better than average. A limited lifetime powertrain warranty on 2008 Dodge Chargers may prove a powerful incentive for some buyers.

Cons

The 2008 Dodge Charger is one of the heavier-feeling performers in this class, and its backseat isn't the most roomy or accessible. The styling impairs visibility; some testers dislike what they term the "mail-slot windows" on the Charger. Fuel economy isn't great, either, reviewers say.

Our Analysis

Reviews say that the full-size Dodge Charger strikes an unlikely but appealing balance between family-friendly utility and classic muscle-car image. As with the Chrysler 300, the Charger's aesthetic appeal brings some disadvantages; coupe-like styling hampers rear visibility, and reviews say getting into the backseat can require some creative maneuvering. Fuel economy is subpar, due in large part to the bigger, thirstier engines offered. But several reviews note that the 2008 Dodge Charger's flair and features outshine the negatives. Rear-wheel drive ensures sportier handling, and ride quality is good. Yet the Charger performs in terms of practicality as well. Government crash-test results are excellent, and reliability is at least average for all trims (V6-equipped Chargers appear to offer above-average reliability, in fact). The Dodge Charger is a favorite at AOL Autos and at Consumer Guide, where editors name it a Best Buy in the large-car segment. Most reviewers say it offers everything that makes the Chrysler 300 (*est. $24,495 to $33,815) such a popular alternative to more traditional family cars, but at a lower starting price.

Many reviews for the 2008 Dodge Charger are geared toward the higher, V8-equipped trim levels, but several sources offer road-test results for the more economical V6 versions as well. Consumer Guide provides analysis that shows how the Charger ranks against the large-sedan segment as a whole, though Consumer Guide's non-narrative test results can be a bit confusing. Editors at The Car Family, Edmunds.com and Kelley Blue Book publish detailed evaluations for the Dodge Charger, focusing on safety, value, comfort and interior design. MSN Autos and Car and Driver both distill their information into capsule-style reviews, and MSN presents additional reliability data obtained from Consumer Reports. Car and Driver also features the Dodge Charger in a 2007 compilation of the safest cars under $25,000. AOL includes the Charger on a similarly value-oriented list.

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2008 Dodge Charger

Our Sources

1. ConsumerGuide.com

Consumer Guide delivers thorough numerical analyis and value-based recommendations based on their road-testing of most cars and trucks. The 2008 Dodge Charger's overall score is about average for the large-car segment, but its exceptionally strong numbers in the area of comparative value earn the Charger a "Best Buy" label.

Review: 2008 Dodge Charger Review, Editors at ConsumerGuide.com, Mar. 11, 2008

2. Edmunds.com

Edmunds.com editors evaluate the Dodge Charger on a number of measures, including safety, interior design and driving experience. Their opinion of the Charger is largely favorable; they credit the Charger's aggressive lines and ample cabin volume with helping to move family cars away from "the boring large sedan mold."

Review: 2008 Dodge Charger Review, Editors at Edmunds.com

3. The Car Family

The 2008 Dodge Charger is "a world-class bargain at under $22,000. It is interesting to drive and only the lack of good visibility mars its driving enjoyment," writes The Car Family -- a four-member team that together tests cars and trucks. When compared to its peers, editors award the Charger a high grade of "B+" with praise for ride, handling, interior room and its huge trunk.

Review: The Compleat Guide to Family Sedans, The Haskvitz Family, Mar. 21, 2008

4. KBB.com

Reviewers here provide comprehensive, easy-to-read, consumer-friendly overviews of nearly every vehicle around; reviews are geared mostly toward performance and value. An added bonus is Kelley Blue Book's information regarding expected resale -- an element which isn't available from most other sources. Kelley editors like the Charger's aggressive styling but wish for a more aggressive setup to match.

Review: 2008 Dodge Charger, Editors at KBB.com

5. Car and Driver Details/Subscribe

This feature article from August 2007 profiles ten vehicles with an eye toward value and safety, two of the most important considerations for most family-car buyers. The Dodge Charger's coverage is brief, but includes a summary of its crash-test ratings and available safety features. The 2008 Charger hasn't seen a significant redesign, so this review is still helpful.

Review: Top 10 Safe Vehicles for Less Than $25,000, Jared Holstein, Aug. 2007

6. AOL Autos

This article proves a helpful resource for bargain hunters aiming for more amenities at a fixed and budget-friendly price point. Though most of the sedans profiled are 2007 models, including the Dodge Charger, interested shoppers will still find helpful information regarding comparative price and trim levels.

Review: Great Sedans for $25K, Kevin Ransom

7. MSN Autos

MSN reviews are compiled from a number of sources to offer information on all aspects of performance, design and ownership. This snapshot portion provides results from road tests performed by Consumer Reports, as well as a brief analysis of the 2008 Dodge Charger's expected long-term reliability.

Review: 2008 Dodge Charger, Editors at MSN Autos

8. Car and Driver Details/Subscribe

Car and Driver offers only a brief capsule review for the 2008 Dodge Charger, but this full-size sedan's assets and shortcomings are neatly summarized here. Editors also attach a numerical ranking measuring the Charger's appeal to car enthusiasts and consumers.

Review: 2008 Dodge Charger Review, Editors at Car and Driver

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