By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos FCA Media.
For 2016 Dodge is offering the all new Blacktop Appearance Group for the Charger models, first introduced on the 2012 model year, Dodge is bringing the sinister-styled Blacktop Appearance Group back to the Charger SXT model with up to 300 horsepower or the HEMI V-8 powered Charger R/T model with 370 horsepower.
Exterior
The exterior of the 2016 Dodge Charger R/T is spiritually inspired by the iconic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, specifically drawing on cues from the historic 1969 model.
Delivering customers an exclusive blacked out design with an exhilarating driving experience and exceptional value, the Dodge Charger Blacktop starts with Gloss Black treatment on the split-crosshair grille and fascia insert for a bolder mask appearance that further emphasizes its forward-leaning superhero stance. Gloss Black mirrors and large, 20-in. five-spoke Gloss Black aluminum wheels wrapped with all-season tires give this four-door muscle car a discrete look. At the rear, a one-piece Satin Black performance spoiler provides downforce, while the Satin Black badge continues the unique look.
Interior
Dodge Charger’s driver-focused interior features premium, soft-touch materials, a full-color 7-inch customizable driver information display gauge cluster, plus an instrument panel center stack with the newest Uconnect system with segment’s largest available 8.4-inch touchscreen display available.
With the Blacktop, Dodge Charger’s menacing style is further amplified through discrete and subtle dark interior finishes and appointments. Painted accents feature K-Black bezels to accentuate the Dark Brushed II aluminum instrument panel and aluminum center console bezels. For added sinister detail, the dual analog gauges’ feature Gloss Black cluster rings, while the cluster perimeter is finished with the same treatment. New to this price class is the Dodge performance-contoured steering wheel for even more driver control. Premium cloth or available perforated Nappa leather sport-contoured seats in Black are finished with Tungsten accent stitching for an industrial look.
Performance
With its legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that delivers 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque combined with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and new for 2016 a standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission with electronic shifter, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a performance-tuned suspension with larger disc brakes and standard Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen, the Charger R/T is designed for the customer who demands V-8 power, rail-like handling and state-of-the-art technology in an affordable package. In addition to the standard equipment on the Dodge Charger SXT, the Charger R/T model includes 20-inch five-spoke Satin Carbon aluminum wheels, P235/55R18 BSW All-season performance tires, rear decklid-mounted three-piece body-colored spoiler, performance-tuned suspension and exhaust, performance brake package and sport seats.
Summary
Striking a delicate balance between traditional sedan and muscle car, the Dodge Charger represents shifting trends in the full-size segment, Dodge continues to build on the brand’s promise and deliver a lineup of Charger models with world-class power, efficiency, technology, authentic materials and standout styling, all to make America’s only four-door muscle car one of the hottest and most desirable sedans available today.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $33,895.00, the one I drove included the Wheels and Tunes Group, Plus Group, Blacktop Appearance Group, Navigation / Rear Back Up Camera Group and the Black Painted Roof, and it came in at $41,070.00 including destination charge. The EPA fuel economy estimates 16 MPG City and 25 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
