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The 2021 Dodge Charger R/T is evidence of American muscle car heritage that delivers 370 horsepower through its HEMI V8 engine. This four-door performance sedan blends classic muscle car features with modern technology and comfort. The Charger R/T hits the sweet spot in the lineup and delivers strong performance for daily driving.
Our complete review thoroughly examines the 2021 Dodge Charger R/T. It provides details about its performance capabilities, design elements, and value proposition. The analysis also helps you learn about engine specs, interior comfort, and technology features that set this muscle sedan apart from competitors. We also cover fuel economy and trim options practically.
PERFORMANCE AND POWER
The 2021 Dodge Charger lineup features powerful engine options that define its character. Drivers can choose between a capable V6 and thunderous V8 engines based on their priorities.
Engine specifications
The 2021 Charger R/T packs a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine that produces 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque [1]. An eight-speed automatic transmission pairs with this powertrain and delivers smooth power seamlessly. The Scat Pack trim steps up the game with its 6.4L HEMI V8 that generates 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque . The mighty SRT Hellcat sits at the top of the range with its supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 that lets loose an impressive 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque .
Acceleration and top speed
The 2021 Charger R/T knows how to dash from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Its muscular sibling, the Scat Pack, hits this standard in just 4.3 seconds [3]. The SRT Hellcat proves its dominance with a remarkable 3.6-second sprint to 60 mph . The SRT Hellcat's top speed reaches an astounding 196 mph , which ranks it among the fastest four-door sedans accessible to more people.
Handling and driving dynamics
The Charger R/T shows impressive poise across different driving conditions. It strikes a perfect balance between ride and handling [4]. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes whether you're cruising casually or pushing hard. The electric power steering gives you exact control, though some drivers might find it a bit heavy [5].
Each trim comes with its own suspension setup that matches what the car can do. The R/T model rides comfortably and stays firmly planted in corners . The Scat Pack and SRT Hellcat versions pack more aggressive suspension settings and better Brembo brakes. These upgrades boost cornering performance without making the car too harsh for daily use [6].
The Charger's handling really shines thanks to its clever suspension system. The car takes corners with confidence despite its large size. The Scat Pack and SRT Hellcat models use adaptive suspension that hits the sweet spot between comfort and track performance .
DESIGN AND STYLING
The 2021 Dodge Charger R/T features a bold exterior design that blends classic muscle car esthetics with practical functionality. Its distinctive styling stands out on the road.
Exterior features
The Charger R/T features an aggressive front fascia that combines LED daytime running lamps with projector-beam headlights [7]. A functional hood scoop adds performance appeal without any fake vents, which keeps the design authentic [7]. The vehicle stands on impressive 20-inch wheels that showcase a wide-spoke design with gunmetal metallic finish [7]. LED taillamps dominate the rear profile, and dual exhaust tips with a slash-cut oval design make the vehicle look more muscular [7].
Interior comfort and space
The 2021 Charger R/T's cabin blends spaciousness with modern amenities. This performance sedan packs 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space [8] and fits up to 18 carry-on boxes when you fold the rear seats [9]. Power-adjustable front seats come with optional heating and ventilation features that boost comfort [9]. Family trips become more comfortable with the generous 40.1 inches of rear legroom [9].
The interior materials include:
- Standard cloth upholstery with premium Nappa or Laguna leather options [3]
- Suede headliner paired with authentic carbon fiber trim bezels [9]
- Dual-zone automatic climate control that makes every drive comfortable [9]
Technology and infotainment
A stunning 8.4-inch touchscreen display powers the Uconnect infotainment system, which stands as the Charger R/T's technology centerpiece [7]. The system comes packed with:
- Seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Crystal-clear satellite radio with HD Radio capability [8]
- Smooth Bluetooth and voice command features
- Optional navigation system that updates automatically [9]
Drivers can personalize their information displays and access key functions through convenient steering wheel controls [3]. The optional Performance Pages let drivers track their vehicle's stats and performance numbers with up-to-the-minute data [3]. Modern safety technology enhances the Charger R/T experience with optional features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning systems [8].
PRACTICALITY AND VALUE
The 2021 Dodge Charger R/T offers a perfect mix of performance and daily practicality that owners appreciate. The car's value proposition and market standing make it worth a closer look.
Fuel economy
The 2021 Charger R/T achieves 16 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg on highway routes [7]. The base V6 model outperforms these numbers with 19 mpg city and 30 mpg highway [10]. Real-life fuel consumption data collected from multiple owners reveals:
- SXT models average 21.5 mpg in mixed driving conditions [11]
- R/T owners report combined figures of 17.3 mpg [11]
- Performance-oriented Scat Pack variants yield 15.4 mpg in daily use [11]
- An 18.5-gallon fuel tank [12] ensures decent range between fill-ups. Owners should budget for annual fuel costs starting at $3,819 in the first year that climb to $4,298 by year five [13].
Pricing and trim levels
The 2021 Dodge Charger lineup comes with several price points that match different budgets.
The R/T trim stands out as the sweet spot in the lineup. It delivers V8 power at a reasonable price point. Buyers should expect ownership costs around $20,416 over five years when factoring in maintenance, depreciation, and fuel expenses [14].
Comparison to competitors
The 2021 Charger R/T delivers great value in the performance sedan segment. The Charger stands as a match for similar vehicles and offers more interior space with over 20 cubic feet of cargo capacity [7]. Its impressive 8.2/10 rating for overall performance and 7.5/10 for cost of ownership showcase its value proposition [12].
The Charger's strengths are clear:
- Spacious cabin area
- Accessible infotainment system
- Multiple powerful engine options [12]
The Charger R/T faces several competitive challenges that buyers should think over:
- Handling isn't as nimble as its rivals
- Cabin materials show inconsistent quality [12]
- Fuel consumption runs higher than competitors
Buyers get standard warranty protection with 3-year/36,000-mile basic coverage and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection [15]. This coverage helps secure long-term ownership value.
CONCLUSION
The 2021 Dodge Charger R/T showcases what modern muscle cars can be. Raw power meets everyday practicality in this engineering masterpiece. The 370-horsepower HEMI V8 engine packs impressive performance numbers and delivers decent fuel economy for its class. This muscle car doubles as a practical family sedan with its roomy interior, advanced tech features, and modern safety systems.
The Charger R/T hits the sweet spot in the lineup. Drivers get V8 power without paying premium prices for higher-performance models. The four-door design proves you can have both - exciting drives and practical features. Performance, comfort, and daily usability make this car a great value package. The 2021 model stays true to Dodge's muscle car heritage while delivering modern tech, safety features, and versatility that today's drivers need.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What type of vehicle is the Dodge Charger RT?
The Dodge Charger RT is classified as a muscle car. It is unique as it is the only four-door muscle car offered by Dodge in America, while the Dodge Challenger, another muscle car from Dodge, is a two-door vehicle but can comfortably seat up to five people.
2. What is the horsepower of the 2021 Dodge Charger RT?
The 2021 Dodge Charger RT is equipped with a 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine, which delivers up to 370 horsepower. This engine configuration provides significant power, surpassing the horsepower available in the SXT and GT models.
3. How fast can the Dodge Charger RT go?
The 2022 Dodge Charger RT can reach a top speed of 155 miles per hour, making it a notably fast model within the Charger lineup.
4. What are the engine specifications of the Charger RT in terms of horsepower and torque?
The Dodge Charger RT features a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, which produces 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, offering robust acceleration and a classic muscle car driving experience.
References
[6] - https://www.liccardichryslerdodge.com/research/dodge-charger-performance-trims-green-brook-nj.htm