The 2018 Dodge Charger is a unique vehicle that manages to blend the best of both worlds – muscle car machismo and family-friendly versatility.
On the performance side, it boasts available Hemi V-8 engines that deliver up to 485 horsepower, allowing it to compete with dedicated pony cars in straight-line acceleration and handling prowess.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the details of the 2018 Dodge Charger, covering everything from its powerful engine options and high-performance capabilities to its comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing.
Whether you’re seeking a raw performance machine or a practical family vehicle (or both!), the Charger has something for everyone.
Related Post : 2017 Dodge Charger
What’s New for the 2018 Charger?
Dodge Charger made several updates to the Charger lineup for the 2018 model year, including:
- Reshuffled trim levels: The base SE trim was replaced by the SXT, and new SXT Plus, GT, and GT Plus trims were added to the lineup.
- New styling options: The GT line features gloss-black front-end accents and standard 19-inch wheels, while optional red Brembo brake calipers are now available on the Charger R/T Scat Pack and Daytona 392 models.
- New standard features: All 2018 Chargers now come equipped with a backup camera, rear parking sensors, and an updated 7.0-inch Uconnect infotainment system.
- New paint colors: F8 Green and IndiGO Blue were added to the Charger’s color palette for 2018.
These updates help keep the Charger fresh and competitive in the full-size sedan segment, offering buyers even more choices and customization options.
2018 Charger Pricing Details
The 2018 Dodge Charger is available in a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and performance needs.
Here are the starting MSRPs for some key trims:
- SXT: $30,390
- GT: $34,390
- R/T: $36,890
- Daytona: $40,390
It’s worth noting that pricing can vary based on additional options and package selections, as well as whether you opt for all-wheel drive (available on V-6 models only) or different engine choices.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP |
| SXT | $30,390 |
| GT | $34,390 |
| R/T | $36,890 |
| Daytona | $40,390 |
With its competitive pricing and long list of standard and available features, the 2018 Charger represents a strong value proposition in the full-size sedan segment.
Powerful Engine Choices and High-Performance Capabilities
The 2018 Dodge Charger offers a range of potent engine options that cater to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a capable daily driver.
The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 that produces a respectable 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (or up to 300 hp and 264 lb-ft with the optional Rallye Group package).
However, for those seeking true muscle car performance, the Charger also offers two available Hemi V-8 engines:
- 5.7-liter V-8: Generating 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides ample power for spirited driving and highway passing maneuvers.
- 6.4-liter V-8: The top-of-the-line engine choice, this massive V-8 churns out a whopping 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Charger to accelerate with the ferocity of a heavyweight boxer.
All Charger models are paired with an excellent eight-speed automatic transmission and come standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD).
All-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an option on V-6 models, providing additional traction and control in inclement weather conditions.
Despite its size and heft, the 2018 Charger can be surprisingly athletic on the road.
Its well-tuned suspension and precise steering allow it to corner with poise and grip, delivering a level of handling prowess that belies its muscle car roots.
Whether you’re carving through twisty backroads or simply commuting to work, the Charger provides a driving experience that is both engaging and confidence-inspiring.
2018 Charger Fuel Economy Ratings
While the Charger’s focus is undoubtedly on performance, it still manages to deliver respectable fuel economy numbers – particularly with its V-6 engine option.
Here are the EPA-rated fuel economy figures for the 2018 Charger:
| Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
| 3.6L V-6 (RWD) | 19 | 30 | 23 |
| 3.6L V-6 (AWD) | 18 | 27 | 21 |
| 5.7L V-8 (RWD) | 16 | 25 | 19 |
| 6.4L V-8 (RWD) | 15 | 25 | 18 |
As you can see, the V-6 models offer the best fuel efficiency, with the RWD version achieving up to 30 mpg on the highway.
The V-8 engines, unsurprisingly, are thirstier – but their performance capabilities more than make up for their reduced fuel economy.
Interior Comfort, Passenger Space and Cargo Room
While the 2018 Dodge Charger is undoubtedly a performance-oriented vehicle, it doesn’t sacrifice interior comfort or practicality.
In fact, one of the Charger’s strengths is its spacious cabin and generous cargo room, making it a surprisingly family-friendly choice.
Up front, the Charger offers comfortable and supportive seating for the driver and front passenger, with available premium options like heated and cooled seats, power adjustment, and faux suede upholstery.
In the rear, the Charger shines with its class-leading legroom, providing ample space for even the tallest passengers to stretch out in comfort.
While the Charger’s interior materials and build quality may not match the standards of some near-luxury competitors, it still offers a functional and well-appointed cabin.
Available features like illuminated cupholders, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and heated rear seats add a touch of premium flair to the interior experience.
One area where the 2018 Charger truly excels is cargo room. With its 16.5 cubic feet of trunk space, the Charger offers more cargo capacity than many of its rivals, making it a practical choice for family road trips or hauling larger items.
The Charger’s interior provides ample storage compartments and cubbies for smaller personal items, ensuring that everything has a place to call home.
Advanced Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Safety is a top priority for any family vehicle, and the 2018 Dodge Charger delivers with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and impressive crash test scores.
In terms of active safety technology, the Charger offers a range of available features designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants.
Some key safety features include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
These features work in tandem to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind, helping to mitigate the risk of collisions and maintain control in challenging driving scenarios.
When it comes to crash test ratings, the 2018 Charger has performed exceptionally well, earning top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
| Organization | Overall Rating |
| NHTSA | 5 Stars |
| IIHS | Top Safety Pick |
These impressive ratings are a testament to the Charger’s robust safety cell and advanced engineering, which work together to provide superior occupant protection in the event of a collision.
Warranty Coverage for the 2018 Dodge Charger
When it comes to warranty coverage, the 2018 Dodge Charger offers a comprehensive protection plan that provides peace of mind for new car buyers.
The standard warranty includes:
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance
These warranty terms are competitive with other full-size sedans in the segment and provide ample coverage for the first few years of ownership.
The Charger may be eligible for coverage under Dodge’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program if you’re purchasing a used model.
The CPO warranty extends coverage to 7 years or 100,000 miles from the original in-service date, providing additional protection and value for pre-owned buyers.
For full details on the Dodge Charger’s warranty coverage, be sure to visit the official Dodge Charger warranty page.
Final Thoughts
The 2018 Dodge Charger is a truly unique vehicle that manages to blend raw muscle car performance with family-friendly versatility and practicality.
With its available Hemi V-8 engines, athletic handling capabilities, and long list of standard and optional features, the Charger appeals to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a comfortable daily driver.
Whether you prioritize straight-line acceleration, handling prowess, interior comfort, or cargo room, the 2018 Charger has something to offer. Its competitive pricing and impressive crash test ratings only add to its appeal as a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle that can truly do it all.
If you’re in the market for a full-size sedan that delivers on both performance and practicality, the 2018 Dodge Charger is definitely worth a test drive.
Experience the raw power and family-friendly functionality for yourself, and see why the Charger is such a unique and compelling option in the automotive world.
