The Dodge Charger was re-launched in 2006 in the large rear-wheel-drive sedan class and has had a few years to get comfortable with its new image, and now this year we have been rewarded with some serious performance enhancements in the R/T trim. Plus the Charger has hit the big time in a real-life law enforcement role, modified to become a police vehicle in the US and several other countries around the world. Eat your heart out Dukes of Hazzard!
2009 Dodge Charger Performance
The Dodge Charger uses the same base and engines as the Chrysler 300, with four main trims for 2009, all of which are rear-wheel-drive with AWD available in the upper models. The base model is the SE, then a step up to the SXT, R/T and the top-of-the-line sporty SRT8. The SE has seen some downgrading this year, retaining its 2.7-liter V6 engine, but losing 12 horsepower to be rated at 178hp instead of 190hp. The SXT edition’s 3.5-liter V6 remains basically unchanged, but the R/T sees a major performance boost for its 5.7-liter HEMI V8. The engine is the same, but the horsepower has been boosted from 340 to 368 thanks to its new variable valve timing system. It also carries the Dodge Multi-Displacement System (MDS) which adjusts the number of cylinders it uses according to the power required which has meant an improvement in fuel economy from last year’s 15/23mpg to 16/25mpg city/highway.
The SRT8 is the Charger’s ultimate performance machine, carrying a 6.1-liter OHV HEMI V8 which churns out 425hp and 420pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economical is certainly is not at 14/20mpg, but for sheer power it can’t be beaten, reaching from 0-60mph in just 5 seconds.
In terms of driving experience, the Dodge Charger SE’s engine is basically inadequate for such a big sedan, and struggles in all aspects of acceleration and handling. The SXT is a vast improvement and is quite capable of overtaking with speed and agility, while the V8 R/T packs plenty of power for all occasions. Suspension is firm and sporty on all but the base model and braking is also excellent and the Dodge Charger has been likened to driving like a Mercedes. The five-speed automatic transmission on the R/T and SRT8 uses Dodge’s AutoStick electronic range select automatic transmission which gives smooth and powerful gear shifts and with 20-inch all-season performance tires, handling is immaculate.
2009 Dodge Charger Interior
The Dodge Charger is designed as a large family car, and to that end its interior is not at the luxury end of the scale, but is stylish and well-fitted. All but the base model offer leather trimmed or leather seats, and the R/T model features performance seats with suede trim that are heated and power operated. There are all sorts of gadgets to keep the family happy, from the LED lighting on the cup-holders to dual zone air conditioning and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. A Boston six-speaker 276-watt stereo system should be more than adequate to keep the kids quiet during long trips, with a 20GB myGIG infotainment system, uConnect and SIRIUS satellite video service, plus there is remote starting and a universal garage door opening control for a bit of fun when you get home.
The Dodge Charger has become renowned for its roominess, with plenty of head room and leg room in the front and back, plus larger than normal seats. The rear seats fold 60/40 for even more space in the trunk, so you can pack more in for the family holiday.
2009 Dodge Charger Safety
The Dodge Charger scored a perfect five stars in government crash testing for front driver and passenger as well as side rear passenger safety. This is largely thanks to the advanced multi-stage airbags and side curtain airbags, plus the standard electronic stability control in all but the base model.
Safety features include:
- Front advanced multi-stage airbags
- 3-point seat belts-inc: front height adjustable shoulder belts
- Child seat upper tether anchors
- Rear door child protection locks
- Emergency trunk lid release
- Dual-note horn
Overall the 2009 Dodge Charger is a great value family car offering an abundance of performance, style and space plus enough options to personalize it into a truly sporty vehicle that would even make Luke and Bo Duke green with envy.