Dodge Highlights Charger's Standard All-Wheel Drive System As Discounts Exceed $12,000 | Carscoops

      Following a lukewarm reception, Dodge is making efforts to promote the Charger in every possible way.

      Dodge is emphasizing the standard all-wheel drive system on the revamped Charger, which the company claims is “battle-tested” and aims to boost the model's appeal. The four-door Chargers are expected to debut in the first half of 2025, while models powered by internal combustion engines will follow later.

      The Dodge Charger Daytona has entered the market with a predictable lack of excitement, prompting dealers to offer discounts exceeding $12,000, a striking figure that clearly suggests weak demand.

      In light of this, it’s not surprising that Dodge is marketing the Charger as the “world’s only all-wheel-drive muscle car.” Although the Challenger had an optional all-wheel drive system, every Charger comes equipped with it as standard. This includes the forthcoming Sixpack variants, featuring a twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine capable of producing up to 550 hp (410 kW / 558 PS).

      Dodge CEO Matt McAlear stated that this presents an “opportunity for both the Dodge brand and for our customers living in colder regions.” The automaker has also mentioned that the all-wheel drive system has undergone “battle-testing” in various locations—including Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—demonstrating the “Charger’s ability to combine muscle car performance with all-weather capability.”

      While Dodge didn’t elaborate much on the all-wheel drive system, they did highlight a Wet/Snow Mode that provides the “maximum amount of traction and stability,” adjusting traction control, electronic stability control, regenerative braking, and torque bias logic.

      Additionally, the Charger comes with a standard mechanical limited slip rear differential, distributing power to both rear wheels for improved traction.

      For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, there’s a Drift/Donut Mode which transforms the vehicle into a rear-wheel drive muscle car, disabling electronic stability control and relaxing the traction control limits.

      However, a significant concern is pricing, as the 2024 Charger Daytona starts at $59,595. In comparison, the all-wheel drive Challenger SXT had a starting price of $35,140, with the GT variant available for $38,440. This represents a substantial difference, despite the Charger Daytona being considerably more powerful.