2008 Dodge Charger Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Expert review
The Canadian-built Dodge Charger muscle sedan brings something for almost everybody.
Since relaunching the Charger name as a new car in a modern, four-door sedan for 2006, Dodge has continued its streak of building aggressive-looking cars with big engines. Very few changes are in store for the 2008 model year. Most notable is a better-quality interior.
out of 10 expert review
Look & feel
Is any sedan more brash, menacing, or silly than a Dodge Charger? There's something refreshing about designing an average family sedan to be obnoxiously aggressive and not care so much about the many people who won't think of buying one. But that's Dodge—and it’s doing well by it. The wide crossed grille and dark-tinted headlights appear to be snorting and squinting. The tall body panels and slim glass create a chopped roof effect like that of 1930s hot rods. When dressed in bright colours, 20-inch rims, spoilers, and silly decals, the Charger isn't just a poseur—it's a doer, and it'll do loud, fast, and dumb things all day. Can't say that about a Toyota Camry or a Ford Fusion.
The new Charger's interior is a bare-bones warehouse that's been upgraded with (some) softer materials for 2008. Hard cheap plastics still prevail, and it's an ugly space by any measure. But being seen in a Charger is what counts, because nothing else on the road looks like it. The police love the intimidating looks so much they're buying them straight from Dodge as factory cruisers.
Performance
Based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the 1990s, the Charger and its clones (the Dodge Magnum and the Chrysler 300) are an American-German mashup from the short-lived DaimlerChrysler era. That means good, solid bones from expensive luxury cars, including the suspension components and certain transmissions. Disregard the base Charger SE and its 2.7-litre V6, which has only 178 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque to move a heavy car. The 3.5-litre V6 and the four-speed automatic are the better pair, available on the SE and standard on the SXT, with 250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. That would be enough for most people, but the better Charger models aren't for most people.
Those are the R/T and Daytona R/T, which pack a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine with power specs of 340 hp (350 on the Daytona), 390 lb-ft of torque, and a five-speed automatic. All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional on the V8 R/T and V6 SXT, where it adds the five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick to the powertrain that’s standard on upper trims; all other trims have a rear-wheel drive (RWD) drivetrain. To reach peak Charger, you must buy the SRT8 and brace for a 6.1-litre V8 with 425 hp and 420 lb-ft. The SRT8 also comes with Brembo brakes, 20-inch summer tires, and a stiffer suspension. Yes, it's loud. The ride on any Charger falls on the stiff side, and their weight and imprecise steering make them feel like the 1960s muscle cars they really are.
Fuel economy is estimated at 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving and 7.7 on the highway for the 2.7-litre V6. The 3.5-litre V6 consumes 12.5 L/100 km city and 8.1 highway with the four-speed and RWD, and those figures go up to 13.9 city and 9.0 highway with the five-speed and AWD. The R/T does slightly better, averaging 13.6 city/8.6 highway with RWD and 13.6 city/9.0 highway with AWD. That's because the V8 can shut off half its cylinders under light loads. Don't believe that kind of fuel efficiency will ever happen in real life with an engine that huge. The biggest 6.1-litre will drain the tank at a rate of 16.5 L/100 km city, 10.9 highway.
Form & function
Technology
Safety
Cost-effectiveness
In Canada, the 2008 Dodge Charger SE starts at $28,695 for the SE. Other popular trims include the $34,995 Dodge Charger SXT AWD, $38,995 Dodge Charger R/T RWD, and $40,995 Dodge Charger R/T AWD. The Dodge Charger SRT8 bases at a $46,395 minimum. The Charger is crude and cheap-feeling inside, but its performance and exterior style are way past the competition. Add in the availability of AWD and impressive tech options, and there's some good value in this bonkers Dodge sedan.
Note: Images show a US model.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2008 Dodge Charger express a strong appreciation for its power, performance, and comfort, making it a fun car to drive. Many drivers highlight the spacious interior and trunk, making it suitable for both family use and road trips. However, some concerns were raised about the handling in snow and a few issues with the ride quality due to oversized tires on certain models. Despite this, the Charger remains a favorite for its striking looks and muscle car attributes."
Love it so far, just needs a new set of better tires.
April 1, 2008I have had my Charger for 14 years; I was the first to drive it on the lot, and have loved it ever since. It gets well used ;) I have had no major issues with the car, I have always taken great care of it and done all needed maintenance. The car and engine are die hard, and it never lets me down!! The reported issues on other sites; such as the water pump, steering, starting were not issues I have ever had; the water pump just started to go recently at 318,000. Just an example that taking good care of your car can make a huge difference! Other complaints Ive read are handling, and visibility. I think the people making those comments are just not overly versed in how to properly drive this model of car, it drives and handles amazing!! Especially in the winter; if you have a good set of winters on it, you can go anywhere. And I dont find I have any blind spots, especially if you set all the mirrors just right. Mine has had its day though, trying to find one in decent condition to replace it. Wish Dodge didnt change the exterior shape, I love the look of this model over the new ones; so I wont buy a newer model. Only complaints would be the faux leather; my driver seat and arm rest are badly cracked and split, and you will see that in all of the Chargers this age.
April 18, 2023Performance - let the 350 horsepower, 5.7 liter hemi speak for itself, along with the amazing handling that comes with a beefed up steering and suspension. The ride on huge 20" inch rims is amazingly smooth. Cost of ownership - with 16 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway, this is quite nice. =D Appearance - let your jaw hit the floor, because this is one of the most beautiful cars out there Fun factor - no matter what speed you're cruising at, this car is pure fun 100% of the time Build quality - you have to look kinda hard to find flaws.
September 1, 2008What owners say
Love it so far, just needs a new set of better tires.
April 1, 2008I have had my Charger for 14 years; I was the first to drive it on the lot, and have loved it ever since. It gets well used ;) I have had no major issues with the car, I have always taken great care of it and done all needed maintenance. The car and engine are die hard, and it never lets me down!! The reported issues on other sites; such as the water pump, steering, starting were not issues I have ever had; the water pump just started to go recently at 318,000. Just an example that taking good care of your car can make a huge difference! Other complaints Ive read are handling, and visibility. I think the people making those comments are just not overly versed in how to properly drive this model of car, it drives and handles amazing!! Especially in the winter; if you have a good set of winters on it, you can go anywhere. And I dont find I have any blind spots, especially if you set all the mirrors just right. Mine has had its day though, trying to find one in decent condition to replace it. Wish Dodge didnt change the exterior shape, I love the look of this model over the new ones; so I wont buy a newer model. Only complaints would be the faux leather; my driver seat and arm rest are badly cracked and split, and you will see that in all of the Chargers this age.
April 18, 2023Performance - let the 350 horsepower, 5.7 liter hemi speak for itself, along with the amazing handling that comes with a beefed up steering and suspension. The ride on huge 20" inch rims is amazingly smooth. Cost of ownership - with 16 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway, this is quite nice. =D Appearance - let your jaw hit the floor, because this is one of the most beautiful cars out there Fun factor - no matter what speed you're cruising at, this car is pure fun 100% of the time Build quality - you have to look kinda hard to find flaws.
September 1, 2008As stated above, the HEMI power is just smile inducing. The comfort that this car exudes on the roads, whether it be light to light or open highway is amazing. The gadgetry in the cockpit leaves you feeling like James Bond as you cycle radio stations with either the steering wheel controls or the MyGIG touch screen. The heated seats shake off the bitter cold in the winters and the sunroof lets you bask in those sunny summer days. This car turns heads at the grocery stores or whatever other family duties you may encounter, but lets you chuckle when you slam the accelerator and feel the car jump up and go. I have few gripes with this vehicle. Mainly the heaviness and bodyroll, but any visit to performance shop can cure those ailments!
March 25, 2014I bought this car with 300 miles on it due to a lot of people wanting to test drive it without intending on buying it. My wife fell in love with it because of it's power and quickness. Before the charger we bought an 03 Impala and it is a V6 so it doesn't have that HEMI power. The charger gets better gas mileage than I expected. I drove it across the country and from California to Wisconsin my total was about $300 for gas. I was expecting the total to be around $500 or greater. We are really happy with our purchase and would recommend this vehicle to anybody who could afford it.
September 25, 2008This car does not have a smooth and consistent start. It will cut off while I am driving. I will lose power steering and have to throw it into neutral and restart it as fast as I can. It is so dangerous!
April 28, 2014This replaces my supercharged 2007 RT with Road and Track- honestly this feels faster even though I know I beat them at the track in the 1/4 mile. Performance is effortless, whereas my RT was straining. Completely enjoying getting to know this car (5,000 miles so far)
May 2, 2013Wow! 425 horsepower and decent mileage considering. 200 mile trip and averaged 21.5mpg hwy on winter fuel! Not bad. Very comfy ride and interior and low road noise. Wish it had some of the features of the new models but not bad considering! Tons of room for all passengers.
January 12, 2013I love everything about it! Roomy 4 door passenger car with the heart of true American muscle! The MDS system allows the 8 cylinders to reduce to 4 cylinder which increases fuel mileage, example: highway im averaging 23 mi per gallon.
June 1, 2010Quick and powerful acceleration. Great highway mileage. Feels sturdy and safe. Amazing vintage design. New interior, with great comfort functions. Extremely fun to drive, comfortable to drive long distances. American cars usually last a while before the need for a fix up
July 1, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $30,755 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 340 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,970 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $32,855 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.7L 340 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $21,350 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $36,355 | Seating 5 |
Engine 6.1L 425 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $25,685 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $28,035 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $21,350 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.7L 178 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 16.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain RWD |
