2021 Dodge Charger vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, enhancing its sleekness with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet tastefully sized, twin-kidney grille. The M Sport Package introduced trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and updated bumpers, contributing to a slightly longer body while maintaining an efficient drag coefficient. Inside, the 5 Series retained its classic BMW layout, with familiar elements like the touchscreen positioning and unique shifter design. While the interior materials varied by trim, the Nappa leather option added a touch of luxury, though the sporty steering wheel felt somewhat out of place in the otherwise refined cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Charger maintained its bold and muscular aesthetic, appealing to those who appreciated its "brotherhood of muscle" ethos. The model offered a wide range of variants, including the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye, which featured a distinctive widebody format and functional performance hood. The Charger’s design remained largely unchanged over the years, making it difficult for casual observers to discern its age. Inside, the Charger’s interior was functional but lacked the refinement of more luxurious competitors. While the fit and finish improved over time, the use of hard plastics and rubberized surfaces was evident. The Charger offered a spacious cabin with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, enhancing its practicality for families.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with the 530i's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This model could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. The 540i featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The M550i xDrive boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp, while the M5 offered a more potent version with 617 hp, reaching zero to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. Additionally, the 530e plug-in hybrid combined a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, providing 288 hp and a 31 km electric range.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, offering a variety of engine options. The base models, including the SXT and GT, featured a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with up to 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. The R/T variant housed a 5.7-litre HEMI V8, delivering 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. The Scat Pack models were equipped with a 6.4-litre HEMI V8, producing 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The pinnacle of the lineup, the SRT Hellcat Redeye, boasted a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8 with 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque. Despite its immense power, the Hellcat Redeye managed to balance performance with drivability, though it was the least fuel-efficient option.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered a spacious interior with competitive front-seat space and ample rear-seat room. The 540i model provided 396 litres of trunk space, surpassing rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 16-way power front seats with lumbar support, heating, and ventilation added to the comfort, though forward visibility was somewhat compromised by the long hood. A surround-view camera system aided in maneuvering.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, also a four-door, five-passenger sedan, balanced performance with practicality. Its interior, while dated in technology, was functional and easy to navigate. The steering wheel featured accessible controls, and paddle shifters were available on most models. The Charger offered a spacious trunk, expandable with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, providing average cargo space compared to other large cars.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring the iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a rotary knob for control and voice command capabilities. Gesture controls were available but required learning specific gestures.

The 2021 Dodge Charger offered basic standard features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Optional upgrades included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio systems, and navigation. The Uconnect system was straightforward but had some functions buried in menus. The lack of a head-up display and the use of interchangeable switchgear contributed to a lower-tech feel.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series had not been crash-tested by the IIHS, but the 2020 model received a "Top Safety Pick+" award. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included brake assist, electronic stability control, and rear park assist. Optional packages offered adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning.