2022 Dodge Charger vs 2023 BMW 7 Series

The 2022 Dodge Charger had a long-standing platform dating back to 2005, shared with the Dodge Challenger and Chrysler 300. Despite its age, Dodge managed to keep the Charger relevant with significant updates in 2011 and a major facelift in 2015. The design leaned towards a modern, aggressive look, contrasting with the retro styling of its Challenger counterpart. Inside, the Charger’s cabin felt dated, with thick bezels and chunky controls, but it offered ease of use over cutting-edge aesthetics.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series introduced a bold new design language, featuring a prominent grille and split lighting elements. Initially polarizing, the front-end styling became more acceptable over time. The profile maintained the classic 7 Series silhouette, while the interior embraced a modern, minimalist approach with high-quality materials. The cabin featured a futuristic curved display and ambient lighting, though some high-gloss trims caused reflections. The rear seats offered luxury with options like the Executive Lounge package, enhancing comfort with reclining seats and a theatre screen.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 producing 292 to 300 horsepower, depending on the trim. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 370 hp, while the Scat Pack 392 boasted a 6.4-litre V8 delivering 485 hp. The SRT Hellcat variants took performance to another level with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8, producing 717 hp in the standard model, 797 hp in the Redeye, and 807 hp in the Jailbreak. The Hellcat’s acceleration was remarkable, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 315 km/h. The Widebody setup improved handling with wider tires and a more stable track.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series in Canada featured the 760i xDrive with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, generating 536 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The 7 Series offered a smooth ride with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and sportier handling than its rivals. The air suspension and steering adjustments in Sport mode enhanced performance, making it a compelling choice for those valuing both comfort and driving dynamics.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, despite its size, felt intimate due to a high centre console and performance seats. It provided ample legroom but limited headroom, especially in the rear. Storage was less accommodating compared to newer models, with a smaller centre console and door bins. The trunk offered 467 litres of space, though accessing it required effort due to a small lid and high bumper.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series featured power-operated doors, which could be cumbersome. Inside, the front seats were comfortable with extensive adjustments, while the rear seats offered exceptional space and luxury options like lounge seating. The trunk held 388 litres, slightly larger than some competitors, with a wide and deep design for easy loading. Interior storage was adequate, with thoughtful features like a wireless charging pad and multiple USB ports.

The 2022 Dodge Charger came with a user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch or optional 8.4-inch touchscreen. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While not the most advanced, its simplicity and conventional controls were appreciated.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series introduced iDrive 8, with a dual-screen setup offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was feature-rich but complex, requiring navigation through multiple menus for certain functions. Voice controls helped mitigate this complexity, though they interrupted media playback. The standard Bowers & Wilkins sound system and optional theatre screen added to the tech appeal, despite some usability challenges.

The 2022 Dodge Charger lagged in standard safety features, offering only a backup camera and rear parking sensors. Optional features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA but only a Marginal rating from IIHS in certain tests.

The 2023 BMW 7 Series had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Advanced Driver Assistance package added more features, including a hands-free driving system for highways, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue.