2009 Dodge Charger SXT AWD

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TEXAS—All I can say after driving the new 2009 Dodge Charger (painted a bright color called “TorRed” which translates to screaming red), is wow! What a fun experience this has been.  I have to wonder though, do red cars really have more zip in them, or is it just that they make the driver feel a little more daring?

Either way, the TorRed Charger lived up to its name, and was obviously built for the highway.  It was also fun to drive around town, drawing more than its fair share of envious glances. After all, the Dodge Charger is the official passenger car of NASCAR®.

With a 3.5 liter high-output 24-valve V6 MPI engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, the Dodge Charger is sheer joy to drive, and handles beautifully on the straightaway or on winding roads. The Charger features 18-inch aluminum wheels, brake assist, anti-lock 4-wheel disc performance brakes, all-speed traction control, touring suspension, power rack and pinion steering, speed control, and AutoStick® Electronic Range Selection Auto Transmission.

Like most muscle cars, the Charger carries a gas-guzzler tax.  However, it averaged 17 miles per gallon in town and 23 on the highway, which provided many miles of enjoyment for not much money at the fuel pump. Just a few months ago this might have been a major concern, but with gas prices in North Texas well below $2 a gallon, I was totally unconcerned with burning a little gas.

The interior was a classy dark and light slate gray color, and the test model came equipped with sporty leather-trimmed bucket seats, steering wheel, and shift knob, and a power sunroof. The Customer Preferred Package also provided auto-dimming rear view mirror, supplemental air curtains and bags, and illuminated front and rear map pockets.

The Charger SXT was roomy enough for my three lunch-meeting passengers, including the two in the back seat, to say they really enjoyed the ride. Several actually wanted to go around the block a few more times when I tried to drop them off.

The base price for the test model was $29,490, but with added options, including the $225 for the TorRed exterior paint job, which is definitely worth the price, and destination charges, the total price was $34,220.

Jo Ann Holt is a journalist and car writer based in Dallas, Texas, and a member of Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA); contact joannholt@gmail.com