2019 Dodge Charger Scat Pack

2019 Dodge Charger Scat Pack
2019 Dodge Charger. (Courtesy of FCA Newsroom)
3/23/2019
Updated:
3/23/2019

This Charger is all about power. Even though it seats five comfortably, it’s got the power of a Los Angeles Class Submarine.

The 392 V8 SRT HEMI engine that comes with the Scat Pack is a powerful machine. It boasts 8 fire-breathing cylinders displacing 392 cubic-inches, and what that all add up to is best-in-class 485 horsepower. Charger is the only American 4-door muscle car with Brembo Brake System, as demanded by its performance goal. All this power is sent though the TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. With all that power and a 6.4-liter displacement, it still achieves an unbelievable 15 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for a combined 18 mpg. Not that you needed it, but the speedometer goes up to 180 mph.

Distinctive tail lights. (Courtesy of FCA Newsroom)
Distinctive tail lights. (Courtesy of FCA Newsroom)

Admittedly, I am not much of a race car driver. But when I hear this big engine growl (Active Exhaust), I can’t help but bubble over with a dangerous level of testosterone. I immediately joined the National Wrestling Confederation Tag Team competition and sought out an appropriate partner.

The current engine “receives improved air intakes through a dual-snorkel head that borrows its design from that era.” Dodge has continued to improve Charger design, helping to keep the engine at an optimal temperature regardless of whether you piddle-around or let the hammer down.

This powerful body is carried on 20-inch X 9.0-inch Black Noise wheels with all-season performance tires. They complemented the F8 Green exterior paint.

The performance grille with dual air inlets, LED daytime running lights, and projector fog lamps add to the attractive outside ensemble. This Charger reminds me of the muscle cars of the mid 1960s driven by the “cool college guys.”

Cloth performance front seats keep you firmly planted even when the car is going fast. The performance heated steering wheel with mounted paddle shifters complements the leather-wrapped shift knob. All these features combine to relax you enough to really enjoy an elegant ride.

The interior of the Charger. (Courtesy of Dodge)
The interior of the Charger. (Courtesy of Dodge)

The optional $2,000 Navigation and Travel Group brings Uconnect 4C NAV with an 8.4-inch display and GPS Navigation. A 5-year subscription SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link service is included.

Even though the Charger is known for its speed, all the technologies surrounding going fast are just as important. Standard Launch Control with Assist, Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle, High Performance Suspension, and Brembo 4-piston brakes are all desirable technologies that promote a safer driving environment.

The screen was easy to read and displayed objects clearly, especially when using the backup camera. However, an increase in screen size would have made for even better viewing.

Charger is a powerful 4-door sedan. Generally, manufactures have to choose between comfort and performance, cost and safety, but Dodge has managed to craft a high performance vehicle that is comfortable without sacrificing safety. A car built and sold for a price that provides ample technology features for an MSRP of $36,995.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or [email protected].