Dewey Dodge Jeep

View Our New Dodge Charger Inventory!!!

The next generation of the Dodge Charger is expected to be rolled out sometime in 2011.  While many of Chrysler LLC, which includes Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, models will possibly get axed, the Charger is already on schedule to continue through 2011.  The 2011 Dodge Charger will be made in Brampton alongside the 300C and possibly the Challenger or 200C; the launch is currently scheduled for around February 2011, but it may appear by September 2011.  The 2011 Dodge Charger, along with the Chrysler 300, appears to be a heavy makeover of the current LX-platform cars. A new focus in the 2011 Charger design will be aerodynamics. It will be built on a new platform, which will slightly change the dimensions.  Furthermore, the Charger will shed some pounds to help attain higher mpg numbers.  Besides this, the 2011 Dodge Charger should remain familiar fare, though new cabin and safety technologies will help it keep up with the market.

Powering the ’11 Charger

Chrysler’s new-design “Pentastar” V6 in 3.6-liter form will likely be the engine of choice for 2011. The new V6 should give base models both improved performance and better fuel economy. The 5.7-liter MDS Hemi V8 should return with a few tweaks. In between is an updated version of Chrysler’s 4.7-liter V8 as a new Charger choice. This will likely be an option for base models and standard with midlevel trim.  The V6 3.6 liter will pump out 280 hp with better mileage than the current 250 hp 3.5 liter, and should be mated to a six speed transmission. The SRT8 may have a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8 and a 5-speed automatic without cylinder deactivation. Another possibility for the SRT-8 is a production version of the 392 (6.4) Hemi with about 450-475 hp and MDS for better gas mileage. This appears to be in the works. In the end, modified axle ratios will cover the entire lineup, made more practical by the greater power from the V6 and V8 alike. Yet, all-around performance is to go up; the revised V6 and the 2009 Hemi changes will make this possible.

2011 Dodge Charger Design

In designing the ’11 Charger, aerodynamics were a top priority as automakers must find ways to make their models reach the federally mandated fuel economy guidelines.  The Charger will be less boxy, as this will improve both noise and gas mileage. The next generation Charger is expected to merge the styling of the current version with a more classic look from the famous 1968 Chargers, one of the most stylish vehicles ever built. This includes integrated front tail-light but separate rear tail-light. The Charger may wear a less-aggressive version of Dodge’s trademark “crosshair” motif.

Inside the Charger

For 2011, the Dodge Charger will get an updated cabin space. It features a simple, spacious design with plenty of head and legroom. The seats are relatively comfortable, the only complaint being the flat cushions allow occupants to slide during aggressive cornering; some more bolstering would help. SRT8 and Charger R/T with Road/Track Performance Group address this problem with sport buckets. SRT8 seats have good lateral support and outstanding comfort. The Dodge Charger is easy to get in and out of, the trunk is usefully sized and shaped, but a relatively small opening makes loading bulky objects difficult. 

Driving the Charger

The Charger is a fun to drive vehicle with linear steering and good road feel with good stability at highway speeds. V8 models negotiate rainy roads without undue slip. The Charger will be sold with a decent list of safety technologies.  These include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A Road/Track Performance Package will be available on the R/T trim; it includes 20-inch wheels, performance suspension, and heated front seats. For fuel economy, the SRT8 averages 14.3 mpg in city driving, 16.9 in mostly highway driving. The V6 should reach around 25 mpg for highway drive.  Dodge recommends regular-grade gas for the 2.7 V6, 89-octane for the 3.5-liter V6. Premium-grade gas is recommended for both V8 engines.

New Technology for ‘11

Both the Charger and the Chrysler 300 will supposedly get new safety technology that first appeared on the company’s ‘sister’ minivans, the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. The Blind Spot Monitoring System warns drivers of vehicles that might go unseen in a rearview mirror. The other is a “Rear Cross Path” sensor system designed to warn of oncoming traffic from behind the vehicle on either side; it’s activated by putting the transmission in reverse. Other convenience features are a small in-vehicle security camera and an enhanced “uconnect” multimedia system that allows programming a smartphone for remote engine starting and pre-drive adjustments to power windows, door locks and climate settings.

Conclusions

While the Charger will get a fresh, more aerodynamic look for 2011, the Charger convertible has been placed on hold.  When, if ever, it will go into production is unknown. The all wheel drive Charger may be dropped, as the market for it is low. Three rear wheel models will remain. The recent bankruptcy and following partnership with Fiat should make things interesting over the next few years. The no-cash deal gave Fiat a stake in Chrysler and a ready-made sales and manufacturing base for a U.S.-market relaunch of the Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands. In exchange, Fiat would donate compact- and midsize-vehicle platforms and powertrains that Chrysler urgently needs to be competitive, not to mention meeting the stricter new fuel-economy standards that take effect in 2011. Chrysler and Fiat formalized their union this June, after the American automaker exited bankruptcy court. The Charger remains some of Chrysler’s most profitable products, and the joint venture will secure the go ahead on production of this models which will be ready to go for 2011.