Dodge

Dodge Buying Guide

Get the best online car shopping experience with expert reviews of Dodge Read more to learn about the most important features and important factors to consider when researching Dodge.

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Dodge Overview

Founded by two brothers in the early 1900s, Dodge is now one of several brands under the umbrella of Stellantis, a conglomerate that also includes Chrysler, Jeep, and Fiat. Dodge earned a strong reputation for performance during the muscle car era of the 1960s and 70s. It leans into that tradition today with its lineup of boldly styled models that feature numerous high-output variants, such as the Challenger SRT Hellcat, which makes over 700 horsepower. Other popular Dodge models include the Durango, a three-row crossover SUV, the Charger, a full-size sedan, and the Grand Caravan, a minivan.

Noteworthy Features

Dodge Performance
Dodge has always been known for building high-performance vehicles, winning J.D. Power performance awards for its models almost every year since 1996. As just one example, Consumer Reports ranks the Dodge Challenger R/T Plus as one of the quickest cars with the fastest acceleration, reaching 60 mph from standing still in 5.5 seconds. Models like the SRT Demon and SRT Hellcat add even higher-performance features, such as souped-up engines and suspensions.

Tech Upgrades
Dodge has retained everything that has kept its classic vehicles relevant while always being mindful to add the latest technologies to keep up with changing times. Most recently, this includes tech like a ParkView back-up camera featuring a Uconnect touchscreen for extra safety and convenience. The 2019 Demon features air-catcher headlamps that are dual-illuminated for maximum visibility and style.

Many Customization Possibilities
Dodge offers you seemingly endless customization options on most of its models. The Charger comes in a multitude of graphics packages and trim levels. The Challenger also provides a variety of trim options and levels, such as the Stars and Stripes and Brass Monkey appearance packages. The R/T Scat Pack Challenger is now in Widebody, and the base SXT trim now comes with available all-wheel drive.

Additional Considerations

Same Dodge, Different Year
Dodge vehicles may add various tech upgrades to stay current, but the basic design of the Dodge line doesn't change much with each year's new models. This may be fine for drivers who appreciate Dodge's reputation for performance no matter what package it comes in, but others may find the sameness of Dodge's designs uninspiring.

Inconsistent Reliability
Not all Dodge models are equally reliable. Fuel-efficiency on the Charger, for example, can be poor at high speeds. The Journey, too, has subpar fuel economy along with a weaker, older transmission and base engine than its rivals, making performance and handling lag as well.

Not a Beauty Pageant
Dodge vehicles are more about power, performance and size than style and aesthetics. The interior materials can look cheap on some models, like the 2020 Charger. The design features of the 2019 Charger, meanwhile, are bold, but that doesn't necessarily equate with luxury style. In the Challenger, the interior is rubberized and the exterior seems proportioned to create a clunky impression.