2012 Dodge Charger: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The most important change for the 2012 Dodge Charger is a new eight-speed automatic for V6 models, improving highway fuel economy to as high as 31 mpg. The performance lineup also expands with the returning SRT8 and new SRT8 Super Bee.

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About the 2012 Dodge Charger

2011 redesign generation, second model year before the 2015 refresh.

For 2012, Dodge positions the Charger as a full-size sedan with muscle-car attitude: rear-wheel-drive proportions, bold styling, usable back-seat space, and a choice between efficient V6 power and classic HEMI V8 performance. It stands apart from more conservative large sedans by blending family-car practicality with a sportier feel, a quieter cabin than older Chargers, and performance trims that feel closer to American muscle cars than traditional commuter sedans.

The 2012 Charger ranges from the straightforward V6-powered SE to the better-equipped SXT, which has an 8.4-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and remote start. The R/T brings a 370-hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8, while the SRT8 and more stripped-down Super Bee use a 470-hp 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with Brembo brakes.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

V6 Chargers gain a new eight-speed automatic. It is standard on the new SXT and optional on the SE, where the five-speed automatic remains standard. The returning SRT8 and new SRT8 Super Bee add a 470-hp 6.4-liter HEMI V8.

Styling

The SRT8 Super Bee debuts with heritage-themed graphics, embroidered cloth performance seats, and black brake calipers. Across the Charger lineup, the rear spoiler changes from standard to optional equipment.

Tech

The returning SRT8 adds adaptive suspension damping and SRT Performance Pages, which display driving and performance information on the car’s screen.

2012 Dodge Charger specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 Dodge ChargerSE1 in stock	2012 Dodge ChargerR/T0 in stock	2012 Dodge ChargerSXT1 in stock	2012 Dodge ChargerSRT80 in stock	2012 Dodge ChargerSRT8 Superbee0 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.6 Liter	V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter	V6, 3.6 Liter	V8, HEMI, 6.4 Liter	V8, HEMI, 6.4 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 5-Spd	Automatic, 5-Spd	Automatic, 8-Spd	Automatic, 5-Spd	Automatic, 5-Spd
Drivetrain	RWD	RWD	RWD	RWD	RWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	18 mpg	16 mpg	19 mpg	14 mpg	14 mpg
MPG Highway	27 mpg	25 mpg	31 mpg	23 mpg	23 mpg
Horsepower	292 hp	370 hp	292 hp	470 hp	470 hp
Torque	260 lb-ft	395 lb-ft	260 lb-ft	470 lb-ft	470 lb-ft
Max Towing	1000 lb	1000 lb	1000 lb	1000 lb	1000 lb
Trunk/Cargo	16.5 cu-ft	16.5 cu-ft	16.5 cu-ft	16.3 cu-ft	16.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	40.1 in	40.1 in	40.1 in	40.1 in	40.1 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Blindspot Sensors
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Heated Mirrors
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
Navigation System
Premium Audio
SD Card Slot
Satellite Radio
Subwoofer
Touch Screen Monitor
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Pedals
Power Adjustable Pedals
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Remote Start
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2013 Dodge Charger compares

The 2013 Dodge Charger is a light-update year, led by the SRT8’s new launch control and three-mode adaptive suspension. The basic body, cabin, and core engine lineup carry over.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2012 Dodge Charger?

The biggest change is the new eight-speed automatic for V6-powered Chargers. It is standard on the SXT and optional on the SE, helping highway fuel economy reach as high as 31 mpg.

Does every 2012 Dodge Charger V6 have the eight-speed automatic?

No. The 2012 Charger SXT has the eight-speed automatic as standard, while it is optional on the SE; an SE may instead have the standard five-speed automatic.

Did the Dodge Charger SRT8 return for 2012?

Yes. The Charger SRT8 returns for 2012 with a 470-hp 6.4-liter HEMI V8, adaptive suspension damping, Brembo brakes, and SRT Performance Pages.

What is different about the 2012 Charger SRT8 Super Bee?

The SRT8 Super Bee is a new lower-content, heritage-themed performance model for 2012. It keeps the SRT8’s 470-hp 6.4-liter HEMI V8 and core performance hardware but uses cloth performance seats and distinctive Super Bee details instead of some luxury features.

Is the 2012 Dodge Charger SXT a new trim?

Yes. The SXT joins the Charger lineup for 2012 as the better-equipped V6 trim, with the eight-speed automatic, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, and remote start.