Dodge has begun taking orders for its 2026 Charger R/T, the entry-level version of the redesigned muscle car. The new model starts at $49,995 for the two-door and $51,995 for the four-door, representing a significant price increase over the outgoing 2023 Challenger R/T, which began under $40,000.
The Engine Upgrade: Why The Price Hike?
The higher cost reflects a major engine change. Dodge has replaced the traditional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. This new engine delivers 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque – an increase of 45 hp and 58 lb-ft over the old V8. This is a fundamental shift in the Charger lineup, moving away from the iconic V8 sound and feel in favor of more modern, turbocharged power.
The performance gains are real: Dodge claims a 0-60 mph time of around five seconds, a quarter-mile run of 13.6 seconds, and a top speed of 168 mph. While some V8 loyalists will object, the new engine offers quicker acceleration and more usable power across a wider range.
Trim Levels & Options
The 2026 Charger R/T comes standard with all-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a limited-slip differential. Rear-wheel drive is also available for those who prefer it. Dodge offers several packages to enhance the experience:
- Performance Handling Package: Includes Launch Control, Custom drive mode, performance suspension, and Brembo brakes.
- R/T Plus Trim: Adds premium features like LED headlights, a larger digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display.
- Blacktop Package: Cosmetic upgrades with black wheels, badging, and exhaust tips.
Other options include a panoramic glass roof and an 18-speaker Alpine audio system.
What This Means
The new Dodge Charger R/T is more expensive than before, but also more powerful and technologically advanced. The price jump signals Dodge’s commitment to modernizing the muscle car experience, even if it means alienating some traditional buyers. The move to a turbocharged engine reflects broader industry trends, where efficiency and performance are increasingly prioritized over nostalgia. The Charger R/T represents a step forward in power and handling, but at a cost.
