The Dodge Charger shares its basic design with the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Magnum (which has been discontinued). The 2009 model gets only small feature changes but does get a jump in available power.
While the Charger SXT model is largely unchanged, it's the RT trim level that got a fairly significant performance boost.
While the RT's 5.7 liter HEMI V8 is the same as last year, there's a new variable valve timing system that pumps up the power . Horsepower has increased to 368 from 340, while lb-ft of torque is up to 395.
At the same time, gas mileage on the RT has actually increased to 16 mpg city and 25 mpg highway despite the power boost.
On the other hand, while still equipped with the 2.7 liter V6, the horsepower of the base-level Charger SE is down from 190 to 178. However, the gas mileage for the SE is unchanged at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Now available on the 2009 Charger is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite. This can include a wireless cell phone link, a 30-gigabyte hard drive for music and picture storage, and a navigation system with real-time traffic information.
Minor changes to the already popular exterior include a new taillight design along with the antenna being moved to just above the rear window.
There aren't a lot of interior changes as well. The SE now gets the same interior as the RT, and the RT now gets satin silver trim.
The Charger SXT will once again be equipped with a 3.5 liter V6 engine rated at 250 horsepower. Both the SXT and RT are outfitted with a five-speed automatic transmission with all-wheel-drive as an option. The SE comes with a four-speed automatic (no available AWD).
Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags.
The Road Track Performance Package is optional on the RT and includes 20-inch wheels, performance suspension, and heated front seats.
And the more performance oriented Charger SRT8 comes with a 425 horsepower 6.1 liter Hemi V8 coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Differences the SRT8 has with the other Charger models include a unique high-performance suspension tuning, upgraded brakes, leather/suede seats, steering wheel radio controls, remote start engine, trip computer, compass, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, and a rear spoiler.
The Charger is also offered with a police package (we're seeing more and more of these in police stations around the country) which includes the Hemi V8, heavy-duty brake and cooling systems, performance steering and several other special modifications.
How To Buy A New Charger At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Dodge Charger, here's the most successful new car buying tactic for getting the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.
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