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2018 Dodge Challenger review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Dodge Challenger highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • A solid blend of performance and practicality
  • Wide range of trim level choices and engine options
  • Retro design that never goes out of style

Cons

  • Large size and weight reduce agility
  • Cool styling somewhat compromises rear visibility
  • Can't get a convertible version

Mileage (EPA estimate)

13 city, 22 highway, 16 combined

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2018 Dodge Challenger ups its performance pedigree with new Demon trim

The big and bold Dodge Challenger gets even bigger and bolder in 2018. A new 707-horsepower Hellcat Widebody option gives Dodge's performance coupe a meatier stance, while the appropriately named limited-production Demon trim possesses a truly demonic 840 maximum horsepower. There's also a new larger standard touchscreen, and all trims now include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone integration. Entry-level versions of the Dodge Challenger feature a 305-horsepower V6 on SXT and GT trims, with the GT being the sole all-wheel-drive Challenger. The V8-powered R/T trim provides 375 hp, while the Challenger SRT 392 delivers 485 hp. Additional Challenger trims include the Plus, T/A, R/T Scat Pack, and R/T Shaker. Most models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, but a six-speed manual is available.

The Dodge Challenger isn't as light or agile as its Camaro and Mustang rivals, but it's surprisingly composed on twisty roads while offering a roomier interior that can seat four adults comfortably. Plus, it has a large trunk with genuine cargo capacity. Fuel efficiency ranges from an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined in V6 models to 16 mpg combined in the drag-strip-oriented Demon. Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.

All Dodge Challenger years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Dodge Challenger generation from 2012 to 2023

What is new for the 2018 Dodge Challenger?

  • The Challenger is available in a new trim called the SRT Demon.
  • Challenger trims have been upgraded with Sunroof(s), Memory Seat(s), Adjustable Suspension, Remote Start, and Supercharged Engine as standard equipment this year.
  • Lane Departure Warning and Leatherette Seats features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker trim now comes with Cloth Seats as standard equipment.
  • The R/T trim now comes with Rear View Camera, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The R/T Scat Pack trim now comes with Heated Steering Wheel and Rear Spoiler as standard equipment.
  • The R/T Shaker trim now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The SRT 392 trim now comes with Rear Spoiler as standard equipment.
  • The T/A trim now comes with Manual Transmission, Satellite Radio Ready, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The SXT trim now comes with Rear View Camera, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay as standard equipment.
  • The GT trim now comes with Android Auto as standard equipment.
  • The T/A 392 trim now comes with Heated Steering Wheel as standard equipment.

2018 Dodge Challenger trims

Curious how Dodge Challenger trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SXT:

SXT Plus:

GT:

R/T:

RT39:

  • Includes all features available on the R/T
  • No significant upgrades found on the RT39

R/T Plus:

  • Includes all features available on the RT39
  • 116.2 inch wheelbase

R/T Shaker:

R/T Plus Shaker:

  • Includes all features available on the R/T Shaker
  • No significant upgrades found on the R/T Plus Shaker

R/T Scat Pack:

T/A:

  • Includes all features available on the R/T Scat Pack
  • Memory Seats

T/A PLUS:

  • Includes all features available on the T/A
  • No significant upgrades found on the T/A PLUS

T/A 392:

392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker:

SRT 392:

SRT Demon:

  • Includes all features available on the SRT 392
  • 808-hp, 717-lb-ft of torque 6.2L
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Remote Start
  • Supercharged Engine

SRT Hellcat:

  • Includes all features available on the SRT Demon
  • No significant upgrades found on the SRT Hellcat

Dodge Challenger photos

What We Like

Utility: Practicality may not be a top priority for coupe buyers, but if it is, the Dodge Challenger excels in this area. Its roomy cabin can fit four adults comfortably, and its 16-cubic-foot trunk dwarfs the competition. The Challenger also has great cabin storage, with a spacious glovebox, deep center console, and wide cupholders.

Technology: The Dodge Challenger's Uconnect® interface is among the most effective in the industry. The clear layout and intuitive controls make it easy to input navigation destinations or adjust audio and climate settings. And with standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, drivers can pair their smartphone to gain quick access to music playlists, contact information, and popular locations.

Comfort: The Dodge Challenger delivers both comfort and performance, but compared to other American performance coupes, it leans into the comfort zone. This quality is reflected in a roomy cabin with wide, plush seats, large doors that make it easy to get and out, and easy-to-reach primary controls. The Challenger also provides a comfortable, refined ride.

What Needs Improvement

Visibility: The Challenger's classic style comes at a price with regard to outward visibility. Its high doors, thick roof pillars, and small rear window require you to be mindful of other cars when changing lanes and to watch carefully for poles, curbs, and people when parking. A standard rearview camera starting with 2018 models helps when you're backing up.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3.9 out of 5

25 customer reviews
CarMax customers love the 2018 Dodge Challenger. They enjoy the car's performance, the retro style, and the roomy interior.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Dodge Challenger an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Dodge Challenger 25th out of 28 among Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Dodge Challenger

Dodge Challenger features and specs

Curious how Dodge Challenger trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

T/A 2WD 2D Coupe

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Manual Transmission
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Cloth Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Leather Seats
  • Leatherette Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

5.7L

Horsepower

375

Torque (ft-lbs)

410

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

18.5

Wheelbase

116.2"

Overall length

197.9"

Width

75.7"

Height

57.5"

Leg room

F 42"/R 33.1"

Head room

F 39.3"/R 37.1"

Front tires

P245/45YR20

Rear tires

P245/45YR20

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

100/1000 lbs.

Transmission

Manual 6

2018 Dodge Challenger FAQ

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