Dodge Charger: A Muscle Car That Combines Electric Power and a Six-Pack

Its name epitomizes six decades of American automotive history. Now the Dodge Charger is entering a new era in Europe: For the first time, it’s available as a fully electric Daytona and as a gasoline-powered model with an inline-six engine. Both versions boast a striking design, extreme performance, and, of course, a healthy dose of provocation.

The Dodge Charger has never been a car that keeps a low profile. That’s also true of the new generation, which, however, puts the American muscle car concept on a broader technical foundation. For the first time, the Charger is available in Europe with two different powertrain options: fully electric as the Daytona, or with the new 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine featuring twin-turbocharging.

Visually, the Charger stays true to its role. Broad shoulders, a long hood, short overhangs, and the striking wide-body appearance give it the presence you’d expect from an American performance model. The R-Wing air duct at the front not only improves aerodynamics but also serves as a distinctive hallmark of the new generation.

The iconic muscle car is available as a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan. Technically, the Charger is based on the Stellantis Group’s STLA Large multi-energy platform, which also underpins the Jeep Wagoneer S and the Maserati Grecale. This concept enables Dodge to combine electric and internal combustion technology within a single body design.

The most spectacular version is the Charger Daytona Scat Pack. Two electric motors—one per axle—drive all four wheels and together deliver 500 kW (670 PS). According to the manufacturer, the electric Charger accelerates from 0 to 96 km/h in 3.3 seconds and covers the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds. One class below is the Daytona R/T with 400 kW (536 PS). It takes 4.2 seconds for the standard sprint and covers the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds. Both variants feature a 400-volt architecture and a 100.5 kWh battery.

The PowerShot function adds an extra touch of drama. Pressing the corresponding button on the steering wheel briefly activates an additional 40 PS. This is designed to further intensify the already fierce acceleration during passing maneuvers. Dodge also aims to preserve the muscle car’s character acoustically. The so-called Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust produces an artificial, yet deliberately emotional performance sound.

Despite all the show, the Daytona isn’t meant to impress only on the quarter-mile. According to Dodge, the battery can be charged at a DC fast-charging station with up to 350 kW. Under optimal conditions, the charge level can reportedly be increased from 20 to 80 percent in about 27 minutes. Ten minutes of charging is said to provide up to 110 kilometers of additional range.

Dodge also offers a Track Package for the Daytona Scat Pack. This includes, among other things, an adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes with red fixed calipers, and 20-inch wheels with 305-series tires on the front and 325-series tires on the rear axle. The so-called Drive Experience Recorder records laps on the race track and allows them to be analyzed afterward.

Those who inevitably associate the term “Charger” with classic internal combustion engines and the sound of an exhaust don’t have to change their mindset either. The Charger Sixpack is equipped with the new Hurricane six-cylinder engine, featuring a three-liter displacement and two turbochargers. In the Scat Pack configuration, the inline-six delivers 550 PS. This is said to enable the gasoline engine to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in 3.9 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 12.2 seconds. The less powerful R/T variant produces 420 PS and takes 4.6 seconds to complete the sprint. Both variants come standard with all-wheel drive but can also send all the power to the rear wheels at the push of a button.

Orders for the new Dodge Charger are now being accepted in Europe. Customers can order the Daytona and the SIXPACK models—in both R/T and Scat Pack variants—through the official importer KWA and its authorized dealer network. Prices start at 66,000 euros. The first deliveries are scheduled to begin in September 2026.

For the European market, the Charger is offered in a “Plus” configuration. Standard features include 20-inch wheels, power-adjustable front seats, premium LED headlights, a continuous LED light signature, a 16-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system with curb view. Added to this are the illuminated Fratzog logo and a driver-oriented cockpit with performance seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and 64-color ambient lighting. Optional features include a panoramic glass roof, an Alpine Pro audio system with 18 speakers, and high-back performance seats.

The purchase also includes a certificate of authenticity signed by Dodge CEO Matt McAlear and a welcome kit. Buyers of the all-electric Daytona will also benefit from an offer for a home charging station, including installation, at launch. Whether as a silently accelerating Daytona or a twin-turbocharged “Sixpack,” the Charger remains one thing above all else: a car that doesn’t beg for attention—it demands it. (aum)