2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD – A Powerful Yet Balanced Performer

The 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD is an eye-catching muscle car that offers a compelling mix of power comfort and rear-wheel drive dynamics. Dodge has crafted this sedan to not only thrill with its performance but also provide enough practicality for everyday driving. This review dives into what makes the 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD a strong contender in its segment while also noting where it could improve. The goal here is to give you all the details you need before making a decision.

What's New for 2023?

Dodge didn't completely overhaul the Charger for 2023 but the GT RWD trim does come with a few updates that drivers will appreciate. It sticks with the classic bold and aggressive design but there are minor tweaks to the exterior and interior that add a more refined feel. Plus it continues to carry its legacy of offering a raw rear-wheel-drive (RWD) experience—a treat for driving enthusiasts.

The Dodge Charger GT RWD is also a middle-ground between entry-level and high-performance trims. It offers more power than the base models but isn't quite as extreme as the Hellcat or Scat Pack trims. So it strikes a good balance between performance and affordability.

Design and Styling – A Modern Muscle Car

Exterior

From the first glance at the 2023 Charger GT RWD you’ll notice its muscular build. Dodge keeps the classic proportions intact with a long hood and wide stance but refines them for a modern audience. The hood scoops LED headlights and the massive grille make it clear this car means business. It's not subtle but that’s exactly why people are drawn to it.

One thing potential buyers will like is the wide range of color options including Smoke Show Go Mango and Frostbite that allow for some personalization. The 20-inch wheels add to the car's aggressive posture giving it that signature muscle car attitude.

Interior

When you step inside the Charger GT RWD the spacious cabin offers a mix of old-school muscle and modern tech. It features cloth performance seats with optional leather upholstery for a more premium feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive for long drives but the overall interior design remains somewhat simple—focused more on function than luxury. You’ll find an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen in the center of the dashboard which is easy to navigate and user-friendly.

Though the cabin is spacious one minor drawback is the use of some hard plastics that feel a bit cheap compared to competitors in the same price range. But the intuitive layout and comfortable seating largely make up for this.

Performance and Driving Experience

Engine and Transmission

Under the hood the 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD comes equipped with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. While it’s not the most powerful option in the Charger lineup it offers more than enough punch for spirited driving. The V6 is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts ensuring that power is delivered efficiently to the rear wheels.

For Alex Collantes an automotive enthusiast who recently tested the Charger GT RWD the engine's responsiveness stood out. "The V6 engine isn't as wild as the V8s but it has more than enough power to put a smile on your face especially when you push it on the highway," he said.

Handling and Ride Quality

One of the standout features of the Charger GT is its rear-wheel-drive setup. RWD gives the car a more engaging driving experience especially for those who like feeling connected to the road. The sport-tuned suspension enhances its cornering capabilities making the GT RWD more agile than the base models. However it's still not as nimble as some competitors in its class which may leave some performance-focused buyers wanting more.

In terms of ride comfort the Charger GT balances performance and daily usability quite well. On highways the suspension soaks up bumps efficiently making it comfortable for long trips. However some reviewers have noted that the suspension can feel a bit stiff on rough roads especially in urban environments.

Technology and Features

Infotainment System

The 2023 Dodge Charger GT comes with Dodge’s Uconnect 4C infotainment system which is one of the most intuitive in the market. The 8.4-inch touchscreen is standard and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics are crisp and the system responds quickly to inputs.

One unique feature of the Charger GT RWD is the SiriusXM Guardian service which offers remote start roadside assistance and even theft tracking all accessible through your smartphone. It's a great touch for those who value staying connected while on the go.

Audio System

For audiophiles the Alpine audio system is included in the GT RWD trim. It provides a clear and powerful sound experience which is a bonus if you love to crank up the volume on your road trips.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Safety Technology

Dodge has equipped the Charger GT RWD with a suite of safety features that keep both driver and passengers protected. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision warning. These features help give you peace of mind whether you're on a spirited drive or just commuting.

However one downside here is that some more advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking come as optional add-ons rather than standard which could be a drawback for safety-conscious buyers.

Crash Test Ratings

The Charger’s crash test ratings are decent but not exceptional. The NHTSA gives it 5 stars in overall safety but the IIHS has not awarded it a Top Safety Pick designation. This is something worth considering if safety is your top priority.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel Consumption

With a V6 under the hood the Charger GT RWD strikes a reasonable balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for a car in this class but they’re not groundbreaking. The Charger’s fuel economy is lower than some competitors in the full-size sedan market which have more fuel-efficient powertrains.

Emissions

In terms of emissions the V6 Charger GT isn’t the most eco-friendly option out there. If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint you might want to explore alternatives or even wait for Dodge’s rumored electric muscle cars expected in the next few years.

Potential Drawbacks

While the 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD has a lot going for it it’s not without its flaws. Let’s address some of the key areas where the Charger could improve.

• Interior Material Quality: The cabin while spacious and functional uses a fair bit of hard plastic in places where you might expect soft-touch materials. This can detract from the overall feeling of luxury in the car.

• Stiff Suspension: The sport-tuned suspension is great for handling but it can feel a bit stiff on rough roads or during daily driving around town.

• Advanced Safety Features Are Optional: Some key safety features like automatic emergency braking are only available as add-ons instead of being standard across all trims. This could push the price up for those wanting maximum safety.

• Fuel Economy: While the V6 engine is relatively efficient for a muscle car it's still not the best in class when it comes to fuel consumption. If you're after better fuel economy there are more efficient sedans on the market.

Pricing and Trim Levels

Pricing Overview

The 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD starts at approximately $36,880. Given the car's combination of performance and features this price point is fairly competitive in the muscle car segment. However adding optional features such as leather seats and advanced safety technology can easily push the price above $40,000.

Final Verdict – Is the Dodge Charger GT RWD Right for You?

If you're in the market for a performance-oriented full-size sedan the 2023 Dodge Charger GT RWD is certainly worth considering. It delivers a solid blend of muscle car performance and modern practicality with its spacious interior rear-wheel-drive dynamics and powerful V6 engine. While it may not be as luxurious or high-tech as some rivals its aggressive styling and bold presence are hard to ignore.

As Alex Collantes summed it up: “The Charger GT is fun to drive and has that unmistakable muscle car charm. It may not be perfect but it's got character and sometimes that's more important than perfection.”

Pros and Cons Overview

Pros

• Powerful V6 engine
• Engaging RWD dynamics
• Spacious interior
• User-friendly infotainment system

Cons

• Stiff ride on rough roads
• Advanced safety features not standard
• Below-average fuel economy