2007 Dodge Charger SRT8
By: Juan G. Robbin
Redefining the modern American muscle car
Dodge Charger SRT8 (2007)
Take one look at the Charger SRT8 and you know it means business. Go ahead, look closer, there are all the clues that make this powerful beast unique. The deep front fascia, trunk spoiler, special SRT wheels, Brembo brakes, and unique-to-the-SRT series interior details. The Charger SRT8 screams attention from any angle, especially with some of the bright colors that Dodge has chosen for this special sedan.
Entering the cabin, you immediately notice the supportive sports seats with the special accent stitching and the embroidered SRT8 logos on the head rests. The steering wheel is finished off with carbon fiber mixed together with leather. There is a multi-function display which provides you with sound, navigation and trip information. We found it to be typical of most of these displays, that is to say, somewhat intuitive but you do need to practice with it to get proficient. The center console arm rest looks typical, open it up and surprise! There’s an optional DVD player with remote right between both seats! We liked the in between-both-seats placement as it does not block the rear view mirror when the DVD screen is in use.
In the dash there are unique SRT8 colored speedometer and tach, in addition to digital menu driven additional details such as battery condition, oil temperature, and tire pressures. We found several Mercedes-Benz engineered giveaways, such as the cruise control stalk on the left of the steering wheel, the gated automatic transmission shifter and the feel of some of the appointments. We wonder, now that Dodge is not tied in with Daimler, if these touches will continue.
Let’s drive this beast: You can’t help but to notice the instant throaty exhaust sound as you start the engine. Select the gear and off you go. Gear selection is precise and fast, not so for the throttle feedback. Due to the heavy feel of the pedal, we found it tough to be smooth and gentle on the throttle, especially when you needed just a touch of power to park to crawl. This is something that we’re sure one gets used to once you’ve owned the Charger SRT8 for a while. Brakes are supplied by the legendary Brembo brake company, we found them to be excellent at stopping the car from highway speeds, yet around town they felt a bit numb and isolated. Acceleration is easy to describe: Awesome! With just the right amount of sound, feel and performance, the Charger SRT8 is a delight to drive. Cornering capability felt precise with almost neutral body roll, very sports car like. There is nothing like coming off an on-ramp onto traffic and blending in effortlessly. There is a price to pay for all of this power on tap. A $2,100.00 Gas guzzler tax, so if you want to play on this “E” Ticket ride, you will have to pay the extra admission fee.
Rear seat is comfortable for two, snug for three, may feel a bit claustrophobic due to the window cut line. The trunk is large and easy to live with as the overhang lip is fairly low and opening is wide, making it easy to fit boxes or large suitcases.
The Dodge Charger SRT8, a modern muscle car with the best of both worlds featuring raw power and refined amenities all in one handsome package. Go ahead, go for a test drive, if you do, just be warned, you’ll want one!
The Essentials
MSRP: $35,920.00 MSRP (As tested): $45,285.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 14.5 MPG
Engine: Hemi V8, 6.1 liter, 425 HP
Popular options: SRT Option packages, Sunroof, Rear seat video system entertainment.
Visit: www.dodge.com