Five Dodge Charger Features You Probably Didn’t Know About
With its thumping Hemi V8, old-school rear-wheel drive layout and retro styling cues, it’s easy to write off the Dodge Charger as a bit of a low-tech anachronism. However, while it does take inspiration from its classic muscle car forebears, the latest Charger has also been infused with a host of advanced technologies that help place the big sedan on the forefront of 21st century design. Here’s a detailed look at five of the most cutting edge technologies that have made their way from Dodge research labs into the Charger in the past several years.
1) Efficient Multi-Displacement System
One of the Charger’s best features is its available Hemi engine, which provides power in spades: 370 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, to be exact. However, when all that power isn’t needed, the big V8 has a Multi-Displacement System that automatically deactivates four cylinders in order to save fuel. The switch from eight to four cylinders (and vice versa) is electronically controlled, smooth and takes just 0.04 seconds. So while its quick to switch into thrifty fuel saving mode in cruising situations, it’s equally fast to provide full power when needed.
2) Class-Exclusive Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
Going forward, Dodge is equipping all V6-powered Charger models with an innovative eight-speed automatic gearbox. With an unprecedented amount of ratios to choose from (most competitors make do with five or six), the transmission always has a suitable gear for any given situation: plenty of low gears for passing, extra-high top gears for maximum fuel economy. In fact, the new gearbox raises gas mileage to an impressive 31 highway miles per gallon in government testing
3) Comprehensive Uconnect Infotainment System
The Charger’s Uconnect system places a host of information and entertainment options at the driver’s disposal. The integrated Sirius Travel Link feature provides real-time weather forecasts, fuel prices, movie listings and sports info, while the Gracenote database displays song titles and album art. Connectivity features include Bluetooth and a USB jack for MP3 players, and everything can be controlled via voice commands or a large color touch screen mounted front and center on the dashboard. For audiophiles, there’s an available 506-watt Alpine sound system with nine speakers, an eight-inch subwoofer and 12-channel amplifier.
4) Innovative Adaptive Cruise Control
The Charger’s adaptive cruise control, a feature until recently only found on expensive luxury vehicles, takes the convenience of a traditional cruise control system a step further by using infrared technology to maintain a safe distance from the next car on the highway. When the preceding vehicle slows down or comes too close, the system automatically applies the brakes to maintain a certain distance (which can be specified by the driver).
5) Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System
While all-wheel drive systems are a valuable asset during wintry months in northern climates, when extra traction isn’t needed in normal driving situations the superfluous power sent to the extra drive wheels can have a detrimental effect on gas mileage. To circumvent this situation, all-wheel drive-equipped Chargers use an active transfer case and a front-axle disconnect system to stop sending power to the front wheels when it isn’t needed, thus improving gas mileage.
Edited: October 5th, 2011