2017 Dodge Charger Overview
The 2017 Dodge Charger represented the pinnacle of American muscle car evolution, offering a compelling blend of aggressive styling, potent powertrains, and surprising practicality. It was a sedan that didn't shy away from its performance roots, while also providing a comfortable and feature-rich experience for everyday driving.
Highlights
- Engine Powerhouse: The Charger in 2017 was renowned for its diverse and powerful engine options. Standard was the capable 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, delivering ample power for daily driving and decent fuel economy. For those seeking true performance, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 offered a significant boost in horsepower and torque, accompanied by the iconic rumble. Higher trims could be found with the even more potent 6.4-liter HEMI V8 (Scat Pack and SRT 392) and the legendary Supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 (SRT Hellcat), pushing the boundaries of performance in a four-door sedan.
- Advanced Safety Features: Dodge equipped the 2017 Charger with a suite of advanced safety technologies to enhance occupant protection and driver awareness. These included:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spots, aiding in lane changes.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking spot.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a set distance from the car ahead.
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with Active Braking: Detects potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn't respond.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Alerts the driver if they drift out of their lane and can provide steering input to keep the vehicle centered.
- Trim Level Hierarchy: The 2017 Charger offered a clear progression in performance and luxury through its trim levels:
- SXT: The entry-level trim, still offering a V6 engine and a good array of standard features.
- GT: Added sportier styling cues and a more performance-oriented suspension.
- R/T: Introduced the 5.7L HEMI V8, enhancing performance significantly.
- R/T Scat Pack: A performance-focused trim, boasting the 6.4L HEMI V8 for exhilarating acceleration.
- SRT 392: Similar to the Scat Pack, it featured the 6.4L HEMI V8 and offered a more refined performance package.
- SRT Hellcat: The undisputed king of the lineup, featuring the supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8, delivering supercar-level horsepower and acceleration.
- Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Despite its sporty exterior, the Charger offered a surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior, capable of comfortably seating five adults. High-quality materials and a driver-focused cockpit were hallmarks of the cabin, especially in higher trims.
- Uconnect Infotainment System: Dodge's Uconnect system was a class leader in 2017, offering intuitive controls, a responsive touchscreen interface, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (on select models), enhancing connectivity and entertainment.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Dodge Charger typically translates to a driving experience that is both engaging and practical. The V6 models provide a comfortable ride suitable for daily commuting, with the V8 models offering a more exhilarating and potent experience. Maintenance is generally in line with other large sedans from American manufacturers. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks are standard. However, performance-oriented trims, particularly the Hellcat, may require more specialized and potentially costly maintenance due to their high-output engines and advanced components. Insurance costs can vary significantly depending on the trim level and the driver's profile, with the more powerful V8 models, especially the Hellcat, likely incurring higher premiums due to their performance capabilities and associated risks.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Charger offers a compelling package, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Fuel Economy: While the Pentastar V6 offers respectable fuel economy for its class, the HEMI V8 engines, especially the supercharged Hellcat, are thirsty. Expect significantly lower MPG figures with the V8s, which can impact running costs.
- Ride Comfort on Lower Trims: While the Charger is a large sedan, some lower trims, particularly those with sport-tuned suspensions, can have a firmer ride that might be less comfortable on rough roads compared to some more comfort-oriented competitors.
- Rear Visibility: The Charger's sleek, coupe-like styling comes at a slight cost to rearward visibility due to its thick C-pillars and relatively narrow rear window. However, this is mitigated by the available rearview camera and parking sensors.
- Interior Noise: In some V8 models, particularly during spirited driving, engine and exhaust noise can be quite prominent within the cabin. While this is desirable for many enthusiasts, some may find it intrusive for long-distance cruising.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Dodge Charger was a standout in the large sedan segment, masterfully blending American muscle car heritage with modern practicality and technology. It offered a diverse range of powertrains to suit various driving preferences, from efficient V6 power to the earth-shattering capabilities of the SRT Hellcat. With its aggressive styling, spacious interior, advanced safety features, and the intuitive Uconnect system, the Charger appealed to a broad spectrum of buyers looking for a sedan that could deliver both everyday usability and exhilarating performance. It remained a formidable choice for those who desired a dose of excitement in their daily commute.