2019 Dodge Charger

Stellantis Media's press kit (opens in a new tab) and the University Dodge write-up describe a revamped lineup: the R/T Scat Pack gets a standard performance suspension, a 2.62 rear axle ratio, enhanced steering, paddle shifters and Dodge Performance Pages on the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, plus Launch Assist, Line Lock and a new Launch Control switch, while the SRT Hellcat adds Line Lock, Torque Reverse and an After-Run Chiller. University Dodge (opens in a new tab) says the Hellcat keeps its eight-speed automatic and 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 at 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet, and that the updates were meant to tide performance fans over until a full redesign.

Landmark CDJR (opens in a new tab) lists new options on the SXT and SXT AWD that mirror the R/T's, with a Caramel Nappa leather interior option, a Blacktop package and 19-inch Black Noise wheels. KBB lists fuel economy from 13/22 to 19/30 mpg city and highway.

NHTSA lists five recall campaigns for the 2019 Charger. 20V512000 covers a backup camera image that does not display in reverse when stealth mode is selected, 19V203000 an instrument cluster that may not properly illuminate driver warnings, 19V758000 an incompatible front wheel and brake package that may allow the front tire to contact the steering knuckle and damage the tire, 19V246000 sun visors lacking air-bag warning information, and 24V198000 side curtain air-bag inflators that may rupture because of a manufacturing defect, with dealers replacing both side curtain air bags free of charge.

Owners have filed 120 complaints with NHTSA on this model year, with air bags leading at 49, then electrical system with 22, unknown or other with 21, exterior lighting with 13 and service brakes with 12. ProblemsByVin (opens in a new tab) counts the same five recalls and 120 complaints.

Kelley Blue Book (opens in a new tab) puts used 2019 Charger prices at $15,350 for the SXT sedan to $43,200 for the SRT Hellcat sedan from a dealership, with trade-in values of about $11,700 to $35,000 and private-party values of about $13,750 to $40,100. The spread is wide because the lineup runs from a V-6 sedan to the 707-horsepower Hellcat.

EPA rates the 2019 Charger at 16 to 23 mpg combined and $2,700 to $4,850 a year in fuel, with all-wheel drive available. The 2019 Ford Mustang rates 16 to 25 at $2,500 to $4,850 and is sold only with rear-wheel drive. On EPA figures the two cover nearly the same efficiency range, and the Charger is the four-door of the pair that can be ordered with all-wheel drive.