What Dodge Charger models exist and how they differ

The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that has been made in two main generations since its modern revival in 2006. The first generation ran from 2006 to 2023, and a second generation began in 2024. Within each generation, Dodge offered the Charger in different trim levels and engine options, which affected performance, fuel consumption, and emissions output.

The 2006–2023 Charger came with a choice of engines: a 3.5-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and (in later years) a 6.4-liter V8. Each engine produced different horsepower and fuel economy numbers. The 2024 Charger introduced a new platform and added an electric version called the Charger 6e, alongside a turbocharged six-cylinder gasoline option.

Trim levels within each generation—such as SE, SXT, R/T, and SRT—bundled different features, but the engine choice was the primary driver of how much fuel a particular Charger would use and how much it would emit.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dodge Charger has two main generations: 2006–2023 (V6 and V8 options) and 2024 onward (turbocharged six-cylinder, V8, and electric options).
  • Fuel economy and emissions vary significantly by engine type, with the V6 being the most efficient gasoline option in the first generation and the 2024 electric Charger 6e producing zero tailpipe emissions.
  • Trim level names like SE, SXT, and R/T describe features and comfort, but the engine choice determines the environmental impact of your specific vehicle.
  • Model year matters: a 2006 Charger and a 2023 Charger with the same engine type will have different emissions standards because regulations tightened over time.

First-generation Charger (2006–2023) engine options

The 3.5-liter V6 was the base engine for most years and delivered the best fuel economy of the gasoline options. This engine was paired with either a four-speed or five-speed automatic transmission depending on the model year. The V6 Charger typically achieved the lowest emissions ratings within the first generation.

The 5.7-liter V8 was the most common performance engine and came standard on R/T and SRT models. It produced significantly more power than the V6 but consumed more fuel and produced higher emissions. This engine was available from 2006 onward.

The 6.4-liter V8, called the SRT8 engine, was introduced in 2011 and was reserved for the highest-performance SRT8 trim. It was the most powerful and least fuel-efficient gasoline option. Production of the first-generation Charger ended in 2023.

Second-generation Charger (2024 onward) powertrain choices

The 2024 Charger introduced a major shift toward lower-emission options. A new turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine became the base gasoline choice, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine was designed to meet stricter emissions standards while maintaining reasonable performance.

A 5.7-liter V8 remained available for those seeking higher performance, though it also meets 2024 emissions regulations. The V8 in the new generation produces less emissions per unit of power than earlier V8s due to updated technology.

The Charger 6e is the electric version, powered by a battery pack instead of a gasoline engine. It produces zero tailpipe emissions and is designed for drivers who want the Charger name with electric-vehicle efficiency. The 6e comes in different battery sizes that affect driving range.

How model year affects emissions standards

Even if two Chargers have the same engine—say, both have a 5.7-liter V8—a 2015 model and a 2023 model will have different emissions profiles. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tightened emissions standards over the years, so manufacturers had to add technology like improved catalytic converters, particulate filters, and engine management systems to newer vehicles.

This means a newer Charger with the same engine type will typically emit less nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than an older one. If you are comparing used Chargers, the model year is as important as the engine choice when thinking about environmental impact.

Fuel economy by Charger model and engine

The EPA publishes fuel economy estimates for each Charger model year and engine combination. These estimates are given in miles per gallon (MPG) for city, highway, and combined driving. The V6 Chargers typically achieved combined fuel economy in the low-to-mid 20s MPG range, while V8 models ranged from the high teens to low 20s depending on the specific year and transmission.

The 2024 turbocharged six-cylinder is expected to achieve better fuel economy than the older V6 due to turbocharging technology, though exact figures vary by driving conditions. The 2024 Charger 6e does not use gasoline, so fuel economy is measured in miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity instead.

You can find the exact EPA fuel economy and emissions data for any Charger model year on the EPA's website or on the Monroney label (the window sticker) of a new or used vehicle.

Trim levels and what they include

Dodge Charger trim levels—SE, SXT, R/T, SRT, and SRT8 (in the first generation)—describe the features, interior materials, and technology bundled into each version. A higher trim does not necessarily mean higher emissions; a well-equipped SE with a V6 will emit less than a base R/T with a V8, even though the R/T is a "higher" trim.

The trim name tells you about comfort and convenience features like leather seats, navigation, and sound systems. The engine choice tells you about emissions and fuel consumption. When comparing two Chargers, look at both the trim and the engine to understand the full picture.

Where to find specific emissions data for a Charger

The EPA publishes detailed emissions and fuel economy information for every vehicle sold in the United States. You can search by model year and engine type on fueleconomy.gov. This site shows tailpipe emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, along with fuel economy estimates.

If you are looking at a specific used Charger, the Monroney label (if it is still available) will show the EPA estimates for that exact configuration. For older vehicles, the EPA website archives go back decades, so you can find the original estimates even for a 2010 or 2015 model.

Emissions testing data is also available through the EPA's Light-Duty Vehicle Emissions Standards database, which breaks down real-world emissions by model year, engine, and transmission combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Dodge Charger model has the lowest emissions?

The 2024 Charger 6e (the electric version) produces zero tailpipe emissions. Among gasoline models, the 2024 turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder is designed to meet the strictest current standards. In the first generation, the 3.5-liter V6 models had the lowest emissions.

Is a newer Charger always cleaner than an older one with the same engine?

Generally yes. Emissions standards tightened over time, so a 2023 Charger with a 5.7-liter V8 will emit less per mile than a 2010 Charger with the same engine. However, the difference depends on the specific years and the technology updates Dodge made between them.

What is the difference between the Charger 6e and a gasoline Charger?

The Charger 6e runs on electricity stored in a battery, while gasoline Chargers burn fuel in an engine. The 6e produces zero tailpipe emissions and costs less to fuel with electricity than gasoline models cost to fuel. The trade-off is driving range per charge versus driving range per tank.

Do all Charger R/T models have the same emissions?

No. An R/T trim can come with different engines depending on the model year. A 2015 R/T with a 5.7-liter V8 will have different emissions than a 2023 R/T with the same engine because of updated emissions control technology. Always check the specific engine and model year.

Where can I see the emissions rating for a used Charger I am considering?

Visit fueleconomy.gov and search by model year and engine type. You can also ask the seller or dealer for the original Monroney label, which shows EPA estimates. For very detailed emissions data, the EPA's Light-Duty Vehicle Emissions Standards database lists nitrogen oxides and particulate matter by model.