The Dodge Charger lineup has five main trims, each adding features and power as the price goes up

The Dodge Charger comes in five trims: SE, SXT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat. Each step up adds more horsepower, interior features, and performance upgrades. The SE is the base model with a V8 engine and standard safety features. The SXT adds comfort options like a larger touchscreen and better audio. The R/T brings a more powerful engine and sportier suspension. The Scat Pack and Hellcat are high-performance versions aimed at drivers who want maximum speed and handling.

The trim you choose affects your monthly payment, insurance cost, and fuel expenses. A higher trim doesn't always mean you need it — many drivers find the SXT or R/T meets their needs without the extra cost of a Scat Pack or Hellcat. Understanding what each trim includes helps you decide which one fits your budget and driving style.

Key Takeaways

  • The SE and SXT trims use a 5.7-liter V8 engine, while R/T and higher use a 5.7-liter or 6.2-liter V8 depending on the model year.
  • The SXT adds features like an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compared to the SE base model.
  • The R/T Scat Pack and SRT Hellcat are designed for performance and come with upgraded brakes, suspension, and significantly more horsepower than lower trims.
  • Insurance premiums and fuel costs rise noticeably with higher trims, especially the Scat Pack and Hellcat models.

SE: The Base Model with Standard V8 Power

The SE is the entry-level Charger and comes with a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 370 horsepower. It includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, a 7-inch touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity. The SE has all the federal safety features required by law, including airbags, stability control, and backup camera.

The SE is the least expensive way to own a new Charger, but it has fewer comfort features than higher trims. The interior uses more basic materials, and you won't get features like heated seats, a larger display, or premium audio. If you drive mostly on highways and don't need luxury features, the SE can be a practical choice.

SXT: Added Comfort and Technology

The SXT trim adds an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. It includes power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and remote start. The SXT keeps the same 5.7-liter V8 engine as the SE, so performance is identical.

The SXT is where most Charger buyers land because it balances cost and features. You get modern technology and comfort upgrades without paying for the high-performance engines in the R/T and above. If you spend time on long drives or want a more connected interior, the SXT is worth the step up from the SE.

R/T: Sportier Handling and More Power

The R/T uses a 5.7-liter V8 with 370 horsepower — the same engine as the SE and SXT — but adds a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a performance exhaust. These changes make the R/T handle curves more sharply and stop more quickly than lower trims. The R/T also includes the SXT's technology features plus leather-trimmed seats and a heated steering wheel.

The R/T appeals to drivers who want their Charger to feel more athletic without the extreme cost of a Scat Pack. The suspension and brake upgrades are noticeable on winding roads or when you need to stop quickly. Fuel economy is similar to the SXT because the engine is the same, but insurance costs rise because of the performance upgrades.

R/T Scat Pack: High Performance and Aggressive Styling

The Scat Pack jumps to a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 485 horsepower, a significant jump from the R/T's 370. It includes a heavy-duty transmission, performance suspension tuned even tighter than the R/T, and Brembo brakes designed for high-speed stops. The exterior gets a more aggressive look with a functional hood scoop, wider stance, and unique badging.

The Scat Pack is built for drivers who want serious acceleration and track-day capability without the extreme price of a Hellcat. Fuel economy drops noticeably compared to lower trims — expect roughly 15 to 17 miles per gallon in mixed driving. Insurance premiums jump significantly because of the higher horsepower and performance focus. This trim is a real performance car, not just a comfortable sedan with a V8.

SRT Hellcat: Maximum Power and Track-Ready Engineering

The SRT Hellcat is the top trim with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 producing 707 horsepower. It includes all the Scat Pack's performance features plus an even more aggressive suspension, wider tires, and a transmission cooler. The Hellcat can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under four seconds, making it one of the fastest four-door sedans available.

The Hellcat is for drivers who prioritize raw speed and don't mind the cost. Fuel economy is poor — typically 13 to 15 miles per gallon in mixed driving. Insurance is expensive because of the extreme horsepower and performance capability. Maintenance costs are also higher due to the specialized supercharged engine and performance components. This is a car you buy because you want maximum performance, not because you need it for daily driving.

How Trim Levels Affect Your Total Costs

The purchase price difference between trims is substantial. The SE costs thousands less than an SXT, which costs thousands less than an R/T, and the Scat Pack and Hellcat are significantly more expensive still. Beyond the sticker price, higher trims cost more to insure, more to fuel, and more to maintain.

A Hellcat will cost roughly twice as much per year to fuel compared to an SE or SXT, depending on your driving habits. Insurance premiums for a Scat Pack or Hellcat can be 50 percent higher than an R/T. Maintenance on supercharged engines is also more specialized and expensive. Before choosing a higher trim, calculate the total cost over the years you plan to own the car, not just the purchase price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the R/T and Scat Pack engines?

The R/T uses a 5.7-liter V8 with 370 horsepower. The Scat Pack uses a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 485 horsepower. The Scat Pack's supercharger forces more air into the engine, creating significantly more power and acceleration. The Scat Pack also has a heavier-duty transmission built to handle the extra power.

Can I get all the technology features from the SXT on a lower trim?

No. The 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are standard on the SXT and all higher trims. The SE comes with a smaller 7-inch screen and does not have smartphone integration. You cannot add SXT features to an SE through the factory options list.

Is the Hellcat worth the extra cost over a Scat Pack?

That depends on what you value. The Hellcat adds 222 horsepower, faster acceleration, and more aggressive styling. It costs significantly more to buy, insure, and fuel. If you want the absolute fastest Charger and can afford the ongoing costs, yes. If you want strong performance without extreme expense, the Scat Pack delivers most of the thrills for less money.

Do all Charger trims have the same safety features?

All trims include federal safety requirements like airbags, stability control, and backup camera. Higher trims add features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, but these vary by model year. Check the specific year and trim you're considering to see which safety technology is included.

What fuel economy should I expect from each trim?

The SE, SXT, and R/T with the 5.7-liter engine typically get 15 to 17 miles per gallon in mixed driving. The Scat Pack drops to roughly 15 to 17 miles per gallon, and the Hellcat gets 13 to 15 miles per gallon. Actual mileage varies based on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. Highway driving yields better mileage than city driving on all trims.