Which Dodge Charger Years Came With AWD

Dodge offered all-wheel drive on the Charger starting in 2017. If you are looking at a used Charger and want AWD, you need a 2017 model year or newer. The 2015 and 2016 Chargers came in rear-wheel drive only.

Not every 2017-and-newer Charger has AWD — it was an option you could choose when buying new, not standard on all trims. When shopping for a used Charger from these years, you will need to check the window sticker or vehicle history report to confirm whether that specific car has the AWD system.

Key Takeaways

  • Dodge Charger AWD is available only on 2017 model year and newer vehicles; 2016 and earlier came in rear-wheel drive only.
  • AWD was an optional feature on newer Chargers, not standard, so you must verify it on the specific vehicle's documentation.
  • The AWD system adds weight and slightly reduces fuel economy compared to the rear-wheel drive version of the same engine.
  • Winter traction and wet-road grip improve with AWD, but the Charger remains a performance sedan designed primarily for power rather than off-road capability.

Engine and Performance With Charger AWD

The 2017-2024 Charger AWD models came paired with either the 3.6-liter V6 or the 5.7-liter V8 Hemi engine, depending on the trim level you chose. Both engines were available in rear-wheel drive as well, so the engine itself did not change — only the drivetrain routing did.

Adding AWD to the Charger increased its curb weight by roughly 100 to 150 pounds compared to the RWD version. This weight penalty showed up most in fuel economy: an AWD Charger typically returned 1 to 2 miles per gallon less than its rear-wheel-drive twin with the same engine. Horsepower and torque numbers stayed the same across both drivetrain options.

How Charger AWD Handles Winter and Wet Roads

The main reason to choose Charger AWD is traction in snow, ice, and heavy rain. Power goes to all four wheels instead of just the rear two, which means the front tires help push the car forward rather than only steering it. This reduces wheel spin when accelerating on slippery surfaces and gives you more grip when braking.

The Charger is still a large, heavy sedan with a long wheelbase, so AWD does not turn it into a winter-weather machine. It handles better than a rear-wheel-drive Charger would in those conditions, but it is not a substitute for winter tires or careful driving. Many owners in cold climates pair their AWD Charger with a set of dedicated winter tires for the season.

Fuel Economy and Real-World Costs

The EPA fuel economy ratings for a 2017-2024 Charger AWD with the V6 engine ranged from roughly 18 to 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 to 28 on the highway, depending on the exact model year. The V8 Hemi AWD was rated lower, typically around 16 city and 25 highway. These are estimates; your actual mileage depends on how you drive and maintain the vehicle.

Because AWD adds weight and complexity, maintenance costs can be slightly higher than a rear-wheel-drive Charger. If the AWD system needs repair — which is uncommon but possible — the bill will be more than a straightforward rear-axle service. When budgeting for a used AWD Charger, factor in the possibility of eventual drivetrain work.

Comparing AWD Charger to Rear-Wheel-Drive

The choice between AWD and RWD on a Charger comes down to your climate and driving priorities. If you live somewhere with regular snow or ice, or if you drive in heavy rain frequently, AWD gives you noticeably better traction. If you live in a warm, dry climate and rarely encounter slippery roads, rear-wheel drive is lighter, cheaper to maintain, and slightly more fuel-efficient.

Rear-wheel-drive Chargers are also more common on the used market, which means more inventory to choose from and potentially lower prices. If AWD is not essential for your situation, a well-maintained RWD Charger will serve you reliably and cost less upfront and over time.

What to Check When Buying a Used Charger AWD

Before purchasing a used Charger with AWD, ask the seller for the window sticker or Monroney label from when the car was new — this document lists every option, including the AWD package. If the sticker is not available, a vehicle history report from Carfax or AutoCheck will usually show the AWD option, though not always with 100 percent certainty.

Have a mechanic inspect the AWD system, including the front differential and transfer case, before you buy. Listen for any grinding or clicking sounds when turning, which can indicate wear in the front differential. Check that all four tires are the same size and tread depth; mismatched tires can damage an AWD system over time.

Ask the previous owner how the car was driven — highway miles are easier on an AWD system than frequent city driving with lots of turning. Request service records showing any work done to the drivetrain. A well-maintained AWD Charger with full records is a better buy than a cheaper one with unknown history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add AWD to an older Charger that didn't come with it?

No, retrofitting AWD to a rear-wheel-drive Charger is not practical. The frame, suspension, and engine bay are designed for RWD only. Conversion would require replacing major structural components and would cost far more than buying an AWD model to begin with.

Is Charger AWD good for towing?

The Charger is not designed as a towing vehicle, and Dodge does not publish towing capacity for it. The AWD system does not change this — the Charger's frame and suspension are built for passenger comfort and performance, not hauling trailers. If you need to tow, a truck or SUV is the right choice.

Do I need winter tires with a Charger AWD?

AWD improves traction compared to rear-wheel drive, but it does not replace winter tires. All-season tires harden in cold temperatures and lose grip on ice and snow. Winter tires stay pliable in cold weather and have tread patterns designed for snow. Using them with your AWD Charger gives you the best winter performance.

What is the difference between Charger AWD and Charger SRT AWD?

The SRT is a high-performance trim with the 5.7-liter V8 Hemi engine, upgraded suspension, and larger brakes. Both SRT and non-SRT Chargers can come with AWD. The AWD system itself works the same way on both; the difference is in the engine power and handling tuning.