2018 Dodge Challenger Review
Type:
Pros & Cons
- Many strong engine choices, including the insane 840-hp Demon
- Roomy cabin can actually accommodate four adults
- High degree of customization thanks to many trim levels and options
- Ride is pretty comfortable compared to its muscle-car rivals
- The Challenger is large and heavy, dulling handling
- Rear visibility is somewhat compromised
- Unlike main rivals, a convertible is not available
Other years
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Which Challenger does Edmunds recommend?
The R/T trim is our pick among the 2018 Dodge Challenger lineup since it's the most affordable V8-powered model. Along with some performance-related mechanical upgrades, it's eligible for a long list of options to configure it to your personal tastes without breaking the budget. Of course, if money were no object, there's the new SRT Demon, but limited production and a track-focused mission will make it quite rare. For everyone else, we'd push for the scintillating SRT Hellcat Widebody that comes with a bonkers 707-horsepower supercharged V8 and the wider tires.
Edmunds' Expert Review
Driving
The SXT Plus performed surprisingly well considering it's overshadowed by the V8 models. Handling is impressive due largely to grippy summer tires. The upgraded brakes are outstanding. In terms of drivability, the Challenger SXT is an acceptable, if not enjoyable, daily commuter.
Comfort
A firmer ride is acceptable from a sporty car such as the Challenger, so it is impressive that it manages small bumps so well. Larger bumps are much more noticeable in the cabin. Still, the combination of comfortable seats and a quiet ride make this a nice place to be for an extended time.
Interior
The Challenger is a king among coupes with its class-leading passenger and cargo space. It's a far more livable daily driver than its coupe/muscle-car competition. But wrestling the large doors open to gain access can be a challenge.
Utility
Coupes aren't generally known for a spacious cargo area, but the Challenger boasts a trunk that puts the Mustang's and Camaro's to shame. Cargo measurements are just slightly smaller than those of the Charger sedan.
Technology
We've had a lot of experience with older versions of Dodge's infotainment system, Uconnect, and we've even tested the newest Uconnect 8.4 system in other cars. We haven't tested it in the Challenger yet, but in those other cars, it offers crisp graphics, quick responses and simple, logical menus.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Dodge Challenger.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Rico,06/07/2018
SRT 392 2dr Coupe (6.4L 8cyl 6M)
Well, I owned my Challenger SRT8 for over a year now, so my review is from a year of owning it. I absolutely love this car. I love the whole overall car inside and outside. I've been a Ford Mustang guy for decades. I owned a 87 Mustang GT Convertible, a 98 Mustang Cobra SVT which I Terminated and swapped the engine from a 2004 Kenne Bell Mustang Cobra SVT, a 2003 Mustang Mach 1, and a 2008 Mustang GT. I owned my share of GM muscle also. I owned a 2000 Pontiac Trans Am-WS6 and a 2001 Chevy Corvette. I love all cars as you can see. My dad was an extreme MOPAR guy. When I was an infant, he owned a 66 Plymouth GTX and he had my mom driving the 71 Challenger RT. I'd say 10 years back he purchased my mom a 2008 Chrysler Crossfire and was anticipating buying himself a Hemi Orange Challenger SRT8, but 3 years ago he lost his battle with cancer and passed away June 9, 2016. Last year I came across a Hemi Orange Challenger SRT8 at an Akron, OH Dodge dealership, worked out some numbers and woke up early on a Saturday morning and drove my pristine 2003 Ford Mustang Mach 1 which only had 25K miles on it to that dealership which was 2 1/2 hours away. I didn't care, sentimentally, I needed that car. Ever since, I have been completely satisfied with this car. I am in love with this car and would love to save for the Hellcat edition. Still a great car!!!
Carlos Reyes,01/03/2018
SXT Plus 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
I love my 2018 Challenger. I love all the technology and it is a powerful car. It is easy on the wallet when it comes to miles per gallon. No regrets, so far. I am a Challenger fan now. Wish me luck!
Laura,05/23/2018
SXT Plus 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Best fun drive car ever
Paul Jaeger,06/11/2018
R/T Scat Pack 2dr Coupe (6.4L 8cyl 6M)
When I drive this car, I feel 30 years younger. I still look like an old fart......but boy do I feel good !!!!
Safety
Our experts like the Challenger models:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Illuminates a light on either of the Challenger's side mirrors when a vehicle enters its blind spot.
- Forward Collision Warning
- Helps prevent collisions by sounding an alert when the Challenger detects an imminent collision.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Sounds a warning if a vehicle is approaching the Challenger from the side while it is backing into traffic.