2018 Dodge Challenger Review
2018 Dodge Challenger Review





+394
Used Challenger for sale
Appraise This CarDodge Challenger model years
Dodge Challenger types
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review

byMark Takahashi
Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.
Pros
- 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
Cons
- The Challenger is large and heavy, dulling handling
- Rear visibility is somewhat compromised
- Unlike main rivals, a convertible is not available
What's new
- The 840-hp Demon joins the lineup
- A Hellcat-based SRT Widebody model debuts
- Performance Handling package now available for 5.7-liter V8 models
- Larger standard touchscreen
- All trims get a rearview camera plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Part of the third Challenger generation introduced for 2008
In recent years, the muscle-car class has been contested by the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang. The Challenger differs from the Mustang and Camaro with its larger size, unabashed retro look and boulevard-cruiser attitude. The Challenger's bigger size allows for much more backseat room and a sedan-size trunk, but don't think this means the Challenger is tame by comparison.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Dodge Challenger SXT 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.57 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$186/mo for Challenger SXT
Challenger SXT
vs
$224/mo
Avg. Large Car
You have a wide variety of choices, ranging from the 305-horsepower SXT V6 up to the drag-strip-dominating Demon and its potential for 840 horsepower. When pitted against its rivals, the 2018 Dodge Challenger doesn't have the sharp handling to keep up on a curvy road, but it bests them in comfort, refinement and pure retro appeal.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Convenience is typically overlooked in sport coupes, but the 2018 Dodge Challenger bucks that trend with its roomy back seat and spacious trunk. However, Dodge also knows that it's performance you're after, and it fits the Challenger with some truly gonzo V8s, culminating in the new 840-hp Demon.
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.
Acceleration
The 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 is smooth yet hard-revving. The 3,930-pound SXT accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is a bit slower than rivals with base engines. Obviously, the Challenger's various V8s provide significantly quicker acceleration.
Braking
The brake pedal feel is medium-firm and well-suited to everyday driving. During panic-stop testing, the portly Challenger needed just 104 feet to stop from 60 mph. This is a great result, but keep in mind it had the benefit of summer tires.
Steering
Turn-in response is quick, though there is little in the way of feedback between the road and the driver. Some drivers could find the steering's hefty weighting to be a bit much for daily duties around town.
Handling
There's no getting around it: For a sport coupe, the Challenger is big. And heavy. Even with our tester's Super Track Pak (which adds a sportier suspension and performance tires), body roll is pronounced when going around turns. Still, there's enough grip to have an enjoyable time.
Drivability
The Challenger's responsive steering helps maneuverability, but the car just feels big, especially on narrow roads and tight corners. The gas and brake pedal are responsive and easily modulated. The eight-speed automatic also shifts quickly and maintains gears well on grades.
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.
Seat comfort
The front seats are comfortable, and we have no complaints after spending hours on the road. If one area could be improved, it is the front seat's insufficient lateral support. The door and center console armrests are nicely padded, though.
Ride comfort
Equipped with the Super Track Pak's firmer sport-tuned suspension, the Challenger has a firm ride that's to be expected for the class. It does a great job absorbing small road imperfections but feels jarring over larger bumps and dips.
Noise & vibration
You'll hardly notice the V6 at highway cruising speeds. The Challenger's sound deadening is quite good for the segment, although tire noise is evident over certain surfaces. Overall, it's a pretty quiet car.
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.
Ease of use
Controls consist of a combination of knobs and buttons that are large and easy to use. Some functions are tucked away in the touchscreen, but otherwise it's one of the most user-friendly interfaces in the industry.
Getting in/getting out
The doors are large and open fully, allowing the potential for easy entry and exit. That said, the Challenger's big doors are heavy, and their size is a hindrance in tight parking spaces. Rear-seat access is a bit better than in rival muscle-car coupes.
Roominess
The Challenger has a lot of front legroom and shoulder room. Headroom is slightly compromised by the sunroof, though most 6-footers will still fit. The rear seat isn't quite made for all sizes, but it is far bigger than those of competitors and offers three seats versus two.
Visibility
Visibility is not good, but typical for the segment. There are significant blind spots over the shoulder. Forward sightlines are acceptable, but it can be difficult to judge the front corners. A large-display rearview camera is standard and helps considerably.
Quality
There are no squeaks or rattles to speak of. The upper door panels on our test car did shake, as if loose, when we closed the doors, but this is a minor quibble with what otherwise appears to be a well-built automobile for the price.
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.
Small-item storage
The Challenger has decent small-item storage all around, and the moderately sized center console is useful for holding a variety of items.
Cargo space
The trunk opening is large, and its capacity blows the class away with a midsize-sedanlike 16.2 cubic feet. The rear seatbacks fold in a 60/40-split configuration to expand the Challenger's space even further.
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.
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.
2018 Dodge Challenger models
The 2018 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat, two-door coupe that is available in seven major trim levels, most of which are further divided into several subtrims. Major trim levels include the SXT, GT, R/T, R/T 392, SRT 392, SRT Hellcat and SRT Demon. The SXT and GT Challenger trims are powered by a V6; the others are driven by increasingly more powerful V8s, culminating in the 840-hp Demon.
Drawer
The 2018 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat, two-door coupe that is available in seven major trim levels, most of which are further divided into several subtrims. Major trim levels include the SXT, GT, R/T, R/T 392, SRT 392, SRT Hellcat and SRT Demon. The SXT and GT Challenger trims are powered by a V6; the others are driven by increasingly more powerful V8s, culminating in the 840-hp Demon.
First up is the SXT, powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine (305 horsepower, 268 pound-feet of torque) matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, a six-way power-adjustable driver seat and 60/40-split folding rear seats. Tech features include Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, two USB ports and a six-speaker sound system.
The GT employs the same V6 and is the only Challenger with all-wheel drive. On top of the SXT features, it adds 19-inch wheels, foglights, rear parking sensors, upgraded brakes, heated front seats, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a power-adjustable and heated steering wheel, interior ambient lighting, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, performance-related in-car apps, and satellite and HD radio.
The R/T is the least expensive way into a V8 Challenger, offering a 5.7-liter engine paired to either a six-speed manual transmission (375 hp, 410 lb-ft) or the eight-speed auto (372 hp, 400 lb-ft). In addition to the SXT features, you get 20-inch wheels, foglights, upgraded brakes, a limited-slip differential and an active sport exhaust.
The R/T 392 gets an even larger 6.4-liter V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft) along with Brembo performance brakes (four-piston front and rear), a sport-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler, cloth sport seats, rear parking sensors, an 8.4-inch touchscreen with the newest version of Uconnect, performance-related in-car apps and an Alpine audio system with HD/satellite radio.
The SRT 392 model builds upon the R/T 392 offerings, adding xenon headlights, a special air intake, power-folding mirrors, beefier front Brembo brakes (six-piston front), adaptive suspension dampers, a power-adjustable and heated sport steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, configurable driving modes, an 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
There are also variants of the above, such as the Plus, R/T T/A, R/T Scat Pack and R/T Shaker that add a few extra features.
The SRT Hellcat is all about raw speed, evidenced by its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (707 hp, 650 lb-ft). It's also equipped with unique exterior styling, a sportier suspension, quad exhaust tips, automatic high beams and automatic wipers. A new SRT Hellcat Widebody model gets some very prominent Demon-based fender flares to accommodate wider tires that improve the car's handling and grip.
The new SRT Demon makes its mark as the most powerful muscle car in history (840 hp, 770 lb-ft on 100-octane race fuel or 808 hp, 717 lb-ft on premium unleaded). The eight-speed automatic is the only transmission offered. With drag racing as its reason for being, the Demon receives specialized equipment that includes numerous cooling systems, street-legal drag slicks, a transbrake (for optimum engine power at launch), an adaptive suspension with a drag mode, and launch control. It's also important to point out what is eliminated: There's no front passenger seat, no rear seats and no sound insulation. You can add back the seats for a mere $1.
In terms of features, the Demon is similarly appointed as the Hellcat, but with 18-inch wheels, four-piston lightweight brakes, an active exhaust system, a power-adjustable cloth sport driver seat, a navigation system, and a two-speaker stereo with satellite and HD radio.
Most of the features found on the upper trim levels can be added to the lower trims as options. A sunroof is optional on all Challenger trims, and new SRT model buyers get a one-day course at an SRT Driving Experience school.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Dodge Challenger.
5 star(82%)
4 star(14%)
3 star(4%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
44 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
I am usually a Ford Mustang guy
Rico, 06/07/2018
2018 Dodge Challenger 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!!!
4 out of 5 stars
1500 miles
Carlos Reyes, 01/03/2018
2018 Dodge Challenger 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!
5 out of 5 stars
If you want a Hot Rod, This is the car for you!
Laura, 05/23/2018
2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
Best fun drive car ever
5 out of 5 stars
Last True Muscle Car
Jason, 10/03/2018
2018 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack 2dr Coupe (6.4L 8cyl 6M)
I've wanted a Challenger since '08. Finally bought an '18 Scat Pack 8 speed auto. The car is powerful, strong brakes and a blast to drive. F8 green combined with the body style is an attention grabber. Fuel mileage is down, but this being my 4th Hemi, they take a few 1000 miles to loosen up and return the best MPG. I have seen close to advertised on the highway.
Part of the problem … is my love of the skinny pedal on the right. Interior is very comfy. I have a 16 and 14 year old who are 5'10" and 5'8". They have no complaints about the rear seats. When needed the 4-piston Brembo brakes reel the heavy machine down in a hurry. All 4 of my Mopar vehicles have proven reliable and trouble free.
2018 Dodge Challenger videos
CARLOS LAGO: Over my shoulder are four Dodge Challenger SRT Demons. And in front of them is a dragstrip. I guess-- bet you could figure out what we're going to do. [ENGINE REVVING] That felt good. That felt real good. I have no idea what I just ran. I saw the speed going north or close to 140, not exactly 140. But overall, that felt good. I could probably do a little bit harder on the launch. [MUSIC PLAYING] I'm sweating like crazy. Want to see more? Check out the full video on the Edmund's YouTube channel.
2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Expert Rundown Review
Edmunds experts get behind the wheel for the First Drive of the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon.
2018 Challenger Highlights
Coupe
SXT
Base MSRP | $27,295 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 23 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $186/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
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.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestMarginal
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestAcceptable
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintAcceptable
People who viewed this also viewed
4.8 average Rating out of 4 reviews. |
Starting at $33,200 |
4.6 average Rating out of 9 reviews. |
Starting at $27,770 |
4.6 average Rating out of 14 reviews. |
Starting at $26,400 |
Related Used 2018 Dodge Challenger info
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- Blazers Ev
- 2025 MINI Countryman News
- Volvo S60 2022
- 2022 Audi S7
- 2022 Porsche Cayenne Coupe
- 2024 Jaguar F-TYPE News
- 2022 Volvo V60 Cross Country
- Ford Cars Electric
- 2022 RS 5
- BMW M8 Gran Coupe
Other models
- New GMC Terrain for Sale in Middle River, MD
- Used Mercury Milan in Bolingbrook, IL
- Used Cadillac CTS in Columbus, MS
- Used Chevrolet Trailblazer in Racine, WI
- Used Chevrolet Express-Cargo in District Heights, MD
- Used Fiat 500 in Hillsborough, NC
- New Jeep Cherokee for Sale in Flemington, NJ
- Used Jaguar XKR in Dundalk, MD
- New BMW 4-Series for Sale in San Mateo, CA
- Used BMW Ix in Bolingbrook, IL
- New BMW Ix for Sale in Tucson, AZ
- Used Audi E-Tron-S in Lompoc, CA
- Used Aston-Martin DBX707 in Columbia, MD
- Used Rolls-Royce Phantom-Coupe in Lynchburg, VA
- Used Mclaren GT in Lompoc, CA
Recommended
- Best Ford Expedition Lease Deals in Tacoma, WA
- Best Lexus LC 500 Lease Deals in Oklahoma City, OK
- Best BMW I4 Lease Deals in Manassas, VA
- Best Fiat 500X Lease Deals in Hampton, VA
- Best Lexus LC 500 Lease Deals in Oakland, CA
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Mercedes Benz C Class 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz C Class 2020 Review
- Mercedes Benz Amg GT 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz A Class 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz Amg GT 2020 Review
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Subaru Legacy 1998
- Used Saturn Sky 2008
- Used BMW Z4 1999
- Used Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder 2007
- Used Pontiac Grand Prix 1995
- Used Mercury Sable 2000
- Used Cadillac Escalade EXT 2004
- Used Buick Envision 2016
- Used Volkswagen e-Golf 2015 For Sale
- Used Volkswagen Passat 2000
Shop similar models
Research recent models from same make
- 2022 Dodge Challenger
- 2022 Dodge Charger
- 2023 Dodge Charger
- 2022 Durango
- Dodge Challenger 2023
- 2022 Challenger
- 2023 Dodge Challenger
- Dodge Durango 2023
- 2022 Dodge Challenger
- 2022 Dodge Challenger