Having just spent a weekend test driving the 2011 Dodge Charger Rt, I can confidently say this car is a game-changer. Seriously considering making it my next ride, I’m blown away by how much Dodge has evolved the Charger. The new styling alone is a massive leap forward from previous generations; so much so that I find myself drawn to it even more than the Challenger, which I previously admired. This isn’t just a decent upgrade; it’s a complete transformation.
Beyond the striking aesthetics, what truly impressed me about the 2011 Dodge Charger RT is the sheer amount of technology packed into this muscle car. It’s brimming with sensors and features that you might not expect. Think about it – blind spot detection, a feature becoming increasingly essential for modern driving, is seamlessly integrated. Rain-sensing wipers take the hassle out of adjusting wiper speed in unpredictable weather. And for those tricky inclines, hill start assist provides added confidence. But it doesn’t stop there. The 2011 Dodge Charger RT even incorporates rain brake support, a clever system that subtly warms the rotors to maintain optimal braking performance in wet conditions.
The Uconnect system is another highlight. It’s incredibly intuitive and user-friendly. While it stops short of actual voice interaction, its functionality and interface are remarkably similar to Ford’s MyFordTouch, which is high praise. It’s a testament to how far in-car infotainment has come.
Let’s talk power and efficiency. Under the hood of the 2011 Dodge Charger RT roars a 370HP Hemi engine. But here’s the surprising part: this beast can also be surprisingly fuel-efficient. Thanks to cylinder shut-off in Eco mode, it can achieve up to 27mpg on the highway (EPA estimates). In my experience, I typically exceed EPA estimates by a couple of points, so I’m realistically looking at potentially hitting close to 30mpg during highway driving. For a car of this size and power, that’s genuinely remarkable. And let’s be clear, this isn’t about comparing brands; it’s about acknowledging impressive engineering.
Now, is the 2011 Dodge Charger RT going to dominate a slalom course? Probably not. But that’s not its primary purpose. What it excels at is providing an incredibly comfortable and refined driving experience. It’s perfectly civil and easy to handle around town. However, when you decide to unleash the power and put your foot down, the Hemi engine truly comes alive, delivering exhilarating acceleration and that signature muscle car thrill.
While I’m eager for the rumored 8-speed transmission to become available, the current 5-speed automatic is more than adequate. In fact, it didn’t feel any worse than my current Chrysler’s 41TE transmission, which, contrary to its reputation, isn’t actually that bad. As a long-time Dodge and Chrysler enthusiast, I have to admit the new Charger caught me completely off guard. This 2011 Dodge Charger RT feels different, elevated. It transcends the typical Dodge stereotype, not because it’s less of a Dodge, but because it’s just exceptionally well-executed. It’s simply… outstanding.
