Dodge Charger

Like its cousin, the Chrysler 300, the Charger is a big, comfortable cruiser with an array of sophisticated technology on tap. It delivers a comfortable ride, and the quiet cabin is well-equipped, making the Charger a bargain luxury sedan. The 3.6-liter V6 and eight-speed automatic work well, and the 370-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V8 packs more punch at the expense of fuel economy. The power-mad can have a 485-hp 6.4-liter or the Hellcat's 707-hp supercharged V8. All-wheel drive is optional on mainstream versions. Automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist are available. The well-designed UConnect touch-screen infotainment system is optional.

An extensive 2011 reworking made the Charger more responsive and comfortable. This version of the car has better outward visibility, a nicer interior and a more comfortable ride. Handling is greatly improved over the previous model and the optional touchscreen is one of the easiest to use on the market. Safety features include antilock brakes, traction control, brake-assist, and stability control -- all as standard equipment. Charger's optional adaptive cruise control system includes forward-collision warning. A slick eight-speed automatic transmission was added to the V6 in 2012.

The contemporary version of the Dodge Charger arrived in 2006 with styling reminiscent of the original 1960s models. It was available with a 3.5-liter V6 or a 5.7-liter V8, which got only 17 mpg overall in our testing. Suspension architecture relies on Mercedes-Benz hardware (as the car was developed during the time Daimler-Benz owned Chrysler), however that first version doesn't shine in terms of ride or handling. Ride is stiff and steering is light. IIHS side crash-test results were poor when tested without the optional curtain airbags.