The upcoming, next-generation Dodge Charger ticks many boxes, but fans are already criticizing it.
The new 2024 and 2025 Dodge Charger returns with a new look and, more notably, all-electric architecture. However, the Mopar faithful are already displeased with the new “electric muscle car.” Specifically, fans aren’t happy with the new Charger’s engine options and its lack of manual transmission.
Fans are already slamming the 2024 and 2025 Dodge Charger for engine options and a lack of manual transmission
In unsurprising news, the new 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona arrives with electric-only options. After all, Dodge has been showcasing its Daytona SRT EV Concept for well over a year. As such, the production Charger Daytona will offer three electrified options for the 2024 model year. For starters, fans can get two 400-volt AWD platforms: a 340-kW R/T and a 440-kW Scat Pack.
In addition to the 400-volt options, an 800-volt SRT Banshee will top the lineup. However, you won’t find the incipient twin-turbo Hurrican inline-six engine in the 2024 model. Instead, the 2024 model year will have EV-only architecture and a two-door coupe as its sole option. ICE-focused enthusiasts will have to wait for 2025 to get the Hurricane under the hood.
Therein lies one of the greatest gripes among fans: no HEMI V8 in the lineup. What’s more, the rear-wheel drive antics of the Charger are gone; standard AWD will be the only option, even for 2025 Dodge Chargers with an inline-six up front.
Even with a gas-powered option in the lineup to please the petrolheads, the new 2025 Dodge Charger omits another fan favorite: the manual transmission. At the top of the lineup, the upcoming SRT Banshee EV will utilize a two-speed transmission. Even the inline-six-powered Charger Sixpack and Sixpack H.O. will channel its fury through an eight-speed automatic box.
It’s a factor that already earned the new Charger flak from fans. The new Mopar gets a coupe body akin to the 1970 Dodge Charger. However, it doesn’t connect its pistol grip-inspired shifter to a manual transmission. It’s a shame, especially considering the now-discontinued Dodge Challenger may have taken the last factory Mopar manual with it.