Founded more than a century ago, Dodge is one of the oldest rivals to Cadillac and Ford in the USA. It rests under the FCA umbrella beside Ram and Jeep, as well as the luxury segment, Chrysler. Cars from Dodge are generally more affordable by comparison since they are designed to be popular with the masses in America. But, while these lower prices are usually paired with less than ideal standards in terms of materials and construction, the brand does not cut corners under the hood. Some of the best muscle cars throughout history have worn the company logo proudly on their aggressive grilles, and now, the lineup offers a more diverse range of body configurations.
Types of Dodge Vehicles
The automaker certainly knows its strengths, so rather than trying to be a jack of all trades, it has focused almost exclusively on automobiles with high-performance specs. However, in recent times, the list of Dodge cars has grown to include a few SUVs. In fact, the company also experimented with trucks, wagons, and vans, but it has since returned to its sports car roots. Types of Dodge Cars currently include:
- Sedan - This classic body is designed for the widest array of buyers. It combines adequate levels of practicality with comfort and enjoyment. You get four doors, functional rear seats, and a choice of several engines. If you’re shopping for something cheap and versatile, this style may appeal to you.
- Coupe - A spin on the traditional three-box configuration, these autos have only two doors, a sloping roofline, and more aerodynamic construction to suit their typically stronger powertrains. However, you have to make sacrifices for good looks and more speed. These take the form of cramped rear seats and a tighter trunk.
- SUV - The list of Dodge vehicles in this category is a very short one. These high-riders are eminently practical, with plenty of cargo capacity, spacious seating appointments, and high reliability ratings. However, their cheaper MSRP is often offset by poor gas mileage figures, courtesy of their much higher weight.
- Wagon/Minivan - Only the Grand Caravan remains within this category. Despite its enormous cabin and capable power plant, this year is the end of the line. It will not go on sale again as a new model in 2021. This is partly due to the decline in the popularity of this body setup, but more so due to its many failings, such as low-quality materials, terrible fuel economy, and outdated design.
Review of Dodge Models in 2020 and 2021
A quick review of Dodge models reveals a couple of firm favorites. Both Challenger and Charger nameplates populate the Dodge lineup. From highly affordable through to quite exorbitantly expensive, there is probably something for most people, but if you’re after something a little more practical, there are several crossovers on offer, too. Here are quick breakdowns of just some of the best Dodge cars.
- Charger - The most affordable and most basic of the sedan line, the standard spec still offers a choice of engine options. The standard V6 does not lack, with 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft on tap. But, if you’re willing to spend on the top-of-the-range Scat Pack, you had best be confident that you can handle 485 hp and 475 lb-ft. In terms of driver assistance features and cabin luxury, the vehicle is unimpressive, though.
- Challenger SRT Hellcat - The coupe variant of the nameplate, the Hellcat is the most expensive of the classically styled low-riders, coming in at just under $60k. In its most capable Redeye guise, it brings 797 hp and 707 lb-ft to bear, with handling that is not quite up to the challenge. It is still fun as heck, though, if you like going recklessly fast in a straight line. Despite possessing seating for four or even five, this is no true family car.
- Durango - Available in R/T, Hellcat, and SRT configurations, this vehicle is the brand’s only real success story in the SUV market. It presents buyers with oodles of room for passengers as well as a respectable trunk. But, much like its siblings, it comes equipped with engines ranging from mild to wild, meaning that you do not have to abandon fun completely when you start adulting responsibly or raising a family.
Price of New Dodge Cars
Here is a complete list of all Dodge cars currently available in the US.
Model |
Power |
Engine |
Base Price |
Dodge Dakota |
210 hp |
3.7L V6 Gas |
$22,755 |
Dodge Hornet |
TBC |
TBC |
TBC |
Dodge Magnum SRT8 |
425 hp |
6.1L V8 Gas |
$38,105 |
Dodge Ram 1500 |
210 hp |
3.7L V6 Gas |
$20,610 |
Dodge Ram 3500 |
350 hp |
6.7L Inline-6 Diesel |
$34,680 |
Dodge Sprinter Cargo Van |
154 hp |
3.0L V6 Diesel |
$38,425 |
Dodge Challenger |
303 hp |
3.6L V6 Gas |
$30,430 |
Dodge Charger SRT8 |
470 hp |
6.4L V8 Gas |
$43,385 |
Dodge Durango Hybrid |
345 hp |
5.7L V8 Hybrid |
$45,040 |
Dodge Grand Caravan |
283 hp |
3.6L V6 Gas |
$27,530 |
FAQs
In terms of base price, which Dodge is the cheapest?
Since few of these growling beasties are friendly on the fuel budget, cost of ownership is almost never low. However, the upfront investment is usually less intimidating. There are a couple of choices below the $30k mark, with only about two grand difference when you compare them, so it largely boils down to whether you want the coupe Challenger at around $28k, or the four-door Charger nearing $30k. Naturally, you may find a better deal at your local used dealerships.
What are the latest models?
For 2021, Dodge has not announced any new nameplates. However, most of the current options continue into production next year. We expect to see a few updates to their features and quality, though, as well an addition to the coupe selection - the SRT Super Stock, which gets exclusive access to a powertrain developing over 800 horsepower.
Which new Dodge is the most enjoyable to drive?
This is a bit of a tricky question since it largely depends on where you get your kicks from. If you desire unbridled power and break-neck 0-60 sprint times, you’ll love any of the Hellcat variants or the upcoming Challenger SRT Super Stock. This includes, believe it or not, the Durango crossover. But, if a bit more control over where your ride goes is needed, the mid-tier R/T monikers are likely your best bet. That said, these machines are not known for their nimble natures. But whether or not you end up purchasing one of these beasts, they are certainly worth taking for a test drive, or five.
For more information, check out our Dodge reviews for the latest car news, pictures, and a ranking of current models.