First Look at the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack
The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack made a strong impression at a recent Dodge event. Creators got hands-on experience with the new model. Dodge, Ram, and Stellantis fans have been eager to see how this muscle car stacks up in real-world conditions. The Charger Sixpack features the much-discussed inline-six Hurricane engine, delivering 550 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds. Performance cars like this are always under scrutiny, and the reactions from the event were telling.
Attendees spent three days with the Charger Sixpack, focusing on its driving dynamics, sound, and overall feel. Most of the action took place on Thursday, with a mix of press reviews, driving sessions, and direct feedback from well-known creators such as OCMotivator and TK’s Garage. The event included challenging routes like the Tail of the Dragon and a dragstrip session. These runs gave the car a chance to prove itself in different scenarios.
Driving Experience: Handling, Sound, and Performance
On the Tail of the Dragon, the Charger Sixpack’s handling stood out. The car’s front six-piston calipers provided strong braking, and the dual-mode active exhaust system gave it a distinct Dodge sound. Active noise cancellation ensured that the engine note remained front and center, drowning out unwanted noise for a pure muscle car experience. According to Dodge representatives, the Charger Sixpack’s propulsion system is capable of a 12.4-second quarter mile, reinforcing its performance credentials.
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Starting the Charger revealed that the exhaust note isn’t overly loud, but the car’s burble and feedback were appreciated by those in attendance. The Charger’s wide stance was noticeable, especially when navigating tight turns, but it looked impressive both coming and going. Several attendees commented on the car’s appearance, noting that it looks good in person and stands out in a crowd of performance cars.
Real Feedback from the Road
During spirited driving, the Charger Sixpack delivered a “fast, fun car” experience. While it’s not a Hellcat, it still impressed with its acceleration and handling. Some drivers noted a slight turbo lag when launching from a stop, a characteristic of the turbocharged inline-six. However, once underway, the car felt light and responsive, especially compared to the EV version. The rear-wheel-drive mode, accessible through drive modes, and line lock, allowed for burnouts and drifts, adding to the car’s muscle car appeal.
- Dual-mode active exhaust for authentic Dodge sound
- Active noise cancellation for a focused driving experience
- Rear-wheel-drive mode for burnouts and drifts
- 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds
- 550 horsepower from the Hurricane inline-six
Feedback on the interior was positive, with some noting the similarities to the Daytona model. The pistol grip shifter and other details added to the modern muscle car vibe. The car’s lighter feel compared to the EV version was a highlight, making it more engaging on twisty roads and during aggressive driving.
Performance on the Dragstrip and Beyond
At the dragstrip, the Charger Sixpack’s launch control and all-wheel-drive system allowed for strong, consistent launches. The car’s drive modes made it easy to switch between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, depending on the activity. Attendees experimented with burnouts and drag runs, with the car holding up well under repeated hard use. The event also included a burnout session, where the Charger Sixpack demonstrated its ability to lay down rubber and entertain the crowd.
Some drivers mentioned the initial turbo lag as a minor drawback, but overall, the consensus was that the Charger Sixpack is a “fast, fun car” that delivers on Dodge’s promise of performance. The boost gauge and paddle shifters added to the driving excitement, and the car’s sound and feedback were compared favorably to European performance models like the BMW M3 and M5.
Final Thoughts: Does the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Deliver?
After three days of driving, burnouts, and dragstrip runs, the verdict from insiders was clear. The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack offers a compelling mix of power, handling, and muscle car character. While it’s not a Hellcat, it stands on its own as a modern performance car from Dodge and Stellantis. The car’s 550hp Hurricane engine, active exhaust, and engaging drive modes make it a strong foundation for future Dodge muscle cars.
For those considering a trade-in or looking for the next big thing in performance cars, the Charger Sixpack is worth a close look. As Dodge continues to evolve its lineup, the Sixpack sets a high bar for what fans can expect from the brand’s next generation of muscle cars.
