Dodge’s Private Press Event: A Closer Look
Dodge recently hosted a private press event in Knoxville, Tennessee, inviting select media to experience the new 2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack. The event, attended by automotive insiders including TK, ButterDaInsider, and myself, offered a rare opportunity to drive and evaluate Dodge’s latest muscle car offering. The focus was clear: performance, authenticity, and a renewed direction for the brand.
The 2026 Charger Six Pack was the highlight, with participants eager to share unfiltered opinions. We emphasized impartiality, stating, “I’m going to be completely impartial. I’m not swayed by the invite at all.” This honest feedback set the tone for the event, reinforcing Dodge’s willingness to engage with its most critical voices.
Event Experience and Brand Transparency
From the moment attendees landed in Knoxville, Dodge’s hospitality was evident. Transportation was handled via Grand Wagoneer, and accommodations were described as “very nice.” However, the host made it clear that no expectations were set by Dodge regarding positive coverage. “Not once did anyone even insinuate that they expect us to say good things.” Highlighting a shift in how Stellantis and Dodge approach media relations.
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Conversations at the event touched on recent changes in leadership and brand management. Attendees discussed the impact of new CEO Matt McAlear and the brand’s efforts to reconnect with its core audience. One participant remarked, “They’re rapidly and violently pulling their heads out of their asses,” signaling optimism about Dodge’s future direction.
Muscle Cars, EVs, and Customer Demand
The debate between traditional muscle cars and electric vehicles was a recurring theme. While some acknowledged the impressive torque of EVs, the consensus among attendees leaned heavily toward the visceral experience of gas-powered performance cars. “I want some snorting, ripping, freaking just noise and burning out tires,” one said. Underscoring the enduring appeal of classic muscle.
Discussions also addressed the challenges facing EV adoption, especially as tax credits diminish and consumer interest shifts. “EVs just aren’t moving,” a guest observed, pointing to the importance of listening to customer demand. The group agreed that Dodge’s dominance in the muscle car market stemmed from giving enthusiasts exactly what they wanted. Hopefully the Six Pack Charger is the first step back to dominance.
2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack: First Impressions
Attendees finally got a close look at the 2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack. The car’s design drew praise, with comments like, “You got to admit this thing looks amazing, right?” and “This looks good.” The interior was compared to the Daytona, with only minor differences noted. One such example as the power button labeled “start, engine stop.” Not just a regular power button.
While some nostalgia for V8 engines remained, the group expressed cautious optimism about the new twin-turbo I6. “We could definitely roast this twin turbo i6 and talk trash all we want, the reality of it is… I think there’s going to be some cool stuff, even cooler stuff coming that’s going to get us excited about the brand again.”
Behind the Scenes: Media, Meals, and Mopar Culture
The event included opportunities for drag strip runs, drifting, and spirited drives on the Tail of the Dragon. We mingled with media from Canada and Mexico, adding to the lively atmosphere. Meals ranged from steak and fish to more adventurous options, with plenty of banter about “shaved fennel” and “roasted celery root.”
Throughout, we reiterated gratitude for Dodge’s openness and hospitality, but maintained a critical stance: “I’m not going to change how I feel that we need to have a V8. We need to have a car that makes the loud sounds.” However, we acknowledged the brand’s efforts to embrace feedback and adapt, stating, “With Tim and Matt behind the scenes running the ship, I’m thinking they’re embracing us. They’re embracing the ones that have been the most critical.”
Looking Ahead for Dodge, Ram, and Stellantis
As the event wrapped up, the mood was one of cautious optimism. TK promised to “roast the daylights out of them if they do something wrong,” but also recognized the positive changes underway. With Dodge and Stellantis focusing on performance cars and listening to their core audience, the future of muscle cars remains a central topic in automotive news.
Stay tuned for more updates as the embargo lifts and full driving impressions of the 2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack are revealed.
