The configurator for the new Dodge Charger Six Pack is finally live on Dodge.com. Consequently, we can now see exactly what these cars will cost. Dodge has emphatically claimed they offer the lowest price for the most horsepower. I generally agree with that statement. However, they always leave out a few crucial details. Specifically, the starting price is misleading. If you want anything other than a basic black car, you are going to pay more. Therefore, we need to look at the real numbers.
To begin with, the advertised starting price is around $54,995. However, you will never actually pay that price. You must account for the destination fee immediately. As a result, the price jumps over $55,000 no matter what. Furthermore, if you want a color other than black, that costs extra too. For example, white paint costs around $695. Meanwhile, the popular Peel Out Orange costs $795. Therefore, getting this car for under $55,000 is basically impossible.
Current Availability and Delays
Currently, the configurator only shows two main options. You can build the Scat Pack two-door or the Scat Pack Plus two-door. These are the Six Pack models featuring the gas Hurricane inline-6 twin-turbo engine. However, other versions are notably missing. The four-door model will not be available until sometime in 2026. In addition, Dodge delayed the 420-horsepower R/T model until 2026. Consequently, those cheaper or more practical options are not on the configurator today.
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For now, we have to focus on the Scat Pack two-door models. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish them from the electric Daytona models in pictures. However, the missing “R-Wing” on the front is a key visual indicator. When looking at the “Plus” trim, you get several upgrades. These include suede and leather seating and illuminated door handles. Additionally, you get 64-color interior ambient lighting and upgraded trim panels. Finally, the package includes a heads-up display. These features are exciting, but they significantly raise the entry price.
Building the Sweet Spot Scat Pack
Let’s look at a realistic build for an enthusiast. The starting price for the Scat Pack Plus is already $60,685. That is a far cry from the advertised $54,995 base number. However, you can build a standard Scat Pack for less if you are careful. The base model comes with all-wheel drive standard. Fortunately, you can switch to rear-wheel drive easily using the drive modes. For paint, black is free. However, most people will want a color. I would choose the Peel Out Orange, which adds $795.
Next, we must address the wheels. The car comes with basic 20-by-10 diamond-cut luster aluminum wheels. In my opinion, these do not look very good. If you are buying a performance car, you want the wider stance. Therefore, you really need the 20-by-11 wheels. Whether you choose the silver or black finish, this upgrade costs extra. Selecting these wheels immediately adds a package costing $1,195. Consequently, the price hits $60,275 with just the orange paint and correct wheels.
This $60,275 price point is likely the best option for most buyers. It includes the necessary aesthetic upgrades without unnecessary fluff. I would not add the glass roof or other expensive comforts. If I were a dealer ordering inventory, this is exactly how I would spec the car. It looks the best and keeps the price relatively grounded. While dealerships might ask for markups initially, prices should settle. Eventually, you might grab this car in the high $50k range once the hype fades.
The Overpriced Fully Loaded Scenario
Now, let’s see what happens when you check every box. The Scat Pack Plus unlocks more expensive options. For instance, you can add a full glass roof. Personally, I am not a fan of the glass roof. I worry about damage from debris like acorns. If it breaks, your car could sit in the shop for months waiting for parts. It is a muscle car, so a steel roof makes more sense. However, many buyers love the glass look. If you add that, the price jumps significantly.
If you want the best interior, you will select the leather and suede performance seats. This kicks the price up further. At this point, a fully loaded build hits $68,760. If you want red seats, be careful with your exterior color choice. Red seats in an orange car look terrible; you would need your head examined. However, red seats in a black car look fantastic. If you maximize the build with the premium Alpine sound system, the price gets crazy. The final tally for a fully loaded Dodge Charger Six Pack is $71,050.
Paying $71,000 for a Dodge inline-6 is hard to justify. I simply would not do it. Unless it was a Hellcat, that price is too high. I understand this car is faster than previous models. However, the value proposition drops hard at $71,000. This is strictly MSRP, meaning no discounts are currently available. In the future, lease incentives will likely bring this cost down. Until then, the fully loaded model is a tough sell.
Performance and Tuning Potential
Despite the high price, you do get a lot of performance. The car comes with 550 horsepower stock. That is a significant amount of power for the street. Furthermore, the Hurricane engine has tuning potential. For example, if you add a JB4 tuner, you could likely reach 650 horsepower. This makes the car incredibly fast for the money. Of course, tuning the car might void your warranty. That is a topic for a future discussion. However, the raw potential of the platform is undeniable.
For enthusiasts lamenting the loss of the V8, this car still offers thrills. I drove this car at the Tail of the Dragon recently. The driving experience is genuinely impressive. People who test drive this car will likely fall in love with it. It handles well and has plenty of power. It will almost certainly sell better than the electric Daytona models. While we all miss the Hemi, this package is potent. You just have to be careful with the options list.
Leasing vs. Buying
Given the new engine technology, reliability is a valid concern. I would be hesitant to buy one of these outright immediately. Reliability on new platforms is always a gamble. Additionally, depreciation on high-priced cars is ridiculous these days. Therefore, leasing is the smarter move. If I were to get one, I would lease it to protect myself from long-term issues. Based on the numbers, a lease payment might land in the $750 range with money down.
Buying the car with a standard loan is much more expensive. You could be looking at payments over $900 a month. That is a steep price for a non-V8 muscle car. However, if you can find a base Scat Pack for around $60,000, the value is there. It is a ton of car for the money compared to other vehicles on the market. It looks cool, it is fast, and it is new.
Final Thoughts on Pricing
Ultimately, the $71,000 fully loaded price is just too high. However, the $60,000 “sweet spot” build is compelling. If you skip the Plus package and stick to the essentials, you get a great machine. You must get the 20-by-11 wheels and a good color. Those are non-negotiables. Everything else is just extra weight and cost. There is no manual transmission option, which is sad but expected. The industry has moved away from manuals entirely.
We will have to wait and see how the market reacts. I suspect people won’t line up for these at full MSRP. Eventually, dealerships will have to negotiate. When that happens, this car becomes a serious contender. Go check out the configurator on Dodge.com and see for yourself. Just be ready for that destination fee shock.
