With the recent inflow of new fullsize sedans reaching the market, we figured it was time to take another look at our longtime favorite big'un: The Dodge Charger.

Facing stiff competition from a range of automobiles that send electricity alone to the front wheels -- believe Chevrolet Impala, Hyundai Azera, Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon -- the back or all wheel-drive Charger is scarcely without its merits.

Accurate, it's not the face on the block any more, having had its last major upgrade back in 2011. But it recently acquired a fantastic eight speed automatic for its conventional V6 engine and Chrysler has normally done a fairly good job keeping it applicable thanks to several special edition bundles.

Despite the truth it still sort of seems just like the original (reborn) Charger sedan, the most recent version was quite extensively updated for 2011. That is not a poor starting point and Chrysler guarantees us that the Charger is enormously more modern.

Choose for the 5.7 and 6.4 liter Hemi V8s and you'll net serious operation, but even the 3.6 liter V6 analyzed here is no slouch. Boasting a conventional 292 hp and 260 pound-ft. of torque, it actually came into its own with the inclusion of the ZF-developed 8-speed automatic in 2012.

Although Charger and its Chrysler 300 close-twin stay the sole rear wheel-drive fullsize sedan sold by an American producer (bar the newest Chevrolet SS operation sedan, which competes with the fire breathing Charger SRT8), many leave the Brampton, Ontario, assembly line with all wheel-drive. Such was the case with our test car, which also contained a $1,395 Sport Appearance package with 19inch black wheels and, more significantly, a melody kit that adds 8 hp for-a total of 300 ponies.

We had also toss in Nissan Maxima and the Ford Taurus, the latter of that is actually the only other enormous V6 powered sedan to feature any inkling of functionality.

In the event the first muscle cars of-the '60s and '70s had developed into the 21st century, they'd probably look like Dodge Chargers. Of course, we can only speculate since for a sedan there w for an about 30 year difference between the past decent muscle car to roll-out of Detroit and the resurrection of the Charger nameplate.

The most recent Charger seems less like a sedan than its predecessor due to its lower roofline and much more pronounced back haunches. This is not a simple look to accomplish on the modern vehicle, but it works extremely well by tying in Dodge's heritage with the modern touch of LEDs. Having said that, we had likely pass to the spoiler.

It will seem sort of cool, but that is the only chilly thing about it. You will roast, if you're in the sun belt. For $1,500, you should purchase a moonroof.

Dodge's dash layout is fairly plain compared to the Chrysler 300's more complex appearance, but at least all the supplies you might touch on a regular basis are high quality. Still, some competitors have brought more stitched elements in their cabins to give a bespoke look to them. It will be good to-see such bits to the Charger.

At least the inside is cozy and exceptionally practical. All five seats have loads of stretchout room as well as the thrones are even warmed (fabric heated seats are a must have in wintry climates).

One demerit we have harped on before is the T-shaped gear lever that reached exactly the same time as the 8-speed automatic. Here's to hoping someone at Chrysler reads this and determines the insanity must cease -- in the end, did the gear lever really must be rethought?

Its 8.4 inch display and basically interim-free software are enormous boons when compared with competing units. The Garmin-esque navigation applications, meanwhile, functions nicely but feels a little straightforward for individuals who enjoy a lot of advice on the display at one time.

However what was once a performer has been reborn thanks to the quick - changing eight speed gearbox.

The V6's hp peaks close redline, although the 260 lb ft. of torque comes on at a somewhat more acceptable 4,800 rpm. So there is not much have to mash the accelerator for forward progress, luckily, there is still a whole lot of torque available at low rpms. However when you do depress the pedal, you are rewarded with a feeble, muffled growl that would not be weird on a car several occasions this list price.

Charger's discretionary all wheel-drive system automatically disconnects the front wheels when required. We saw stellar grip on wet and dry surfaces, thanks in part to the 19inch Michelin all season tires. Fuel economy takes a huge hit with all wheel-drive -- from 31 mpg highway in the back-driver to only 27 mpg on the examiner per the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Despite its heft and size, its educational and relatively fast steering combine with a company but barely penalizing suspension to provide the ride and handling of an authentic sports sedan. It is a huge four door that actually relishes being tossed about on curvy roads. Due to the long wheelbase and extensive sound deadening, it is also a quiet highway cruiser.

Not merely does it hold gears a bit longer like most sport programming modes, additionally, it fires away somewhat quicker shifts. The package also contained diecast steel paddle shift levers on the steering wheel.

Leftlane's bottom line
Charger may not be the freshest large four door in the marketplace, but it is undoubtedly the alternative for enthusiast type drivers -- even with its conventional V6 engine. If anything, this motor might make us question just how badly we actually needed the V8. There is a lot to enjoy here between the sonorous and easy engine, the category - top driving dynamics and the comparatively good value (when black roof is skipped). the. Having said that, we had want to find out some interior improvements in the long run.

2013 Dodge Charger SXT Plus Walkaround