Dodge, under its parent company Stellantis, has introduced the new-generation 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack, an American classic that takes a more refined approach to performance with a twin-turbo straight-six engine. This new model faces the challenge of evolving the modern muscle car legacy established by its V-8-powered predecessors, the Challenger coupe and Charger sedan. While the initial Daytona EV didn't fully resonate with enthusiasts, the Sixpack, powered by the Hurricane engine, offers a promising gasoline-powered alternative, largely addressing the concerns raised with the EV version. We put the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack Plus through rigorous testing to evaluate its standing against its forebears and current rivals.

Equipped with the high-output version of the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, the Charger Sixpack delivers an impressive 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and launch control, the two-door Charger accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds and completes the quarter-mile in 12.3 seconds at 114.7 mph. When compared to the previous-generation 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown R/T Scat Pack Widebody, which had a 6.4-liter V-8 producing 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, the RWD Challenger matched the Charger's 0-60 mph time, though it was slightly slower in the quarter-mile (12.5 seconds at 112.1 mph). A notable difference is the new Charger's heavier curb weight of 4,876 pounds, significantly more than the Challenger's 4,340 pounds.

A formidable competitor is the Ford Mustang Dark Horse, which, with its 5.0-liter V-8, churns out 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque. Crucially, the Dark Horse is considerably lighter at 4,028 pounds. A 10-speed automatic-equipped Dark Horse tested by us achieved 0-60 mph in a quicker 3.7 seconds and finished the quarter-mile in 12.0 seconds at 118.4 mph. This comparison suggests that as a drag racer, the new Dodge Charger Sixpack, despite its power, leaves something to be desired when pitted against its comparably priced rival from Ford.

Subjectively, the Charger's straight-six engine offers a refined experience for around-town driving, characterized by immediate and linear power delivery, though initial throttle tip-in can be sensitive. The eight-speed automatic transmission is generally well-behaved in daily scenarios. However, when pushed to its limits, such as on a test track, the gearbox exhibits reluctance in downshifts. The paddle shifters also prove less engaging due to their design and the tachometer's legibility issues, making it easy to hit the rev limiter. The Brembo brakes provide decent stopping power for everyday use and are easy to modulate, but they fall short for track performance, requiring 119 feet to stop from 60 mph. This is significantly longer than the Challenger Shakedown (102 feet) and the exceptional Mustang Dark Horse (86 feet).

On the road, the Charger maintains poise and composure, offering nicely weighted and direct steering that instills confidence. The ride is on the stiffer side, contributing to its solid handling characteristics, though some might find it a bit flinty on rougher surfaces. However, when pushed to its handling limits, especially with its Goodyear Eagle Sport All Season tires, the Charger develops debilitating understeer, demanding early braking into corners and exhibiting considerable brake dive. While an improvement over the Charger Daytona EV, the overall lack of grip diminishes the fun. The Sixpack's figure-eight lap time of 25.0 seconds matches its predecessor but lags behind the Dark Horse's 23.7 seconds. Furthermore, a crucial element missing for many muscle car enthusiasts is the characteristic V-8 exhaust note; the Hurricane straight-six, while pleasant, sounds more akin to a BMW M4 than a traditional American muscle car.

The 2026 Charger embraces a