2013 Dodge Charger SE

Vehicle overviewWhile large sedans make a very logical choice for most shoppers, there's a case for occasionally being a bit illogical. This is especially true if you're looking at the 2013 Dodge Charger. With its bold looks and performance to match, nobody's going to say the Charger is just another sedan with a big backseat.Almost all Dodge products emphasize performance, and the 2013 Charger is no exception. The standard V6 puts out a muscle-carlike 300 horsepower maximum, while the Charger's V8 options run 370 hp or a rollicking 470 hp. Rear-wheel drive creates an idealized handling setup just like an expensive European luxury car, while all-wheel drive is available for those who live amid inclement weather.The Charger isn't only about performance, though. Fuel economy remains quite good with the V6, especially when paired to the advanced eight-speed automatic transmission common to most Charger configurations. And though the coupelike roof line does cut down on rear-seat headroom, the cabin is roomy, with a nicely trimmed interior that boasts a useful touchscreen interface.In most respects, the Charger is in a class by itself. Setting aside the 2013 Chrysler 300, which largely trades performance for extra luxury, the 2013 Ford Taurus is the only other large sedan with performance credentials. Head-to-head, we greatly prefer the Charger given its superior performance and more distinct personality. While more typical large sedans are better suited to most buyers, the 2013 Dodge Charger earns its place as the choice for driving enthusiasts.Performance & mpgThe 2013 Dodge Charger SE and SXT come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 292 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. Add the Rallye Appearance Group or Blacktop package and engine and exhaust tweaks lift horsepower to 300 and torque to 264 lb-ft. A five-speed automatic is standard on the SE; an eight-speed automatic is optional for the SE and standard for all SXTs. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but the SXT can be equipped with all-wheel drive. The SE returns an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. With the eight-speed automatic, fuel economy jumps to 19/31/23 mpg. In Edmunds performance testing, a rear-drive SXT accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, an average time for a full-size sedan