With similar starting prices and the same parent company, Stellantis, the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Charger should be twins on paper. However, they are very different cars. Although they may start at a similar price, choosing V8-powered Chargers can cost up to around $75,000. So with a choice between the 2022 Dodge Charger and the 2022 Chrysler 300, which big American sedan should you buy?
The entry-level 2022 Dodge Charger is a big, comfy American sedan with space for five
Dodge Charger | Raymond Boyd, Getty Images
The 2022 Dodge Charger is a big, luxurious sedan with accommodating front seats, both in the front and rear. Interior fit and finish is pleasant, if purposeful, and with no-frills. Consumer Reports also found a few panels that don’t line up flush but dismissed it as not noticeable. However, no-frills do not necessarily mean spartan, as the Charger has optional Laguna leather and an elegantly simple Uconnect infotainment system.
The cabin is also refined and quiet when defeating road-noise, if not penetrated by the tones of large V8s when optioned. Consumer Reports is quick to point out that the noise profile is different for each of the engine options, of which there are many.
The Dodge Charger is a vast, heavy car, yet it handles that weight well
Dodge Charger – Up To Speed | Donut Media
The Charger soaks up road imperfections deliberately and changes directions with ease. The big sedan also manages to conceal body lean while cornering on roadways. However, when you introduce the 2022 Dodge Charger to a track setting, it shows its size. The Charger tends to understeer and, when cornering hard, will exhibit characteristic body roll.
2022 Dodge Charger’s party piece shatters the mold; The Charger offers some of the most substantial engines on the market
The 2022 Dodge Charger line begins with a V6-powered SXT, which can be underwhelming. However, the SXT is available with an AWD system, making the big car sure-footed in inclement weather. The next motor offering is a 5.7L V8 in the R/T models producing a healthy 370 horsepower. Further, Dodge stuffed a naturally aspirated 6.4L V8 into the Charger, making an intoxicating 485 horsepower.
This is where things get silly. The 6.2L supercharged Hellcat V8s are available in the 2022 Dodge Charger as if to shrug at environmental concerns. These engines produce 717 and 797 horsepower, dependent on trim and tune. That makes the Dodge Charger one of the most powerful ICE sedans on the market.
2022 Chrysler 300 is a nod to old school American sedans in a very comfortable way
Chrysler 300 | Getty Images
The 2022 Chrysler 300 is a plush sedan with compliant handling. Consumer Reports notes that there is a hint of outdatedness in the ride. Specifically, the Chrysler built the 300 on the old Mercedes-Benz E-Class chassis design and, while comfortable, is showing its age. However, the Chrysler is refined and easily defends occupants from unwanted road noise.
To its credit, Chrysler endowed the 300 with generous interior space, a very smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, and the easy Uconnect infotainment system. Better yet, the 300 features a comfortable, serene, and luxurious interior.
Like the Dodge Charger, the Chrysler 300 is a big car. Further, while the vehicle is substantial, it does handle competently. According to Consumer Reports, the 300 steers rapidly and corners with little effort, if limited by its size and chassis. Finally, the testers found modest understeer and predictability while driving the 300 on the track.
2022 Chrysler 300 has a couple of great engine options, but nothing like the Dodge Charger
Chrysler 300 | TheStraightPipes
Consumer Reports found that most consumers will be more than satisfied with the V6. Additionally, Chrysler has an available AWD system for the 300 with the V6. Finally, the 5.7L Hemi V8 provides the Chrysler 300 with usable horsepower and torque, if also a delightful tone.
So which big, old-school American sedan should you buy?
Consumer Reports awards 83 points to the 2022 Chrysler 300 and 80 points to the 2022 Dodge Charger. Furthermore, both cars receive a recommendation. So it comes down to trim and powerplant. Barring a pre-existing preference, get the Chrysler 300 with a V6 and AWD. However, if you want to roast some tires and can afford it, get any of the fantastic V8-powered Dodge Chargers.
Keyword: 2022 Dodge Charger vs. 2022 Chrysler 300: Which Big American Sedan Should You Buy?