A muscle car that takes things to the next level is just what you need. You’ve heard a lot about the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T, one of the best options for that model year, but does it have what you want (and need) to really make a difference?
What does the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T have to offer?
- A big 5.7L V8 engine
- All-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive
- 5-speed automatic transmission and auto-manual
- 368 horsepower
- 395 lb-ft.
The 2009 Dodge Charger R/T seems to have a lot to offer, but how does it really perform? To determine this, we’re breaking down the features and specs for this trim. You’ll be able to learn as much as you want about it when you check out the Vehicle History.
How Does the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T Rate?
The R/T is the mid-trim option from the Charger for 2009. The base model is the SXT, which has a significantly smaller engine and a few downgrades in powertrain features. The higher end model, the SRT8, gets even bigger with a 6.1L V8 engine.
The 2009 Dodge Charger R/T is available in two configurations, including a rear-wheel and all-wheel drive option. This is technically a sedan, but it has a lot more muscle and power behind it to give you that over-the-top feel. Loud engine? Got that, too.
With a starting price (new) of $32,160 to $34,260, it was a big investment 10 years ago. Today, it’s held up well in value due to the demand for big engines and performance. It has ample room for up to five people in the four-door setup.
Let’s Check out What’s Under the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T’s Hood
A big and bold statement is clearly being made when it comes to the R/7, both inside and out. The base engine is a 5.7-L V8 that gets an impressive 368 horsepower. It also hits 395 lb-ft. The other thing to note – this is a Hemi engine.
The vehicle also has a five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and both automatic and manual options. Let’s consider that transmission – it offers a pistol-grip shifter that’s slightly positioned toward the driver. That gives you ample ability to shift fast. It makes that manual transmission exciting.
This is the only powertrain engine available to buyers in the R/T. If you want more, you have to upgrade. It takes about 5.1 seconds to hit 60 miles per hour (and two gear shifts to get there). That’s nearly as good as the bigger engine on the SRT8.
The transmission features a limited-slip differential. Another nice upgrade from previous models is hill start assist to get you up and over faster.
What does all of this power mean for the fuel economy? The 2009 Dodge Charger R/T gets 16 city and 25 highway for a combined 19 miles per gallon according to EPA estimates.
If you’re a rough rider, you may want a suspension system that can take it. This vehicle offers that. It’s a heavy vehicle with a comfortable suspension system. It’s not designed to be sporty or an off-roading car, but it will get you where you want to be.
How about the Reliability of These Vehicles?
You’ll find the 2009 Dodge Charger is a solid car. It feels heavy and performs well. It also has upgraded, higher quality components. As for safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration doesn’t provide an overall safety rating. However, it has solid performance across the board.
You do have to contend with six recalls on this vehicle. Those relate to the airbags, powertrain, tires, and wheels. Consumers have noted concerns about the vehicle’s electrical system and fuel system as well.
Interior Comfort and Styling
The interior is excellent. It has standard leather upholstery, driver and passenger heated cushions, and power driver and passenger cushion tilt. These are all options on the lower trim model. You can upgrade the R/T to a simulated suede and leather interior if you want a bit more styling.
The interior is comfortable and roomy enough for most people. You can easily get five adults into the Charger. The front seats are comfortable, and there’s lots of legroom, especially up front.
When it comes to tech and entertainment, the R/T has some nice features available, but they are nearly all optional. These include optional Sirius radio and a six-disc in-dash CD player.
There are optional features such as two wireless headphones, premium amplifiers, and an entertainment system with DVD capability. There are also optional upgraded speakers and voice-activated radio.
The sound system on the R/T is an upgrade. It also offers iPod integration as well as a built-in 30-gig hard drive. If you’re willing to spend even more, you can get the navigation system as well.
Why Buy the R/T Over Other Trims?
The 2009 Dodge Charger lineup is solid. However, the higher-end SRT8 is nearly $11,000 more in cost, when new, than the R/T. For that higher cost, you’ll get more standard features, especially inside. The bigger engine isn’t much faster, though.
The R/T also offers some nice exterior features, such as optional fender hash marks and coloring options. It has a blank hood compared to the SRT8’s flat-black stripes.
The R/T is definitely an upgrade over the base trim option. It has much more power and performance but also delivers on the interior features. You’ll love the way this vehicle constantly impresses; whereas, the engine on the base trim doesn’t hit all of those notes.
What You Can Expect from the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T You Take Home
Here’s the bottom line. The R/T is a solid vehicle with a lot of optional upgrades. It also features an engine that performs nearly as well as the top model. To find out how it really performs, you’ll want to see what other customers have to say.
Check out the 2009 Dodge Charger R/T’s Vehicle History to really sink your teeth into all of its features.
