The 2020 Dodge Challenger lasts around 200,000 miles, with some relatively minor transmission software and stereo system issues reported. At $23,900 to $79,985, it’s a great value for an old-school muscle car with some very strong V8 engine choices.
Is the 2020 Dodge Challenger a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Dodge Challenger since it offers a lot of power and a reasonably nice cabin for the money. Owner reviews praise the exhaust sound, vintage styling, and the advanced entertainment technology features.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are good for a sports car, the seats offer a lot of support, cargo space is also very good in the trunk.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are not any major problems found on the 2020 Challenger. Models from 2012-2014 have engine issues, but 2015–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 10/10 – The standard V6 engine offers reasonable power for a coupe, and the SRT Hellcat model offers more power than other sports cars on the market.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2020 Challenger is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera and optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control along with forward collision warning.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is fine at up to 23 MPG, giving 425 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $38 cheaper than average, at $225 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2020 Dodge Challenger is cheaper than many other sports cars on the market with reasonable depreciation rates, giving it a high value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Challenger?
- Consumer Reports says the 2020 Dodge Challenger offers civilizing upgrades to the interior and better handling, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the Dodge Challenger at 4.7/5, enjoying the comfortable suspension compared to other sports cars, but doesn’t like that it’s not offered as a convertible.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Challenger a 4.7/5, praising the extremely powerful V8 engine choices, but owners don’t like the outdated, loose steering feel.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Dodge Challenger Have?
Common problems found on the 2020 Dodge Challenger include delayed gear changes, a frozen stereo system, along with some excessive noise from the front wheels. Overall, these problems are similar to other sports cars from the same year, leading to average repair costs as a Challenger ages.
Delayed gear changes are the most widespread complaint from 2020 Challenger owners, showing up at around 1,500 miles. There are software updates for the transmission control module, which improve the gear change speeds. Most dealerships will install these updates for free, while others charge around $100 for labor.
A frozen stereo system has also been mentioned by some Challenger owners within the first 5,000 miles. There are software updates for the stereo system, which improves its reliability. Most dealers will install the updates for free, but some will charge about $50.
Excessive noise from the front wheels is another problem found on the 2020 Challenger, at around 20,000 miles. The wheel bearings tend to wear out quicker than in some other cars. Replacing the bearings costs around $450, depending on local labor rates.
There’s only one recall on the 2020 Dodge Challenger, which is better than a lot of other sports cars from the same year. The recall covers windshield bonding, which may come loose. Dodge will install a new windshield sealant on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2020 Dodge Challenger Last?
A well-maintained 2020 Dodge Challenger can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than the long-lasting Toyota Supra. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $610 per year.
As a used 2020 Challenger reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the camshaft position sensor for $200, stabilizer bushings costing $375, along with the wheel hubs, which cost around $450.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is very good and includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen and a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is fairly basic, and only features a rearview camera.
Optional upgrades include:
- Rear parking sensors
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Is the 2020 Dodge Challenger a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 Dodge Challenger is a good value if you’re in the market for an American muscle car. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $23,900 to $79,985, making it less than a Chevy Corvette or Ford Mustang. When new, the price range was $28,095 to $79,595. Depreciation is similar to other sports cars, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Challenger?
There are six main models of the 2020 Dodge Challenger offered, from the entry-level SXT through to the powerful SRT Hellcat and SRT Hellcat Redeye. The Challenger comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
SXT is the entry-level model with:
- Standard rear-wheel drive
- 7-inch touch screen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth and two USB ports
- Six-speaker stereo
- Rearview camera
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Cloth upholstery
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- 18-inch wheels
- Uconnect infotainment system
- Decent number of standard features
- Powertrain stays in GT
GT is a step up, adding:
- Adds remote start
- Rear parking sensors
- Fog lights
- 20-inch wheels
- Upgraded interior trim
- Styling cues from V8-powered trims
- All-wheel drive optional
R/T is next in the lineup with:
- Standard six-speed manual transmission
- Limited-slip differential
- Eight-speed automatic available
- Similar equipment to GT
- Standard features carry over from SXT
R/T Scat Pack has more features including:
- Stiffer suspension
- Large Brembo brakes
- 4-inch touch screen
- Satellite radio
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Available widebody package
- Available 1320 package with a trans brake, drag racing tires, and single-seat configuration
- Launch control
- Performance software upgrades
SRT Hellcat is a high-performance model, which adds:
- Supercharged V8 engine
- Adaptive suspension
- Even larger Brembo brakes
- Most options from Scat Pack available
- Available widebody package
- Larger brakes
- Exterior styling changes
SRT Hellcat Redeye is the flagship model with:
- Includes all Hellcat features
- Enhanced engine performance
- Eight-speed automatic transmission only
- Top-tier performance and standard equipment
What Engines Come In the Dodge Challenger?
- The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 303 horsepower and 268 lb.-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers a combined fuel economy of around 23 MPG and can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in around 6.3 seconds, offering a balance of efficiency and responsive performance for everyday driving.
- Stepping up, the R/T trim features a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, generating 375 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft of torque. When equipped with the standard 6-speed manual transmission, it has a combined fuel economy of 18 MPG, while the optional 8-speed automatic sees that improve slightly. This engine boasts a 0-60 MPH time of just under 5 seconds, providing a significant boost in power and speed.
- The R/T Scat Pack model houses a more robust 6.4-liter V8, pushing out 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission but can be equipped with an 8-speed automatic, delivering a combined fuel economy of around 17 MPG. It’s capable of a blistering 0-60 MPH in the low 4-second range, offering a thrilling driving experience.
- For those craving higher performance, there’s the SRT Hellcat with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, exploding with 717 horsepower and 656 lb.-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it has a combined MPG of around 16. The Hellcat can achieve 0-60 MPH in the mid-3-second range, placing it firmly in muscle car territory.
- At its pinnacle, the SRT Hellcat Redeye gets its power from a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 but ups the performance to 797 horsepower and 707 lb.-ft of torque. With an 8-speed automatic transmission, its combined fuel economy is similar to the standard Hellcat. However, its 0-60 MPH time drops to an astonishing 3.4 seconds, making it a true performance behemoth.
What Colors Does the Dodge Challenger Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Challenger?
The 2020 Dodge Challenger stands out in the sports car segment by offering a ride that prioritizes comfort without compromising its muscle car spirit. Unlike typical sports cars that may have a stiffer, more performance-oriented ride, the Challenger provides a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience, making it suitable for daily commuting as well as long drives on the highway.
One of the key comfort features is its spacious interior. The 2020 Challenger boasts one of the roomiest cabins in the class, with generous headroom and legroom in both the front and back, a rarity in sports coupes. This allows the vehicle to comfortably accommodate taller passengers or facilitate longer journeys without the cramps often associated with performance models. The seats are designed for comfort as well, with ample cushioning, excellent support, and available upgrades like Nappa or Laguna leather for an even more luxurious feel. Additionally, heated and ventilated front seats are available to provide comfort in various weather conditions.
Another aspect that contributes to the comfort of the Challenger is its suspension system. The vehicle is equipped with a suspension that manages to balance handling and comfort effectively. While it’s capable of spirited driving dynamics, the ride is typically smooth, and the car absorbs most road imperfections with ease, sparing passengers from the jarring experience often found in cars with a sportier setup.
Furthermore, the cabin is well-insulated from external noise, with sound-deadening materials effectively keeping road and wind noise at bay, allowing for a quieter, more serene driving experience. The interior layout is driver-focused, with intuitive controls and quality materials, adding to the overall comfort for both the driver and passengers.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Challenger Have?
The Dodge Challenger impresses with its surprisingly spacious storage capacity, a rarity in the sports coupe category. The trunk alone offers about 16.2 cubic feet of storage space. This substantial area can comfortably accommodate the luggage needs of a weekend getaway, for instance, easily fitting a couple of medium-sized suitcases and additional small bags or items like a camera bag, a picnic basket, or some sports equipment such as a basketball.
In addition to the generous trunk space, the Challenger is designed with an array of small storage solutions within the cabin, significantly enhancing its practicality for everyday use. The center console is roomy enough to hold items like a smartphone, wallet, or a small tablet, while the door pockets are molded to accommodate items like water bottles and small notebooks. The glove compartment offers extra space for essentials like your vehicle’s manual, important documents, or other items you prefer to keep out of sight. There are also cup holders and a small storage bin in front of the shifter that can be used for change, keys, or other small items you might need to access quickly while driving.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Dodge Challenger was introduced for the 2008 model year, although it’s had some facelifts and redesigns since it was launched.
2015: Mid-cycle refresh with a new SRT Hellcat model introduced along with updated lighting and styling elements.
2016: No changes from earlier models.
2017: T/A model introduced which takes the base Shaker model and adds more performance features, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now available.
2018: Drag-focused high-performance Demon model introduced with 840 horsepower, new widebody models introduced, touchscreen stereo system updated.
2019: SRT 392 and Demon models both removed from the lineup, SRT Hellcat Redeye introduced, all-wheel drive is now offered on the SXT model as an optional upgrade.
2020: New SRT Super Stock model introduced with 807 horsepower, there’s an upgraded 50th anniversary package offered too.
2021: Widebody package offered on additional models, minor changes to trim levels.
How Does the Dodge Challenger Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 Dodge Challenger is a nice sports car, offering a reasonably practical interior paired with some very strong V8 engine choices, although it’s missing some of the latest safety technology.
The Chevrolet Camaro is another sports car, which can be found for about $1,500 more. Standard technology is a bit better in the Chevy Camaro, while the Dodge Challenger offers stronger V8 engines. We recommend the Dodge Challenger, although both are great choices worth testing out to see which you prefer.
The Ford Mustang is a popular competitor, which starts at about $2,000 more. Steering and handling are both better in the Ford Mustang, while the Dodge Challenger is quicker in the sprint from 0-60 MPH. We recommend the Ford Mustang since it’s more fun to drive on winding roads, but again, it’s worth trying them both out to see which fits your driving style better.
