The Dodge Challenger R/T Was Never Just About Horsepower

The 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T reminds me why the V8 engine never gets old.

Some cars make sense when you look at their specifications. Others make more sense when you start the engine.

The 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T belongs to the second group.

I know there are faster Challengers. The Scat Pack has considerably more horsepower, and the Hellcat takes performance to another level. But I have never believed that buying the most powerful version automatically gives you the most enjoyable ownership experience.

The regular 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T has something I find appealing. It has the sound, appearance, and character of an American V8 muscle car without requiring me to drive a 700-horsepower machine every day.

And the more I consider what this car offers, the more I understand why so many owners have stayed loyal to the 5.7-liter HEMI engine.

The 5.7-Liter HEMI Is the Reason I Want This Car

The 2022 Challenger R/T comes with a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 producing 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Choosing the eight-speed automatic slightly reduces those figures to 372 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

Those are respectable numbers, but they don’t tell the whole story. What makes this engine appealing to me is how it delivers its power.

There is plenty of torque available during daily driving, and the car responds well when I want to accelerate without putting strain on the engine.

The exhaust sound is another major part of the experience.

Dodge equipped the V8 Challenger models with an active exhaust system, and the R/T has a deep, noticeable sound even with its original exhaust. I never wanted to replace it with something louder.

I also like that Dodge offered two transmission choices.

The six-speed manual provides a more involved driving experience, while the eight-speed automatic makes better sense for someone who regularly deals with traffic. The automatic transmission responds just as quickly when accelerating as the manual.

For weekend drives, I would be interested in the manual. For everyday ownership, I would have a difficult time ignoring the automatic.

It Feels Like a Big American Muscle Car, and I Don’t Mind That

One thing I wouldn’t do is pretend the Challenger R/T handling feels like a lightweight sports car.

This is a large coupe, and its size shows up when you drive through tight corners or navigate crowded parking lots.

The steering doesn’t provide the same sharp response as a Chevrolet Camaro or Ford Mustang, and the Challenger can feel less composed when driven aggressively through a series of turns.

But I think judging this car entirely by its cornering performance misses an important part of its appeal.

The Challenger feels more comfortable when cruising. Its suspension generally handles everyday roads well, and the front seats provide enough comfort for longer journeys.

I wouldn’t choose this car for its ability to manage tight corners. I would choose it because I enjoy the experience it provides on regular roads.

Living With a Challenger Is Easier Than Its Appearance Suggests

The Challenger R/T looks like a car that might require plenty of expenses, but its everyday practicality is better than I initially expected.

The front cabin is surprisingly spacious, and I like the large, comfortable seats. The rear seats are useful, although I wouldn’t want to ask taller adults to climb into the back regularly. Getting in and out takes some effort, especially in tight parking spaces.

Then there is the trunk.

With approximately 16 cubic feet of cargo space, the 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T offers considerably more luggage room than many people might expect from a muscle coupe. I comfortably use it for grocery shopping, carrying luggage, or taking a weekend trip.

That practicality matters to me because I don’t want every enjoyable car to become something I can only use occasionally.

The Challenger R/T can serve as everyday transportation, as long as I accept its size and running costs.

The Interior Reminds Me That This Is an Older Design

I like the 2022 Dodge Challenger R/T exterior much more than its interior.

The retro styling has aged well, particularly the wide front end, long hood, and distinctive rear lights.

Inside, however, the car feels noticeably older.

The dashboard is simple, and the materials aren’t particularly impressive for a vehicle that originally cost well over $30,000.

The infotainment system is one area where I have fewer complaints. Dodge’s Uconnect interface is relatively simple to operate, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it easy to use familiar smartphone applications.

My bigger concern would be visibility.

The thick rear pillars and relatively small windows create blind spots. I would especially appreciate a Challenger with blind-spot monitoring, which was available as an option.

The Fuel Economy Is Something I Have to Accept

Nobody buys a Challenger R/T expecting exceptional fuel economy, but I still think it’s important to understand the running costs before purchasing one.

The 2022 model’s EPA fuel economy ratings vary by transmission, with the 5.7-liter V8 rated at up to 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Actual ownership experiences suggest that driving habits make a substantial difference.

Some 5.7-liter car drivers report averages around 18 to 21 mpg during everyday use, while others achieve better results when most of their driving involves steady highway cruising.

There is also an important distinction between the transmissions.

The automatic R/T can run on 87-octane gasoline, although Dodge recommends 89 octane for optimum performance and efficiency. The manual version requires premium gasoline, 91 octane or higher.

That difference would matter if I were planning to drive the car every day.

Fuel isn’t the only expense, either. I would also account for insurance, replacement tires, and routine maintenance before deciding whether the ownership costs fit my budget.

Would I Trust a Used Challenger R/T?

I would consider buying one, but I wouldn’t purchase it based on appearance and engine sound alone.

The 5.7-liter HEMI has been around for years, and owners report positive experiences well beyond 100,000 miles. However, those experiences don’t establish that every used R/T will be reliable.

One owner reported driving a 2017 Challenger T/A 5.7 for approximately 130,000 miles without major mechanical problems, although the touchscreen required repeated attention. Other owners have reported engine and suspension repairs at higher mileage.

That is why I would focus on the condition of the individual vehicle.

My used-car inspection would include:

• Checking service records and looking for evidence of regular oil changes.
• Listening for unusual engine noises during a cold start.
• Checking whether the engine, exhaust, or transmission has been modified.
• Inspecting tire wear, brakes, and suspension condition.
• Confirming that the transmission shifts properly.
• Checking for outstanding recalls using the vehicle’s VIN.

The well-known HEMI ticking concern deserves particular attention. A ticking sound can have different causes, including an exhaust leak or valvetrain-related problems. I wouldn’t assume every ticking engine needs an expensive repair, but I also wouldn’t dismiss a persistent noise without a professional diagnosis.

For me, a well-maintained, unmodified R/T with a clear ownership history would be more appealing than a cheaper example with questionable maintenance and numerous performance modifications.