2006 Dodge Charger

The new Charger draws inspiration from Dodge's horsepower-filled history to join the Chrysler 300 in redefining the family sedan. The recipe is as rock-solid as the Mercedes E-Class-derived LX platform it rides on, with a trio of powerful engines, independent suspension, roomy interior, and dramatic styling. Starting in the mid-$20s, the base model is a great value with its 3.5-liter, 250-horsepower SOHC V-6, but our test scrutiny focused on the bang-for-the-buck enthusiast's choice, the R/T. Clearly, the one word you need to know here is "Hemi."

The brochure-friendly numbers break down to 5.7 liters and 340 horsepower, but it's the broad torque curve and rich exhaust rumble that give the OHV engine its magic. Enhanced with the Multi-Displacement System, this Hemi is able to manage its cylinder operation to match load conditions, from all eight pistons thundering under full acceleration, to four lazily ticking over while cruising.

The MDS enhances fuel economy by more than 10 percent, and its operation is seamless. At the dragstrip, the Charger races down the quarter mile in a musclecar-worthy 14.3 seconds, reaching 99.5 mph--impressive performance for a two-ton family sedan with more interior volume than a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Hustled around our road course, the Charger's dynamic acumen impressed; the rigid, generously tired car was easy to push and control. Even when off, the ESP system still provides a measure of safety by intervening progressively to counter potentially dangerous motions, albeit at a greater tolerance threshold.

Downsides? Like the Dodge Magnum, the spacious Charger interior is a bit too stark. Yes, it's a direct sibling to the Chrysler 300 that won our hearts and Car of the Year award 12 months ago. And, yes, we like it just about as much. But in COTY terms, the Charger is simply a well-executed variation on a winning theme, and in this year's competition that wasn't enough.