Fresh off the floor at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, Dodge pulled the covers off the 2026 Dodge Durango GT America250 (A250) Edition. As the first vehicle to roll out under Stellantis’ official partnership with the America250 celebration, it’s dripping with unapologetic, Detroit-built attitude.

Patriotism Meets Performance

Dodge didn’t just slap a flag decal on the tailgate and call it a day. For the first time on the GT trim, they’ve raided the top-tier parts bin to elevate the cabin. The A250 interior features premium Black Laguna leather seats with a wild blue perforation that pops through the inserts, an embossed American flag, and Demonic Red seatbelts that bring that signature Mopar aggression. Add in a tricolor-stitched steering wheel and forged carbon-fiber appliqués, and the interior feels significantly more upscale.

On the outside, the aggressive stance is dialed up with 20-inch Black Noise wheels, custom fender badging, and exclusive star-pattern dual stripes with blue tracer accents. If you want the stripes, you’ll need to spec it in White Knuckle, though Red Oxide, the dark blue Night Moves, Destroyer Gray, and Diamond Black are also on the menu.

Under the Hood: Pick Your Power

Because it’s a modern Dodge, you get to choose your level of rowdy across three AWD trim levels:

• Durango GT Plus: The reliable workhorse Pentastar V-6 pushing 295 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Durango GT HEMI® Plus: Stepping up to the legendary 5.7-liter V-8 HEMI, delivering 360 horsepower.
• Durango GT HEMI Premium: The fully loaded experience, bringing top-spec tech and convenience features to the HEMI powerplant.

Builder’s Note: If you’re planning on hauling a trailer full of project car parts or a boat to the lake, the GT HEMI models can be optioned with the Tow N Go package, unlocking a best-in-class 8,700 lbs. of towing capacity.

The Details

Built proudly at the Detroit Assembly Complex, the Durango A250 is a fitting tribute to American automotive heritage. The order banks open in early April.

• GT Plus V-6 AWD: Starts at $49,590
• GT HEMI Plus AWD: Starts at $51,270
• GT HEMI Premium AWD: Starts at $54,270 (Note: MSRP excludes tax, title, and fees).

If you’re looking for a way to haul the crew while still commanding respect at the next cruise-in, this limited-edition Durango might just be your perfect patriotic daily driver.

The 2026 Ram 1500 Rebel X rejoins America’s most competitive off-road half-ton lineup, blending trail-ready hardware with real-world comfort and tech in a way that feels purpose-built for enthusiasts who actually use their trucks.

This isn’t a decal package. This is the Rebel turned up.

What Makes Rebel X Different?

Offered as an upgrade package to the Ram 1500 Rebel equipped with the Level 2 Equipment Group and the 3.0L S.O. Hurricane Twin Turbo I-6, the Rebel X adds meaningful performance and interior upgrades without pushing into TRX-level pricing.

At its heart is the S.O. Hurricane Twin Turbo inline-six, delivering a stout 420 horsepower and 469 lb.-ft. of torque — more than enough to keep things interesting both on-road and off.

But the real story? The details.

Rebel X builds on the Level 2 Equipment Group with:

• Dual-pane panoramic sunroof
• Console-mounted leather-wrapped performance shifter
• Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters
• Premium leather/vinyl bucket seats with red accent stitching
• Red-accented glass-encased “Rebel X” console badge
• Exclusive “Rebel X” bedside graphics

It’s aggressive without being overdone — exactly how a Rebel should feel.

Trail Tech That Actually Matters

The Rebel has always been capable. The Rebel X adds something new: Rough Road Cruise Control — exclusive to this package.

This advanced system uses adaptive speed control and adjustable steering weight to maintain consistent speed over uneven terrain (up to 20 mph). Instead of feathering throttle constantly, drivers can focus on wheel placement and obstacle management.

For anyone who has crawled rocky trails or navigated rutted forest roads, you know how big that is.

Standard Rebel off-road hardware remains intact:

• 1-inch factory lift
• Bilstein monotube shocks (front and rear)
• Electronic locking rear differential (E-locker)
• Underbody skid plates
• Front tow hooks
• Black 18-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires

This is still a real-deal off-road truck — not a mall crawler.

Tech & Comfort: No Compromises

Modern Ram interiors continue to set the benchmark in the full-size segment, and Rebel X benefits fully:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Massive 14.5-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen
• 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio
• Class-exclusive 10.25-inch passenger display
• Dual wireless charging pads
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated leather steering wheel
• Eight-way power passenger seat with lumbar

It’s rugged outside. Refined inside. That balance is what has defined Ram’s recent success.

Introducing Tank Clear-Coat

Rebel X also debuts Tank Clear-Coat, a new military-inspired green that fits the Rebel personality perfectly. The color expands across select Ram 1500 models for 2026 — and if you’ve been craving something tougher than traditional metallic greens, this one hits the mark.

Pricing & Availability

Orders are officially open, with pricing starting at $71,930 (including destination) and including the Rebel Level 2 Equipment Group.

For buyers who want the full Rebel experience — more tech, more comfort, more exclusivity — without stepping into TRX territory, Rebel X lands right in that sweet spot.

The Modern Mopar Magazine Take

As a long-time Mopar publication, we love seeing performance and capability driven by owner demand. The Rebel X doesn’t feel like a marketing experiment — it feels like a response to real-world buyers who wanted the right mix of capability and content.

And when Ram leans into enthusiast feedback? That’s when the best trucks happen.

Would you spec yours in Tank Clear-Coat, or go classic black or white?

Let’s be honest—the new Charger has had a rough introduction to the Mopar faithful. Between the controversial new body lines and the heavy focus on the EV launch, it’s been a tough sell for the purists. But with the gas-powered SIXPACK engines finally hitting the order books, we’re seeing the first signs of traditional muscle car DNA returning to the lineup.

Today, Dodge announced they are leaning into that heritage with new factory-customization options for the 2026 Charger Scat Pack and R/T models. If you are planning to pick up one of the new Hurricane-powered options, you can now order them with a little more visual attitude straight from the factory.

The “Satin Black” Treatment First up is a new Satin Black Hood Graphic. For $395, this adds a high-contrast accent to the sculpted power dome (the center area of the hood). It’s a classic Mopar look that breaks up the body color and highlights the lines of the front end. It’s available now for the SIXPACK models and gives the car a much more aggressive, two-tone aesthetic that reminds us of the T/A and Daytona packages of the past.

The Return of the Fratzog (with a Twist) Dodge is also rolling out Fratzog Dual Stripes for the gas-powered lineup. We know the “Fratzog” logo has been the face of the new “electric muscle” era, but Dodge is porting it over to the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) models as a heritage play.

These aren’t just solid vinyl strips. The stripes feature a repeating pattern of the Fratzog logo inside the stripe itself, along with red trim accents. They run $1,695 and are designed to work on both steel roofs and the full-glass roof options. Interestingly, if you have the glass roof, the pattern is designed to be visible from the inside of the car looking out.

Mopar Accessories Ramp Up Matt McAlear, Dodge’s CEO, noted that this is “just the beginning” of the factory personalization program. Mopar is gearing up to release more exterior bits, including bodyside graphics, bright pedal covers, and—most importantly—cat-back exhaust kits to help that Hurricane engine find its voice.

The Bottom Line Dodge is clearly trying to bridge the gap between the new design language and the customization culture that made the previous generation Charger and Challenger so popular.

We want to hear from you: Does a blackout hood and a stripe package help the new body style grow on you, or are you still not sold on the 2026 look? Let us know in the comments.

Let’s get one thing straight right out of the burnout box: the Challenger SRT Demon was unveiled in 2017, but it technically hit the streets as a 2018 model-year car. Still, enthusiasts—and yes, even Dodge folks over beers—often call it “the 2017 Demon,” because that’s the year it shocked the automotive world and rewrote the muscle car rulebook. Semantics aside, this thing is exactly what happens when engineers are told “no compromises” and actually listen.

We’ve spent quality time with the Demon, both on the street and doing exactly what Dodge designed it to do: annihilate a drag strip. This isn’t just a Hellcat turned up to 11. It’s a factory-built, warranty-backed drag car that somehow still has turn signals.

Features: A Drag Car With a VIN

At the heart of the Demon is a heavily reworked version of the familiar 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8—but calling it “familiar” feels wrong. Dodge upgraded nearly everything that matters:

• Supercharger: 2.7-liter (up from the Hellcat’s 2.4L), pushing up to 14.5 psi
• Output:
  • 808 hp / 770 lb-ft on 91-octane pump gas
  • 840 hp / 770 lb-ft on 100+ octane race fuel
• Redline: 6,500 rpm
• Transmission: TorqueFlite 8HP90 8-speed automatic, beefed up for abuse
• Driveline: Reinforced driveshaft, upgraded differential, stronger half-shafts

Dodge didn’t stop at raw horsepower. The Demon introduced a suite of firsts for a production car:

• Factory TransBrake (activated via paddle shifters)
• Torque Reserve, which preloads the driveline and supercharger at launch
• After-Run Chiller, using the A/C system to cool the intercooler after shutdown
• Power Chiller, redirecting A/C cooling to the intake charge under load

The result? Dodge-certified numbers that still sound fake years later:

• 0–60 mph: 2.3 seconds
• Quarter-mile: 9.65 seconds @ 140 mph (on race fuel)

Yes, it literally lifts the front wheels. Dodge even supplied the NHRA paperwork to certify it as the world’s first production car capable of a wheelie.

Styling: Function Over Flash (But Still Mean)

Visually, the Demon takes the Challenger widebody look and turns the aggression dial all the way clockwise. The most obvious feature is the Air-Grabber hood, crowned with the largest functional hood scoop ever fitted to a production car. At wide-open throttle, it feeds cooler, denser air directly into the supercharger—up to 173 cubic feet per minute more than a Hellcat.

Other standout design cues include:

• Widebody fender flares, accommodating massive rubber
• Lightweight 18×11-inch wheels at all four corners
• 315/40R18 Nitto NT05R drag radials, factory-installed and street-legal (barely)
• Demon-specific badging, including the now-iconic snarling devil emblem

Dodge also obsessed over weight savings. Depending on how you spec it, the Demon can shed more than 200 poundscompared to a Hellcat:

• Rear seat delete (standard)
• Front passenger seat delete (no-cost option)
• Trunk carpeting delete
• Minimal sound deadening

Air conditioning and the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system were optional—and cost exactly one dollar each. That’s not a typo. Dodge wanted owners to choose comfort.

Performance: Built to Do One Thing—Perfectly

On the street, the Demon is surprisingly civilized—until you dip into the throttle. Below that, it idles with a cammy lope, the supercharger whining like it’s impatient. But let’s be honest: this car lives for the drag strip.

Engage Drag Mode, heat the rear tires, activate the TransBrake, and the Demon becomes a physics experiment. Launches are violent but controlled, thanks to drag-specific suspension tuning, adaptive Bilstein dampers, and that massive tire footprint.

The steering feels lighter than a Hellcat’s, partly due to the skinny front runners included in the Demon Crate (more on that in a second). Braking is handled by Brembo hardware that’s more than adequate—though repeated hard stops will remind you this is not a road-course toy.

Ownership: Extreme, But Thoughtfully So

Dodge limited production to 3,300 units total:

• 3,000 for the U.S.
• 300 for Canada

Every Demon came with a serialized build plaque, and every owner received the now-legendary Demon Crate, a factory-included, Dodge-licensed kit containing:

• Skinny front wheels with tires (for drag racing)
• High-performance jack
• Cordless impact wrench
• Torque wrench
• Tire pressure gauge
• Laptop mount and ECU unlock cables
• Performance control module for race fuel

Living with a Demon requires a bit of commitment. Those Nitto drag radials wear quickly, don’t love cold weather, and will happily hydroplane if you’re careless. Insurance companies know exactly what this car is. Maintenance is Hellcat-adjacent, but consumables—tires especially—add up fast.

That said, Dodge didn’t abandon owners after delivery.

Dodge-Licensed Post-Sale Components

Through Mopar and Direct Connection, Dodge has continued to support Demon owners with factory-backed performance and restoration parts, including:

• Direct Connection engine components (superchargers, internals, controllers)
• Drag Pack wheels and accessories
• Replacement Demon-specific body panels and graphics
• Serialized Demon Crate replacement items
• Performance calibration tools and race-oriented hardware

This matters, because it keeps the Demon in a rare category: a modern collectible that can still be serviced, raced, and restored using factory-authorized parts.

Final Thoughts: A Muscle Car Mic Drop

The Challenger SRT Demon wasn’t built to chase Nürburgring lap times or win comparison tests. It was built to dominate one very specific arena—and it did so with unapologetic excess and engineering brilliance.

From its outrageous factory specs to its drag-strip-first design philosophy, the Demon represents a high-water mark for internal combustion muscle. Dodge didn’t just build a fast car. They built a statement, handed you the keys, and said, “Go prove it.”

Years later, the Demon still feels unrepeatable. And honestly? That’s exactly how legends are supposed to feel.

The Heart of Darkness: Supercharged HEMI Power

At the core of the Hellcat beats a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 that produces an absolutely insane 717 horsepower and 656 lb-ft of torque. That supercharger alone displaces 2.4 liters and spins at up to 14,600 rpm, force-feeding the beast with 11.6 psi of boost.

This isn’t some detuned engine borrowed from another platform—this is purpose-built American muscle designed to embarrass supercars costing three times as much.

Performance Numbers That Speak Volumes

The Hellcat doesn’t just sound good on paper—it delivers brutal real-world performance:

• 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
• Quarter-mile: 11.2 seconds at 125 mph
• Top Speed: 199 mph (electronically limited)
• 60-0 braking: 108 feet with available Brembo brakes

These numbers put the Hellcat in legitimate supercar territory, all while maintaining the classic muscle car attitude and that unmistakable HEMI rumble.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Power gets to the pavement through your choice of a 6-speed manual transmission (for the purists) or an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic that’s been beefed up to handle the Hellcat’s monstrous output. Both transmissions feature launch control to help you achieve those blistering acceleration times without destroying the drivetrain.

The rear differential is a heavy-duty 9.92-inch unit with electronic limited-slip capability, ensuring maximum traction when you’re putting all that power down.

Handling and Suspension

Don’t let anyone tell you the Hellcat is just a straight-line monster. The adaptive Bilstein suspension keeps this 4,500-pound beast planted through corners, while the available widebody package adds 3.5 inches of width and accommodates massive 305mm tires at all four corners.

The performance-tuned electric power steering provides surprising feedback for a car this size, and the available six-piston Brembo brakes up front haul you down from triple-digit speeds with confidence.

Track-Ready Technology

The Hellcat comes loaded with performance tech:

• Launch Control: Optimizes acceleration from a standing start
• Line Lock: Locks the front brakes for epic burnouts and tire warmup
• Drive Modes: Street, Sport, Track, and custom settings adjust throttle response, transmission behavior, and stability control
• Performance Pages: Real-time monitoring of boost pressure, coolant temps, 0-60 times, and more

Fuel Economy (Or Lack Thereof)

Let’s be honest—you don’t buy a 717-horsepower muscle car for fuel economy. The EPA rates the Hellcat at 13 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. But when you’re having this much fun, who’s counting?

The Bottom Line

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat represents everything we love about American muscle cars: massive power, aggressive styling, and performance that embarrasses cars costing twice as much. With 717 horses on tap and a supercharger whine that’ll make your spine tingle, the Hellcat isn’t just fast—it’s an experience.

Whether you’re launching at the drag strip, carving canyon roads, or just making your daily commute infinitely more exciting, the Hellcat delivers thrills that few cars at any price can match. This is Mopar performance at its absolute finest.

Long live the Hellcat. Long live American muscle.

Jeep Lift Kits for 2025

Turning your Jeep into an off-road monster often starts with choosing the right lift kit. In 2025, Jeep lift kits offer more than just a height boost—they enhance performance and style.

Choosing the Right Height

Selecting the right lift height is crucial. A moderate lift of 2 to 3 inches can improve off-road capabilities without compromising daily drivability. If you’re after a more aggressive stance, a lift of 4 inches or more will certainly make a visual impact and provide superior ground clearance. Your choice depends on your intended use. Are you scaling rocky trails or cruising city streets? Consider the impact on fuel efficiency and center of gravity. Remember, a higher lift may require modifications to suspension and steering components. Make sure to balance aesthetics and functionality for a personalized Jeep that performs as well as it looks.

Installation Tips and Tricks

Installing a lift kit might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it becomes manageable. First, ensure you have all necessary tools and components. Read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly—missing a step can lead to complications. Here’s a simple process to follow:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Have a clean, organized area with enough room to maneuver.

2. Safety First: Use jack stands and wheel chocks to stabilize your Jeep.

3. Step-by-Step Installation: Follow the instructions closely. Taking shortcuts can lead to long-term issues.

4. Alignment and Inspection: Once installed, check the alignment and inspect for any loose bolts.

Visual guides and online Jeep forums can provide additional support. Don’t rush the process—patience pays off in a solid, safe installation!

Off-Road Accessories Must-Haves

Equipping your Jeep with the right off-road accessories transforms your adventures. Essential gear ensures you’re ready for any terrain.

Essential Gear for Adventure

When hitting the trails, certain accessories are non-negotiable. Start with a high-quality winch. It can pull you out of tricky situations and is a lifesaver during off-road excursions. Skid plates protect the undercarriage from rocks and debris, preserving your Jeep’s integrity. Don’t forget all-terrain tires for enhanced grip on unpredictable surfaces. A roof rack expands your cargo capacity, perfect for camping gear or kayak transport. Lastly, LED light bars improve visibility during night drives. These items enhance your safety and adventure experience—turning your Jeep into a formidable off-road machine.

Top Brands to Consider

When it comes to off-road accessories, quality matters. Established brands offer reliability and durability. Consider companies like ARB, known for their rugged bumpers and air lockers. Warn is a leader in winches, renowned for their pulling power and resilience. For lighting, Baja Designs provides robust options that withstand harsh conditions. Teraflex offers excellent suspension products, enhancing your Jeep’s capability and comfort. Investing in these top brands guarantees that your Jeep not only looks the part but performs admirably when tackling tough terrains. Choose wisely and enjoy peace of mind on your adventures!

Mopar Upgrades for Performance

To truly personalize your Jeep’s performance, Mopar upgrades offer an array of enhancements. Boosting power and handling are key.

Boosting Engine Power

Mopar upgrades can give your Jeep the power boost it craves. Start with a cold air intake system—this increases airflow to the engine, improving combustion efficiency and horsepower. Pair it with a performance exhaust system for reduced backpressure and a throaty growl. Upgrading the ECU (Engine Control Unit) unleashes the potential of your engine, optimizing fuel maps for more power and torque. Superchargers and turbo kits provide significant boosts, but ensure your Jeep’s drivetrain can handle the extra power. These modifications elevate your Jeep’s performance, making every drive an exhilarating experience!

Enhancing Suspension and Handling

Enhancing suspension and handling is crucial for a balanced and controlled ride. Mopar offers advanced suspension kits that improve your Jeep’s off-road prowess without sacrificing on-road comfort. Consider adjustable shocks for customizable damping and ride height. Adding sway bar disconnects enhances wheel articulation, allowing your Jeep to navigate uneven terrain effortlessly. Reinforced control arms provide added durability when tackling rough trails. These upgrades not only improve handling but also increase safety and stability. Equip your Jeep with these enhancements, and tackle any journey with confidence and flair!

]]> https://modernmopar.com/2025/10/07/unleash-your-beast-the-ultimate-guide-to-jeep-customization-in-2024/feed/ 0 7429 https://modernmopar.com/2025/10/06/keeping-your-dodge-charger-at-its-peak-essential-maintenance-tips/ https://modernmopar.com/2025/10/06/keeping-your-dodge-charger-at-its-peak-essential-maintenance-tips/#respond Mon, 06 Oct 2025 18:00:46 +0000 https://modernmopar.com/2025/10/06/keeping-your-dodge-charger-at-its-peak-essential-maintenance-tips/ Your Dodge Charger demands attention on the road, and it deserves the same care in your garage! You’re not just driving a car—you’re part of a legacy of power and performance. To keep your beast roaring, it’s all about the right Dodge Charger maintenance. From keeping those horses galloping to ensuring vehicle longevity, we’ve got the Charger performance tips you need. Get ready to dive into muscle car care that ensures your ride stays legendary. Let’s unleash the full potential of your Mopar!

Routine Maintenance Musts

Routine maintenance keeps your Dodge Charger running smoothly. It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about preventing them. Regular checks ensure that your muscle car is always ready to hit the road with power and confidence. Let’s look at some key maintenance areas to focus on for peak performance and vehicle longevity.

Tire Tactics for Safety

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and performance. Tire pressure should be checked regularly. Under-inflated tires can lead to poor fuel economy and uneven wear. Make sure to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.

Another important aspect is tread depth. Tires need enough tread to grip the road effectively, especially in wet conditions. Use a tread depth gauge to ensure your tires are in good shape.

Don’t forget to inspect for any visible damage. Look for cuts, punctures, or bulges. If you spot any issues, it’s time for a replacement.

Lastly, consider alignment and balancing. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and affect handling. Balancing ensures your tires rotate evenly. Keeping your tires in top condition ensures a safer, smoother ride!

Oil Changes and Engine Health

Regular oil changes are key to maintaining engine health. Fresh oil lubricates engine parts, reducing friction and wear. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil change intervals, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Use the right oil type for your Charger. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity. Using the correct oil ensures optimal engine performance and longevity.

Keep an eye on the oil level. Low oil can cause serious engine damage. Regularly check the dipstick to ensure levels are adequate.

If you’re unsure, consult a professional for advice. Regular oil maintenance is a simple but effective way to keep your engine running smoothly for years.

Brake Check Basics

Brakes are essential for safety. Routine brake maintenance helps prevent accidents. Start by checking brake fluid levels. Low levels can affect brake efficiency. If needed, top up with the correct type.

Inspect brake pads regularly. Worn pads can compromise braking power. Listen for squeaking noises; this is often a sign that pads need replacing.

Examine brake rotors for wear. Warped rotors can cause vibration and reduce stopping power. If you notice any issues, it’s time for a replacement.

Regular brake inspections ensure your Charger stops reliably when you need it most. Safety first!

Advanced Care Techniques

For those who want to take Dodge Charger maintenance to the next level, advanced care techniques are essential. These techniques help maintain peak performance and extend the life of your vehicle. Let’s explore some of these advanced methods.

Suspension Secrets for Smooth Rides

The suspension system plays a vital role in ride comfort and handling. It absorbs road shock and keeps your Charger stable. Regularly inspect shock absorbers for leaks or wear. Worn shocks can affect handling and tire wear.

Check struts and springs for signs of damage. These components support vehicle weight and maintain ride height. If you notice uneven ride height, it’s time for a check.

Ensure bushings are in good condition. They isolate road noise and vibration. If they’re worn, replace them to maintain a smooth ride.

A well-maintained suspension ensures your Charger handles like a dream, keeping you comfortable on every journey.

Exhaust System Essentials

The exhaust system plays a crucial role in vehicle performance and emissions. Regularly inspect the exhaust pipes for rust or damage. Any leaks can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Check the muffler for signs of wear. A damaged muffler can lead to increased noise and reduced performance. If you notice any issues, it’s time for a replacement.

Catalytic converters should be inspected as well. They help reduce harmful emissions. If you experience decreased performance or increased emissions, have a professional check it out.

Maintaining the exhaust system ensures your Charger runs efficiently and stays environmentally friendly.

Keeping Performance High

To keep your Dodge Charger delivering peak performance, focus on critical systems that support engine power and efficiency. These areas are vital for maintaining the exhilarating performance that Charger enthusiasts love.

Fuel System Focus

A well-maintained fuel system ensures optimal performance. Start by checking the fuel filter. A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow and reduce performance. Replace it according to your manual’s schedule.

Inspect fuel injectors for clogs or leaks. Clean injectors deliver the right amount of fuel for efficient combustion. Consider using a fuel injector cleaner to maintain peak performance.

Regularly check fuel lines for cracks or leaks. Damaged lines can lead to fuel loss and reduced efficiency. If you notice any issues, it’s time for a replacement.

A healthy fuel system keeps your Charger running strong and efficient, providing the power you crave.

Ignition System Insights

The ignition system is key to your Charger’s performance. Regularly inspect spark plugs. Worn plugs can cause misfires and reduced efficiency. Replace them as needed to ensure smooth operation.

Check the ignition coils for signs of wear. Faulty coils can lead to poor performance and starting issues. If you experience any problems, consider replacement.

Ensure distributor caps and rotors are in good condition. These components help deliver the spark needed for combustion. If they’re worn, replace them to maintain reliable performance.

A well-maintained ignition system ensures your Charger starts easily and runs smoothly, delivering the performance you expect from a true muscle car.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your Dodge Charger remains a powerhouse on the road. For more in-depth guides, subscribe to Modern Mopar Magazine and become part of our community of Charger enthusiasts.

“When we first introduced ‘Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge’ five years ago as a pop-up car show and drag race, we never imagined it would grow to nearly 50,000 performance enthusiasts over two days,” said Tim Kuniskis, Global Head of Alfa Romeo and Head of Passenger Cars – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “The positive reaction from our fans and continued growth of this one-of-a-kind event fuels our passion to keep delivering products and marketing for performance enthusiasts.”

In addition to cash prizes for the race winners and fastest Dodge cars on the drag strip, the fifth annual car festival gave attendees the chance to get in the passenger seat. They were able to take an exhilarating thrill or drift ride in the 707-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and the 717-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, as well as thrill rides in the Durango SRT Pursuit “Speed Trap” concept. If that wasn’t enough, they could also race for the best quarter-mile times in the Challenger SRT Demon simulators. More than 6,800 people experienced these Dodge//SRT vehicles firsthand over the span of the two-day event.

The car festival also included a chance to check out more than 300 custom and classic cars in a Show ‘n’ Shine and watch freestyle motocross dyno, flamethrowers and wheelstander exhibitions.

“Last year’s Roadkill Nights was going to be hard to beat, but adding an extra event day this year really brought out a whole new level of turnout and excitement for car enthusiasts,” said Michael Deer, MotorTrend Group Automotive Events Senior Director. “We appreciate the support from fans in the Pontiac community and around the country who joined us to experience all the drag racing and thrill rides that Roadkill Nights had to offer.”

More than 120 street-legal cars hit the specially prepped 1/8-mile drag strip on Woodward Avenue between Rapid Street and South Boulevard to compete in high-powered drag racing for a cash purse totaling $30,000. The quickest Dodge cars in both the small and large tire categories also took home $5,000 each.

Quickest Dodge Winners

• James Pranis, Pennsylvania: 1968 Dodge Charger (Big Tire)
• Peter Bokedon, Michigan: 1972 Dodge Dart (Small Tire)

Big Tire Winner
Lil Jimmer Kline, Michigan: 1966 Pontiac GTO

Small Tire Winner
Alen Danial, Michigan: 1979 Chevrolet Malibu

In addition to the street-legal drag racing, celebrities, local sheriffs and NHRA racers also hit the drag strip on Woodward Avenue this weekend.

The team of Leah Pritchett and David Freiburger won the celebrity showdown challenge, with a $10,000 prize purse donated to United Way. In total, $21,210 was donated to United Way for Southeastern Michigan through the celebrity showdown challenge, charity auction and raffle tickets.

Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham defeated Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard in the ‘Sheriff Showdown,’ an old-school grudge match on Woodward Avenue on Saturday, where they each drove a 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye with respective County decals.

Leah Pritchett in her NHRA Top Fuel Dragster and Matt Hagan in his Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody NHRA Funny Car wowed the crowd with exhibition runs.

On Friday and Saturday, the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP) public booth spread awareness of the program, which is designed to develop the most highly skilled service technicians in the auto industry. Mopar CAP hosted 20 students and 20 metro-Detroit area dealers to network for dealership placement after the completion of the program. Approximately 1,000 interested prospects received information regarding the Mopar CAP program during the “Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge” event.

Let’s talk about the spec, because this one was styled perfectly. The exterior was coated in a deep navy blue, set off aggressively by a flat black roof. Opening the door reveals a stunning white interior detailed with gold stitching outlining the SRT Hellcat logos on the seats. Throw in the forged carbon dash accents and the Alcantara steering wheel—which gives you the exact tactile grip you want when wrangling this much horsepower—and the cabin feels like an absolute premium powerhouse. I would have loved brass monkey wheels over the silver, but that’s the only change I’d make to this one.

Between running a business and managing the daily schedule with two teen/tween children, having three rows of seating is a massive win. It is the ultimate utility vehicle for a busy mom and business owner – and all the errands that go along with it. But the beauty of the Durango Hellcat is that it completely obliterates the “boring family hauler” stereotype. Yes, it is a big, heavy SUV, but the second you step on the gas, the sheer force of that Hellcat power makes you forget all about the curb weight.

The supercharger whine is absolutely intoxicating—it’s the perfect soundtrack to every school drop-off and highway merge. And thankfully, Dodge equipped it with massive Brembo brakes to haul all that weight and power to a confident stop. It effortlessly bridges the gap between maximum daily practicality and pure, unadulterated automotive fun.

My loaner arrived with 9,973 miles on the dash and I handed the keys back at 10,196. Over those 223 miles, it proved to be an incredibly capable daily driver. Dressed in a stunning teal-ish green that the brand officially calls Verde Fangio Metallic, the color is phenomenal in the sun, and the overall styling is aggressive enough to stand out on the roads, yet perfectly tailored for a put together look.

In fact, the Tonale absolutely holds its own in the opulence department. At the mall I found some European friends parked at Saks Fifth Avenue, so jumped in line right next to a sleek black Ferrari and a custom pink-wrapped Mercedes. Even in that kind of high-dollar company, the Alfa’s Italian heritage and striking front fascia commanded attention. It looked like it belonged right there in the VIP section, drawing looks for all the right reasons without having to try too hard.

Moving inside, the cockpit offers some genuine treats for the driver. I absolutely love that the start/stop button is located right on the steering wheel—a clearly race-inspired touch that immediately sets a sporty tone. Another fantastic design detail is the illuminated dash trim. During the day, it looks like a clean silver mesh, but when the lights come on at night, it glows with a cool red illumination that integrates the Alfa Romeo logo. It’s a sophisticated piece of interior theater that I never got tired of seeing.

That said, the cabin is a bit of a mixed bag. While those driver-focused elements are great, the rest of the interior leans toward the basic and functional side. It features the somewhat typical, “tacked-on” media screen rising from the center stack, which is not my favorite configuration. It’s practical, sure, but it feels a step behind the innovative design seen elsewhere on the car.

Speaking of my Mopar roots, I found a fun little Easter egg while admiring the exterior. If you peek through those classic Alfa Romeo five-hole wheels at the bright red calipers, you’ll spot the Mopar logo stamped right on the brake pads! It’s a cool little nod to the Stellantis family tree that definitely made me smile.

Under the hood, this specific model was running the 1.3L turbocharged PHEV powertrain. If you think a 1.3-liter engine sounds a little too tame, think again. With the hybrid system pushing 285 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque, it is surprisingly peppy. It has a spirited, sporty dynamic that makes taking corners and merging onto the highway genuinely fun rather than a chore. Even with a heavier foot in city traffic, I averaged 28.3 mpg during my week with it, which tracks perfectly alongside the official 29 mpg combined rating.

Overall, the Tonale is a fantastic balance of striking European aesthetics and punchy, practical performance. It’s an ideal option for someone who wants something a little unique, needs crossover versatility but refuses to give up a fun, engaging driving experience.

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