Totally Redesigned Charger Shown Off to Dealers in Vegas

1999 Dodge Charger R/T Concept (Credit: © Dodge)

FCA dealerships recently attended a convention in Las Vegas where the auto group showed off a bunch of new models. One of these models was the completely redesigned (and long overdue) Dodge Charger. While a redesign of the aging Charger is welcome news, there is a slight twist to this report.

According to Automotive News, the redesigned Charger will actually look more like the 1999 Charger R/T concept that stole everyone’s heart than the current model. The image above, while quite dated, still shows a sexy design that perfectly combines old with new.

Probably the best part about the 1999 concept was that its rear doors were somewhat hidden, giving the model a look that almost resembled a coupe. This would play right into the desires of Dodge purists who lambasted the brand for making the resurrected Charger a four-door model.

Also revealed at the event was the fact that the new Charger will share its platform with the upcoming Giulia. This likely points toward the highest-output Chargers using the same 510-horsepower twin-turbo V-6 as the Alfa. This may ruffle some feathers among old-timers, but it is the way the automotive world is going these days.

For now, these are all just rumors based on the claims of some loose-lipped dealers, but I suspect there is plenty of truth behind them. The Charger sorely needs a refresh to keep buyers interested in it, and the latest update didn’t move the needle too much.

If this proves to be true, look for at least a concept version to roll out within the next year and a production model by 2018 or 2019.