2016 Dodge Charger
The 2016 Dodge Charger carries over largely the same from its mid-cycle refresh done the year prior, with lots of configurability between trim level and drive train package. As has been the course, the line up consists of the SE, SXT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat. All models are rear-wheel drive as standard, however the SE and SXT can be upgraded to AWD. Serving entry level performance needs is the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, factory rated at 292 hp and 260 lb-ft. For the performance nuts, most will want to start with the 5.7L V8 Hemi, rated at 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, found in the R/T models. The R/T Scat Pack and SRT 392 get an even bigger 6.4L Hemi gas V8, tipping the dyno at 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, alongside other goodies like active exhaust, adjustable dampening suspension and bigger brakes. At the top of the 2016 Charger lineup is the SRT Hellcat, which packs a 707 horsepower supercharged 6.2L V8 under its hood. Regardless of trim level, here are a few ideas on how to make a 2016 Charger even better.
All Around Performance Upgrade
- Better braking
- Improved cornering
- Increased traction
Want all of the above? Outfitting your 2016 Dodge Charger with a quality set of high performance tires will help improve acceleration, braking and cornering all due to increased traction. For street going Chargers, tires that fall into the performance or high performance summer category will be the best option. These tires offer aggressive and sticky compounds that are ideal for warm weather use. They provide very good grip with the road and create an very sporty driving experience. Further, performance and high performance summer tires retain the necessary tread pattern and sipes to help shed water if driving in the rain, with the performance category tires doing better in the wet. Be aware, however, that aggressive tires don't last as many miles as a regular touring or all-season tire, and they are likely to be a bit noisier. Treadwear rating is provided by the manufacturer and printed on the sidewall, with a higher number detonating an expected longer tread life. Another aspect to consider when choosing a tire for a 2016 Charger is speed rating. All tires carry a speed rating, designated on the sidewall with letters L through Y. Given the high speed capabilities of the car, look for tires with a speed rating index of at least U, which signifies 124 miles per hour.
Four Corner Suspension Overhaul
After taking care of the tires, overhaul both the front and rear suspension with a suspension handling kit. These kits are engineered to take the guesswork out of suspension upgrades and provide a complete solution that addresses the coil springs, stabilizer bars, end links and even in some cases the shock absorbers. These are intended as complete lowering and handling packages, with the springs dropping the car by an inch or an inch and a half. Doing so produces a mean stance and also lowers the center of gravity which will relate to less body roll in turns. Thicker front and rear stabilizer bars further this effect by increasing rigidity between each side of the car, keeping a leveled stance under hard cornering. Included with these handling systems are polyurethane bushings, which compared to the rubber bushings used throughout the car, deflect significantly less and will provide a firmer and more connected driving feel.
