2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack: A Detailed Review

Did you know that the Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds? That’s faster than many exotic sports cars that cost twice as much! The Challenger has always been known for its powerful engines and classic muscle car styling, but the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack takes performance to a whole new level. With a massive 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine under the hood, this car is built for speed and excitement. But the Scat Pack is more than just a straight-line monster – it also offers surprisingly good handling, a comfortable interior, and a host of modern features and technology. In this in-depth review, we’ll take a closer look at everything that makes the 2023 Challenger R/T Scat Pack so special, from its jaw-dropping performance to its iconic design and everyday livability. So buckle up and get ready to explore one of the most thrilling muscle cars on the market today!

Introduction

The Legacy of the Challenger

The Dodge Challenger is one of the most iconic muscle cars in American automotive history. First introduced in 1970, the original Challenger was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro in the red-hot pony car segment. With its long hood, short deck, and wide stance, the Challenger had an aggressive look that perfectly captured the spirit of the muscle car era.

Over the years, the Challenger has gone through several generations and iterations, each one building on the legacy of the original. In 2008, Dodge reintroduced the Challenger after a 25-year hiatus, and the modern version has been a huge success. With its retro-inspired styling, powerful engines, and comfortable interior, the current Challenger has won over a new generation of fans while still staying true to its muscle car roots.

Why the R/T Scat Pack Stands Out

While the Challenger lineup includes a wide range of models and trim levels, the R/T Scat Pack is a standout choice for enthusiasts who want serious performance without breaking the bank. Slotting in above the base SXT and GT models but below the supercharged Hellcat and Demon variants, the Scat Pack offers a perfect balance of power, handling, and value.

At the heart of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine that produces a whopping 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic, giving drivers the choice between old-school shifting and modern convenience.

But the Scat Pack is more than just a big engine. It also comes equipped with a host of performance upgrades, including Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers, and a limited-slip differential. These features help the Challenger handle corners with surprising agility for such a large and heavy car.

Inside, the R/T Scat Pack offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with plenty of modern features and technology. From the Uconnect infotainment system to the available leather seats and premium audio system, this car is designed to be as enjoyable to live with on a daily basis as it is to drive on the track.

Overall, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack represents the sweet spot in the Challenger lineup. It offers more than enough power and performance to satisfy even the most demanding enthusiasts, while still being practical and affordable enough for everyday use. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each aspect of this impressive muscle car.

Performance

Engine and Transmission

The heart of any muscle car is its engine, and the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack does not disappoint in this regard. Under the hood lies a massive 6.4-liter HEMI V8 that produces an impressive 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a true powerhouse, with a deep, throaty exhaust note that will send shivers down your spine every time you step on the gas.

One of the great things about the Scat Pack’s engine is that it delivers power across a wide rev range. Whether you’re cruising at low speeds or hammering down on the throttle, there’s always plenty of torque on tap to get you moving. The engine also features a high-flow exhaust system and an active exhaust valve that opens up at higher rpms to let the HEMI breathe even more freely.

When it comes to transmissions, the R/T Scat Pack offers a choice between a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic. The manual transmission is a joy to use, with a short, precise throw and a nice, mechanical feel. It’s the perfect choice for purists who want the ultimate level of control over their car.

For those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience, the eight-speed automatic is a great option. This transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, and it does a great job of keeping the engine in its powerband. It also features paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, allowing you to take manual control when you want to have a little more fun.

Handling and Braking

While the Challenger is known primarily for its straight-line speed, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is no slouch when it comes to handling. This car is equipped with a number of performance upgrades that help it tackle corners with surprising agility for such a large and heavy vehicle.

One of the key features of the Scat Pack is its adaptive damping suspension system. This system uses sensors to constantly monitor the car’s movements and adjust the stiffness of the shocks in real-time. The result is a ride that is both comfortable and controlled, with minimal body roll and excellent stability at high speeds.

The R/T Scat Pack also comes standard with Brembo brakes, which are some of the best in the business. These brakes feature large, ventilated rotors and six-piston calipers up front, providing excellent stopping power and fade resistance. Whether you’re driving on the street or the track, you can feel confident that the Challenger’s brakes will bring you to a stop quickly and safely.

Another important handling feature of the Scat Pack is its limited-slip differential. This device helps to distribute power evenly between the rear wheels, preventing one wheel from spinning freely and causing the car to lose traction. The limited-slip diff works in conjunction with the Challenger’s traction control system to provide excellent grip and stability, even when you’re pushing the car to its limits.

Acceleration and Top Speed

Of course, the real reason most people buy a muscle car is for the sheer thrill of acceleration, and the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack does not disappoint in this regard. With 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque on tap, this car is an absolute rocket ship.

According to Dodge, the Scat Pack can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds when equipped with the eight-speed automatic transmission. That’s an incredibly impressive time for a car that weighs over 4,200 pounds. The manual transmission is slightly slower, with a 0-60 time of around 4.5 seconds, but it’s still plenty quick for most drivers.

Once you’re up to speed, the Challenger just keeps on pulling. The car has a top speed of 176 mph, which is more than enough to get your heart racing. And thanks to the Scat Pack’s excellent stability and braking, you can feel confident pushing the car to its limits on the track or the open road.

One of the great things about the R/T Scat Pack‘s acceleration is how effortless it feels. The car’s massive torque output means that you don’t have to rev the engine to the moon to get moving – just step on the gas and hold on tight. The Challenger’s launch control system also helps to optimize acceleration by holding the engine at the perfect rpm and managing wheel spin for maximum traction.

Overall, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is an absolute beast when it comes to straight-line performance. Whether you’re drag racing at the strip or just want to feel the thrill of acceleration on the street, this car will not disappoint.

Design and Styling

Exterior Design

The 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a car that commands attention wherever it goes. With its classic muscle car proportions and aggressive styling, this car is sure to turn heads and get people talking.

The Challenger’s exterior design is heavily inspired by the original 1970 model, with a long hood, short deck, and wide stance that give it an unmistakable presence on the road. The Scat Pack takes this classic look and adds a number of performance-inspired touches that help it stand out from the crowd.

Up front, the R/T Scat Pack features a unique grille with a honeycomb pattern and a large air intake that helps to keep the engine cool. The hood is also equipped with a functional scoop that feeds air directly into the engine, helping to increase power and performance.

Along the sides, the Scat Pack features bold “Scat Pack Bee” graphics that pay homage to the original Scat Pack models from the 1960s and 70s. The car also comes standard with 20-inch wheels that are designed to look like the classic “Rallye” wheels from the original Challenger.

At the rear, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack features a unique spoiler that helps to improve aerodynamics and give the car a more aggressive look. The car also has a dual exhaust system with bright chrome tips that let everyone know this is no ordinary Challenger.

Overall, the exterior design of the Scat Pack is a perfect blend of classic muscle car style and modern performance. It’s a car that looks fast even when it’s standing still, and it’s sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

Interior Design

While the exterior of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is all about classic muscle car style, the interior is a modern and comfortable place to spend time. Dodge has done an excellent job of combining retro-inspired design elements with the latest technology and convenience features.

One of the first things you’ll notice when you step inside the Scat Pack is the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The seats are upholstered in premium cloth or optional leather, and they feature aggressive bolstering to keep you in place during hard cornering. The steering wheel is also wrapped in leather and features a flat bottom design that makes it easier to get in and out of the car.

The dashboard of the R/T Scat Pack is dominated by a large, 8.4-inch touchscreen display that houses the Uconnect infotainment system. This system is one of the best in the business, with intuitive controls, fast response times, and a wide range of features including navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

In front of the driver, there’s a customizable 7-inch digital display that shows important information like speed, rpm, and fuel level. This display can be configured to show a variety of different layouts and designs, allowing you to personalize the look of your dashboard.

Other notable interior features of the Scat Pack include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system with six speakers, and a variety of storage compartments throughout the cabin. There’s also plenty of room for passengers, with comfortable seating for up to five adults.

Overall, the interior of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a great place to spend time. It’s comfortable, well-equipped, and designed with the driver in mind. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or tearing up the track, you’ll appreciate the thought and care that went into creating this impressive cabin.

Features and Technology

Infotainment System

One of the standout features of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is its Uconnect infotainment system. This system is widely regarded as one of the best in the business, with a user-friendly interface, fast response times, and a wide range of features and capabilities.

At the heart of the Uconnect system is an 8.4-inch touchscreen display that sits prominently in the center of the dashboard. This display is bright, clear, and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. It’s also highly responsive to touch inputs, with minimal lag or delay.

The Uconnect system includes a variety of features that make it easy to stay connected and entertained while on the go. These include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which allow you to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and features directly from the touchscreen display.
• Navigation system with 3D maps and real-time traffic updates, helping you get to your destination quickly and easily.
• SiriusXM satellite radio with a wide variety of music, news, and entertainment channels.
• Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
• USB ports for charging your devices and playing music from a flash drive.

In addition to these features, the Uconnect system also includes a variety of settings and options that allow you to customize your driving experience. For example, you can adjust the car’s performance settings, configure the digital driver display, and even set up a Wi-Fi hotspot for your passengers.

Overall, the Uconnect infotainment system is a major selling point for the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack. It’s easy to use, packed with features, and designed to keep you connected and entertained no matter where your travels take you.

Safety Features

While performance is the main focus of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack, Dodge hasn’t forgotten about safety. This car comes equipped with a variety of advanced safety features that help to keep you and your passengers protected on the road.

Some of the key safety features of the Scat Pack include:

• Advanced multistage front airbags, which deploy with different levels of force depending on the severity of the impact.
• Supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, which provide additional protection for the driver and front passenger in the event of a side impact.
• Electronic stability control, which helps to prevent the car from losing control in slippery or unstable conditions.
• Traction control, which helps to maintain grip and prevent wheel spin when accelerating on slippery surfaces.
• Brake assist, which applies maximum braking force in emergency situations to help bring the car to a stop more quickly.
• Rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what’s behind the car when reversing.

In addition to these standard safety features, the R/T Scat Pack also offers a variety of optional safety packages that add even more protection. For example, the Driver Convenience Group package includes blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which help to prevent collisions when changing lanes or backing out of a parking space.

Overall, while the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack may be a performance-focused car, it still offers a comprehensive suite of safety features that help to keep you and your passengers protected on the road. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or pushing the car to its limits on the track, you can feel confident knowing that you’re surrounded by some of the latest and greatest safety technology.

Convenience Features

In addition to its impressive performance and safety features, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack also offers a variety of convenience features that make it a great car to live with on a daily basis. These features are designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable, whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a weekend road trip.

Some of the key convenience features of the Scat Pack include:

• Keyless entry and push-button start, which allow you to unlock and start the car without ever taking the key out of your pocket.
• Dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver and front passenger to set their own temperature preferences.
• Heated and ventilated front seats, which provide comfort in both hot and cold weather.
• Power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, which helps to reduce fatigue on long drives.
• Heated steering wheel, which is a welcome feature on cold mornings.
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror, which reduces glare from headlights behind you.
• Universal garage door opener, which allows you to program the car to open your garage door with the push of a button.

In addition to these standard convenience features, the R/T Scat Pack also offers a variety of optional packages that add even more comfort and convenience. For example, the Plus Package includes leather-trimmed seats, a premium audio system, and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

Overall, the convenience features of the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack help to make this car a great daily driver. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a long road trip, you’ll appreciate the thought and care that went into designing this car’s interior to work and live with on a daily basis.

Driving Experience

Everyday Driveability

While the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is undoubtedly a high-performance muscle car, it’s also surprisingly easy to live with as a daily driver. Thanks to its comfortable interior, smooth ride quality, and array of modern features and amenities, the Scat Pack is a car that you can enjoy driving every day, not just on weekends at the track.

One of the key factors that makes the Challenger so livable is its spacious and well-appointed interior. Unlike some other sports cars that sacrifice comfort for performance, the Challenger offers plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, with supportive seats and ample legroom and headroom. The cabin is also well-insulated from road and wind noise, making it a pleasant place to spend time even on longer trips.

Another factor that contributes to the Scat Pack’s everyday driveability is its relatively smooth and compliant ride quality. Despite its high-performance suspension and large 20-inch wheels, the Challenger does an admirable job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and composed ride even on rough pavement. The adaptive damping system, which is available as an option, further enhances the car’s ride quality by automatically adjusting the stiffness of the shocks based on driving conditions.

Of course, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack is still a powerful and exciting car to drive, with its 485-horsepower V8 engine and performance-tuned chassis. But thanks to its user-friendly features like the 8-speed automatic transmission, launch control, and selectable drive modes, it’s easy to tailor the car’s performance to your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for maximum acceleration and handling for spirited driving, or a more relaxed and efficient setup for commuting, the Scat Pack has you covered.

Track Performance

While the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a great daily driver, it really comes alive on the track. With its powerful 485-horsepower V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and high-performance brakes, the Scat Pack is a car that is built for speed and agility.

One of the key features that makes the Challenger so capable on the track is its launch control system. This system helps to optimize acceleration by holding the engine at the ideal rpm and managing wheel spin for maximum traction. With launch control engaged, the Scat Pack can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, a truly impressive feat for a car of its size and weight.

Another factor that contributes to the Challenger’s track performance is its sport-tuned suspension. The Scat Pack comes standard with a high-performance suspension that includes stiffer springs, larger sway bars, and performance-tuned shocks. This setup helps to keep the car flat and stable through corners, while also providing excellent feedback and responsiveness to driver inputs.

The Challenger R/T Scat Pack also comes equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes, which provide exceptional stopping power and fade resistance even under hard use. The brakes feature large 14.2-inch rotors up front and 13.8-inch rotors in the rear, with four-piston calipers all around. These brakes are more than capable of handling the car’s high-speed capabilities, and provide confident and consistent performance lap after lap.

For those who want even more track-focused performance, the Scat Pack offers a few key options. The Dynamics Package adds wider 20-inch wheels with sticky performance tires, along with six-piston Brembo front brakes for even better stopping power. The Widebody Package, meanwhile, adds wider fenders and tires for improved grip and stability, along with unique suspension tuning for even sharper handling.

Overall, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a car that is just as capable on the track as it is on the street. With its powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and high-performance brakes, it offers an exhilarating and engaging driving experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning enthusiasts.

Fuel Efficiency

While the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is certainly not the most fuel-efficient car on the market, it does offer reasonable gas mileage for a high-performance muscle car. With its 6.4-liter V8 engine and 485 horsepower, the Scat Pack is rated by the EPA at 15 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined when equipped with the 8-speed automatic transmission.

These numbers are actually quite respectable for a car with this level of performance, and are comparable to other high-powered sports cars in its class. The Challenger’s relatively large size and weight do have an impact on its fuel efficiency, but the car’s advanced engine technologies help to mitigate this to some extent.

For example, the Scat Pack’s 6.4-liter V8 features a high-flow intake and exhaust system, along with a performance-tuned engine management system that helps to optimize fuel delivery and combustion. The engine also features Dodge’s Fuel Saver Technology, which can deactivate four of the eight cylinders when cruising at steady speeds to help improve efficiency.

The Challenger’s 8-speed automatic transmission also plays a role in its fuel efficiency, with its wide ratio spread and quick, smooth shifts helping to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The transmission also features a selectable Eco mode, which adjusts shift points and throttle response to help maximize fuel economy.

Of course, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack‘s fuel efficiency will vary depending on how it’s driven. If you’re constantly pushing the car to its limits and exploiting its full performance potential, you can expect to see significantly lower numbers than the EPA ratings. But for most everyday driving situations, the Scat Pack’s fuel efficiency is quite reasonable, especially considering its impressive performance capabilities.

Value and Ownership

Pricing and Options

The 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack starts at a base price of $46,400, which puts it in the middle of the Challenger lineup in terms of pricing. For that price, you get a well-equipped car with a powerful 485-horsepower V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, high-performance brakes, and a host of other performance and convenience features.

Of course, as with most modern cars, there are a number of options and packages available that can quickly increase the price of the Scat Pack. Some of the most notable options include:

• Plus Package ($2,495): Adds leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, premium audio system, and more.
• Dynamics Package ($1,595): Adds wider 20-inch wheels with performance tires, six-piston Brembo front brakes, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
• Widebody Package ($6,000): Adds wider fenders and tires, unique suspension tuning, and a more aggressive look.
• Technology Group ($1,795): Adds adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and other advanced safety features.

With all of these options and packages, it’s easy to configure a Challenger R/T Scat Pack that costs well over $60,000. However, even at its base price, the Scat Pack represents a strong value proposition, offering an impressive level of performance and features for the money.

It’s also worth noting that the Challenger has historically had strong resale value, which can help to offset some of the initial cost of ownership. While depreciation is always a factor with any new car purchase, the Challenger’s iconic status and enduring popularity help to keep its value relatively high over time.

Reliability and Maintenance

The 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a high-performance car with a powerful V8 engine, so it’s natural to have some concerns about reliability and maintenance costs. However, in general, the Challenger has a reputation for being a relatively reliable and low-maintenance vehicle, especially for a car in its class.

One factor that contributes to the Challenger’s reliability is its proven powertrain. The 6.4-liter V8 engine has been used in a variety of Dodge and Chrysler vehicles over the years, and has a reputation for being durable and long-lasting. The 8-speed automatic transmission is also a proven design that has been used in many other vehicles across the Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler) lineup.

Of course, like any high-performance car, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack does require regular maintenance to keep it running at its best. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake fluid flushes, as well as more extensive services like spark plug replacements and valve adjustments at higher mileage intervals.

The good news is that many of these maintenance items are relatively straightforward and can be performed by a competent mechanic or even a skilled DIY enthusiast. Dodge also offers a variety of maintenance plans and extended warranties that can help to cover the cost of repairs and services over the life of the vehicle.

In terms of reliability, the Challenger has generally received good marks from independent sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. While no car is completely immune to problems, the Challenger’s track record suggests that it is a relatively dependable vehicle that should provide years of trouble-free driving with proper care and maintenance.

Resale Value

One of the factors that makes the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack an attractive proposition for many buyers is its strong resale value. While all cars depreciate over time, the Challenger has historically held its value better than many other vehicles in its class, thanks in part to its iconic status and enduring popularity.

According to data from Kelley Blue Book, the Dodge Challenger has consistently ranked among the top vehicles in its class for resale value. In fact, the Challenger was named the Best Resale Value in its class by KBB in 2021, with a projected resale value of 54.5% after five years of ownership.

There are a few factors that contribute to the Challenger’s strong resale value. One is its timeless design and classic muscle car styling, which have helped to make it an instant icon and a favorite among enthusiasts. The Challenger’s powerful V8 engines and impressive performance capabilities also help to keep it in high demand on the used car market.

Another factor is the Challenger’s relatively low production volume compared to some of its competitors. While the Mustang and Camaro have been produced in much higher numbers over the years, the Challenger has always been a bit more exclusive, which helps to keep demand high and values strong.

Of course, resale value is just one factor to consider when buying a car, and it’s important to keep in mind that individual results may vary depending on factors like mileage, condition, and local market conditions. However, for buyers who prioritize long-term value and want a car that will hold its worth over time, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack is definitely a strong contender.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

After taking a deep dive into the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack, it’s clear that this is a car that has a lot to offer for fans of classic American muscle. With its powerful 485-horsepower V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling, the Scat Pack is a true performance machine that can hold its own against the best in its class.

But the Challenger is more than just a one-trick pony. It also offers a surprisingly comfortable and well-appointed interior, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. And thanks to its modern features and amenities, it’s a car that is easy to live with on a daily basis, whether you’re commuting to work or hitting the open road for a weekend getaway.

Of course, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack is not without its flaws. Its large size and heavy weight can make it feel a bit cumbersome in tight corners, and its fuel efficiency is not exactly class-leading. And while its interior is comfortable and well-equipped, it may not quite match the level of refinement and luxury found in some of its European competitors.

But for buyers who prioritize classic muscle car style, raw performance, and everyday livability, the Scat Pack is hard to beat. It offers an unbeatable combination of power, comfort, and value, all wrapped up in a package that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

Recommendation

So, who should buy the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack? In our opinion, this car is a great choice for anyone who loves the classic muscle car formula but wants a vehicle that is also practical and easy to live with on a daily basis.

If you prioritize performance above all else and want a car that can dominate at the drag strip or on the track, the Scat Pack is definitely worth a look. Its powerful V8 engine and sport-tuned suspension make it a true force to be reckoned with, and its available performance packages and options allow you to tailor the car to your specific needs and preferences.

At the same time, if you’re looking for a comfortable and well-equipped daily driver that can also hold its own on the weekends, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a great choice. Its spacious and well-appointed interior, modern features and amenities, and relatively smooth ride quality make it a car that is easy to live with day in and day out.

Of course, the Scat Pack is not the right choice for everyone. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, or the ultimate in luxury and refinement, there may be better options out there for you. And if you’re looking for a car that can carve up a twisty backroad with the best of them, the Challenger’s size and weight may be a bit of a hindrance.

But for buyers who want a classic muscle car experience with a modern twist, the 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is hard to beat. With its impressive performance, comfortable interior, and strong value proposition, it’s a car that is sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.