Dodge to Phase Out Base Charger EV by 2026, Leaving Scat Pack as Sole Option
The Dodge Charger Daytona is set to undergo a notable transformation for the 2026 model year. Contrary to expectations about reductions in weight or size, the overhaul involves trimming down the available trims. As reported by Mopar Insiders, the entry-level R/T variant will be discontinued, making the Scat Pack the exclusive electric Charger option for the upcoming year.
Sales figures reveal a significant decline, with Charger sales dropping by 54 percent in 2024. This downturn accounts for an unspecified number of older models equipped with traditional gasoline engines still on the road. Dodge released its Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) sales data for the first quarter of 2025, showing only 1,947 units sold. This total includes both R/T and Scat Pack trims. Additionally, Mopar Insiders pointed out that around 3,500 R/T models remain unsold in dealerships.
The Charger Daytona R/T, while being the base model, still boasts an impressive 496 horsepower from its dual-motor setup. It accelerates to 60 mph in the high four-second range and offers an EPA-estimated range of 308 miles on a full charge. In contrast, the Scat Pack variant ramps up the power to 670 horsepower and achieves quarter-mile times in the mid-11-second range, though its range decreases to 241 miles. Pricing also varies, with the Scat Pack model priced around $60,000 after applying a $7,500 tax credit, whereas the R/T model remains under $50,000 with the credit included.
Dodge's decision to eliminate the base electric Charger aligns with the apparent lack of strong interest from dedicated Charger enthusiasts and the broader Dodge fan base towards electric models. The introduction of the upcoming four-door Charger Sixpack, which will feature internal combustion engines, further justifies the removal of the lower-tier electric option. While pricing for the Charger Sixpack has yet to be announced, it is expected to be competitive with the current R/T pricing.
The market's reception to the new six-cylinder Charger remains uncertain. The Sixpack will offer only two engine choices: a standard or high-output version of the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, producing 420 or 550 horsepower respectively. These figures surpass those of previous Hemi engines, excluding the 6.4-liter SRT 392 and the supercharged Hellcat variants. However, as demonstrated by Ram's recent performance, increased horsepower does not necessarily guarantee higher sales.
Dodge is expected to provide further details about the 2026 Charger lineup in the near future. Stay tuned for more updates.