What the 2016 Dodge Charger Road and Track delivers

The 2016 Dodge Charger Road and Track is a mid-level performance trim that sits between the base SE and the top-tier SRT 392. It pairs a 370-horsepower V8 engine with a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The package costs less than the SRT 392 but gives you noticeably sharper handling than the standard Charger, making it the choice for drivers who want real performance without the highest price tag.

This trim comes standard with all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive options, depending on your market. The Road and Track focuses on balanced performance—enough power to feel quick on the road, but not so extreme that it demands premium fuel or constant maintenance.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Road and Track uses a 370-hp 5.7L V8 paired with an eight-speed automatic, producing 395 lb-ft of torque.
  • Performance upgrades include a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and 20-inch wheels that improve handling over base models.
  • Real-world fuel economy runs roughly 15 to 17 mpg combined, depending on driving conditions and transmission type.
  • The Road and Track sits between the SE and SRT 392 in price, offering a middle ground for buyers who want performance without the SRT's cost or complexity.

Engine and transmission specs

The 2016 Charger Road and Track uses Dodge's 5.7-liter HEMI V8, the same engine that powers several other Dodge and Chrysler vehicles. It produces 370 horsepower at 5,150 rpm and 395 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. That output is identical whether you choose all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, though the drivetrain choice affects how the power reaches the ground.

Power flows through an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability. The transmission allows you to hold gears if you want more control during spirited driving, though most owners leave it in automatic mode for daily use. The eight-speed helps keep engine rpm lower on the highway, which contributes to better fuel economy than older five- or six-speed automatics in the same engine.

The V8 requires regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum), though Dodge recommends premium (91 octane or higher) for best performance. Using regular fuel will not damage the engine but may reduce power slightly and increase knock in aggressive driving.

Suspension, brakes, and handling improvements

The Road and Track suspension is tuned firmer than the base SE model, with stiffer springs and dampers designed to reduce body roll during cornering. The result is noticeably sharper turn-in and more predictable handling on twisting roads, though the trade-off is a slightly firmer ride on rough pavement compared to softer-sprung models.

Braking hardware includes larger rotors and performance-oriented pads compared to the SE. The system uses four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution as standard. Real-world stopping distances are good, though not exceptional by modern sports car standards—expect roughly 120 feet from 60 mph in dry conditions.

The Road and Track rides on 20-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires, a step up from the 18-inch wheels on the SE. The larger diameter and stickier rubber contribute directly to the improved handling feel. If you plan to replace tires, staying with a performance-oriented compound will preserve the handling characteristics Dodge engineered into this trim.

Fuel economy and real-world efficiency

The EPA rates the 2016 Charger Road and Track at 15 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive, or 15 city and 24 highway with all-wheel drive. Combined, that works out to roughly 19 mpg for the RWD version and 18 mpg for the AWD. Real-world owners typically report 15 to 17 mpg combined depending on driving style and conditions.

Aggressive acceleration and sustained high-speed driving will drop fuel economy noticeably. Highway cruising at steady speeds yields the best mileage. The eight-speed transmission helps by keeping the engine at lower rpm during highway driving, which reduces fuel consumption compared to older automatics.

The fuel tank holds 18.5 gallons, giving you a realistic range of roughly 280 to 320 miles per tank under mixed driving. This is adequate for daily commuting but means longer road trips will require more frequent fill-ups than a four-cylinder sedan.

Dimensions, weight, and cargo space

The 2016 Charger is a full-size sedan with a long wheelbase designed for stability at speed. Overall length is 200.3 inches, width is 75.7 inches, and height is 59.8 inches. Curb weight for the Road and Track is approximately 3,970 pounds with rear-wheel drive or 4,130 pounds with all-wheel drive, reflecting the extra mass of the AWD system.

The trunk holds 16.2 cubic feet of cargo, which is reasonable for a sedan but smaller than many competitors. The rear seats do not fold, so you cannot extend cargo space for longer items. The back seat is best suited for two passengers rather than three, given the width of the transmission tunnel and the performance-oriented seating position.

Standard features and trim differences

The Road and Track includes features that distinguish it from the base SE: the sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels, performance brakes, and unique exterior styling cues like a more aggressive front fascia and hood vents. Inside, you get performance-oriented gauges and available leather seating.

Common options include a navigation system, upgraded audio, and a sunroof. The infotainment system uses Dodge's Uconnect platform, which is straightforward to operate and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on 2016 models with the newer software version.

Safety features include electronic stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The Charger did not receive a five-star overall rating from NHTSA in 2016, though it performed adequately in most crash tests. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available but not standard on the Road and Track.

Comparing Road and Track to other 2016 Charger trims

The SE is the base model with a 292-hp V8, softer suspension, and 18-inch wheels. It costs less but feels noticeably less planted in corners and less responsive to throttle input. The SE is the right choice if you prioritize fuel economy and a smoother ride over performance.

The SRT 392 sits above the Road and Track with a 485-hp 6.4-liter V8, adaptive suspension, and track-focused braking. It costs significantly more and demands premium fuel. The SRT 392 is the choice for drivers who want maximum performance and are willing to pay for it.

The Road and Track occupies the practical middle ground: it delivers genuine performance improvements over the SE without the cost, complexity, or fuel requirements of the SRT 392. For most buyers seeking a performance Charger, it represents the best balance of capability and value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 2016 Charger Road and Track and the SRT 392?

The Road and Track uses a 370-hp 5.7L V8, while the SRT 392 has a 485-hp 6.4L V8. The SRT 392 also includes an adaptive suspension, larger brakes, and premium fuel requirement. The SRT 392 costs roughly $10,000 to $15,000 more and is aimed at drivers who want maximum performance.

Can I get the Road and Track with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2016 Charger Road and Track is available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The AWD version adds about 160 pounds and reduces fuel economy slightly (24 mpg highway versus 25 for RWD), but improves traction in snow and wet conditions.

Does the 2016 Road and Track require premium fuel?

No. The 5.7L V8 runs on regular unleaded (87 octane). Dodge recommends premium (91 octane or higher) for best performance, but regular fuel will not damage the engine. Using regular may reduce power slightly under hard acceleration.

How does the Road and Track suspension feel compared to the base SE?

The Road and Track suspension is noticeably firmer, with less body roll in corners and quicker steering response. The trade-off is a slightly stiffer ride on rough pavement. Most owners find the balance appropriate for a performance sedan, though those prioritizing comfort may prefer the softer SE suspension.

What kind of fuel economy should I expect in real-world driving?

Most owners report 15 to 17 mpg combined under typical mixed driving. Highway cruising at steady speeds yields closer to 19 to 20 mpg, while aggressive acceleration drops it to 12 to 14 mpg. Your actual mileage will depend on driving habits and conditions.