The 2024 Dodge Charger R/T weighs more than Mazda's three-row CX-90 SUV, a striking comparison that exposes how modern muscle cars have ballooned in mass while crossovers remain relatively svelte.
Car and Driver's testing reveals the Charger R/T tips the scales heavier than an eight-passenger family hauler, underscoring a troubling industry trend. The Charger R/T, Dodge's modern interpretation of the classic American muscle car, carries substantial weight from its 5.7-liter V8 engine, robust transmission, and reinforced chassis needed to handle that power. The CX-90, meanwhile, slots into Mazda's compact crossover lineup designed for efficiency and everyday practicality rather than performance dominance.
This weight disparity matters beyond bragging rights. The Charger R/T's extra heft compromises fuel economy, acceleration, and handling dynamics compared to lighter competitors. A heavier vehicle demands more braking distance, strains suspension components faster, and requires larger engines to achieve acceptable performance. Conversely, the CX-90's lighter construction allows Mazda to deliver adequate power with smaller displacement engines while maintaining better efficiency ratings.
The comparison highlights how American manufacturers have chased size and capability, resulting in vehicles that exceed what consumers actually need. A two-door performance car outweighing a three-row family SUV represents poor packaging efficiency and engineering priorities skewed toward raw power rather than overall vehicle dynamics.
Modern emissions regulations and safety standards push manufacturers toward heavier vehicles. Structural reinforcements, battery-laden infotainment systems, and complex safety features add pounds across the board. Yet Mazda demonstrates that disciplined engineering can keep crossovers competitive without excessive weight.
For buyers, the Charger R/T's weight reveals its identity