Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Dodge Challenger
With an overall Carivo score of 7.0/10, the 2021 Dodge Challenger earns a Good rating among the sportss we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 7.8/10, while Technology at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sports — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 7.8/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 7.8/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.7/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.6/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $30,025–$39,734, 19 MPG, seating 5, the Dodge Challenger sits in the mid-market bracket of the sports segment. The value score of 6.9/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2021 Dodge Challenger, but it needs the right buyer. Its value and performance and technology scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sportss
The 2021 Dodge Challenger ranks #291 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 8% of the segment. Its 7.0/10 overall score is 0.7 points below the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $30,025 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $46,090 by about 35%.
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Dodge Challenger scores 7.0/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.0 — and starts roughly $3,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 19 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Dodge Challenger (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Electrical system / instrument cluster/panel 26/08/2021 · 21V664000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Challenger vehicles. The affected vehicles do not illuminate their safety system status indicators sufficiently in both daylight and nighttime driving conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to…
Visibility / Windshield 08/07/2021 · 21V516000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2021 Dodge Challenger
Is the 2021 Dodge Challenger reliable?
We rate the 2021 Dodge Challenger's reliability 7.8/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Dodge Challenger have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Dodge Challenger worth buying?
It scores 7.0/10 overall, ranking #291 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 8% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Dodge Challenger cost?
The 2021 Dodge Challenger starts at $30,025 and ranges up to $39,734 across trims (MSRP when new). At 19 MPG, expect roughly $2,763/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Dodge Challenger
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Similar Sports to Consider
Other sportss at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
