2021 Dodge Charger vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a staple in the muscle car segment, continued to captivate buyers with its diverse range of variants, including the high-performance SRT Hellcat Redeye. Despite its decade-old design, the Charger maintained a distinctive presence with its widebody options and bold styling cues like the functional performance hood. The exterior offered a plethora of customization options, from wheel designs to paint colours, allowing owners to personalize their vehicles. However, the interior, while improved over the years, still lacked the premium feel expected in higher-priced models, with a prevalence of hard plastics and basic technology features.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Passat presented a more understated and conservative design, following a significant facelift in 2020. Its exterior bore a resemblance to the smaller Jetta, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency with a drag coefficient of 0.28. The Passat's interior focused on functionality, with well-placed analog controls and a clean design, though some might find it plain. The materials used were appropriate for its market positioning, offering a value-oriented option without the frills of more luxurious competitors. Despite its simplicity, the Passat's fit and finish were commendable, providing a practical and comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Dodge Charger excelled in performance, offering a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The base models, including the SXT and GT, featured a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, delivering up to 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the R/T variant boasted a 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine with 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, while the Scat Pack models offered a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 with 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The pinnacle of the lineup, the SRT Hellcat Redeye, featured a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8, producing an impressive 797 horsepower and 707 pound-feet of torque. Despite its power, the Charger maintained a manageable driving experience, though fuel efficiency varied significantly across models.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat, on the other hand, offered a single powertrain option: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This setup produced 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. However, the Passat's power delivery felt uneven at times, particularly during highway overtakes, though switching to Sport mode improved responsiveness. While the Passat didn't aim to be sporty, it offered a comfortable ride with good noise insulation, though it lacked the excitement found in some of its competitors.

The 2021 Dodge Charger, a four-door, five-passenger sedan, balanced performance with practicality, offering a spacious back seat and a comfortable interior. While the technology in the driver's view was somewhat dated, it remained functional and easy to read. The steering wheel provided intuitive controls, and paddle shifters were available on most models, though they could be accidentally engaged during spirited driving. The Charger also featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, enhancing its cargo capacity, which was average for its class.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat emphasized rear-seat comfort, offering 993 millimetres of legroom, though front legroom was slightly compromised. The driving position was less comfortable, with limited thigh support and a cramped feel for taller drivers. The Passat's cargo space, at 450 litres, was competitive, though in-cabin storage was limited. The layout of controls was a highlight, with large buttons and knobs within easy reach, complementing the straightforward design of the instrument cluster.

The 2021 Dodge Charger came equipped with essential features, including a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. Higher trims offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio systems, and navigation, though the lack of a head-up display and the dated Uconnect system were drawbacks. The Charger provided a range of optional features, enhancing its appeal to tech-savvy buyers.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat featured the MIB2 infotainment system with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. The Execline trim added navigation and a premium audio system. While the touchscreen was small, the Passat's use of physical controls for basic functions was practical. However, the lack of advanced tech features like the Digital Cockpit and newer infotainment systems might disappoint some buyers.

The 2021 Dodge Charger received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features including brake assist, electronic stability control, and rear park assist. Optional safety packages offered adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and other driver aids.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat earned top "good" scores from the IIHS, though its headlights received a "marginal" rating. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, with additional aids available on higher trims. The Passat also featured VW's Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System.