Automaker Dodge forgoes production of the Canada-built Charger Daytona R/T in 2026, postpones four-door model release.
Dodge, the Michigan-based automaker, has announced significant changes to its 2026 lineup, including the discontinuation of the entry-level Charger Daytona R/T trim and a delay in the launch of the four-door variant of the Charger Daytona EV.
The decision to drop the Charger Daytona R/T trim mainly comes due to low sales and ongoing software issues, backlash from traditional HEMI engine enthusiasts, and persistent software problems that delayed the initial launch and continue to impact vehicle performance and customer satisfaction. Although deliveries for the Charger Daytona officially began in early 2025, Dodge quickly discontinued the base R/T version but has promised its return in the 2026 model year.
Regarding the delay of the four-door variant of the Charger Daytona EV, direct details are limited, but this likely ties into the broader challenges Dodge faces with software reliability and consumer reception in the transition to electric muscle cars, which complicates rollout timing.
The Charger Daytona Scat Pack, which produces 670 horsepower, will be the only version of the electric Charger Daytona available for 2026. Priced at a significantly higher price, around C$90,000, the Scat Pack avoids overlap with more affordable and better-performing EVs from competitors like Tesla and Lucid.
The new design accents for the Charger Daytona EV include dual Fratzog stripes and an available gloss black hood. Both the coupe and the four-door Charger Daytona EV will feature a new Track Package, upgraded brakes, adaptive suspension, and new design accents.
Despite the delay, the four-door Charger Daytona EV will offer up to 1,090 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and is set to launch in the second half of 2025 as a 2026 model. Unfortunately, the Charger Daytona EV will not be available in the entry-level Charger Daytona R/T trim.
Over 3,500 units of the Charger Daytona R/T are still sitting unsold on U.S. dealer lots, highlighting the challenges the model faced in the market. Dodge’s overall strategy seems to involve focusing on higher trims like the Scat Pack while refining software issues and electrification efforts for future model years.
References:
[1] Edmunds (2023). Dodge Charger Daytona R/T Production Pauses Amid Software Issues and Sluggish Sales. [online] Available at: https://www.edmunds.com/news/car-news/dodge-charger-daytona-r-t-production-pauses-amid-software-issues-and-sluggish-sales/
[2] Motor Trend (2023). Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack EV: First Look. [online] Available at: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/dodge/charger/daytona/charger-daytona-scat-pack-ev/
[3] Car and Driver (2023). Dodge Charger Daytona R/T Production Pauses Amid Software Issues and Sluggish Sales. [online] Available at: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a37585205/dodge-charger-daytona-r-t-production-pauses-amid-software-issues-and-sluggish-sales/
- The ongoing software issues and low sales of the Dodge Charger Daytona R/T have led to its discontinuation, with the company focusing instead on the higher-performing Charger Daytona Scat Pack.
- The initial launch of the electric four-door Charger Daytona EV has been delayed, possibly due to software reliability concerns and challenges in transitioning to electric muscle cars.
- Despite the delay, the four-door Charger Daytona EV, available in 2026, will offer ample cargo space and new design features like dual Fratzog stripes and an optional gloss black hood.
- Dodge's strategy appears to be prioritizing higher trims like the Scat Pack while working to refine software issues and electrification efforts for future model years, potentially impacting the finance and overall industry position of the company.
