Stellantis
Dodge recently dropped a bombshell by confirming that the base Daytona R/T trim of the electric Charger won’t be making a comeback for the 2026 model year. This decision leaves only the pricier Scat Pack version in the lineup. The announcement follows a move by the brand to offer significant incentives on 2024 and 2025 models to clear out excess inventory. Additionally, the recent tariffs imposed by the White House have made the Canadian-built coupe more costly.
The company representative explained, “Production of the Charger Daytona R/T is postponed for the 2026 model year as we continue to assess the effects of U.S. tariff policies.” The Scat Pack will continue to be available on its own until the four-door model is reintroduced to the lineup. Furthermore, the spokesperson revealed that the Sixpack variants, powered by a twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter straight-six engine, are expected to debut in the latter half of this year. While the term “postponed” doesn’t mean the R/T is canceled, there’s uncertainty surrounding its future inclusion in the portfolio.
Dodge dealers nationwide are currently sitting on around 3,500 Charger Daytona R/Ts, creating a surplus of inventory. To combat this, dealers have been offering generous discounts to move these cars off their lots. For example, Taverna Dodge in Plantation, Florida, is selling a new 2025 Charger R/T with only five miles on it for just $34,184, nearly half of the MSRP. The dealership also has several other new models with delivery mileage priced around $35,000. Similarly, Cameron Country Dodge is looking to sell a leftover 2024 model with 13 miles for $38,292.
The elimination of the base trim level is expected to drive up the overall cost of the Charger, which may not bode well considering the relatively low demand for what was marketed as the first electric muscle car. While pricing for the 2026 range hasn’t been disclosed yet, the 2025 R/T had a starting price of $61,595, including a $1,995 destination charge. On the other hand, the 2025 Scat Pack was priced at $75,980. It’s plausible to assume that the Sixpack will come in at a lower MSRP, although the impact of the White House’s tariffs remains a concern. The fate of the long-rumored V8-powered Charger that Dodge has hinted at in the past still hangs in the balance.
