The Dodge Challenger RT and RT Plus are two popular trim levels of the iconic American muscle car. While they share many similarities, there are some key differences that set them apart. Both models feature the powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, but the RT Plus offers additional luxury and performance features. Understanding these distinctions can help potential buyers make an informed decision when choosing between these two Challenger variants.
| Feature | RT | RT Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 410 lb-ft | 410 lb-ft |
| Interior | Cloth seats | Leather seats |
| Infotainment | Basic system | Upgraded system |
The Dodge Challenger RT and RT Plus are both performance-oriented trims that offer impressive power and classic muscle car styling. However, the RT Plus builds upon the standard RT model with additional features and upgrades. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two trims, helping you understand which one might be the best fit for your needs and preferences.
Engine and Performance
Both the Dodge Challenger RT and RT Plus are equipped with the same 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, which is a hallmark of Dodge’s performance lineup. This powerful engine delivers 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and the classic muscle car experience. The performance specifications for both trims are identical, including:
- 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 5.1 seconds
- Quarter-mile time of about 13.7 seconds
- Top speed electronically limited to 155 mph
While the engine performance is the same for both trims, the RT Plus may offer a slightly more refined driving experience due to additional features that enhance comfort and handling. Both models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, but an 8-speed automatic transmission is available as an option for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience.
The suspension setup is also similar between the two trims, featuring a sport-tuned suspension that provides a balance between comfort and performance. However, the RT Plus may include additional performance-enhancing features such as:
- Performance steering with a quicker ratio for improved responsiveness
- Upgraded brake pads for better stopping power
- Sport mode calibration for more aggressive throttle response and shift points (on automatic transmission models)
These subtle differences can contribute to a more engaging driving experience in the RT Plus, although the core performance capabilities remain largely the same between the two trims.
Interior and Comfort Features
The most noticeable differences between the Dodge Challenger RT and RT Plus are found in the interior and comfort features. The RT Plus justifies its higher price tag with a more luxurious and well-appointed cabin. Here are some key distinctions:
- Seating: The RT comes with cloth seats as standard, while the RT Plus features premium Nappa leather-trimmed seats. The RT Plus also includes heated and ventilated front seats for added comfort in various weather conditions.
- Infotainment System: Both trims come with the Uconnect infotainment system, but the RT Plus typically features a larger touchscreen (8.4 inches vs. 7 inches in the RT) and may include navigation as standard.
- Audio System: The RT Plus often comes with an upgraded audio system, such as a premium Alpine or Harman Kardon setup, offering better sound quality compared to the standard system in the RT.
- Interior Accents: The RT Plus features more premium interior materials, including soft-touch surfaces and metal-look accents, giving the cabin a more upscale feel.
- Steering Wheel: While both trims have a leather-wrapped steering wheel, the RT Plus often includes a heated steering wheel for added comfort in colder climates.
- Ambient Lighting: The RT Plus may include customizable ambient interior lighting, allowing drivers to personalize the cabin atmosphere.
These interior upgrades in the RT Plus create a more luxurious and comfortable environment, which can be particularly appealing for those who plan to use their Challenger as a daily driver or for long trips.
Exterior Styling and Wheels
While both the RT and RT Plus share the same iconic Challenger body style, there are some subtle exterior differences that set them apart:
- Wheels: The RT typically comes with 18-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels, while the RT Plus often features 20-inch premium painted aluminum wheels as standard.
- Exterior Badging: The RT Plus may have additional or more premium exterior badging, highlighting its higher trim level.
- Lighting: The RT Plus often includes HID headlamps or LED fog lights as standard, which may be optional on the base RT.
- Hood: Both trims feature a performance hood, but the RT Plus may have a more aggressive design or additional hood scoops.
- Exhaust Tips: The RT Plus might come with larger or more stylized exhaust tips, enhancing the rear-end appearance.
These exterior enhancements on the RT Plus contribute to a slightly more premium and performance-oriented look, although the differences are relatively subtle and may not be immediately noticeable to the casual observer.
Technology and Safety Features
Both the Dodge Challenger RT and RT Plus come well-equipped with modern technology and safety features, but the RT Plus often includes additional advanced systems as standard. Some key differences include:
- Driver Assistance Features: The RT Plus may come standard with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning, which might be optional on the base RT.
- Parking Assistance: The RT Plus often includes front and rear parking sensors as standard, while these may be optional on the RT.
- Remote Start: While both trims may offer remote start capability, it’s more likely to be standard on the RT Plus, especially with the automatic transmission.
- Keyless Entry and Ignition: Both trims typically feature keyless entry, but the RT Plus may have a more advanced system with proximity entry and push-button start.
- Climate Control: The RT Plus usually comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, while the RT may have a simpler single-zone system.
- Digital Cluster Display: The RT Plus often features a larger, more advanced digital information display in the instrument cluster, providing more customizable information to the driver.
These additional technology and safety features in the RT Plus can provide a more convenient and secure driving experience, which may be particularly valuable for those who prioritize the latest automotive technologies.
FAQs About What Is The Difference Between Dodge Challenger RT And RT?
- Is the engine performance different between the RT and RT Plus?
No, both trims feature the same 5.7L HEMI V8 engine with 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. - What are the main interior differences between RT and RT Plus?
The RT Plus offers leather seats, a larger infotainment screen, and often includes premium audio and additional comfort features. - Do the RT and RT Plus have different transmission options?
Both trims come standard with a 6-speed manual, with an 8-speed automatic available as an option. - Are there any exterior styling differences between RT and RT Plus?
The RT Plus typically features larger wheels, premium badging, and may include upgraded lighting features. - Is the RT Plus worth the extra cost over the standard RT?
It depends on your preferences; the RT Plus offers more luxury and technology features for a more premium experience.