2022 Dodge Challenger: Total Ownership Cost for Indiana Buyers

The Dodge Challenger is a vehicle that defies conventional ownership cost analysis. It is purchased primarily for its driving character, styling, and the experience it provides rather than its efficiency. Indiana buyers who understand and accept its ownership costs as the price of that experience can be well-served by the Challenger. Those who expect it to be a practical transportation choice will likely be disappointed.

Purchase Price Range

Used 2022 Challengers in Indiana range from $28,000 for SXT V6 configurations to $55,000 and above for Scat Pack 392 and Hellcat variants. The R/T with the 5.7-liter Hemi is the most common used market configuration, typically priced $34,000 to $42,000.

Fuel Cost

The Challenger is among the highest fuel cost vehicles reviewed here. The V6 runs $1,900 to $2,100 per year at 12,000 miles. The 5.7-liter Hemi runs $2,300 to $2,700 per year. The 6.4-liter 392 runs $2,700 to $3,200 per year. These figures assume predominantly highway driving; aggressive use increases costs significantly.

Insurance Cost

The Challenger's performance credentials and theft risk produce notably high insurance costs. The V6 SXT runs $1,400 to $1,900 per year. The Hemi R/T runs $1,600 to $2,200 per year. Hellcat variants can reach $2,500 to $3,500 per year. Young drivers face even higher premiums.

Maintenance

The Hemi V8 has a strong reliability track record for its basic mechanical components. Routine maintenance through 60,000 miles typically costs $1,100 to $1,700. Rear tires on V8 models wear quickly under enthusiastic use.

Who the Challenger Is For

The Challenger makes sense for Indiana buyers who want a primary enthusiast vehicle and are fully aware of its running costs going in. It does not make sense as a practical daily driver replacement for a fuel-efficient sedan or SUV. The ownership cost premium versus a Camry or Accord exceeds $3,000 per year in combined fuel and insurance costs alone.