2015 Dodge Charger: Sedan Of Many Faces

Only the extra ride height of the optional all-wheel drive system detracted from the performance theme.

Although the SRT Hellcat might get all of the press, the reality is that most Charger sales consist of far more reasonably-packaged models.

Thanks to the Rallye package's cold air intake and sport exhaust system, the Dodge Charger SXT Plus saw its 3.6-litre V6 bumped from 292 to 300 horsepower (and 264 lb-ft of torque).

A red-on-black two-tone leather treatment linked my tester's interior to its exterior hue.

It's rare that a family car receives the type of extroverted personality styled into the 2015 Dodge Charger.

Significantly refreshed for the current model year, the Charger's new uninterrupted taillight bar and smirking front fascia sharpen the edges of what was already a surprisingly buff full-size sedan.

The SXT Plus represents one of the best-equipped models in the 2015 Dodge Charger family.

I didn't see much evidence of the Rallye package's stiffer suspension tuning during my time with the sedan, but the Charger handled well.

If you want a full-size, rear-wheel drive sedan (with the option of all-wheel drive) at a reasonable price, you're shopping for either the Chrysler 300, the Dodge Charger, or the Hyundai Genesis.

Another area where the Dodge sedan stands tall is advanced safety.

As fun as the performance-oriented eight-cylinder editions of the Charger are, there's still a lot to like about the more modestly-gifted, but still comfortable and modern entry-level V6 model.

The car I drove offered a blind spot warning system, a lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control with a forward collision warning and automatic braking, and a rearview camera.

The 3.6-litre mill's acceleration was strong enough to occasionally chirp the rear tires, which surprised me given the presence of all-wheel drive.

The Charger's trunk is also useful, and measures on the high side of average.

Each of the three V8 models - the R/T, the SRT / Scat Pack, and the Hellcat - now offer the same eight-speed automatic transmission that was previously reserved for the V6.

Uconnect is on another level of user-friendliness and interface design as compared to even luxury car infotainment setups, and is one of the Charger's strongest points.

Consider this latest update a re-focus, and not a re-design of what the Charger does best, and you'll no doubt agree with me.

The Rallye package further enhanced its sporty looks by way of a gloss black grille appliqué and a rear spoiler.

I stuffed three six-footers across the rear bench with minimal complaints.