2020 Dodge Charger Widebody: Scat Pack vs. Hellcat

Introduction

When Dodge announced the Widebody versions of the Charger for the 2020 model year, enthusiasts rejoiced. The term "Widebody" in Dodge's lexicon signifies more than just a visual upgrade—it’s a promise of enhanced performance, grip, and handling. I had the opportunity to test the 2020 Charger Scat Pack and Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody models on the coastal roads and the challenging track at Sonoma Raceway. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes these cars stand out.

2017 Acura ILX

$64900

Gas

4600 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2016 Lexus ES 350

$23988

Gas

49923 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

2024 Lexus GX 550

$72986

Gas

3 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

See More

What’s Included in the Dodge Charger Widebody Package?

The Widebody Package is designed to complement the Charger’s already impressive power with improved grip, handling, and braking. Here’s what you get:

• Tires: Both the Scat Pack and Hellcat come equipped with 20-inch Pirelli P-Zero 305/35ZR20 all-season performance tires, a significant upgrade from the previous 9.5-inch wide tires. Summer tires are optional.
• Fenders: The car’s width increases by 3.5 inches, thanks to expanded fenders that accommodate the wider tires.
• --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  
• Suspension Upgrades: The Scat Pack Widebody features larger brakes borrowed from the Hellcat, including Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. The Hellcat transitions to electric power steering for better responsiveness.
• Standard on Hellcat: Starting in 2020, all Hellcat models come standard with the Widebody Package, while the Scat Pack offers it as a $6,000 upgrade.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Both the Scat Pack and Hellcat retain their powerful engines from the 2019 models:

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD

$61488

diesel

54487 mi

Good Deal  

0 (5)

2016 Audi A4 Allroad

$11765

Gas

98864 mi

Very Good Deal  

0 (5)

2018 Acura ILX

$64030

Gas

45002 mi

Good Deal  

4 (5)

See More

• Scat Pack: A 485-horsepower, 6.4-liter V-8 engine producing 475 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
• Hellcat: A supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine delivering 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an eight-speed automatic.

These engines deliver blistering acceleration, with the Scat Pack hitting 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds and the Hellcat in just 3.6 seconds. The Widebody Package enhances stability, making it easier to harness this power, especially in corners.

--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Handling and Suspension Improvements

The Widebody Package transforms the Charger’s handling dynamics:

• Bilstein Adaptive Dampers: Both models feature adaptive shock absorbers, with the Hellcat’s front springs being 32% stiffer and the Scat Pack’s 27% stiffer than their non-Widebody counterparts.
• Track Performance: On the track, the Widebody models exhibit superior grip, flatter cornering, and sharper turn-in response. The Scat Pack, in particular, feels more agile due to its lighter engine.
• Electric Power Steering: The Hellcat’s switch to electric power steering provides excellent feedback, even in high-performance driving scenarios.
• 

  Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 450 RWD

  $61488

  diesel

  54487 mi

  Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2016 Audi A4 Allroad

  $11765

  Gas

  98864 mi

  Very Good Deal  

  0 (5)

  

  2018 Acura ILX

  $64030

  Gas

  45002 mi

  Good Deal  

  4 (5)

  See More
  
  

Driving Experience: Street vs. Track

Despite their track-ready upgrades, the Widebody Chargers remain comfortable for daily driving:

• Street Manners: Both models glide over rough pavement with minimal road noise, maintaining a smooth and quiet ride in most conditions.
• Track Thrills: On the track, the added grip and stability allow for higher cornering speeds and quicker acceleration out of turns. The Scat Pack’s balance and agility make it particularly enjoyable to push to its limits.
• --SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
  

Scat Pack vs. Hellcat: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Scat Pack and Hellcat depends on your priorities:

• Scat Pack: Priced at $61,445 (including destination), the Scat Pack offers a perfect blend of power, handling, and affordability. Its 485 horsepower is more than enough for most drivers, and its lighter weight makes it more agile on the track.
• Hellcat: At $79,410, the Hellcat is for those who crave raw power. Its 707 horsepower delivers exhilarating acceleration, though it requires more caution to manage its immense torque.

For most enthusiasts, the Scat Pack Widebody strikes the ideal balance between performance and practicality. However, the Hellcat’s unmatched power and presence make it a tempting choice for those who want the ultimate Charger experience.

--FOURTH CAR LIST HERE--

Conclusion

The 2020 Dodge Charger Widebody models represent the pinnacle of American muscle car engineering. With their enhanced grip, handling, and braking, the Scat Pack and Hellcat offer a driving experience that’s both thrilling and refined. Whether you prefer the balanced performance of the Scat Pack or the raw power of the Hellcat, the Widebody Package ensures that these Chargers are as capable on the track as they are on the street. For enthusiasts seeking a car that combines performance, style, and practicality, the Dodge Charger Widebody is a standout choice.