The 2017 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus represents a significant moment in the evolution of the modern muscle car, blending classic American design with contemporary technology. This specific trim level sits strategically within the Challenger lineup, offering a compelling balance of performance, comfort, and value that appeals to both enthusiasts and first-time buyers of the iconic sedan. Unlike the base models, the SXT Plus comes equipped with a suite of features that elevate the driving experience, making it a particularly attractive option in the competitive mid-size muscle segment.
Design and Exterior Presence
At first glance, the 2017 Challenger SXT Plus commands attention with its aggressive stance and retro-inspired silhouette. The design language harkens back to the muscle cars of the 1960s, ensuring the vehicle remains a head-turner on any street. The SXT Plus trim specifically contributes to this aesthetic with its distinct chrome accents and available performance-oriented styling packages. These visual cues differentiate it from the base SE while maintaining the cohesive family identity established by Dodge.
Distinctive Styling Elements
Signature LED headlamps and taillights.
Premium chrome grille and door handles.
Available performance hood and dual exhaust tips.
18-inch aluminum wheels with a bold spoke design.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the 2017 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus reveals a cabin that successfully merges driver-focused ergonomics with everyday usability. The use of higher-grade materials, including premium leather-appointed seating surfaces, distinguishes this trim from its lower-tier counterparts. The front bucket seats provide substantial lateral support, ensuring comfort during spirited drives without sacrificing accessibility for rear passengers.
Infotainment and Convenience
The centerpiece of the cabin is the Uconnect 3 8.4-inch touchscreen, which provides intuitive access to the vehicle’s navigation, audio, and climate control systems. This generation of infotainment is praised for its responsive interface and ease of use. Furthermore, the SXT Plus includes connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing drivers to seamlessly mirror their smartphones and access apps on the go.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powering the 2017 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus is the legendary 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, a unit renowned for its reliability and smooth power delivery. This powertrain generates 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, providing more than adequate acceleration for daily driving and highway merging. The available TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission ensures shifts are quick and decisive, preserving the driving excitement inherent to the Challenger nameplate.
Handling and Brakes
While the Challenger is not a sports car in the traditional sense, the SXT Plus handles with a confidence-inspiring firmness. The standard suspension setup strikes a balance between comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining tire contact. Upgraded brakes, featuring larger rotors and calipers, provide the necessary stopping power to match the car’s acceleration capabilities, enhancing overall safety and driver confidence.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a paramount consideration for the 2017 model year, and the Challenger SXT Plus comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. These features were advanced for its time and contribute to a secure driving environment for the entire family. The rigid steel body structure is designed to absorb and distribute energy in the event of a collision, working in tandem with the active safety systems.
