Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Top speed (237 km/h)
Combined, EPA 1993
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a clear divide between early adopters and broader critical reception.
7 problems reported (4 very frequent, 1 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPervasive software glitches and bugs
Includes ghost fault warnings, infotainment system freezes, laggy response, and general unreliability.
- Very frequentProblematic 12V battery failures
Chronic issues with the first-generation lead-acid 12V batteries, cited as unsuitable for EV duty cycles.
- Very frequentPoor build quality and fit/finish
Poorly fit body panels, cheap interior materials inconsistent with the price point.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentExcessive weight
Vehicle weight cited as nearly 6,000 lbs (~2,722 kg), leading to sluggish acceleration compared to specs, poor handling balance, and understeer.
- RecurrentDisappointing real-world range
Notably low range (e.g., 241 miles / 388 km) for the very large 100.5 kWh battery pack, indicating poor efficiency.
- IsolatedFratzonic exhaust system
Considered a novelty by some owners; criticism that it lacks simulated shift sounds like an ICE vehicle.
- IsolatedCharging compatibility issues
Reported problems with certain public charging networks (e.g., Freewire chargers).
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Owner feedback is primarily centered on the R/T and Scat Pack trims. The R/T with the Blacktop package (20" wheels) is mentioned positively by an owner. The Scat Pack is discussed for its power but also its performance limitations due to weight. No trim level is singled out as being free from the fundamental criticisms regarding software, build quality, or weight.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Tesla Model 3 Performance, Tesla Model S, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Nissan Ariya and Polestar 2.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a clear divide between early adopters and broader critical reception. A small number of long-term owner reports express strong satisfaction with the vehicle's fun driving dynamics, comfortable ride, unique styling, and practicality of the hatchback design. These owners frequently cite it as a very fun daily driver and comfortable for road trips. However, the dominant narrative from broader community feedback and reviews is highly critical. Significant and recurrent criticisms focus on the vehicle being an unfinished, unrefined product rushed to market, plagued by pervasive software glitches, problematic 12V batteries, and poor build quality with poorly fit panels. The vehicle is also widely criticized for its excessive weight (nearly 6,000 lbs / ~2,722 kg), which negatively impacts acceleration and handling compared to lighter competitors, and for its disappointing real-world range relative to its large battery capacity. The marketing strategy of launching solely as an EV and branding it as an "electric muscle car" is cited as a major misstep that alienated traditional Dodge enthusiasts without successfully attracting a new mainstream EV buyer base.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a unique, style-focused electric performance coupe but consistently outperformed and out-valued by key competitors. The Tesla Model 3 Performance is repeatedly mentioned as significantly less expensive, much lighter, and quicker in acceleration and quarter-mile times despite having less horsepower. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is noted for superior driver-assist technology (BlueCruise). The Nissan Ariya is cited as offering a nicer interior feel at a lower price point, though with inferior infotainment. Premium competitors like the BMW i4 and Polestar 2 are seen as offering better build quality, refinement, and software integration. The Dodge is generally perceived as an expensive, heavy, and unpolished niche vehicle that struggles to justify its price tag against more established and capable electric rivals.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration advice from long-term owners. One owner recommends the upgraded Alpine stereo system. There is a mention that all-wheel drive is standard. No consensus on optional packages or features beyond the noted stereo.
General recommendations
Only suitable for buyers who prioritize unique styling and are willing to accept significant first-generation reliability risks and software bugs. Strongly recommended to test drive extensively to personally evaluate software stability, infotainment responsiveness, and driving dynamics. Not recommended for buyers seeking a polished, reliable EV or the best performance value. Essential to have home charging capability. Potential buyers should verify the manufacturing date and ensure all available software updates have been applied. Aggressive negotiation for deep discounts off MSRP is strongly suggested, as high dealer inventory and low sales volumes have been reported. Consider an extended warranty due to widespread concerns over software and electrical system reliability.
Remarks
The overwhelming majority of critical feedback targets the 2025 model year, identifying it as a rushed, unrefined product. Software issues and 12V battery problems are described as teething issues of Stellantis's first North American-built EV. The vehicle's high weight is a fundamental point of contention, with owners and reviewers noting it undermines the performance credentials marketed by Dodge. The decision to launch exclusively as an EV before offering internal combustion engine (ICE) variants is widely criticized as a strategic error that damaged the model's launch. Despite the criticisms, a small cohort of owners reports high satisfaction and trouble-free ownership, suggesting significant variability in build quality or early software revisions. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and numerous review references.
Specifications
3.0 V6
3.0L 6-cylinder · 141 hp
Built 1990–1993