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After a hiatus of more than 30 years, the Dodge Challenger returned as a new model for 2008. And Chrysler's biggest styling hit since the PT Cruiser promptly sold out. Based on the Chrysler 300 / Dodge Charger-platform, the Challenger is all about the in-your-face attitude that's a Dodge hallmark: big car, big presence, big power. Style rules, yet asks few compromises. Some will opine about the timing of the Dodge musclecar's return, while others will note Chicken Little was last seen impaled in a Viper grille somewhere. Much as happens with its principal competitor, Ford's Mustang, each version of the Challenger will appeal to a different buyer.
Challenger SE owners will be swayed by the look, a desire to be seen in something more visually amusing than the average V6 sedan or big coupe, and using it every day. SE comes with a 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 and five-speed automatic.
Dodge Challenger R/T buyers may be older and wanting to replace the Challenger they lusted after in younger days; some will choose the new one over a far-more-expensive auction car that goes like stink but needs considerable acreage to stop or change directions. Others still, not content to leave anything alone, will buy the R/T as the basis for their next hot rod and blow all the money saved on an SRT8 on more power, accessories, and modifications. The R/T can be used as a daily driver, at least for shorter distances and fuel consumption, and will compete with the Mustang GT, over which it has both advantages and disadvantages. Dodge Challenger R/T runs a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 rated at 372 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque with the standard five-speed automatic; power increases to 376 hp and 410 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel with the optional six-speed manual/Track Pak group. The Hemi uses a multiple displacement feature that switches off cylinders to save fuel, but EPA ratings are 16/25 mpg.
Challenger SRT8 buyers want the ultimate performance model. The SRT8 is fast, stable and ready to go to any track, Dodge's fastest car this side of the twice-the-price Viper. Yet it's compliant and controlled just enough that it won't beat you up on daily chores or weekend cruises. At $10/pound, you'll enjoy it a lot longer than that sirloin on your barbecue. Challenger SRT8 comes with a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi, the same transmission options as the R/T, big Brembo brakes, the firmest suspension, and a limited-slip rear differential.
The Challenger is a big two-door, but expect it to face some competition from Pontiac's G8 GT, a four-door sedan. Not Challenger-distinctive in appearance, it does offer the same rumbling V8, rear-drive musclecar recipe (without a manual gearbox option), and again like the Challenger, good independent suspension and brakes for about the same price as an R/T.
The Dodge Challenger features a unique body, but many of its parts, systems, and structures are shared with the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger (and Magnum). With the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger having proven their reliability, the potential for new-car bugs and quirks should be significantly lower in the Challenger than in most new cars.
For 2010, Dodge Challenger SE and R/T models get Chrysler's Uconnect hands-free communication system and steering-wheel mounted audio controls if equipped with the Sound Group I & II. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ABS is now standard on all models, while R/T models receive automatic headlamps and LED cupholder and door handle lights. R/T models are also available with the Super Track Pack that includes 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires, front and rear Nivomat self-leveling shock-absorbers, a larger rear stabilizer bar, a 3.06 rear-axle ratio, performance brake linings, and enthusiast-desired “ESC-off” stability calibration.
Changes to the Challenger SRT8 model are minor for 2010. A new limited-edition Plum Crazy Model features a unique Plum Crazy Pearl Coat exterior paint color with a plum seat-stripe insert, along with a serialized dash plaque.
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