Taking advantage of Chrysler Group's 2009 vehicle presentation at the Chelsea Proving Grounds in Michigan, the team at Auto123.com spent some time behind the wheel of the all-new Dodge Challenger. We tried out a 2008 SRT8 model since the 2009 Challengers on hand were not suitable for testing. Their official launch is scheduled for this fall.
Mustang enthusiasts should be warned: the Challenger has all the weapons to take on your mythical pony. Power and handling will no doubt meet the expectations of every Mopar fan. This new model is the direct heir to the 1970 Challenger, although with a much better-executed design.
Sleek lines
The styling beautifully combines past and present while staying true to the original car. The profile shows a classic sports coupe -- the only body style to be offered by Chrysler -- with sleek muscle-car lines. The thin, widely-stretched grille is flanked by four circular headlights that are slightly hidden by the prominent hood for a warrior look. In the back, the SRT8 sports full-width horizontal taillights.
Those who are familiar with the 1970 model will notice that the trunk lid is no longer flush with the rear panel. It drops a few centimeters so as to lower the cargo threshold. The trunk remains very deep and accommodating.
Friendly interior
The large doors make front-seat access easier. As for the rear seats, well, it's another story. Only small-size passengers will feel at ease. The buckets in the Dodge Challenger are comfortable yet very supportive. The tilt/telescopic steering wheel also allows you to find a good driving position. The comprehensive instrument cluster is nicely designed and easy to read, except for the speedometer.
Potent engine
There's no need to turn a key; just push the button on the dashboard and the 6.1-liter V8 will immediately come to life. With 420 pounds-feet of torque on tap, this HEMI engine proves to be quite flexible. Plus, the 425 horsepower allow powerful sprints when it counts. In straight, drag-type accelerations, the automatic transmission is effective. However, on twisty roads or on a slalom course, it somewhat wrecks the party whether you use the manual or auto mode. Too bad the 6-speed manual gearbox won't become available until the 2009 model year.
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| This new model is the direct heir to the 1970 Challenger, although with a much better-executed design. |
Mustang enthusiasts should be warned: the Challenger has all the weapons to take on your mythical pony. Power and handling will no doubt meet the expectations of every Mopar fan. This new model is the direct heir to the 1970 Challenger, although with a much better-executed design.
Sleek lines
The styling beautifully combines past and present while staying true to the original car. The profile shows a classic sports coupe -- the only body style to be offered by Chrysler -- with sleek muscle-car lines. The thin, widely-stretched grille is flanked by four circular headlights that are slightly hidden by the prominent hood for a warrior look. In the back, the SRT8 sports full-width horizontal taillights.
Those who are familiar with the 1970 model will notice that the trunk lid is no longer flush with the rear panel. It drops a few centimeters so as to lower the cargo threshold. The trunk remains very deep and accommodating.
Friendly interior
The large doors make front-seat access easier. As for the rear seats, well, it's another story. Only small-size passengers will feel at ease. The buckets in the Dodge Challenger are comfortable yet very supportive. The tilt/telescopic steering wheel also allows you to find a good driving position. The comprehensive instrument cluster is nicely designed and easy to read, except for the speedometer.
Potent engine
There's no need to turn a key; just push the button on the dashboard and the 6.1-liter V8 will immediately come to life. With 420 pounds-feet of torque on tap, this HEMI engine proves to be quite flexible. Plus, the 425 horsepower allow powerful sprints when it counts. In straight, drag-type accelerations, the automatic transmission is effective. However, on twisty roads or on a slalom course, it somewhat wrecks the party whether you use the manual or auto mode. Too bad the 6-speed manual gearbox won't become available until the 2009 model year.
 |
| With 420 pounds-feet of torque on tap, this HEMI engine proves to be quite flexible. |