You can almost hear the muscle-car guys cringing at the thought of a V6 engine up in Dodge's new Challenger coupe. Well gentlemen, the Camaro, Mustang and Firebird all came with V6 power to help them appeal to a wider audience- and for 2009, Dodge's latest coupe will do the same.
Yesterday, the automaker announced further details on their Challenger lineup. Later this year, the muscle-coupe will be offered as a 2009 model in four different trim levels: SE, SXT, RT and SRT8.
SE models are powered by the automakers 3.5 liter V6 with 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft of torque. Power is sent out back by a four-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the SXT model adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, traction control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and fog-lamps. A security alarm and power-adjustable driver's seat are also included.
The RT designated model is motivated by a new generation 5.7 liter HEMI V8 that's been tuned for 370 horsepower and increased fuel mileage in the range of about 5 percent. A five-speed automatic transmission is available, though performance buffs will rejoice at the availability of a new six-speed manual transmission. Dodge says that when fitted with this gearbox, Challenger will be deliver a slight boost in horsepower when running on premium fuel. The manual transmission features hill-start assist to help keep the vehicle in place when taking off from a standstill on an incline.
Other available high-tech features include the MyGig infotainment system, UConnect hands-free phone system and a keyless access system that frees drivers of having to handle the key-fob, as long as it's in their pocket. Challenger will be built in Brampton, Ontario alongside the Charger and 300.
photo:Chrysler
Yesterday, the automaker announced further details on their Challenger lineup. Later this year, the muscle-coupe will be offered as a 2009 model in four different trim levels: SE, SXT, RT and SRT8.
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SE models are powered by the automakers 3.5 liter V6 with 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft of torque. Power is sent out back by a four-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the SXT model adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, traction control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and fog-lamps. A security alarm and power-adjustable driver's seat are also included.
The RT designated model is motivated by a new generation 5.7 liter HEMI V8 that's been tuned for 370 horsepower and increased fuel mileage in the range of about 5 percent. A five-speed automatic transmission is available, though performance buffs will rejoice at the availability of a new six-speed manual transmission. Dodge says that when fitted with this gearbox, Challenger will be deliver a slight boost in horsepower when running on premium fuel. The manual transmission features hill-start assist to help keep the vehicle in place when taking off from a standstill on an incline.
Other available high-tech features include the MyGig infotainment system, UConnect hands-free phone system and a keyless access system that frees drivers of having to handle the key-fob, as long as it's in their pocket. Challenger will be built in Brampton, Ontario alongside the Charger and 300.
photo:Chrysler