Overview & Reviews

The Dodge Challenger was one of the more significant cars to come out of the 1960s and '70s muscle car era. Four decades later, Dodge's buff Challenger is once again laying stripes on America's pavement. Featuring styling cues similar to the original model and, for the most part, brawny engines driving the rear wheels, the new Challenger is a true street fighter. But unlike its bare-knuckled brawler of an older brother, this Challenger is loaded with modern-day refinement and safety features.

It's no surprise that the current Challenger offers strong acceleration with either available V8, but even the base V6 is no slouch. Also unsurprising is its bulky feel in tight corners, though its luxurious character on the highway more than compensates. The muscle car segment has seen a revival in recent times with the retro-ization of the Mustang and the resurrection of the Camaro, but the Challenger certainly holds its own, and strikes us as the most pleasant to drive on a daily basis.

Current Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger features the exterior styling cues of its iconic '70s predecessor, such as a long hood and a semi-fastback roof line. Underneath, however, the Challenger is based on a shortened version of the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger platform. Thanks to its generous dimensions and a split-folding rear seat, the Challenger has ample passenger space and impressive luggage capacity.

The Challenger comes in four levels: SXT, R/T, SRT8 392 and SRT8 Core. The base SXT features a 3.6-liter 305-horsepower V6 matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Upping the ante, the R/T packs a 5.7-liter V8 churning out 372 hp with the five-speed automatic or 376 hp with a six-speed manual transmission. It's also packaged with a recalibrated steering system and a limited-slip differential. The SRT8 392 and SRT8 392 Core models come armed with a 470-hp 6.4-liter V8 connected to either a standard five-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual. Other features of the SRT8s include a stiffer suspension, revised steering, Brembo brakes and 20-inch wheels.

All Dodge Challenger models come standard with antilock brakes, a full complement of airbags and stability control. Major options include a sunroof and hard-drive-based navigation system with music and video file storage capability, although the latter is controlled by an antiquated touchscreen head unit that can be irritating to use. The R/T can be equipped with a couple of optional performance packages, such as the Super Track Pak, that improve its handling and braking. The SRT8 392 comes with most of the Challenger's available equipment, while the SRT8 Core has the same performance items but is equipped more like a base SXT.

In road tests, we've found that there's plenty to like about Dodge's modern muscle car. Acceleration is acceptable with the V6 and truly impressive with the R/T and SRT8. The Challenger remains laudably quiet at speed, with little road or wind noise, and offers an impressively comfortable highway ride regardless of trim level. On twisty roads, the Challenger feels big and heavy, which isn't surprising considering the car's 2-ton curb weight. But the SRT8 and R/T (when fitted with the optional suspension upgrades) still do a pretty respectable job of keeping that mass under control. At the same time, its size makes the interior and trunk far larger and more useful than those of its competitors.

Used Dodge Challenger Models
The current Dodge Challenger was introduced in 2008 as the SRT8 only. The SE (now named SXT) and R/T trim levels arrived a year later, as did manual transmission availability for the SRT8. For 2009-'10, the SE came equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 making just 250 hp. The transmission was either a four-speed automatic (2009) or a five-speed automatic (2010). As you can imagine, the SE left much to be desired from both a performance and fuel economy standpoint, so we'd avoid it. From 2008-'10, the SRT8 came with a 6.1-liter V8 good for 425 hp.

For 2011, things improved considerably across the Challenger lineup as the base engine became the current, 305-horsepower V6, and the SRT8 adopted the current 6.4-liter monster. The latter also resulted in "392" being added to the car's name (the engine's historically significant, cubic-inch displacement). Upgrades also took place for the suspension, steering and brake systems, resulting in a more rewarding car to drive. That year also brought more standard equipment along with redesigned seats and steering wheel. Since then, changes have been minimal, consisting chiefly of trim level and equipment shuffling.

User Reviews:

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  Get it while you still can - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By KP - February 23 - 7:03 am

  This car is nothing but pleasure! If you want to be noticed and feel like a rock star on a daily basis, get behind the wheel of the Challenger. I purchased a black 6 speed R/T and do not have one complaint with the car. The seats are more than comfortable, the performance is great and when you can keep your foot out of the floor, the gas mileage isnt bad for a sports car. Back seat room is good for this type of car too.

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  Love My Car - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By Silver RT - February 20 - 12:40 am

  I just got my Challenger RT 4 days ago and I cant think of anything I woul dlike to drive more. The performance on the RT if great. 6 speed manual gives you the ability to drive like it was ment to be driven. I still havent turned on the radio because I love listening to the car rumble as I drive.

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  43 going on 19 - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By Bill - February 17 - 4:09 am

  I have found the fountain of youth and its parked in my driveway. My kids are 8 & 11 and they are already fighting over who will get this car when they can drive! Im kinda thinking they will need to get there own! My daughter said I am not cool enough to drive this car. Maybe not, but I look good and feel good every time I get behind the wheel! I havent felt this way about a car in a very long time! I dont know were Detroit has been the past 25 years but they finally got something right!

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  Amazing - 2008 Dodge Challenger
  By GreenPowerMan - February 15 - 9:49 am

  Chrysler did this one right! Gut wrenching acceleration, comfort, conveyance, looks, style, value and uniqueness! All BMWs, Porches and Mercedes look basically the same. None have the pizazz of the Challenger. Hand stitched leather and a painted orange engine block to name a few. Its also usable I drive it to work everyday, moved my daughter to college (the back seats fold down opening into the truck) and go out to dinner. After that, I leave 99% of cars in the dust in a cloud of white smoke. Its like Clark Kent turning into Superman!

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  Dream car - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By Gene - February 14 - 2:38 am

  Ive been watching these since the concept car in 06 (owned Cudas and Challengers as a young man). I finally drove one and left the lot with it. Ive owned Vettes and Saabs and this car blows them away. I cant wait each day to go fire her up. Manual transmission is fantastic. Sometimes forget it has the 6th gear. Very comfortable, smooth ride. Handles like a dream. With current incentives it made this car more affordable (comes with lifetime drive train warranty). Having owned old style Cudas and Challenger the upgrades done on this modern Challenger are superb. Many people give the thumbs up or stop me to ask questions. This is a keeper.

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  Misfire on 6 speed SRT - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By biffdog - February 10 - 2:29 pm

  I finally thought I had bought my dream car only to have it be a nightmare. Why is no talking about the misfire issues with the 6 speed SRT8. From what I have heard, this is a very common problem with no fix to date. Buyer beware.

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  An awesome machine - 2009 Dodge Challenger
  By 09challenger - February 8 - 12:14 pm

  I recently purchased an 09 challenger Hemi R/T Black/Black, leather, Trak Pak. Got $4000 off sticker and 0% for 48 months. A bargain. I have purchased over 20 cars since 1986, including some expensive German iron, and the Challenger is in a class by itself. You are truly the king of the road in this car. It is more than just a retro design excercise, it is a great car in its own right, and possibly the last of its kind. If you are thinking about getting one, do yourself and the economy a favor and do it. You wont regret it.

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  great mileage for a car this fast - 2017 Dodge Challenger
  By hank herbst - January 26 - 2:26 pm

  Rented this car for a trip to Vegas. V6 basic car. First impressions were very touchy brakes but you get used to it. Power for passing on 2 lanes very good. Handling very good even on worn stock tires. Gas mileage was way better than I expected. Whole tank netted 35+ mpg at legal and above speeds on 2 lane roads thru desert over 2 mountain passes and thru one town rush hour. Just as a test from state line to downtown Vegas, pulled to slow lane on I-15, set cruise to 70, and netted 45 mpg for 40 miles. For other reviews about this car complaining about mileage, drive sensibly, anticipate slow downs and red lights and dont buy low profile, wide wheels and tires. Other comments are rather cheap looking instrument panel. Readouts on computer lettering could be larger. Only power cord outlet in console cubby. Makes for a long power cord stretch for my Garmin in left corner windshield. My recommendation for a daily driver and long trips, buy a base V6, upgrade to nicer seats with more power adjustments and go for a back-up camera.

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  2008 Challenger SRT - 2008 Dodge Challenger
  By KingKustoms505 - January 24 - 9:25 am

  Although it has a lot of muscle power it cant breathe at 5300 feet where I live in New Mexico. No dome light. Built in cup holders dont fit any known cups. Seats are nice but built for large people. Steering wheel design stinks because the spokes are located right where you rest your fingers around the wheel. Steering wheel is adjustable but does not go down low enough for a 56" person to sit low and still see over the wheel. No spare tire. Doors dont want to stay open when exiting. Cant keep the wheels clean because of the brake dust. Needs stickier tires because the rear end swings around too easily. Tranny not user friendly.

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  Wow! - 2008 Dodge Challenger
  By Bill - January 22 - 3:45 pm

  Ive probably owned a 100 cars. This one has made me the happiest. I dont know whay the sticker fuel economy is listed so low as I get over 20mpg. Sure some auto mags say its too heavy, too big, too what ever and some little car can post better road track times, well so what! I dont drive on a road track course, I drive on a highway. Im a big guy at 6 foot 5 and 265 pounds. I can still ride in comfort and get there fast. It has plently of room for kids in the back if you need that space. Nothing compares to the thrill of the ride. Ive owned Vettes, and BMWs and they dont get a second look when you are out. I bought this car for fun. Its easy to get in and out of and is fun.