Dodge Challenger

The 2023 Dodge Challenger proudly upholds its retro design, celebrating straight-line speed and fun, synonymous with vintage pony cars. Standard models come with a V-6 engine, but thrill seekers can opt for the naturally aspirated Hemi V-8, with power options ranging from 375 to 485 horsepower. Dodge offers the high-octane Challenger SRT Hellcat. While it may not outperform the Chevrolet Camaro or Ford Mustang on winding roads, the Challenger's nostalgic allure, with its powerful V-8 roar and smooth ride, is irresistible.

History

The Challenger, first unveiled in 1970, was Dodge's answer to Ford's Mustang which sparked the pony car revolution in 1964. The first-gen Challenger, discontinued in 1974, boasted engines from an inline-six to a mighty 425-horsepower 7.0-liter Hemi V8. The second generation, a scaled-down sports coupe named the Dodge Colt Challenger, was introduced in 1978. Produced by Mitsubishi, it moved away from large engines to a variety of four-cylinders, a run that concluded in 1983.

Launched in 2008, the third and current generation of the Challenger beautifully marries modern muscle with a nostalgic edge. Its imposing design, quad headlights, and power-packed engine are a nod to the original model. Dodge reveals that 2023 will mark the end of the Challenger's era as a pure gas-guzzling muscle car.

Variant and Price

The Dodge Challenger is a head-turner, showcasing halogen headlamps, LED daytime lights, and distinctive body and hood stripes. Enhance your drive with optional performance tires and a spoiler, and optionally, keep the lightweight hood in check with Mopar®'s Hood Pin Kit.

 Dimensions

The Challenger embraces its heritage with a spacious interior, mirroring the minimalist, comfort-driven design of its 1970s predecessors. Unlike its rivals, it boasts a roomy interior with adult-friendly back seats. However, it trades off with a rubbery material finish reminiscent of vintage vinyl and compromised rear visibility.

Every Challenger comes with Dodge's user-friendly Uconnect infotainment system, complete with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Choose from two optional Alpine sound systems or indulge in the top-tier 900-watt, 18-speaker Harman/Kardon setup for an unparalleled audio experience.

Safety features

While the retro-inspired coupe offers some driver assistance features, those looking for advanced tech may want to explore other options.The main security features it provides include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
  

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control
  

• Available automatic high beams
  

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Challenger has average limited and powertrain warranties. Unlike BMW and Chevrolet, Dodge doesn't provide any complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
  

• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
  

• No complimentary scheduled maintenance
  

Space

The Challenger offers ample front seat comfort for leisurely drives, though even optional supportive seats don't provide the snug feel like the Camaro or Mustang. Its cargo space surpasses the Camaro by seven cubic feet, accommodating two extra bags or six with rear seats folded down. Convenient storage options include a spacious center console and a handy slot for your smartphone.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger boasts five distinct engines, each delivering a different performance caliber.

The Challenger tends to feel less precise in tight corners and has a more subdued steering response when compared to the nimble handling of the Camaro and Mustang.

The Challenger, owing to its size, isn't as nimble as the Mustang or Camaro, and features less responsive steering. Still, most trims offer a smooth ride with respectable comfort levels.

The Challenger is a blend of vintage style and modern muscle, broad and heavy, not made for tight trails but thrilling on the open track. The V8's roar delights, but poor visibility, a stiff manual shifter, and tricky access to the spacious rear seats detract from the experience. Choices range from a mild V6 to a robust supercharged V8, with the 5.7-liter V8 standing out. Options like all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic add versatility, while some safety features are notably absent. 2023 marks the end of this iconic line.