Autoblog

Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character

Michael Harley — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Dodge, Reviews

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't our first sampling of the reborn Dodge Challenger. We've driven the SE, R/T and SRT8 variants before. However, this time it's different. We've secured a Challenger SRT-8 with a six-speed manual transmission - and it's a whole different breed of bull.

The six-speed-equipped Dodge Challenger SRT8 drives exactly as it looks. Unlike the countless poseurs promising handling with oversize tires, performance with monstrous exhaust pipes, or luxury with overstuffed cabins, the Challenger SRT8 delivers only what its exterior suggests - a mountain of machismo-infused muscle-car entertainment.

We had a week with Dodge's tribute to testosterone, and it's one we won't soon forget. Contrary to its automatic-equipped siblings, the manual gearbox transforms the SRT8 from merely entertaining to positively supernatural. Make the jump to find out why this husky red coupe had us shaving twice daily.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed

Continue reading Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character

Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Challenger goes Plum Crazy Purple for 2010

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge, Design/Style

2010 Dodge Challenger in Plum Crazy - Click above to enlarge

Of the three classic muscle car nameplates currently on sale in the United States, the Dodge Challenger may very well sport the most retro look and feel. Whether or not that's a good thing depends on your personal point of view, but Chrysler seems happy to accept the role and is further promoting the link to Challenger's '70s heritage with a new Plum Crazy Pearl Coat color option for 2010.

In case you're not aware, Plum Crazy was the surprisingly popular deep purple hue found on the Challenger and its stablemate, the Plymouth Barracuda, during the heyday of the American muscle car wars. These days, any car originally painted up in Plum Crazy has an intrinsic value to many collectors, and it seems Dodge is hoping for a similar situation the second time around.

The purple color is only available on R/T (for $225) and SRT models (for $500) for 2010 and the package also includes Plum interior stitching and a Plum seat stripe on the SRT8. Outside, buyers can choose from either Black Dual Wide Stripes or a newly-optional set of stripes in white. Previous High Impact colors Detonator Yellow and B-5 Blue are no longer available for order.

Also new for the Challenger in 2010 is a Super Track Pack option for a reasonable $400 that allows the driver to fully disengage stability control (finally) and adds 245/45ZR20 tires from Goodyear along with an uprated suspension with Load Leveling and Height Control, Performance Steering and heavy-duty disc brakes.

[Source: Allpar, Motor Authority]

Dodge Challenger goes Plum Crazy Purple for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: A different take on Challenger vs. Camaro

Dan Roth — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Coupe, Etc., Chevrolet, Dodge, Humor, Reviews

A different take on Challenger vs. Camaro - Click above for high-res image gallery

The original ponycar wars have boomeranged back after forty years. Ford started it all with a retro-tasty Mustang, and Dodge and Chevrolet have rolled out new versions of the Challenger and Camaro to get in on the frenzy. Looking at the window sticker of any of these cars may seriously depress you. Your retired boomer Dad could swing it as a way to recapture the time before his potential was all used up, but you're not going to step into one of these things if the ink on your diploma has been dry for less than a year.

We have uncovered a way for anyone to get their hands on a Camaro for a price that would please even your paperboy. Better yet, it comes with its own instructional course, so you know what the heck you're doing. It's not exactly a Camaro of the vehicular variety, but HSN's limited-edition Esteban Camaro guitar (almost sold out!) can grab attention in its own right. What's more, those halcyon days of carburetors and bias ply tires are at your fingertips - classic rock tablature abounds. We figured that we'd try out the guitar with the potential to make you a rock star and compare and contrast it with the Dodge Challenger SRT8, a vehicle that nudges the driver that much closer to being chased by paparazzi. Think it's an even, if category-bending matchup? Hit the jump to find out.

Gallery: A different take on Challenger vs. Camaro

Continue reading Review: A different take on Challenger vs. Camaro

Review: A different take on Challenger vs. Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: Classic Design Concepts Group 2 Widebody Challenger

Drew Phillips — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Supercars, Dodge, First Drive

CDC Group 2 Widebody Challenger - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Challenger SRT8 marked the official return last year of the musclecar to the Dodge lineup, and its retro styling, 425-horsepower V8 and tire-shredding capabilities had Mopar enthusiasts giddy with excitement. What, you say, could be much better? Enter Classic Design Concepts. The Novi, Michigan-based company has been adding its visual touch to cars since 1990, and recently tried its hand at Dodge's new musclecar. The result? The Group 2 Widebody Challenger that made its debut at SEMA in 2008. We were instantly smitten with the car's aggressive appearance on the show floor, and were determined to get a closer look if we ever had the chance. Jumping forward a couple of months, we recently learned that the car would be out in Southern California for a Mopar gathering. A phone call to CDC later and we were fortunate enough to land an afternoon behind the wheel of this 575-horsepower bona fide modern musclecar.

Gallery: First Drive: Classic Design Concepts Group 2 Widebody Challenger

Continue reading First Drive: Classic Design Concepts Group 2 Widebody Challenger

First Drive: Classic Design Concepts Group 2 Widebody Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1,000 hp, twin-supercharged Dodge Challenger by RDP Motorsport

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Dodge

Click above to enlarge

Excessive power is just enough, right? If you abide by that rule of thumb, perhaps you'd be interested in RDP Motorsport's latest offering, which trumps the Challenger's SRT8's 6.1L Hemi and its 425 horsepower with a stroked version displacing a classic 440 cubic inches. That block is topped with a duo of superchargers that offer an astounding 1,000 horsepower. Oh yeah, it's also boosted with two nitrous kits. That's enough grunt to catapult the portly Challenger down the 1/4 mile in the nines, and if that's not fast enough for you, we suggest therapy.

This outrageous pony car was recently unveiled at the PRI Show in Florida and is definitely a bit overkill for most people's needs. So, while the Australian company will be happy to replicate this powertrain combination for you for a price, it's good to know that RDP will work with you to design pretty much whatever you need on a custom basis. Check out the video after the break for more.

[Source: RDP Motorsport via Challenger Blog via Motor Authority]

Continue reading 1,000 hp, twin-supercharged Dodge Challenger by RDP Motorsport

1,000 hp, twin-supercharged Dodge Challenger by RDP Motorsport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Chris Shunk — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Coupe, Chrysler, Dodge

Click above for high-res image gallery of the Dodge Challenger SRT8

Back in September we reviewed the V6-powered Dodge Challenger SE, and our conclusion was that an uninspiring engine and benign handling was trumped by terrific curb appeal and an affordable price tag. The R/T model we reviewed yesterday fared even better, with a near perfect combination of brawn and beauty. It was fun spending time behind the wheel of both the SE and R/T models, but we knew we had to get our hands on a fire-breathing, 425-hp 6.1L HEMI V8 to see how capable the Challenger could be at full tilt. After all, there are few things in life better than classic muscle car looks combined with a brute-force V8. And if there are two available V8 engines, it just makes sense that we'd prefer the Challenger with the most powerful powerplant. Did Dodge hit the mark with its top Challenger? We welcomed the Challenger SRT8 into the Autoblog Garage to find out for ourselves.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Dodge EV vs. Dodge Challenger

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, Hybrid, Performance, Green, Videos, Dodge

Click above to watch video after the jump

A few days ago we showed you some pics of the Dodge EV concept at a local car show in Southern California. It appears that the Dodge-branded, battery-powered Lotus Europa made a few other stops in the area as well, one of which was at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Alongside the EV, the Dodge boys were displaying, among other things, a Challenger SRT-8. Well, one thing led to another and before long a battle between '60s retro muscle and modern electric power was underway. Lucky for us, someone was there with a video camera to capture the fraternal pissing match. This impromptu drag race doesn't give us any clear indication of times, but you can definitely see the EV's advantage of light weight and instant-on torque from a stop. The concept electric vehicle jumps ahead at the start, but the Challenger hangs on. Just when the big HEMI seems to be getting a full head of steam, however, they run out of space. We've embedded the video for you after jump. Check it out and let us know how you think this battle would play out on a real 1/4 mile drag strip.

Gallery: Dodge EV in the wild

[Source: ALLPAR]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dodge EV vs. Dodge Challenger

VIDEO: Dodge EV vs. Dodge Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: GM's Chris Berube could school Clarkson on burnouts

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Videos, Supercars, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge

Click above to view videos from the latest Top Gear after the jump

Top Gear is widely regarded as the best television show ever produced about cars. The production values are outstanding, the hosts are amusing and their tamed racing driver, "the Stig", is amazing to watch as he improves his mind while hustling cars around the test track. A few months back we all got wind that Jeremy, Richard and James had returned to the U.S. for another road trip. This time around they headed to the West Coast to drive a new Corvette ZR1, Cadillac CTS-V and Dodge Challenger SRT-8 from San Francisco to the Bonneville Salt Flats. Along the way, Jezza decided to stop at some desolate spot somewhere in Nevada or Utah to lay down some black lines on the pavement. Now while we generally love to watch Mr. Clarkson playing with fast cars, he doesn't quite seem to have mastered the art of the burnout. If you start about 9 minutes into the first clip after the jump and continue to the second and third videos, you'll see our favorite limey trio attempting to shred their tires during last night's second episode of Series 12 (Download via bittorrent here). Compared to Clarkson in the ZR1, Hammond and May were utterly hopeless in their Challenger SRT-8 and Cadillac CTS-V, respectively. After that, watch the last video with GM's Chris Berube showing us all how it's done properly in both the ZR1 Vette and Caddy CTS-V.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: GM's Chris Berube could school Clarkson on burnouts

VIDEO: GM's Chris Berube could school Clarkson on burnouts originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2008: Challenger SRT10 Concept ultimate response to not having a HEMI in that thing

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:20:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance, Dodge

Click above for high-res gallery of Challengers SRT10 from SEMA

That thing got a Hemi in it?
Nope. Doesn't need one. It has a Viper V10.
Oh. Ohhhhh.

The Challenger SRT10 Concept, as you no doubt know, sports the 8.4L V10 engine from the Viper SRT10. All 600 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque in that retro mod muscle car is probably too much power for the Challenger's rear tires, so expect smokey skies to always accompany overambitious throttle inputs. Besides the obviously welcome Viper mill, the Challenger SRT10 concept features a carbon fiber front splitter and rear deck lid, a new rear spoiler, BILSTEIN shocks at all four corners, larger wheels, bigger brakes and quad exhaust tips out back. There's also carbon fiber trim inside the cockpit along with new sports seats and a red engine push-button start just like in the Viper. It all ads up to one seriously awesome piece of retro goodness. Check out the gallery of live shots and the full press release after the jump.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Challenger SRT10

Gallery: Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Challenger SRT10 Concept ultimate response to not having a HEMI in that thing

SEMA 2008: Challenger SRT10 Concept ultimate response to not having a HEMI in that thing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA Preview: Hurst/HEMI Challenger packed with 500+hp for Vegas trip

Drew Phillips — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Tuners, Dodge

Click above for a high resolution image

Hurst is no stranger to offering up special edition Mopars. The 1970 Chrysler 300 Hurst packed a 440ci "TNT" V8 with 375 horsepower, as well as a fiberglass hood and trunk, Satin Tan leather interior, and a Spinnaker-White paint scheme with gold trim. Ok, that was nearly 40 years ago, but Hurst is still going strong and planning to renew its Mopar connection with a limited edition Dodge Challenger that will make its debut at SEMA this year. The Hurst Challenger will be available in four trim levels and include features like a supercharger system good for 500 horsepower, 5-spoke Hurst alloy wheels, and a "Pistol-Grip" Hurst shifter. Pricing will start at a $10,000 premium over the stock Challenger and could go as high as $20,000 for the top level model. Follow the jump for the press release from Hurst.

Gallery: 2009 Hurst Dodge Challenger SRT8

[Source: Hurst via Edmunds.com]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Hurst/HEMI Challenger packed with 500+hp for Vegas trip

SEMA Preview: Hurst/HEMI Challenger packed with 500+hp for Vegas trip originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 w/VIDEO

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:02:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Dodge, First Drive

Click the Challenger for a high res gallery

During the recent What's New event at Chrysler's Chelsea Proving Ground, we had the opportunity to sample the new Dodge Challenger SRT-8. For the 2008 model year, Chrysler is only building SRT-8 versions of the Challenger with a combination of the 6.1L HEMI V8 and a five-speed automatic transmission. We first saw the production version of the Challenger earlier this year at the Chicago Auto Show and while we thought the styling was great with perfect muscle car proportions, it is undoubtedly a big car. The Challenger is built on Chrysler's LX platform shared with the 300 and Charger. Compared to the Mustang it looks huge and it hardly seems like it would actually feel sporty.

Fortunately, the dynamic behavior of large cars has made huge strides since the original Challenger went away in the mid-seventies. We first tried out the Challenger on the road at Chelsea before taking it for a hot lap around the evaluation track. The circuit was built back in the early '90s when a certain gentleman named Lutz was still occupying an office on the top floor of Chrysler's headquarters. It's basically a lovely little natural terrain road course, not quite as elaborate as the new road course that Maximum Bob built at the GM Proving Ground, but it's a good way to get a dynamic feel for a car. After lunch we had another opportunity to thrash the Challenger on the autocross course that Chrysler set up on the vehicle dynamics pad. Find out how the Challenger did after the jump, along with some video of our time behind the wheel.

Gallery: First Drive: Dodge Challenger SRT8

Continue reading First Drive: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 w/VIDEO

First Drive: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 w/VIDEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8s still available

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:26:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Dodge

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8.

For those of you desperately waiting for the next batch of Dodge Challenger SRT8s to be built after the announcement that the first 6,400 2008 models were already spoken for, fret not, supply is on your side. The Detroit News is reporting that while the majority of limited edition SRT8s were already sold before they were built, about one-quarter of the Challengers were set aside for dealer orders.

Several retailers across the U.S. have between two and twenty Challengers sitting on the lot, with one dealer advertising in Michigan's Macomb Daily that nine Brilliant Black, eight Hemi Orange and two Silver Metallic HEMI-powered coupes are available for the taking. Naturally, supply is dependent on where you live. One dealer in Naples, Florida sold out all eight Challengers in three days, while others have only sold only one out of their allotment. And just because you can find one, doesn't mean it will be selling for sticker. Markups are to be expected, with one dealer charging $45,145 - or about $7,000 - above the SRT8's MSRP.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 - First Drive

[Source: Detroit News]

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8s still available originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog autocrosses the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and Viper ACR

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:02:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Dodge, First Drive

Click above for high-res gallery of Autoblog autocrossing

Yesterday at Chrysler's annual media gathering to show off new products at the its proving grounds in Chelsea, MI, the struggling automaker wanted to demonstrate the performance capabilities of its SRT branded vehicles. SRT staff set up an autocross course on the vehicle dynamics pad and brought out examples of every SRT vehicle from the Caliber SRT-4 to the mighty Dodge Viper ACR. Before we were allowed to hop in the cars, we had listen to a short briefing that described the course and some safety rules. And before being allowed to climb into the big snake, we had to complete at least a couple of laps in one of the five Challenger SRT-8s to get familiarized with the course. For a big 4,140-lb coupe, the Challenger proved surprisingly nimble. We learned that with the electronic stability control enabled, it's almost impossible to get the back end to swing wide. The stability control has two alternative modes. The first is engaged by a momentary stab of ESP button and allows some extra slip before intervening, while pressing and holding the ESP button for five seconds completely disables the stability and traction control leaving only the ABS. Read what happens (and watch the tire-burning videos) after the jump.

Gallery: Chrysler SRT Autocrossing

Continue reading Autoblog autocrosses the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and Viper ACR

Autoblog autocrosses the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and Viper ACR originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Challenger #0001 delivered to AZ dealership

Chris Shunk — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Auctions, Chrysler, Dodge

Click above for gallery of Challenger SRT8 #0001 in its new home

The very first production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 has already been built and shipped to an AZ dealership, but it's not for sale. The first Challenger was won at auction by none other than Barrett-Jackson CEO Craig Jackson, and the world-famous auctioneer can pick up his prized $400,000 pony car at Ed Moses Dodge in Scottsdale, AZ whenever he's ready. Dodge Challenger SRT8 numero uno is completely loaded, black with a gray stripe down the center, and the plastic condoms have yet to be removed from the steering wheel and driver's seat.

Jackson wasn't the only high-profile celebrity to snap up an early Challenger SRT8, either. As you read on Autoblog earlier, Jay Leno received Challenger #0002 this week, and the comedian/car nut has already parked his new toy at The Tonight Show headquarters in Burbank, CA. Check our gallery below for pics of the Challenger One in its temporary home and click the Source link below for more. Thanks for the tip, Marshall!

Gallery: Dodge Challenger SRT8 number #0001

[Source: LX Forums]

Challenger #0001 delivered to AZ dealership originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Challenger SRT8 added to Leno's Garage

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:26:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Dodge

Click above image for gallery of high-res shots courtesy Delbert Shoopman

Looks like late night television's most famous car nut is the latest person to fall under the spell of the new Dodge Challenger SRT-8. Autoblog friend Delbert Shoopman says he was walking around the NBC lot in Burbank and happened upon one black Challenger parked directly across from the Tonight Show studio. Further snooping revealed a Jay Leno parking tag on the spot (above). We snooped a bit ourselves and found a blurb on Chrysler's internal blog, Firehouse, where they talk about Jay's latest acquisition.

Seems Jay picked it up yesterday at Valley Dodge in Van Nuys. It will join his 1970 Challenger among the hundreds of other cars in Leno's Garage when he isn't driving it around the Valley or stopping off at local car meets. We'll keep an eye out for him at Bob's Big Boy and VCR to see what he thinks of his latest toy. We're guessing he will get quite a kick out of it, with its 425-hp Hemi V8 and retro-mod good looks. Drive it in good health, Jay.

Gallery: Jay Leno's Dodge Challenger SRT-8

Dodge Challenger SRT8 added to Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 en route to dealers

Chris Shunk — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Chrysler, Dodge

Click the image above for more pics of the Challenger SRT8

If you're one of the lucky 6,400 customers to lay claim to the 425 hp Dodge Challenger SRT8, we have good news. The first 1,000 special edition Challengers have already been built, and they're en-route to a dealer near you. For those of you that won't be getting your Hemi-powered muscle car in the first wave, you won't have to wait long, either. Every SRT Challenger will be produced by the beginning of July, which means Woodward should be full of good-looking retro coupes come August. If you want a 6.1L Challenger, you're going to have to hit eBay or wait for 2009, because all 2008 models have been spoken for.

The Challenger has been one of the few pieces of good news surrounding the Pentastar of late, and a hot product couldn't be coming at a better time. We know gas if $4 per gallon and V8 muscle cars aren't exactly what the doctor ordered, but we're probably just as excited as the 6,400 Challenger SRT8 owners to get behind the wheel of this future classic.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

[Source: Dodge]

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 en route to dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 May 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Your tax dollars at work: Border guards hold up traffic to check out Challenger

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 11 May 2008 16:34:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., Government/Legal, Chrysler, Dodge

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

If any of you were stuck in traffic trying to get through the Detroit Windsor tunnel late last week, we may now know why. There was no major international incident or terrorist crackdown happening. Apparently, Chrysler Canada CEO Reid Bigland grabbed a fresh-off-the-line Dodge Challenger SRT8 and headed over to Detroit from his office in Windsor, Ontario. Agents of the Customs and Border Protection Service decided they wanted to check out Chrysler's new muscle car. Several agents spent time going over the new Challenger and asking questions about it rather than processing travelers through the downtown Detroit border crossing point. Traffic quickly got backed up and according to Bigland there was about an hour delay by the time the agents let him proceed. Oh, and they never even asked for Bigland's ID.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 - First Drive

[Source: Detroit News]

Your tax dollars at work: Border guards hold up traffic to check out Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 May 2008 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dodge Challenger SRT8 sports G-meter, built-in 0-60 timer

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 07 May 2008 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Coupe, Dodge

Click above to watch video after the jump.

We wade through an unhealthy amount of press releases each day, so even when something big hits - like the release of the Challenger SRT8 - we sometimes miss the occasional detail. Such is the case with Dodge's new pony car, which apparently comes equipped with an "SRT-exclusive Reconfigurable Display" (RCD). What does that mean? Well, you can customize the readout at the bottom of the SRT8's 180 mph speedo to display 0-60 acceleration times, 60-0 braking times, 1/4-mile times and g-forces to see if your numbers and Dodge's agree. According to the video after the jump, you can also log your best runs and see how you faired at a later (read: safer) time.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Gallery: Chicago 2008: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 live reveal

Continue reading Dodge Challenger SRT8 sports G-meter, built-in 0-60 timer

Dodge Challenger SRT8 sports G-meter, built-in 0-60 timer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 May 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy: Driving the Dodge Challenger SRT-8

John McElroy — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Dodge, First Drive, Autoline on Autoblog

Click for more Dodge Challenger SRT-8 pics from John McElroy's drive

A couple of weeks back I wrote a bit about the new Dodge Challenger SRT-8. But to honor the embargo that the Public Relations people put on driving impressions, I had to hold the best stuff until now. And man, was it worth the wait!

Despite a sagging economy, sinking car sales and soaring gas prices, the SRT-8 version of the Challenger is going to do just fine. That, despite the fact it only averages 15 mpg and costs $40,000. No worries, mate, it's the other numbers that are going to sell this car.

Check 'em out:
0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
¼ mile: 13.7 seconds
0-100-0 mph: under 17 seconds
60-0 mph: 110 feet

When it comes to top speed, the SRT people have had the car up to 170 mph, but that was on an oval. Since the Challenger is not speed-limited in any way except for its aerodynamic drag, they believe that out on the Salt Flats it will go even faster.

Click here to continue reading after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 - First Drive

John McElroy is host of the TV program "Autoline Detroit". Every week he brings his unique insights as an auto industry insider to Autoblog readers. Follow the jump to continue reading this week's editorial.

Continue reading Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy: Driving the Dodge Challenger SRT-8

Autoline on Autoblog with John McElroy: Driving the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Going, going, GONE: SRT8 Challengers sold out

Michael Harley — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Performance, Chrysler, Dodge

Click on image above for his-res gallery of the SRT8

As expected, the entire first-year production run of 6,400 Dodge Challenger SRT8 models has sold out. The purchase slots for 2008 models were in short supply two months ago when we reported that more than 10,000 orders had been placed for the 425-hp muscle car. You can still give your dealer all the coins in your piggy bank, but the money goes on the hood of 2009 model, scheduled to arrive this fall.

If the thought of missing out on one of these rare 2008-model HEMI-powered beasts is keeping you up at night and you just can't wait for next year, there's always eBay. Although Chrysler tried to dissuade dealers from gouging, more than two dozen of the $37,995 (base MSRP) cars have been put on the auction site -- mostly by speculating dealers with prices in the mid-$50,000 range. Ah, the joys of a free market...

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Gallery: Chicago 2008: 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 live reveal

[Source: KickingTires]

Going, going, GONE: SRT8 Challengers sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Apr 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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