Car and Driver covers let slip the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

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We've received word that a small group of Car and Driver readers have been selected to help the magazine select its the cover of its April issue that features the production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, a car that's fast becoming the worst kept secret in Detroit. This past week, both a preproduction Challenger SRT8 and R/T were driven around Detroit without camouflage just long enough to be photographed by all the right people, and now this. We assume Car and Driver didn't intentionally break an embargo on releasing images and information about the Challenger, but at this point their motivation for this move or lack thereof is irrelevant. Their mistake is your gain, as not only do we get confirmation that the Challenger SRT8 will be rocking 425 horsepower (not a big surprise), we also learn that the Pontiac G8 GT will have 362 HP. As for the Challenger itself, this is our first time seeing a full three-quarter view of the production car. Our verdict: it's better than the concept. Good job, Chrysler.

Even if you're not a Car and Driver subscriber, we figure the good folks on Hogback Rd. might be interested in your opinion on the April issue's cover, too. Do you like "AMERICAN MUSCLE" or "POWER PLAYERS"? Vote in the poll below.

UPDATE: AutoWeek has opened up the embargo a bit more by releasing a new pic of the Challenger, which you can click here to view. The only new information revealed is that the Challenger's wheelbase is four inches shorter than its LX platform sedan siblings at 116 inches.