History / Overview
Introduced in 2008, the Dodge Challenger was the last model added to a line of muscle cars that also included the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans, and the now-defunct Dodge Magnum station wagon.
What's New / Key Changes from Last Year
Challenger changes for 2020 are minor. Most trims get new wheel designs, including new standard 19-inch sizes for the SXT and GT, and some boast a new flat-bottomed steering wheel. Every Challenger with leather seating also gets new stitched dash and door panels. There are also new colours available, and revised badges.
Available Trims
Dodge offers the Challenger in SXT, GT, R/T, Scat Pack 392, Hellcat, and Hellcat Redeye trims.
SXT and GT use a 3.6L V6, and can be optioned with AWD. All other Challenger variants are V8-powered and RWD. An 8-speed automatic is standard save for R/T and Scat Pack models, which get a 6-speed manual that options to the 8-speed auto.
Standard Features
SXT trim comes with a performance suspension tuning, LED taillights, and 19-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, auto on/off headlights and LED accent lighting.
Inside, the Challenger offers 2 USB inputs, leather-trimmed shifter and steering wheel, 7.0-inch displays for infotainment and gauge cluster, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 6-speaker stereo, a 10-way power driver's seat with lumbar, tilt-and-telescopic steering, Bluetooth, passive keyless entry, and tire pressure monitoring.
GT trim adds a functional hood scoop, fog lights, an SRT front splitter, an 8.4-inch infotainment display, paddle shifters, satellite radio, Dodge Performance Pages, remote engine start, rear park assist, and a garage door opener.
R/T's additions are an active exhaust, 20-inch wheels, and bright pedals.
Scat Pack 392 gets a more robust alternator, an anti-spin differential, high-performance suspension, line lock, a cool air intake, a performance hood with heat extractors, an upgraded stereo, heated front seats and steering wheel, and upgraded brakes.
Hellcat models get air catcher headlights, competition suspension, and ambient interior lighting.
Hellcat Redeye adds the SRT Power Chiller.
Key Options
A driver convenience package bundles blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and HID headlights.
A Plus package adds an upgraded stereo, larger touchscreen, fog lights, heated front seats and steering wheel, ventilated front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and a power-adjustable steering wheel.
Active safety kit comes in a technology group comprising adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, forward collision warning, and rain-sensing wipers.
Fuel Economy
Dodge's fuel consumption estimates for the Challenger are 12.4/7.8 L/100 km (city/highway) for the 3.6L engine with RWD, and 12.8/8.7 with AWD.
R/T is rated 14.7/9.4 L/100 (city/highway).
Scat Pack 392 estimates are 15.8/9.6 L/100 km (city/highway) with the automatic transmission, and 16.7/10.4 with the stickshift.
Finally, Challenger Hellcat ratings range from 17.6/10.7 L/100 km (city/highway) to 18.6/11.2 L/100 km.
Competition
The Dodge Challenger competes with the domestic auto industry's two other two-door muscle cars: Ford's Mustang, and the Chevrolet Camaro.
