2008 Dodge Challenger

Reviews indicate that Dodge's resurrection of the Challenger is a resounding success. For the 2008 model year, production was limited to 6,400 top-of-the-line SRT8 variants, which come equipped with a Hemi V-8 engine putting out 425 horsepower. For 2009, less expensive V-6 and V-8 versions will be added. While initial Challenger coupes were equipped with automatic transmission only, a six-speed manual transmission will be available in 2009. While reviewers like the Dodge Challenger, most say it doesn't really break any new ground or offer any technology firsts. Writers say the Challenger is about image more than anything. The Challenger's steering is reported to be not particularly responsive and rather heavy, and its interior design is criticized as being too similar to the Dodge Charger sedan. The Challenger's primary competitor is the Ford Mustang coupe (*est. $19,650 to $27,420); comparison reviews give the nod to the Challenger for its refinement and its "fun" factor.

For the Dodge Challenger, mainly noncritical news articles are available rather than hands-on road tests. Informative evaluations are available from Road & Track and Car and Driver, each with include plenty of pros and cons. Motor Trend pits the Challenger against the Ford Shelby GT500, while Edmunds compares it to the Ford Mustang Bullitt. Cars.com also has a detailed review, while TheCarConnection.com has a longer, in-depth review based on the writer's own test-drive and opinions from other auto writers. Los Angeles Times auto critic Dan Neil provides an insightful review of the new Challenger.