2009 Dodge Challenger

Power-wise, the SRT8 is all of that and a bag of chips. The numbers tell the story: 0-60 in 4.9 seconds, 0-100 in 11.5 seconds, one-quarter mile in 13.3 seconds, top speed 170 mph. Impressive performance, delivered with a sonorous soundtrack through the twin pipes. Stopping power is first rate. Beefy Brembo binders haul the 4,140 lb. SRT8 down from 60 mph to zero in 110 feet. The suspension keeps the car fully controlled at speed, and it’s light on its feet for its size. Dodge’s engineers dialed in a little, old school body roll as the car sets up to corner, but unlike old school models, corner it does. The big Challenger sticks a respectable .88g on the skid pad. Though likely not a major concern of prospective SRT8 buyers, fuel economy is estimated to be 14/22 (stick), 13/19 (auto).

Interior Department

Challenger’s interior is more modern than retro. A four-bomb instrument cluster and a side slanting center stack are both design shout-outs to the original Challenger. Otherwise, the cabin borrows heavily from other members of the SRT stable, like the Charger and the 300. The mixing of soft and hard touch plastics improves tactile impressions, though the SE’s interior overall is a little sedate, color-wise.


The front seats have six-footer plus room, supportive and comfortable over the long haul. Tilt/telescoping steering column and a sliding center console cover/arm rest are two nice, standard touches inside. The backseats can hold a pair of adults in reasonable comfort, provided that those up front don’t monopolize the legroom. Challenger’s broad c-pillars create blind spots in the driver’s 3/4 rear view. Trunk space—at 16.2 cubic feet—is generous, capable of holding a couple of full-size golf bags or other similarly oversize gear inside. Split, folding rear seats allow for long items as well.

Market Place
The full line of Challengers rolls into an interesting market. Camaro arrives next year and a new generation Mustang the year after that. For now, though, the new Dodge takes center stage amongst the new age pony cars. High gas prices won’t help sales of any performance cars, so the six cylinder versions will have to shoulder the load, sales-wise. Challenger appears to be well positioned for the task. The R/T and SRT8 are fine, fun performers. But, with a starting sticker of $22,000, the SE wraps those same good looks around a very streetable six-cylinder package, with an affordable pricetag. (www.dodge.com)

About the Author
A native of New York’s Hudson River Valley, Dan Lyons has been reviewing cars in print and online for the past 20 years.