Anyone alive in the 70s can tell you that this car has a lot of heritage. The 2008 Challenger combines the retro styling of the iconic muscle car of the 70s with the performance and handling of today. With the best of both worlds muscle car fans have a reason to rejoice.

The production challenger is almost identical to the concept that debuted almost two years ago. Its based on the LX platform that the Dodge Charger, the Chrysler 300 and the soon to be departed Dodge Magnum all share. The Challenger will go on sale early next year (either February or March) which puts in the middle of the 08 model year. For 2008 only 5500 Challengers will be made, all will be SRT 8 models with the 6.1L Hemi (425 HP/ 420 lb.-ft. torque) mated to a 5 speed auto stick transmission. The 2008 Challenger will be available in three colors: Hemi Orange, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic, with the Hemi Orange and Bright Silver having carbon fiber hood stripes. The price for each of these 5500 Challengers will be $37,995 and you can bet there wont be any cash back on this car.

"Our designers wanted to capture the minds eye view of what people today remember about the Challenger from 35 years ago, said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President of Design, Chrysler. So their challenge was to excite todays customer by capturing the emotion of the original Challenger, but with todays quality and performance."

The 2009 model year will see the addition of two additional models for the Challenger. The smaller 5.7L Hemi joins the engine line up in the R/T model and a 3.5L HO V6 will be the engine for the SXT trim level. In 2010 the plans are to introduce a convertible option for both the SE and the R/T trim levels while the 6.4L High Output Hemi becomes an option in the SRT 8. It is likely that the 4.0L phoenix V6 will replace the 3.5L HO V6 when it becomes availabe in 2011.

2009 Challenger earns top safety ratings

The 2009 Challenger earned 5-star ratings for driver- and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash along with 5-star driver and rear-passenger ratings for side-impact protection, the highest ratings in the U.S. government's safety crash test program.

Safety Features include:

High-intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved night-time illumination

Hill Start Assist (HSA): Standard on all Dodge Challengers with a manual transmission. Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released

HomeLink universal home security system transceiver: Stores three separate transmitter radio-frequency codes to operate garage-door openers, security gates, security lighting or other radio-controlled devices

Interior head-impact protection: Interior pillars above the belt line and instrument panel, including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side-rail structures are specifically designed to limit head-impact force

Inside emergency trunk release: A glow-in-the-dark release handle, which may be activated in the event of an adult or child being inadvertently trapped inside the trunk

Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant, enabling air bags to work more effectively

Remote Start: Conveniently starts the engine from outside the vehicle by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security

Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors, and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a vehicle-theft security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system

Safety cage body structure: Protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact

Seat belt guide: Allows for optimal positioning of seat belt across shoulder and chest

Seat belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to immediately remove slack from seat belts, thereby reducing the forward movement of occupants' heads and torsos

Sentry Key engine immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a pre-programmed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after only a few seconds

Side guard door beams: Provide occupant protection during a side impact

Supplemental side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor in order to autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where an impact occurs

Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM): Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels and spare tire send continuous radio frequency signals to a receiver and the system informs the driver when tire pressure is too low

uconnect phone: Uses Bluetooth technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants' compatible mobile phones and the vehicle's onboard receiver

Vehicle theft security alarm: Deters vandalism and theft, frequently lowering insurance premiums. System protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry

Pricing

The number of trim levels and the option of a V6 suggest that Dodge is going to want the Challenger to compete with the redesigned Ford Mustang. We expect pricing will be similar, so look for the low level SE V6 model to MSRP in the low 20s and the R/T to start at the same price as the Charger R/T. Reports from one dealer that has sat in the production Challenger say that the interior is a step up from the Mustang as well.

Update: Pricing for the 2009 Challenger SE starts at $22,545. The R/T starts at $30,545 and the SRT starts at $42,245. Of course there are additional options for each trim level that would add to the cost.

"We used the original Challenger as an inspiration for many of the features found on the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®," said Jeff Gale, Lead Designer – Dodge Challenger Exterior Design. "The side mirrors actually started with a mold from the mirrors of an original Challenger. We tweaked a few details for fit and finish, then put them through our modern aerodynamic testing metrics and ended up with a body-mounted mirror that is remarkably similar visually to the original, but offers significantly better aerodynamic performance."

"The dark headliner was very important to us when designing the interior," said Brian Nielander, Manager Dodge Challenger Exterior and Interior Design. "It not only stays true to the original Challenger, but it also gives a sinister, more businesslike atmosphere." "The original Dodge Challenger was best known for its straight-line prowess at the drag strip," said Owen. "The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 not only lives up to that heritage, but was engineered to offer world-class ride and handling characteristics when on the street, at a drag strip or at a road course."

Engine Specifications for each Trim Level

The Challenger SE powered by the 3.5-liter High Output V-6 with a four-speed automatic transmission produces 250 hp and 250 lb.-ft. of torque.

Since the Challenger is built on the LX platform it will have the same sporty suspension as the Charger and 300 do as well as all of their safety features.

• Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers
• Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) modulate the brakes for the driver to provide steering control while braking
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) applies selective braking or throttle reduction to control oversteer and understeer
• Brake Assist ensures maximum braking action during panic stops
• Traction Control reduces the throttle and/or applies selective braking to optimize traction during acceleration
• Hill Start Assist (HSA) for Manual Transmission application assists the driver in launching the vehicle on an incline
• Automatic Headlamps turn headlamps on at dusk and off in the daylight without driver intervention
• Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) alerts driver about low tire pressure(s) in order to facilitate safe handling

More pictures:

"Our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger is a modern-day muscle machine representing the best from the past and present," said Mike Accavitti, Director Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "Thirty-five years following the debut of the original, we are bringing Dodge Challenger back and loading it with essential hardware, styling and technology desired by todays buyer."

"We drew upon recognizable details from our original Dodge Challenger and incorporated them into the 2009 model," said Jeff Gale, Lead Designer of Dodge Challenger Exterior Design. "One of the most identifiable design elements from the original Challenger that you'll see on the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger is the cast metal fuel door on the driver's side of our R/T and SRT8 models. Stamped with the word "FUEL" in the same font used 35 years ago, it is a tribute to the original."

"Offering a manual transmission in our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger was a must," said Lyons. "Borrowing Dodge Viper SRT10 manual transmission technology, our engineers were able to develop a six-speed manual that meets fuel economy and performance targets for Dodge Challenger's weight class."

"We wanted to recapture the emotion evoked from our 1970’s Dodge Challenger and our recent Challenger concept," said Brian Nielander, Manager of Dodge Challenger Exterior and Interior Design. "Our all-new Dodge Challenger delivers a modern package that meets the needs of todays consumer and the expectations of muscle-car enthusiasts of all ages."

"The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 builds on the enthusiasm that started with the 2008 model, thanks to a host of new features designed to delight pure driving enthusiasts," said Mike Accavitti, Director of Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "While staying true to the original Challenger formula, Dodge and SRT have added a six-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, new colors, a new look for the hood stripes and a classic "pistol-grip" shifter. The result is a Dodge muscle car packed with modern amenities and features any enthusiast will love."

Official pricing for 2009 Challenger models announced:

2009 Dodge Challenger SE

With an MSRP of $21,995, the Dodge Challenger SE comes standard with a 3.5-liter High Output V-6 engine which produces 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. Coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Dodge Challenger SE achieves an estimated 18 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Other standard features on Dodge Challenger SE include comfortable seating for up to five adults, best-in-class cargo space with 16.2 cubic feet, 60/40 split-folding rear bench with arm rests and two cup holders, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P215/65R17 all-season tires, four-wheel disc brakes, side-curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver's seat, fold-away power mirrors, power locks and windows with express-down, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 capability and four speakers, cloth low-back bucket seats, manual-tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-covered visor vanity mirrors and tire pressure warning lamp.

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

MSRP for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is $29,995. Featuring the new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with an estimated 370 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque when paired with the standard five-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine with five-speed automatic transmission is equipped with fuel-saving multi-displacement (MDS) technology which increases fuel economy by as much as 20 percent without sacrificing performance.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T include dual chromed rectangular exhaust tips, ABS, ESP, Brake Assist with vented brakes, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels with P225/60HR18 all-season touring tires, fog lamps, body-color exterior mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, illuminated visor vanity mirrors, rear body-color spoiler and cast-metal fuel door.

The available Track Pak features the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with "pistol-grip" shifter for $995. When the six-speed manual transmission is paired with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, it produces an estimated 375 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft. of torque. The Track Pak also includes Hill-start Assist, limited-slip differential, bright pedal covers and performance steering.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

The MSRP for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is $39,995. The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers an available six-speed manual transmission or standard five-speed automatic transmission mated to the SRT-exclusive 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. New for 2009 is a standard limited-slip differential, High Performance Red and B5 Blue (late availability) exterior paint and black hood stripes. A classic "pistol-grip" shifter is included with the available Track Pak which includes the Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission with Hill-start Assist.

Other standard features on the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a race-inspired interior featuring performance seats with a red accent stripe and added bolstering which keeps customers in place under spirited driving conditions, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, "Performance Pages" reconfigurable display that features 0 - 60 mph, 1/4 mile, and 1/8 mile times, uconnect gps, unique SRT-tuned ESP and ABS calibrations, 20-inch fully-forged aluminum wheels, red, painted Brembo brakes, hood with functional dual hood scoops, functional black painted rear spoiler and a unique exhaust note.

"The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger gives customers a modern-day muscle machine at an incredible value," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "For less than $22,000, we've brought Dodge Challenger back and loaded it with head-snapping styling and cutting-edge technology."

"At SRT, we take pride in always engineering benchmark performance, and then building on it, never resting on our laurels," said Kipp Owen, Director – SRT Engineering. "With a limited-slip differential and a new six-speed manual transmission in the 2009 Challenger SRT8, we've proven once again that SRT always raises the bar in the performance vehicle marketplace."

"It is great that the enthusiasm people have for the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 has been the catalyst that will help so many people," Accavitti said. "Consumers couldn't wait to get a new Challenger, and that excitement will benefit the lives of young people throughout the United States through these three organizations."

Super Stock Challenger

The first drag-race, factory-prepped package cars built in 40 years, the new Challenger Drag Race Package Car by Mopar builds on the heritage of the limited-edition 1968 HEMI-powered Package Cars. Those '68 Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas solidified the Mopar brand as a quarter-mile force.

Mopar will build a minimum of 100 Challenger Drag Race Package Cars to meet NHRA requirements. Based on the production Dodge Challenger SRT8, Mopar's modern factory-prepped Challenger Drag Race Package Car will begin as a special Body-in-White (BIW) from Chrysler's Brampton, Ontario, Canada, assembly plant. The body sealer, sound deadener and undercoat will be eliminated. To reduce vehicle weight, major production component and systems will also be eliminated including: windshield wiper assembly, complete HVAC system, all airbag components, rear seats, power steering system, exhaust system and underbody heat shields, cross-car and side impact door beams, rear bumper beam and rear deck lid spoiler.

The drag racer has three engine options-6.1-liter or 5.7-liter HEMI or 5.9-liter Magnum Wedge-as well as manual or automatic transmission.

A build book/owner's manual will be provided to document the modifications made to the Challenger SRT8 as well as provide recommendations to finish the Package Car for Stock Eliminator competition. To accentuate weight savings, there are unique drag-race components in the Package Car program including: composite lift-off hood with functional scoop, Viper-style front seats, polycarbonate door windows, lightweight cooling module with electric fan, manual rack and pinion steering, special cable-operated deck lid release, special lightweight front brake assembly and special cable-operated throttle linkage and pedal assembly.

"Today is a great day for Mopar, Dodge, SRT, drag racers and motorsports enthusiasts everywhere. Not made for the streets, our drag-race-only Challengers will be running soon in NHRA competition-the best grassroots racing series in the world," said Sunil Lahoti, Mopar Marketing and Brand Manager, Chrysler LLC. "And who better to drive our new Challenger Package Cars on their inaugural track run than 'Big Daddy' and 'Miss Mighty Mopar'-the greatest drag racer of all time and a female pioneer of the sport."

The Challenger Drag Race Package Car will be eligible to run in three Eliminator categories—Comp, Super Stock and Stock—and potentially 40 classes.

Depending upon the configuration selected, the U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Challenger Drag Race Package Car program will range from the low to mid $30s. Each car will carry an identification plate with sequential serial number.

The Challenger Drag Race Package Car will be available for order in late August to early September. A toll-free number will be designated for ordering. Details will be posted on www.mopar.com.

Now in its fifth decade, NHRA is the world's largest motorsports sanctioning body with 80,000 members, 140 member tracks, more than 35,000 licensed competitors and more than 5,000 member-track events. NHRA is second only to NASCAR in terms of fan attendance.

Saleen Challenger

Steve Saleen and his company, SMS, have announced that the first product for the new company will be the SMS 570TM Challenger and SMS 570XTM Challenger. The high performance Signature Series vehicles will be based on the Dodge Challenger R/T with a supercharged 5.7L Hemi engine. The certified and street legal vehicles will have a horsepower rating of 500 and 700 respectively. Both models come with a plethora of ultra high performance upgrades in every part of the vehicle including: drivetrain, suspension, aerodynamics, tires, wheels and interior.

"I am drawing upon 25 years of rich experience in the automotive industry to address the rapidly expanding global market of automotive lifestyle vehicles, technical performance parts, accessories and apparel" explains Mr. Saleen "SMS is enabling us to do what could not be done at Saleen, Inc. due to the their heritage with the Ford dealer network and Ford vehicles. We are using this freedom, along with our new technology developed at SMS, to create world-class specialty vehicles."

G5 Posey Challenger

Famous MotorSports Challenger racer Sam Posey has endorsed the Group Five company to produce an inspired custom Challenger that reminds us of the days of his top place finishes in the #77 Posey Dodge Challenger on the Trans Am circuit in the 70's. The cars will be sold through the G5 dealer network and the Posey inspired Challenger will Parkinson's Foundation on behalf of Sam Posey who suffers from the ailment.

G5/S Package - The G5/S package takes the SRT8 Challenger to the next level. Its extreme muscle car styling merged with balanced performance. The G5/S is a sport package that optimizes factory performance with improved handling, braking, and acceleration while adding aggressive styling.

G5/R Package - The G5/R package includes all of the options of the G5/S and more. Like the "R" indicates, this Group 5 package offers race-like performance for your street driven Dodge Challenger. There is a long list of options as well as the ability to have parts custom designed to the customer's specifications.

2009 Dodge Challenger Pictures

Challenger SRT 10 at SEMA 2008

The Challenger made an appearance at the SEMA 2008 show with a little extra under the hood.

The opportunity for SRT engineering to "one-up" itself comes to fruition with the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept. Power for the 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept comes from the Dodge Viper 8.4-liter, all-aluminum V-10 engine with 600 horsepower and 560 lb. ft. of torque. This new halo concept delivers the well-known SRT credo of benchmark performance. The Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept includes a fresh coat of Tornado Red paint with a carbon-fiber deck lid and hood. The "shaker hood" is a nostalgic representation of the 1970 HEMI Cuda.