Challenger is a name that echoes down the halls of motorsports history. Villains drove Challengers in the great car chase movies of the 1960s. Heroes drive Challengers in big Hollywood franchise films today. The latest iteration of the Challenger does more than its fair share to continue to cement the cachet it has always garnered on the strip and street. Whether you’re looking to run from stop light to stop light or simply want to be the coolest cat in the carpool, the 2019 Dodge Challenger has you covered.
In its base iteration, the 2019 Challenger is an accessible cruiser while at the top of the heap, the nearly peerless Challenger Redeye melts asphalt. This iconic muscle car rips into the future with an impressive number of engine options as well as a full bevy of techno-wizardry, both in the cockpit and under the hood.
Exterior
There’s no doubt the Challenger is a muscle car and that it follows the tried-and-true formula of two doors, plenty of power, and an aggressive stance. The Challenger has a long wheelbase, which gives it a flowing stance and great curb appeal. Opting for higher-end trim nets buyers with a wide array of optional wheels, tires, and exterior trim to set their Challenger apart from its brethren.
Power
The base Challenger’s V-6 engine provides an exciting experience ripping out over 300 horsepower. Stepping up to the first of four available V-8s pushes the Challenger further into the performance category. The base V-8 Hemi gives the Challenger true muscle car cache. Optional offerings include the R/T package, the Scat Pack, and a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. At the top of the Challenger, the latter is the sinister Challenger Redeye. In this configuration, the Challenger can produce nearly 800 ferocious horsepower.
Performance
In standard form with the base V-6, the Challenger is more than able to make short work of interstate on-ramps and quick passes on country roads. However, it’s with the V-8 engine options that the Challenger’s performance really begins to match its retro-modern exterior. If you need to be 1/4 mile away in under 11 seconds, pony up for the top of the heap Challenger Redeye, which can make the quarter-mile trip at about a 130 miles an hour. The sled’s top speed is over 200 miles an hour.
Cabin
Although the power produced by the Challenger can seem savage, there’s nothing uncivilized about the cabin. Slip behind the ergonomic steering wheel and find yourself in one of the roomiest and most well-appointed cabins in its class. Despite being a coupe, the 2019 Challenger boasts a similar interior volume to many sedans. Most of this space is well-provided with soft-touch and high-quality materials. Each of the higher-level trims includes unique badging, seat stitching, and leather accents. Optional infotainment technology provides a surprisingly sophisticated tech experience set against the retro look of the Challenger’s exterior.
The Challenger is a two-door muscle car with an enviable pedigree that many would make a sacrifice to be able to enjoy. However, owning a challenger is no sacrifice, as this high-performance muscle car is very easy to live with. With the 2019 Challenger, Dodge gives drivers the option to choose as much muscle car as their driving skills and budget can handle.
Image via Rodeocdjr.com
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