It's a big year for Dodge's classic muscle car: new features, more models and even greater performance. Topping it all off is the new Challenger Hellcat, an appropriately named screamer destined to go down in history.
What's New for 2015
Although it doesn't look appreciably different than before, the Challenger has been thoroughly redesigned on a new platform.
Choosing Your Dodge Challenger
All Challenger models benefit from a reworked interior with upgraded electronics and additional comfort features. As before, the standard 3.6-liter V6 makes 305 horsepower, but is now coupled to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. You have a choice of two normally aspirated HEMI V8s: a 375-horsepower 5.7-liter and a 6.4-liter with 485 horsepower. The all-new Hellcat supercharged 6.2-liter V8 achieves a jaw-dropping 707 horsepower and transforms the Challenger into the fastest muscle car ever produced. A six-speed manual transmission is standard with any V8; the eight-speed automatic is optional.
The Challenger lineup is composed of no less than seven trim levels:
It's worth nothing that the Challenger can now get several advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. As usual, Dodge offers a dizzying array of appearance packages to customize the Challenger to your taste.
We find the R/T to be the sweet spot in Challenger lineup. It's tame enough to make for a pleasant daily driver and fast enough to honor the Challenger legacy. It's also the most affordable V8 car you can buy.