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:
SXT
Gets the V6 engine and a premium cloth interior, plus a power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a full-length center console, keyless ignition, a 5-inch touchscreen display, 18-inch aluminum wheels on all-season performance tires, Bluetooth phone and a six-speaker sound system with an SD card reader.
SXT Plus
Adds upgraded brakes, suspension and wheels, along with a host of interior features: Nappa leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a review camera with parking sensors, satellite radio, Bluetooth audio, 3D navigation and Alpine speakers.
Challenger R/T
V8 power starts here with the 5.7-liter HEMI. You also get a limited-slip performance rear axle, a low-restriction exhaust system and 20-inch satin-finish aluminum wheels. Other equipment mirrors the SXT.
Challenger R/T Plus
Combines the R/T's performance upgrades with the comfort and convenience features of the SXT Plus. You can also add the R/T Classic Package, which mimics the look of the original early-1970s Challenger.
Challenger R/T Scat Pack
Packs the 6.4-liter HEMI along with specially tuned suspension and exhaust systems, Brembo brakes and cloth sport seats. Navigation and an upgraded sound system are also part of the deal. The available Leather Group adds a Nappa leather interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
Challenger SRT 392
Builds on the Scat Pack with additional performance features such as launch control, larger Brembo brakes and an adaptive sport suspension. The 392 also gets its own hood with functional air intakes. Inside, you get an 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and Nappa leather seating.
Challenger SRT Hellcat
Adds the outrageous supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat engine, plus selectable driving modes and special exterior styling details.
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.
Choose your Dodge Challenger »