2011 Dodge Challenger

Dodge Challenger

2011 Dodge Challenger-Seeing as a muscle car is defined by its engines, we’ll look under the Challenger’s long vented hood first. The difference in performance on the 3,800-lb base model is amazing, and should improve even more when an eight-speed automatic transmission replaces the aging five-speed automatic, which is the sole choice with the SE V6

As an added bonus, the base engine improves the Challenger’s fuel efficiency too, although official test numbers have not been released.

The base touring suspension is tighter and more responsive, and gets wider 18-inch wheels and tires. For those looking for even more ability, the Super Track Pak, exclusive to the R/T, gets 20-inch wheels with sticky performance tires, heavy-duty shocks and springs, high-performance brake pads and switch able ESC.

The changes successfully tie down the big Challenger to the road, and the new electric power steering provides decent feel for such a large, heavy ride. Thankfully, Dodge did not make too many changes to the still-iconic exterior. The chromed fuel-filler door and dual exhaust are standard on every model.

Base SE Challengers start at $24,670 and come standard with a six-speaker sound system, cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, climate control, power windows and locks, power-folding mirrors, and 60/40 split-folding rear seat, along with six air bags, ABS and ESC.

All Challengers benefit from extensive changes made to the suspension, steering and brakes, resulting in a more rewarding car to drive. Having said that, you can't ignore the Challenger's competitors.

The 2011 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat coupe available in three trim levels that each corresponds to a different engine: SE, R/T and SRT8 392. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, remote ignition (requires the automatic transmission), full power accessories, cruise control, automatic climate control, rear A/C outlets, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, an eight-way power driver seat with manual lumbar adjustment, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a trip computer and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack.

The Rally package includes those features plus automatic headlamps, fog lamps, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system. The Super Sport Group adds 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and performance-tuned suspension, brakes and steering.

The Challenger R/T gets a V8 engine, automatic headlamps, fog lamps, heated mirrors, the SE's Connectivity Group and all of the SE's Super Sport Group equipment minus the wheels. The R/T Plus package adds 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats and the Boston Acoustics system. The Challenger SRT8 392 gets all the R/T's basic equipment, but adds xenon headlamps, unique 20-inch wheels, sport seats, an upgraded trip computer with real-time performance data, hydraulic power steering (versus electro hydraulic), upgraded brakes and suspension, and a one-day driver training course at the Richard Petty Racing School. The Track Pak adds a six-speed manual transmission. The regular Challenger's Sound Group II and both navigation systems are also available.

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SE is powered by a new 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. The Challenger SRT8 392 gets a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. In Edmunds testing, an automatic-equipped SRT8 392 went from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

Every 2011 Dodge Challenger comes standard with antilock disc brakes (size and power differs based on trim and certain option packages), stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Unlike the Dodge Challenger's distinctive-looking exterior, the interior is quite bland.

With aggressive retro styling and a new, more powerful base engine the Dodge Challenger is more prepared to battle rival muscle cars. If you want a two-door muscle car with ample interior space, the Challenger may be the only game in town. The 2011 Dodge Challenger is available in either base SE or R/T trims. Molar fans seeking more power should check out the Dodge Challenger SRT8, which is reviewed separately.

If the Mustang doesn’t fit the bill, perhaps the Chevrolet Camaro will scratch your muscle car itch. Reviewers note that the Challenger’s back seat is much more adult-friendly than the competition.

The Dodge Challenger comes in either base SE, or V8-equipped R/T trim. Improved brakes, steering and suspension make the Challenger a more competent handler. Muscle car fans looking for V8 power will likely want the Challenger R/T, which starts at about $29,700.