Dodge Challenger 3rd Generation - What To Check Before You Buy (2024)

3rd Generation Dodge Challenger: What Owners Say

Performance must rank as the most important plus and there is no shortage of it in the 3rd-gen Challenger, especially in the supercharged models, which offer pulverizing power, with dramatically smoky burnouts on instant tap.
Unlike many sports cars, the Challenger is very practical. Owners are full of praise for the roomy interior that has a usable rear seat and the spacious trunk that can swallow an impressive 16.2 cubic feet of cargo. It is also unexpectedly refined when not rushed, with a surprisingly supple ride and easy cruising gait.
It may not be particularly aerodynamic, but the Challenger's retro muscle-car appearance hits the bull's eye and it recalls the past without being a tasteless pastiche of old Challengers. Its aggressive countenance and intimidating Widebody derivatives express the American muscle-car vibe like no other in this class.

The 3rd-gen Dodge Challenger is not a very sharp handler and its behavior around curves has been described as ponderous, largely due to its substantial size and weight.
The interior feels built to a price, especially in the early cars, and could never be described as plush. This was greatly improved for the 2015 facelift, but compared to European rivals, the finishes remained workmanlike rather than luxurious
The supercharged models may be extremely rapid, but they are hideously thirsty.

2015 Dodge Challenger 3rd Generation Facelift

Only in its eighth model year did the Dodge Challenger's 3rd generation get a major refresh. The exterior changes only modernize what was already there and Dodge does not meddle too much with a winning recipe that resonates with owners. The interior is much improved though.

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2015-2022 Challenger 3rd Gen Facelift Front Changes

The nose of the facelifted car is instantly familiar but also all-new. The bumper gets a center crease¹ and bigger, more aggressive lower fascia with a bigger air intake². The grille is more modern³ and brand-new headlights with four corona-ring LED daytime running lights feature prominently⁴.

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2015-2022 Challenger 3rd Gen Facelift Rear Changes

The rear lights are completely revamped and the old, full-width bank of light units with its incandescent bulbs is replaced by big LED-strip taillights encircling the backup lights and turn signals¹, split in two by a "Dodge" insignia in the middle². A more shapely, scalloped rear bumper replaces the flat-slabbed old item with its singular horizontal crease down the middle³. A new shark-fin antenna can be seen on the back of the roof⁴, replacing the previous low-profile version.

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2015-2022 Challenger 3rd Gen Facelift Side Changes

In profile, the facelift's different wheel designs are obvious, but other changes are far less noticeable. The most obvious of these is the longer, thinner, side marker lights on the bumpers¹. The new shark-fin radio antenna can also be seen from the side, replacing the old nub-like antenna.

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2015-2022 Challenger 3rd Gen Facelift Interior Changes

The interior on the facelift is totally different and nothing is carried over from the previous model. The drab, sedan-like dashboard with its squared-off air vents and upright center stack make way for a higher-quality item, oriented toward the driver and with proper provision for the integration of modern infotainment screens in the center between the curvy new air vents¹. Said infotainment system and the gauge cluster are incorporated into one continuous pod that brings the controls closer together. The all-new gauge cluster's numerals follow the orientation of the needles and are no longer horizontal². Their center portions are covered, so only the ends of the needles can be seen ascribing their arcs. A driver-information display nestles between the speedo and rev counter³. The door cards have been redesigned too, with new metal-finish door openers. There are brand-new steering-wheel options, too⁴.

Engine, Transmission, and Drivetrain

For 2008, the Dodge Challenger gen 3 was launched as a single model with one engine. This was a performance version, the SRT8, with a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 engine packing 425 hp/420 lb-ft. The SRTs are reviewed separately and for the purposes of this review, the first "normal" Challenger was the 2009 base SE V6, using a 250-hp/250-lb-ft version of the 3.5-liter Chrysler SOHC V6 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission, along with a mid-range R/T, which uses a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi V8 with 370 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, coupled to a five-speed automatic. A six-speed manual transmission is made available on the R/T for 2009. With the manual, the R/T produces 375 hp. For 2010, the SE V6 also receives the five-speed automatic transmission, and the V8 R/T automatic is boosted to 372 hp/400 lb-ft and the manual to 376 hp/410 lb-ft. For 2011, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 replaces the old Chrysler SOHC 3.5-liter engine, boasting outputs of 305 hp and 268 lb-ft.

Things remain unchanged until the 2015 model year when the Challenger receives its major facelift. It also marks the launch of the R/T Scat Pack with a 485-hp/475-lb-ft version of the 6.4-liter V8. All models that used to have the five-speed automatic transmission receive a new eight-speed automatic transmission for the 2015 model year. Some trims are renamed, with the V6 becoming the SXT. AWD becomes available for the first time ever on a Challenger for the 2017 model year in the form of the V6 GT trim.

3.5-liter SOHC V6 Naturally Aspirated Gas Engine (2009-2010)

250 hp | 250 lb-ft

Horsepower

250 hp

Torque

250 lb-ft

Transmission

Four-/five-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

The base V6 engine was not available at the time of the Challenger's 2008 launch and only joined the lineup for the 2009 model year. It is the old Chrysler SOHC 3.5-liter V6 that traces its origins back to 1993 and is itself derived from the 1989 Chrysler 3.3 V6 OHV engine. While its power output of 250 hp in the 2009 Challenger SE is not bad, the engine is beset by problems. Chrysler made many changes to the engine over the years and improved power output and efficiency, but not all the reliability problems were addressed. It doesn't have the power expected of a muscle car either.

3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Naturally Aspirated Gas Engine (2011-2022)

305 hp | 268 lb-ft

Horsepower

305 hp

Torque

268 lb-ft

Transmission

Five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD/AWD

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 replaces the Chrysler SOHC V6 for the 2011 model year and is vastly superior to its predecessor, developing 55 hp more and 268 lb-ft of torque. It is also more efficient and reliable. There were a few teething issues and some Pentastars suffered left-bank cylinder-head failure for the 2011-2013 model years. There is also the odd valvetrain issue, such as problems with the rocker arms/cam followers. Other than these, the Pentastar is tough and, with proper maintenance, can rack up huge mileages. It is used in countless Stellantis models and is the base engine of the 2011 to 2022 Challenger.

5.7-liter Hemi V8 Naturally Aspirated Gas Engine (2009-2022)

370/375/372/376 hp | 398/401/400/410 lb-ft

Horsepower

370/375/372/376 hp

Torque

398/401/400/410 lb-ft

Transmission

Six-speed manual or five-/eight-speed automatic

The third generation of Chrysler's famous Hemi V8 dates back to 2003, when it was launched in the Dodge Ram truck. The engine received various upgrades over the years and by the time it was launched in the Challenger for the 2009 model year, it had gained variable valve timing and improved cylinder heads and manifolds. Its outputs in the 2009 Challenger were initially 370 hp and 398 lb-ft for the automatic and 375 hp/401 lb-ft for the manual. For 2010, these are upped to 372 hp/400 lb-ft and 376 hp/410 lb-ft, respectively. The engine is generally robust, but occasionally, roller lifters may seize due to inadequate oil supply.

6.1-liter Hemi V8 Naturally Aspirated Gas Engine (2008-2010)

425 hp | 420 lb-ft

Horsepower

425 hp

Torque

420 lb-ft

Transmission

Six-speed manual or five-/eight-speed automatic

The 6.1 is not just a larger version of the 5.7 Hemi - various changes mean that it is more durable, thanks to revised coolant channels and piston-cooling oil jets, along with lighter pistons, stronger connecting rods, and a forged crankshaft. It offers a useful 425 hp and 420 lb-ft in the 2008-2010 Challengers. The 6.1 was not offered with the 5.7's multi-displacement system (MDS) or variable-length induction manifold, which makes it mechanically simpler and more reliable. However, the lifter rollers used are similar to the 5.7's and unfortunately, the 6.1 tends to suffer from the same lifter roller seizure problems that also end up ruining the camshaft. The 6.1 also tends to drink oil, so oil levels should be checked weekly. It is not an engine breaker and does not affect the normal operation of the engine, but it is something that must be watched.

6.4-liter Hemi V8 Naturally Aspirated Gas Engine (2011-2022)

470/485 hp | 470/475 lb-ft

Horsepower

470/485 hp

Torque

470/475 lb-ft

Transmission

Six-speed manual or five-/eight-speed automatic

The high-output 6.4-liter Hemi V8 replaced the 6.1 for the 2011 model year and offers 485 hp and 475 lb-ft in the 2015 R/T Scat Pack. It differs from the 6.1 in that it regains the 5.7's MDS system and this system is sometimes prone to faults, just as in the 5.7-liter V8. MDS solenoids can fail and engine response can occasionally feel strange and inconsistent. Unfortunately, the 6.4-liter engine tends to suffer from the same lifter roller maladies as the other version of the Hemi, so any ticking sounds should be viewed with a healthy dose of circ*mspection.

2009-2022 Dodge Challenger Real MPG

Once enough examples of a certain car have been sold, the EPA publishes its real-world fuel-consumption figures, as submitted by owners. The ideal is that these should be true combined cycle numbers, but the EPA has no control over the conditions under which owners have achieved these figures. If they are way better or worse than the EPA estimates, they must be taken with a grain of salt. For example, the best figure of 28.9 MPG submitted for the 2011-2014 Challenger 3.6 V6 automatic was almost certainly achieved on the highway and not on the combined cycle, as was the 27 MPG submitted by the owner of a manual 5.7. However, with a range of figures available across multiple years, one does start to gain a feel for what is possible and it seems that the EPA is generally accurate or even conservative with most of its claims.

	EPA MPG	Real-World mpg*
2009 3.5 V6 naturally aspirated V6 RWD four-speed automatic	17/25/20	18.6
2010 3.5 V6 naturally aspirated V6 RWD five-speed automatic	17/25/20	19.4
2011-2014 3.6 V6 naturally aspirated V6 RWD five-speed automatic	18/27/21	19.7-28.9
2015-2022 3.6 V6 naturally aspirated V6 RWD eight-speed automatic	19/30/23	23-27.5
2017-2022 3.6 V6 naturally aspirated V6 AWD eight-speed automatic	18/27/21	N/A
2009-2022 5.7 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD six-speed manual	15/23/18	19.5-27
2009-2014 5.7 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD five-speed automatic	15/24/18	18.7-21.3
2015-2022 5.7 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD eight-speed automatic	16/25/19	18
2009-2010 6.1 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD six-speed manual	14/22/16	N/A
2008-2010 6.1 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD five-speed automatic	13/19/15	N/A
2011-2022 6.4 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD six-speed manual	14/23/17	25.9
2011-2014 6.4 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD five-speed automatic	14/23/17	N/A
2015-2022 6.4 V8 naturally aspirated V8 RWD eight-speed automatic	15/24/18	N/A

* Real-world mpg and MPGe figures are provided by the EPA. Once a car has been on sale for a significant period of time, the EPA gets real-world figures directly from the customer base. These figures are then provided on the EPA website. Real-world figures are not available for certain models due to a lack of sales, or not enough people partaking in this after-sales survey.

Safety

When it was still fresh, the NHTSA crash-tested the Dodge Challenger third generation against the less-strict pre-2011 criteria and it scored a full five stars across the board for all tests except the rollover test, which garnered four stars. The 2013 model was the first to be tested under the new criteria and it managed a five-star overall showing again, but with the side crash flagged because the driver's door opened. This problem was later addressed and the Challenger maintained its five-star rating all the way until the 2022 model year, with only the frontal impact and rollover tests getting four stars. Its IIHS scores aren't quite as good, mainly because the Challenger was designed before the small overlap front crash test was introduced; it never scored higher than "Marginal" in this field. For the moderate front overlap and original IIHS side test, it was given a "Good" rating and for its roof strength and headrests and seats, an "Acceptable" rating. These scores remained static right up to the 2022 model.

At launch, the 2008 SRT8 came standard with ABS brakes, stability control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and six airbags. However, that 2008 SRT8 wasn't the true base model, with the V6 SE assuming that position from the 2009 model year; it received the same safety features, except for the auto-dimming rearview mirror, which was available optionally. Absolutely nothing changed until the 2013 model year, when rear parking sensors became optional across the board. The 2015 Challenger lineup brought additional optional safety feature, notably a backup camera, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

US NHTSA Crash Test Result (2022)

Overall Rating:

(5/5)

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating:

(4/5)

Side Crash Rating:

(5/5)

Rollover Rating:

(4/5)

3rd Generation Dodge Challenger Trims

For the 2008 launch year, only a single trim was offered - the SRT8. The first V6 joined the lineup as the new base model in 2009. The SE, as it was called, became the SXT in 2012 and gained a V6 GT derivative with AWD in 2017. The R/T models are one rung up and mostly use the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine in different states of tune, except for the R/T Scat Pack, which has the 6.4-liter engine. The SRT8 was available from the start as a 2008 model and continued to feature for all model years, first as a 6.1-liter and then as the SRT 392 6.4-liter from the 2011 model year, slotting in above the V6 and R/T V8 models and below the supercharged models.

There were various special editions over the years - too many to mention them all, but here are some noteworthy editions:

2009 R/T Classic. This special edition, based on the 2009 R/T, comes with a retro theme and exclusive color palette, including heritage colors such as Toxic Orange, B5 Blue, TorRed, Furious Fuchsia, Plum Crazy Purple (last used on a Dodge in the '70s), and Detonator Yellow, as well as a functional hood scoop, 20-inch chromed alloys, retro graphics, black side stripes and R/T badging, "Challenger" badges on the fenders, and "R/T" badging in an egg-crate grille.
2010 Mopar '10 R/T. Based on the R/T, this limited edition comes in metallic pearl black only and with a choice of red, silver, or blue accent stripes on its sides, as well as black 20-inch heritage alloy wheels, a Hurst pistol-grip gear shifter, a Mopar cold-air intake adding 10 hp, custom badging, and other unique features. The package was marketed to commemorate the Panther Pink cars of 1970. Only 500 were made.
2013-2014 Rallye Redline Edition. Based on the V6 SXT Plus five-speed automatic, the Rallye Redline Edition gains a less-restrictive exhaust system and a cold-air intake to boost power to 305 hp. It also gains the R/T's shorter 3.06:1 final drive, as well as firmer suspension, quicker steering, thicker sway bars, bigger brakes, and 20-inch wheels.
2013 R/T Blacktop. This is essentially an appearance package applied to the 2013 R/T and comes with a choice of three paint colors, 20-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, gloss-black treatment for the fuel-filler door and grille surround, and red-accented matte-graphite side striping. Additionally, it gets three-mode stability control, including an off mode, and everything in the 2012 Super Track Pack.
2014 Mopar '14. The second Mopar special edition to come around after the 2010 version, the 2014 model comes with various aftermarket-style upgrades, and even more of these were offered than before, including the Shaker hood with a functional scoop, as well as being prepped to accommodate any of three Scat Pack power upgrades, boosting the 5.7-liter V8's outputs by as much as 58 hp and 47 lb-ft. Only 100 were made.
2014 100th Anniversary Edition. Based on either the V6 SXT Plus or V8 R/T Plus, this 2014-only special-edition appearance package commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Dodge brothers' launch of the Dodge Model 30. It's offered in eight colors, runs on special polished five-spoke 20-inch alloys with "Dodge Est. 1914 100" logos on their center caps, has "Dodge Est. 1914" fender badges, a body-color rear spoiler, a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel with three spokes, die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914 100" badges on the seatbacks, "100"-embroidered floor mats, a Boston Acoustics audio system, and many other unique features.
2017 Mopar '17. The 2017 edition of the Mopar-equipped Challenger commemorates 80 years of Mopar. It gets either a blue or silver body with a Pitch Black roof, hand-applied "Mopar 392" badging, a Shaker hood, Hellcat-derived black exhaust tips, and 20-inch alloys. A six-speed manual transmission is paired to the 485-hp 6.4-liter V8. Inside, it gets Mopar-emblazoned sports seats with contrast stitching and even a Mopar "birth certificate". Only 160 were made.
2017 Mopar '19. Based on the 2019 R/T Scat Pack, this Mopar variant comes in either White Knuckle or Pitch Black and sports Mopar Shakedown graphics with Mopar Blue center stripes, a scooped Shaker hood, hood pins, 20-inch alloys, and a decklid spoiler. Polished sill guards bear the Challenger logo and there are Berber floor mats and a dashboard badge too. Only 100 were made.
2019 R/T Scat Pack 1320. This special edition aims to make a track car accessible to more people and is based on the R/T Scat Pack with the 485-hp V8, adding street-legal drag radials, SRT-tuned adaptive suspension with a Drag Mode, the aluminum hood from the Hellcat, and many other features. Apparently, only 1,054 were made.
2020 50th Anniversary and Commemorative editions. The 50th Anniversary package celebrates 50 years of Challenger and was offered on the GT RWD, R/T Scat Pack, R/T Shaker, R/T Scat Pack Shaker, SRT Hellcat, and SRT Hellcat Redeye. Each of these trims received only 70 copies of the package, making them rare today. The package includes a hand-painted black hood, a black-wrapped trunk lid and roof, commemorative badging in a Gold School finish, and LED-illuminated "50" logos in the headlights. The 2020-only Commemorative Edition is for buyers that missed out on the initial run and it does not impose a production cap; however, it was offered on fewer trims - only the R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and R/T Scat Pack Widebody.

SE/SXT

2009-2022

Engine

3.5-/3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 gas

Transmission

Four-/five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD/AWD

The base V6 SE Challenger launched as a 2009 model and is to be avoided at all costs. It pairs the unreliable 250-hp/250-lb-ft Chrysler SOHC V6 engine with a decidedly unsporting and old-fashioned four-speed automatic transmission, making for an uninspired driving experience. It has standard 17-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights, keyless entry, ABS brakes, six airbags, power door locks, mirrors, and windows, a manually tilting/telescoping steering column, cloth upholstery, an eight-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, a 60/40-split rear seat, air-conditioning, and a radio / CD player. The 2010 SE has a five-speed automatic transmission but retains the old SOHC 3.5-liter engine while gaining standard stability control.

The 2011 SE has a brand-new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine with a lot more power - 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque - and still mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The suspension, steering, and brakes are changed to improve handling, accompanied by new 18-inch alloy wheels and reshaped seats. For 2012, the SE trim is renamed SXT but continues on essentially unchanged.

For 2015, the Challenger is facelifted and substantially upgraded, not only getting fresh styling inside and out, but also a standard eight-speed automatic transmission to replace the old five-speed unit on all trims. The 2015 SXT has a totally different dashboard with an integrated seven-inch configurable digital driver-information display and standard equipment includes an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a Uconnect infotainment screen measuring five inches and incorporating voice commands, an auxiliary audio jack, a CD player, and six speakers.

Because the AWD GT has a higher specification than the SXT, Dodge made an SXT AWD available for the 2019 model year, mirroring the SXT's specification level. It also gets 19-inch alloy wheels and an upgraded braking system. The standard infotainment screen on the 2020 SXT measures seven inches and incorporates smartphone mirroring.

2017-2022

Engine

3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 gas

Transmission

Eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD/AWD

The GT joins the lineup for the 2017 model year and is the only 2017 Challenger with standard all-wheel drive. Besides the AWD, it has a higher specification level and benefits from the addition of 19-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, fog lights, an upgraded braking system, heated and ventilated front seats, interior ambient lighting, an electrically tilting/telescoping steering column, in-car performance apps, satellite radio, HD radio, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. With the introduction of the AWD version of the 2019 SXT, Dodge made use of the opportunity to launch an RWD GT as well; this model has 20-inch alloy wheels, a hood scoop, sport suspension, more heavily bolstered front seats, a performance steering system, remote start, a sport steering wheel with gearshift buttons, and in-car performance apps. The AWD GT has most of this equipment, but loses the sport suspension, performance steering, and 20-inch wheels, reverting to 19-inchers instead.

R/T / T/A

2009-2022

Engine

5.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 gas

Transmission

Six-speed manual/five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

The R/T fits between the base V6 Challengers and the SRT8. It launched as a 2009 model with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, offering either a six-speed manual with 375 hp/401 lb-ft or five-speed automatic transmission with 370 hp/398 hp. It has everything the 2009 SE V6 has but adds the V8 engine, the manual transmission option, stability control, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sportier suspension and steering setup, some exterior styling changes, fog lights, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shifter. The 2010 R/T has a little more power, the automatic producing 372 hp/400 lb-ft and the manual 376 hp/410 lb-ft, as well as automatic headlights. The 2011 model improves the suspension, brakes, and steering, adds new seats, and has the V6's optional Connectivity Group package as standard, with its auto-dimming rearview mirror, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and a USB/iPod audio interface. By 2014, there were tons of option packages available, so you'll have to check what's been fitted.

The facelifted 2015 R/T has all the upgraded features of the 2015 SXT in addition to the 5.7 V8 engine, the choice of a manual transmission, and 20-inch alloy wheels, while the R/T Plus has everything the SXT Plus has. The 2017 T/A is not a separate trim but rather an R/T with various upgrades from the Shaker variants added, as well as some of the Hellcat's styling elements, such as the unique grille air intake that looks like a headlight. The R/T Shaker is yet another of the nearly infinite variations on the R/T theme.

R/T 392

2018-2019

Engine

6.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 gas

Transmission

Six-speed manual / five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

The R/T 392 joins the range for the 2018 model year, fitting in the narrow gap between the R/T and the R/T Scat Pack. It uses the same 485-hp 6.4-liter V8 engine as the R/T Scat Pack and SRT8 392, but with a lower spec. It has cloth seats, rear parking sensors, Brembo performance brakes, sport suspension, a rear spoiler, the in-car performance apps, and the 8.4-inch Uconnect system with HD radio, satellite radio, and an Alpine audio system.

R/T Scat Pack / T/A 392

2015-2022

Engine

6.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 gas

Transmission

Six-speed manual / five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

The R/T Scat Pack is more than just an R/T with extras fitted, so it is usually listed as a separate trim. First of all, it ditches the 5.7-liter engine for a 485-hp 6.4-liter and also adds an active exhaust system, performance-tuned stability control, sport front seats, the 8.4-inch infotainment system with navigation, and the upgraded audio system with satellite radio and the USB/iPod interface. The 2017 model has an Alpine premium audio system, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2017 T/A 392 is sometimes listed as a separate trim but is nothing more than an R/T Scat Pack with some equipment added, notably Shaker upgrades, some Hellcat styling elements, and an air intake masquerading as a headlight. For 2019, the R/T Scat Pack is also offered with the Widebody option and gets a standard aluminum power-bulge hood from the Hellcat. The 2019 R/T Scat Pack 1320 is the same car but without passenger seats and with some performance enhancements for drag racing; buyers could opt the missing seats back in for $1. For 2021, the R/T Scat Pack Shaker and T/A 392 are available with the Widebody kit.

SRT8/SRT8 392

2009-2018

Engine

6.1-/6.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 gas

Transmission

Six-speed manua five-/eight-speed automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

When the Challenger launched as a 2008 model, there was only one trim, the performance-orientated SRT8 with a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 developing 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque - mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and boasting sport suspension and a limited-slip rear differential. It is notably more lavishly equipped than the base V6 and 5.7-liter V8 models that arrived a year later, featuring everything listed under the 2009 R/T, along with 20-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a rear spoiler, heated mirrors, leather/ imitation suede upholstery, sport front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control, Brembo brakes, an auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio, and a 13-speaker audio system with a six-CD changer. For 2009, a six-speed manual transmission becomes available. The limited-edition 2010 SRT8 Furious Fuchsia with its unique wheels, white leather upholstery, and fuchsia paint is quite a rare find today.

For 2011, the SRT8 becomes the SRT8 392, which denotes its engine size in cubic inches - 6.4 liters, up from the previous year's 6.1 liters. The larger engine develops 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. Standard, too, is a trip computer showing real-time performance data. There is a rare 2011-only SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition if you can find one, with either white or deep blue paintwork, body striping, and "392" embossed on unique white-and-blue leather seats. The 2012 SRT 392 has a two-mode adjustable damping system and the 2013 model has launch control. By 2014, the options list had proliferated to the point where cars fitted with some of these packages were sometimes listed as separate trims. There is even an SRT8 Core trim, which is just a normal SRT8 shorn of some of its standard features, such as its xenon headlights and adaptive suspension, almost mirroring the base SXT.

The facelifted 2015 SRT8 392 is essentially a 2015 R/T Scat Pack with additional features fitted, notably model-specific forged 20-inch alloy wheels, a unique hood with a center scoop, the Leather Group package, adaptive dampers, xenon headlights, further upgraded Brembo brakes, customizable driver modes, and a premium 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The 2016 model comes standard with the Driver Convenience Group package, which adds rear parking sensors, bi-xenon headlights, power-folding side mirrors, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Third Generation Dodge Challenger Features (last model year)

	SE/SXT	GT	R/T / T/A	R/T 392	R/T Scat Pack / T/A 392
Back-Up Camera	S	S	S	S	S
Bluetooth Connection	S	S	S	S	S
Leather Seats	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Apple CarPlay	S	S	S	S	S
Keyless Entry	S	S	S	S	S
Keyless Start	S	S	S	S	S
HD Radio	N/A	S	S	S	S
Alloy Wheels	S	S	S	S	S
Sunroof	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Interior, Trim, And Practicality

Dodge Challenger 3rd Generation - What To Check Before You Buy (40)

Dodge Challenger 3rd Gen Interior Overview

The Dodge Challenger is a proper four-seater, and although the rear seat isn't really spacious, adults will actually fit in with 33-odd inches of rear legroom. Entry can be difficult, though, as is usually the case with coupes. Impressively, they'll be able to take all their luggage along, because the Challenger has a spacious trunk that can accommodate 16.2 cubic feet of cargo.

The proliferation of trims is quite staggering over 15 model years and we've done our best to lay them out logically in this review. A multitude of packages and personalization options means that many trims are subdividable into a legion of other sub-trims, which are sometimes regarded as an option package and, at other times, distinct trims. In addition, the trims' names have changed over the years. To maintain customer interest, Dodge changed small things every single model year. With all the scope for customization, very few Challengers are alike, even those of the same trim. Here is a table of the default upholstery, but remember that these can change depending on packages.

Trim	SE / SXT	GT	GT AWD	R/T / T/A	R/T 392	R/T Scat Pack / T/A 392
Dark Slate Gray cloth seats (2009-2011, 2013-2014)	S	N/A	N/A	S	N/A	N/A
Dark Slate Gray cloth seats (2012)	N/A	N/A	N/A	S	N/A	N/A
Dark Slate Gray, Dark Slate Gray/Radar Red cloth seats (2012)	S	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Black,Black/Tungsten cloth seats (2015-2016)	S	N/A	N/A	S	N/A	N/A
Black, Black Houndstooth cloth seats (2017-2019)	S	N/A	N/A	S	N/A	S
Black Houndstooth cloth seats (2018-2019)	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	S	N/A
Black Houndstooth cloth seats (2020-2022)	S	S	S	S	N/A	S
Black, Black/Ruby Red, Black/Pearl leather or Black, Black/Ruby Red leather & suede seats (2017-2018)	N/A	N/A	S	N/A	N/A	N/A
Blacke leather seats (2019)	N/A	S	S	N/A	N/A	N/A

2009-2022 Challenger Maintenance and Cost

The Challenger is a performance car, so meticulous maintenance is important if reliability is to be maintained, and this is probably why the intervals for lube services are only 6,000 to 8,000 miles apart. That said, some engines are better avoided, regardless of how well they've been maintained and the original SE's 3.5-liter Chrysler SOHC 250-hp V6 is one of them. This engine is prone to all kinds of problems, which worsen if it doesn't get clean oil frequently. Remember that this engine has a cambelt that must be replaced every 102,000 miles; it is a good idea to replace the water pump at the same time. The replacement interval for the air filters is 32,000 miles or two years on all engines. Spark plugs should be replaced every 96,000 miles on the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and every 32,000 miles on other engines.

The four- and five-speed automatic transmissions should have their fluid replaced at least every 120,000 miles, but you should halve this distance to prolong the service life of the transmission. Although Dodge does not specify a fluid-replacement interval for the eight-speed automatic transmission, doing so every 60,000 miles as well is a good idea to get the maximum mileage. Cabin air filters are replaced every 12,000 miles, cooling systems should be drained and flushed every 102,000 miles, and manual transmission fluid should be replaced every 40,000 miles. Most engines except for the 3.5-liter V6 are reliable, save for the odd cylinder-head problem.

3rd Gen Challenger Basic Service

Engine Oil Change Including Filter (Gas)

3.5-liter Chrysler SOHC V6 gas engine: 5.7L (6 quarts)

Recommended type and viscosity: 10W-30 fully synthetic oil

Replacement: Every 6,000 miles

Average cost: Around $48

3.6-liter Pentastar V6 gas engine: 5.6L (5.92 quarts)

Recommended type and viscosity: 5W-30 fully synthetic oil

Replacement: Every 6,000-8,000 miles

Average cost: Around $46-$48

5.7-liter Hemi V8 gas engine: 6.6L (7 quarts)

Recommended type and viscosity: 5W-20 fully synthetic oil

Replacement: Every 6,000-8,000 miles

Average cost: Around $51-$53

6.1- and 6.4-liter Hemi V8 gas engine: 6.6L (7 quarts)

Recommended type and viscosity: 0W-40 fully synthetic oil

Replacement: Every 6,000-8,000 miles

Average cost: Around $71

Sparkplugs

3.5-liter Chrysler SOHC V6 gas engine:

Part code: SZFR5LP13G