2011 Dodge Challenger Reviews

2011 Dodge Challenger coupe evokes the designs of muscle cars of the late 1960s and early 70s, appealing to the Baby Boomer fans of the original coupes as well as a new generation, by offering modern tech and comfort features within a thoroughly retro exterior that hearkens back to the 1970 Challenger. At the top of the range, the SRT has an exotic-like 470 hp and 470 pound-feet of torque. On the bright side, the Challenger has a huge trunk. Interior materials have also been improved a bit for 2011; Dodge has added LED upholders, a new hand-stitched leather-trimmed shift knob, and standard climate control, plus upgraded Napa hide on 2011 Dodge Challenger with the available leather interior

For 2011, Dodge has reconfigured the 2011 Dodge Challenger 's feature list and bolstered standard equipment across the lineup. Connect Web is also on offer, turning the Challenger into a wireless hot spot, and the available Sirius Travel Link suite brings real-time weather, fuel prices, sports, and movie information.

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.

2011 Dodge Challenger ,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 2011 Dodge 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.
Note, this also brings the Challenger’s output closer in line with its Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro rivals.

Move up the line and you arrive at the 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T model. Prices for this model start at the mid-$35k bracket.

The top of the line model is the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8, the Street and Racing Technology beast. This model comes with a new for 2011 6.4-liter Hemi monster, which develops 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. A full body kit with deep front air dams and functional brake ducts give the SRT8 model a unique look. Chrysler is claiming these changes will give the Challenger a lateral acceleration number of .93G.