2010 Dodge Challenger - The Muscle Car Goes Modern

The 2010 Dodge Challenger has room for five passengers and is based on the underpinnings of the Charger and Chrysler 300 sedans. It also has retro design cues reminiscent of the original Challengers from the 1970 era. The Challenger's dynamic performance isn't altogether unexpected. Challenger's interior might throwback to another era, but when it comes to comfort; it's on the leading-edge. The 2010 Challenger benefits from the big Hemi, the W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick manual override and an excellent suspension system. Competition includes the Ford Mustang and upcoming Chevrolet Camaro.  The 2010 Dodge Challenger should see no major changes. The retro-styled Challenger is rear-wheel drive; entry-level SE and mid-line R/T trim levels should continue alongside the flagship SRT8. SE should continue to have a 250-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual should also remain available with the 5.7 V8.  The first modern Challenger was rolled out for 2008 with a limited run of high-performance SRT8 models.   Challenger's unmistakable profile, coupled with outstanding comfort, cuts through the monotony on the road. The only thing better than seeing a Challenger out on the road would probably be to drive one.

Design for 2010

The Challenger SRT8 has similar design cues to the Charger SRT8.  However, unlike the Charger sedan, the Challenger was actually designed after the 1970 model, and it is without a doubt a Challenger any way you look at it.  The 2010 Challenger has a broad grille in the front and rear-end treatments.  Since the Challenger is based on the Charger, the Challenger does have similar dimension to the Charger: it is 197.7 inches long and 75.7 inches wide, longer and wider than the Mustang's 187.6-inch length and 73.9-inch width. While its silhouette might hark back to the fondly remembered 1970-'74 Challenger, the execution is completely up to date. The incorporation of this car's bumpers into the body surface brings a postmodern tidiness to the look. You can also expect modern standards of structural stiffness from this reborn muscle car. The 2010 Challenger also has contemporary aerodynamics. The Challenger wears a deftly tweaked front splitter and a tail-wing assembly designed to provide real aero effects. The result is a nostalgic design with leading-edge aero additions. Althought the Dodge Challenger was designed in a very similar way to the Dodge Charger, the Challenger was actually designed after the '69-'70 model, and it is without a doubt the Challenger gives subtle hints of this. 

Challenger Performance

Compared to the Charger, the specific tuning of the Challenger's chassis is softer.  This is partly to accommodate the Challenger's 112-inch wheelbase, which is 4 inches shorter than the Charger. Actually, the slightly softer ride proves better for the wet driving conditions. SE moves well from a stop, though it quickly runs out of steam as engine speed rises. Its 4-speed automatic is smooth but reluctant to downshift for more power. The manual has positive, mechanical shift action and a smooth clutch. Dodge claims Challenger SRT8 will do 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds.  Accurate steering is marred by excessive power assist. Though not as agile as a Mustang, Challenger handles well given its sheer size and heft. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled, and the brakes provide sure-footed stopping control.  Challenger's ride is surprisingly supple, especially given this car's performance mission. SRT8 has more side-to-side motions than the SE or R/T.

Power for the 2010 Challenger

The Challenger carries the 6.1-liter Hemi V8 - a bored-out version of the standard 5.7-liter motor. The automatic-transmission version of the R/T should continue to feature Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System cylinder deactivation. The SRT8 should continue to have a 425-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8 mated to either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual.

Inside the 2010 Challenger

The Challenger is just as retro on the inside as it is on the outside.  This includes its gauge cluster, black headliner and a slanted shifter console. In manual versions, the shifter features a unique "pistol-grip" design. The SRT8 has exclusive leather sport seats with accent stitching and embroidered SRT8 logos.  The cabin of the 2010 Challenger has a volume of 93.9 cubic feet, with 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space in the truck (the same as in the Charger).  Compared to the Mustang, the Challenger has more. Everything inside, seats, carpet, trim, is dark. While a race-inspired interior is one of the SRT division's major criteria, the primary inspiration here is manifested in the front seats. The contrast-stitched, heavily bolstered buckets in the SRT8 do an excellent job of keeping you in place. However, unlike many so-called sport seats these do not feel overly firm.  Front-seat headrests are adjustable for height only and the seatbelt loop goes with it to avoid belt chafing. Although the pillars are on the wide side, you sit far enough away from the windshield to avoid forward blind spots.  A manual tilt/telescope steering column allows plenty of adjustment and a view of the instruments.

Summary

The return of the Dodge Challenger has been long awaited for many muscle car enthusiasts.  It blends retro and modern design with great balance. It has modern safety features, such as ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags.  Other features on the 2010 Challenger include a keyless engine start, Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, and a navigation system. The Challenger drives with thrill and the roar. For a look back on past models, read a history of the Dodge Challenger. Check out this 2010 Dodge Challenger Facebook page for more information.