DESCRIPTION

Pros:

• Powerful V6 and V8 engines
• He-man exterior styling with character
• Roomy and comfortable cabin
• Ride quality suitable for everyday use
• Large trunk

Cons:

• Poor rearward visibility
• Sub-par handling compared to Camaro and Mustang
• Disconnected steering feel

Ruling: The 2011 Dodge Challenger is modern muscle-car that has few compromises. Legendary HEMI V-8 engines bring it to the table and throwdown with the Camaro and Mustang without giving up an inch. Redesigned suspension setup gives the Challenger the ability to carve mountain roads with confidence. And without question, the exterior styling makes the Challenger stand proud compared to its rivals.

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger is available in either base SE or R/T trims. SE models are powered by a new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that provides 305 horsepower -- 55 more than last year’s model. The R/T models get more muscle, thanks to a 372-horsepower V8. Acceleration is strong in the Challenger R/T, but it does have slightly less horsepower than V8-equipped muscle cars from Ford and Chevy. Supercar performance for the Challenger can be found in the SRT8 with its 425-horsepower HEMI V8 engine.

For the performance enthusiast, the 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T with its the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine delivers up to 376 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 23 mpg.

The new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE and R/T models feature redesigned front- and rear-suspension geometries with premium suspension hardware for world-class ride and handling.

To match its unmistakable muscle-car styling, upgraded powertrain and improved handling capabilities, the new 2011 Dodge Challenger features performance-driven exterior enhancements.

At the front of the new Dodge Challenger’s wide stance is a restyled trapezoidal front air dam with a larger opening to cool the legendary HEMI V8 or potent Pentastar V6 engine. Providing additional downforce is a larger “duck bill” front spoiler in black to match the coupe’s lower sill.