Chicago 2008: It’s here - 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8
Just over two years after debuting as a concept at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show, the Dodge Challenger is now ready to hit the streets for real. The Challenger is reviving a name last used in the late ’70s and early ’80s on a compact, four-cylinder Mitsubishi-built coupe. This time, though, Chrysler is going back to the roots of the brand with a big muscular rear-wheel-drive coupe, initially available exclusively with a 6.1L HEMI V8 that will power the new Challenger 60 mph in the low 5-second range, according to a very conservative Chrysler. It shares the automaker’s LX platform with the Charger and Chrysler 300, and in final form, the car has changed remarkably little from the concept. The most noticeable differences are up front and include the loss of the cross-hair grille and a slim black air dam at the bottom of the bumper. Other changes are pretty subtle, such as some reshaping of the lower air intake.
Out back, the rear bumper is now more prominent and the detailing of the taillights has been revised. A flat black lip spoiler is now mounted on the trailing edge of the deck lid while the Challenger badges on the rear fenders have been dumped. The rear driver side fender now also features a prominent chrome fuel filler cap. The wheelbase of the LX platform has been shrunk from a gargantuan 120 inches for the sedans to a merely large 116 inches for the Challenger. That puts the span between the axles at 9 inches longer the Mustang, which aids interior volume. Read on after the jump for more.
2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 interior pics leaked
Some official photos of the Dodge Challenger’s interior have been posted on Allpar’s forums, and our spirits have been buoyed. It’s always hard to get a read on the real-world look and feel of the interior plastics, but from what we can make out amidst the dither, all is not lost when it comes to the Challenger’s front office. In these pictures, the interior looks very presentable, though it seems to be pretty standard LX fare. The SRT8 models get nicely trimmed seats, with contrasting french stitching on the deep bolsters, suede inserts to grip your backside, and a nice splash of orange to set off the SRT logo. Lesser Challengers will obviously not get quite the full boat luxe treatment that the SRT gets, with its MyGig, bespoke gauges, and leather adornments, but just what will get pulled out remains to be seen. The Mustang and Camaro might have more exciting designs, but the ergonomics and controls in the revived Dodge ponycar look well thought out. We’ve breathed a half-sigh of relief after our last round of interior spy shots, which left some of us certain that the Challenger’s interior was going to be bested by what came in the unlamented K-Cars. Thanks for the tip, indymcsc!