2012 Dodge Challenger Preview

The 2012 Dodge Challenger continues the way with the exterior styling, which makes the head of the way some cars can. The throwback styling along with the option of two snarling V-8 engine, the Challenger coupe tough to overlook.

The Challenger is based on the same underpinnings as the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, sharing engines, suspension, and interior features as well. The Challenger is different from the other two with the option of configuring the interior in all black. However, due to the shared chassis, the Challenger is particularly larger than its main competitors: the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. The format also makes maneuvering tight spaces and streets in the city, well, challenging, and visibility of the rear is tight, too. However, while the size of a problem outside, it results in a surprisingly spacious interior for a sporty coupe.

Bodystyle: Coupe

Engines: 3.6-liter V-6, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, 6.4-liter V-8 HEMI

Transmissions: five-speed automatic, six-speed manual

Models: SE Rallye, R/T, R/T Plus, R/T Classic, SRT8

The 2012 Dodge Challenger models get new name. The Challenger SE is now the SXT and SXT Plus, and both benefit from the addition of a new V-6 engine, the 305-horsepower Pentastar V-6. If that's not enough you can opt for the R / T model and thus, the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine churning out 375 hp. A 900-watt 18-speaker audio system has also added to the 2012 model year. If you have a hank in it 'for more power, there is the 392 SRT8 with a 6.4-liter V-8 putting out 470 hp up.

Since the relaunch at the end of 2007 as a 2008 model of the Challenger has become heads wherever it goes. The color is offered in the regular bright colors as well as a tribute to the model that was released in 1970. For 2012 the Challenger is available in three performance packages and five models.

The uConnect Media Center has a 6.4-inch touch screen display and is capable of storing 20 to 28 gigabytes of entertainment, depending on model. A selection of the navigation guidance is offered with a Garmin or SIRIUS Traffic, which are both equipped with SIRIUS Travel Link, a real-time weather and fuel prices service. The new Challenger has molded seats with enough cushion to a long journey manageable feel. The driver's seat to tilt forward from the three tiny passengers that fits in the back seat of the Challenger of making entry and exit easier. The Challenger has the most rear head and legroom in the muscle car class and has five seats, squeezed five full-size passenger is another story though.

The 2012 Dodge Challenger is a second generation rear-wheel-drive chassis enabling sharper steering. Coupled with one of three available suspension setups and high performance wheel and tire configurations of the overall driving experience has improved. The Challenger offers three performance packages, sports, performance-tuned, and Super Track Pak, each with different size wheels and other small tweaks styling. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine cracking the whip on 305 horses while the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine sends 395 ponies to the pavement. The SRT8 has a Hemi V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic or six-speed gearbox is not.

Dodge touts its flagship pony car with 45 safety and security features, such as Electronic Stability Control, Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support. The two latter features the overall handling and performance by engaging the brake when the vehicle is appropriate. Side-curtain airbags, driver knee bag and front-row headrests are all standard features on the 2012 Challenger.

SXT: 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway

R/T: (automatic) 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway, (manual) 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway

SRT8: (automatic) 14 mpg city/22 mpg highway, (manual) 14 mpg city/23 mpg highway