Overview
The 2012 Dodge Challenger five-seat ace coupe features a more powerful and competent engine lineup, and even more athletic styling. The new Challenger has the hardware to compete the best in the industry thanks to its lighter aluminum 305-hp Pentastar V-6 engine, redesigned aluminum suspension geometry, improved feel and fade-resistant braking and a near-balanced 50/50 weight distribution. The 2012 Dodge Challenger is available in three distinct and well equipped SE, R/T and SRT8 392 trims.
Power and performance
The 2012 Challenger SE is motivated by a new 3.6-liter V6 rated at an impressive 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard. The R/T features a .7-liter V8 good for 372 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque mated to either a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission (available with Super Track Pak Group that ups the output to 376 hp and 410 lb-ft).
With the auto transmission, the R/T includes a fuel-saving cylinder-deactivation technology. The top of the lineup, SRT8 392 is powered by an efficient 6.4-liter V8 engine rated at 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque and mated to a five-speed automatic. A six-speed manual is optional with the Track Pak.
Body and styling
The SE base model comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, remote ignition (with automatic transmission), full power accessories, cruise control and automatic climate control. The tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel has mounted audio controls. The R/T is equipped with automatic headlamps, fog lamps, Bluetooth, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface, 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and performance-tuned suspension, brakes and steering. This model can be optionally equipped with a number of high-end features like sunroof, a seven-speaker Boston Acoustic sound system with a touch screen interface and 30GB of digital music storage, an integrated Garmin navigation system.
The Challenger SRT8 392 is equipped with unique 20-inch wheels, sport seats, xenon headlamps, an upgraded trip computer with real-time performance data, two-tone white-and-blue leather upholstery and interior trim, and special "392" seat embossment and hydraulic power steering. The Track Pak comes with a six-speed manual transmission. A 13-speaker Kicker surround-sound system with a subwoofer is optional too.
Safety Features
The new 2012 Dodge Challenger comes with more than 45 safety and security features including active turn signals, advanced multi-stage air bags, all-speed traction control, ABS, hill start assist and keyless enter-n-go. ESC, front-row reactive head restraints, full-length side-curtain air bags, driver?s knee bag and front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags which offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision are standard.