Thankfully, the 2011 Dodge Challenger has earned itself a boost in technology and performance. The outputs of the new and expected power trains have been revealed, as well as the cars' specific targets through some leaked documents. And we're happy to say the power outputs are a pleasant surprise.
Scroll down for the full details, but here's the gist of it. The base Challenger model gets the new Pentastar V6 that puts out 305 horsepower to truly compete with the other two V6 Pony cars (let's hope Dodge did something about that heft, though).
Power is routed through a 5-speed automatic, one gear down compared to Ford and Chevy's 6-speed auto's. The base model gets a sporty suspension, dual exhaust, rides on 18's, and the car in its sights at the dealership across the street is the Chevy Camaro 1LT.
Also targeting the Camaro 1LT is a Rallye version of the V6-powered Callenger. The Rallye option snags fog lights, standard leather/heated seating, U-Connect/Satellite radio, and a 276-Watt amp pumping power to 6 Boston Acoustics speakers.
Going up against the more powerful yet comparably plain 426-horsepower Camaro SS will be the 379-horsepower / 410 lb-ft Challenger R/T. Power comes from a Hemi 5.7 liter V8, while the rest of the car gets performance-calibrated steering, suspension, and brakes. There's a color-coded spoiler, while inside is a 160-MPH speedo and some carbon trim.
Finally, the big dog: the one and only SRT 392. Packing a 6.4 liter V8, the newest Challenger daddy drops a 475-horse bomb likely through a 6-speed manual transmission. Torque figures sit at 460 lb-ft. The new SRT gets the necessary 392 badging, some carryovers from other models (although in this case there's a 180-MPH speedometer), and Brembo stoppers behind 20-inch rims. Inside is premium leather and a performance display in the dash.
The SRT's target is the new Shelby GT500, meaning that there will have to be something special about the Challenger to make up for its lack in brute force. Hopefully we'll get a more impressive interior to better battle the Mustang's primo seating area and continue to put the Camaro's to shame (before GM's 2012 update).
As soon as Dodge deems it time to officially release the 2011 Challenger, we'll let you know.
By Phil Alex
Source: Ontario Street Car , Via: Autoblog
