2011 Dodge Charger - official pictures and details released!

The modern version of Dodge's Charger burst onto the scene amidst some controversy and uncertainty. After all, who wanted a four door car to bear the name of one of the most beloved cars of the muscle era? But as they say, time heals all wounds, and so does a heaping dose of Hemi power. The Charger has become a good seller for Dodge, and its popularity has grown over the last few years. But the current model is a little long in the tooth, and it is certainly time for some updates.

For 2011, those updates are coming. The '11 model is said to be inspired more by the 1968-70 generation, which is quite evident in the design of its full width rear taillights. It is quite an improvement in looks over the outgoing model, and gives the car a rather modern appearance from the back. On the front side, things aren't changing so dramatically. The grill is a little more aggressive, and adds to the overall mean look the car portrays.

Under the hood you will find both the 3.6 liter V6 and 5.7 liter Hemi V8. The R/T model will have the option of all wheel drive, which will include front axle disconnect which can help fuel economy.

The new 2011 Charger will go on sale at the end of the year.



Press Release

Dodge Brand Product Onslaught Continues: Introducing The All-new 2011 Dodge Charger, World-class Performance And Precision With An Iconic Soul

October 5, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - With its iconic character, contemporary fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, craftsmanship and refinement, and state-of-the-art connectivity features, the all-new 2011 Charger is the Dodge brand's flagship that proudly delivers premium, world-class E-segment sedan precision at an incredible value.

The efficient and aerodynamic exterior of the 2011 Dodge Charger is spiritually inspired by the iconic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, featuring a design that is sure to strike an emotional chord with Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.

With its sinister "ready to attack the road" face, the all-new Dodge Charger puts the world's best E-segment sedan competitors between its new "split crosshair" signature grille. Its sculpted all-new body is a conscious nod to its deep heritage and muscle-car roots. The Charger's profile is also a modern affair, a result of countless hours in the wind tunnel, from its lower hood line, faster windshield and radically raked back headlights to its tighter wheel openings, lower sill and race-car-like flat underbody, the Charger effortlessly cuts thought the air with its attitude intact. The aluminum hood features dual "scallops" that bring a sculptured, performance look to the front end, while large body-side scallops deliver a striking undulating A-line across the doors. Running front to rear is the iconic horizontal "coke bottle" or "double-diamond" body-side styling that creates a tapering silhouette accented with muscular front and rear fenders and gives the Dodge Charger one of the most distinct profiles on the road. Defining the fastback's wide stance is an all-new signature taillamp design that incorporates 164 illuminating LEDs to form its signature "racetrack" graphic and gives the new Charger its unmistakable character from blocks away.

The 2011 Dodge Charger's interior cockpit is meant to be an enthusiast office. The all new design feature premium materials throughout. Transmitting the performance chassis' world-class feel of the road, the all-new Charger features a new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for enhanced performance feel and grip. Crafted in world-class materials, Charger's passengers are surrounded with comfort, craftsmanship and style, thanks to premium soft-touch materials and four available distinct interior color combinations. The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger's state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure. From segment-leading Garmin® navigation, to dual-zone climate controls and the ability to check fuel prices with the integration of available SIRIUS Travel Link, Uconnect Touch delivers an excellent experience for Charger's driver and passengers.

Maximizing its unibody's world-class structural stiffness, Dodge Charger engineers were able to tune the cabin for sound quality (rather than sound level) by isolating powertrain, road and wind noise. In addition, Charger's unibody packages material and structural design improvements, including dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush roll-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin. Combined, these design improvements place the all-new Dodge Charger's interior sound quality among the best in the E-segment.

As the Dodge brand's flagship, the chassis of the all-new 2011 Charger is designed, engineered and fine-tuned to deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rivals the very best European, Asian and North American E-segment sedans. With its new second-generation E-segment rear-wheel drive (RWD) architecture, Dodge Charger features world-class suspension-tunings with re-designed geometry making for a nimble, balanced chassis that will build the Charger's legend as one of the best driving sedans in the world.

Engineered to perform against the best E-segment sport sedans, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger SE and Charger Rallye feature the new 3.6-liter Pentastar engine for world-class levels of power, refinement, technology and fuel efficiency. For maximum thrills, efficiency and best-in-class power, the new Dodge Charger R/T lineup features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI™ V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode FuelSaver Technology.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T with all-wheel-drive (AWD) features a re-thought stance and 19-inch wheels to make it much more appealing than ever before. The AWD preserves the Charger's character and deepens its performance envelope in the most treacherous conditions. The Charger AWD features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Dodge Charger's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention. When all-wheel drive is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel drive vehicles.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features more than 65 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready-alert Braking and Rainy Day Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on and off the track. Safety and security features available for the first time on the Dodge Charger include adaptive-cruise control (ACC) with forward-collision warning (FCW), blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with rear cross path (RCP) detection and ParkView™ rear back-up camera with grid lines, all designed to provide the driver with added confidence while behind the wheel.

Built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ont. (Canada), the 2011 Dodge Charger arrives in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Saleen SMS 570X Dodge Challenger

Steve Saleen has taken the wraps off his latest version of the Challenger, and it's a step above the 570 he recently introduced to the world. Dubbed the 570X, the car utilizes a 6.0L V8 tuned to a reported 700 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

The engine features forged internals lying underneath CNC ported aluminum heads. All that power is backed by a six speed manual. The car makes it's big power courtesy of the SMS 296 supercharger.

While the supercharger comes as part of the 570X package, it will also fit other Chrysler LX products including the Charger, Magnum, and Chrysler 300C. SMS also promises that "aftermarket fitments" are in the works for both Ford and General Motors products.

No word yet on pricing and availability, so stay tuned for more.

2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic launches at $34,005

The Dodge Challenger R/T Classic package that debuted this week at the Detroit Auto Show is is now available for order through your local dealer. In addition to model specific wheels and retro styled badging and stripes, Challengers equipped with the Classic package also feature functional hood scoops to help with engine cooling.



Six colors are available, including Hemi Orange, TorRed, and B5 Blue (a color that had previously only been offered on a special Richard Petty auction car). Pricing will start at $34,005 before options are added on.



Source: Chrysler]





PRESS RELEASE



All-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Adds More Nostalgic Flavor to Modern American Muscle Car



All-new R/T Classic pays homage to Dodge Challengers of yesteryear



Dodge Challenger R/T Classic features unique throwback design cues

Legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers zero to 60 mph performance in less than six seconds

Six-speed manual transmission features performance-tuned dual exhaust with "low restriction" bottle resonators for optimum throatiness

Functional dual hood scoops are new to R/T Classic and stay true to Dodge Challenger's heritage

Original B5 Blue returns from the Chrysler paint code archive



Auburn Hills, Mich., Jan 16, 2009 -

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger delivers the best of modern American muscle-car characteristics-unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology. The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic goes further with even more memorable blast-from-the-past design cues. The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic starts at $34,005 (including $725 destination) and is available for ordering now at Dodge dealerships nationwide.



"Our all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic is more than a modern-day muscle machine, it pays homage to one of the most storied nameplates in automotive history," said Dan Knott, Vice President-Car / Minivan / SRT Product Team, Chrysler LLC. "With heritage-inspired dual-wide body-side R/T stripes, original 'Challenger' heritage badging and the newest generation of our legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, the new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic delivers the greatness of our pony car past with advanced fuel-efficient muscle."



Based on the powerful 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T, the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic not only delivers a menacing look and premium equipment-its powertrain delivers an unforgettable punch. With dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes, 'Challenger' fender badging in classic script, large 20-inch polished-chrome heritage wheels with all-season performance tires, classic egg-crate grille with heritage 'R/T' badge, body-color rear spoiler and chromed fuel-filler door-the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic is unmistakable.



"Dodge Challenger has a rich performance heritage and the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic encompasses numerous technologies that allow great on-road performance while delivering proven-quality and refinement to ensure its place in the Dodge pony car history," said Knott.



The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic tucks its legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine under a long, raised performance hood with functional hood scoops to increase engine cooling. The newest generation 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine features dual variable-cam timing (VCT) and dual ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder) to increase power and torque, while improving refinement and efficiency.



When paired with the Tremec six-speed manual transmission, the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic features the performance-minded Track Pak's precision-shift "pistol-grip" shifter, bright pedals, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with defeatable traction control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), four-wheel disc performance braking system and an anti-spin 3.92 differential. A performance-tuned dual exhaust optimizes engine back pressure and exhaust throatiness by replacing the standard under-floor muffler with two low-restriction bottle resonators. The result, a powerful 376 horsepower (280 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m) that can accelerate the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.



An available five-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick provides efficiency and responsiveness in the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic. An aggressive first-gear ratio provides outstanding launch performance, while the transmission's fully-adaptive electronic control delivers more responsiveness without harshness.



When paired with the automatic transmission, the new-generation 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 includes the fuel-saving multi-displacement system (MDS) allowing Dodge Challenger R/T Classic to operate economically on four cylinders, or produce 372 horsepower (277 kW) and 401 lb.-ft. of torque (544 N•m) when all eight cylinders are needed.



On the interior, the trapezoidal theme of the door-panel cove and gauge cluster, dark headliner and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. Inspiration from the past continues with a "four bomb" gauge cluster with deep easy-to-read white faces. Premium leather-trimmed bucket seats with heat are well-bolstered and finished with French-seamed stitching. The advanced uconnect gps with voice recognition, navigation with real-time traffic and Universal Customer Interface (UCI) is available on the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic.



The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic offers exceptional rear seating for a two-door coupe, achieving best-in-class rear head (37.4 inches) and leg (32.6 inches) room compared with the competition. Coupled with best-in-class cargo space (16.2 cu. ft.)-equal to the Dodge Charger-the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic offers comfort and functionality.



The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic is available in Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Bright Silver Metallic, Stone White and three Dodge heritage colors-HEMI® Orange, TorRed and B5 Blue. Dodge dealerships nationwide are now accepting orders for the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic.



2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Production

Production of the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic will start in February 2009 at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. It will be built on the same assembly line as the award-winning and quality-proven Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300.



All-new 2009 Dodge Challenger

The all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger merges the best American muscle-car characteristics-unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful engines and technology-to delight driving enthusiasts across several generations. The Dodge Challenger accommodates five-passengers in a two-door coupe produced from the company's proven rear-wheel-drive platform. With three models of head-turning styling, two legendary HEMI® V-8 engines choices, more than 25 safety and security features and modern amenities including uconnect gps with voice-activated navigation system and real-time traffic available-the 2009 Dodge Challenger delivers the brand's "bold, powerful and capable" credo.



Dodge Brand

With a work-hard, play-hard attitude, the Dodge brand continues to offer a full line of cars, trucks, SUVs, commercial vehicles and sales-leading, fifth generation minivan in 2009. This year, Dodge will add to the award-winning Ram lineup with the introduction of the all-new 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty and 3500 Chassis Cab.



Dodge introduced several new vehicles in 2008, including the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the 2009 Dodge Challenger and the 2009 Dodge Ram. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in minivan value with more than 40 new or improved features from the previous generation, including unsurpassed 17 city / 25 highway mpg fuel economy. The 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is also the first minivan in the segment to feature the all-new Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path advance safety systems.



Also in 2008, the Dodge Journey entered key volume markets outside North America, joining the Dodge Avenger, Nitro and Caliber. Dodge Caliber was the highest sales volume vehicle for the company outside North America in 2008.

Force Performance to build two door TriCharger

Fans of the original B body Charger from the 60's and 70's have no doubt been disappointed that Chrysler reintroduced the classic musclecar with no less than four doors. And while the car has been a sales success, there are still die hard Mopar fans that will tell you that selling the car with four doors is a big mistake and an insult to the car's lineage. Not to mention the 80's Charger with front wheel drive and a four cylinder, but we won't go there.



A company by the name of Force Performance is currently working to rectify the situation at hand by chopping up an LX based Charger and making it a proper coupe. The scalloped doors from the 68-70 Charger have made the conversion along with a twin-nostril split grille reminiscent of the classic '69. We can also see a well-domed hood, which is necessary for clearance over the insane HEMI V8 engine that's both twin turbocharged and supercharged. Three blowers, hence the TriCharger name. That's a lot of boost.

Detriot close to getting $25 billion in Government loans

Image by Getty Images via Daylife With Detroit automakers getting close to receiving $25 billion dollars in low interest government loans to try and stop some of the bleeding profits, there has been a lot of speculation on just what those dollars will be used for.



The government will only support investment in vehicles that improve fuel economy by at least 25 percent compared to their respective segments. In other words, don’t look for any federally funded V-8 muscle cars. The key to benefiting from these loans will lie in how far along automakers are in developing green cars.



For GM and Ford, the loans will turn out near immediate results. Both automakers already have advanced fuel-saving technologies, and can use the loans to implement them on a larger scale.



GM can offset costs for its Chevrolet Volt. It may also spread its Two Mode hybrid system (left) to other models. Right now, the system is only on its expensive full-size SUVs, but GM could use some of the loans to implement it on everything from the Buick Enclave to the Chevrolet Malibu.



GM could also produce more diesel engines and speed along development of its homogeneous charge compression engines. The engines supposedly combine the best attributes of gasoline and diesel, and are currently due around 2015.



Ford, meanwhile, can use the money for its upcoming Escape (top) and Mercury Mariner plug-in hybrids and its efficient EcoBoost engines, the first of which will appear in the Lincoln MKS. It could also consider bringing over more diesel engines along with its European small cars.



Chrysler, on the other hand, could find itself in a bit of a quandary. It certainly needs cash, but does not seem to have many programs for which the loans can apply. Chrysler could, like GM, spread the Two Mode hybrid system from its trucks to cars like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. It may also apply the loans for its next generation of Cummins diesel truck engines, due out in 2010.



Import brands that build cars here are technically eligible for the loans, but will have difficulty meeting the requirements. In particular, the loans will give preference to automakers retooling plants more than 20 years old.



It will be your money backing these loans (estimated cost to taxpayers: $7.5 billion). There has been some backlash regarding the loans. Some compare this move to one that likens the U.S. to China, who regularly fund Chinese owned businesses.



I look at it this way. American automakers are in trouble, as a result of their attempts to satisfy the public desire for large and powerful vehicles. No speculation could have seen the current gas crisis coming. I would much rather the government attempt to help these companies than see them defect overseas, which is the other alternative.