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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2011 Dodge Challenger

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Dodge Challenger

Overview

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2011 Dodge Challenger Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 5.6

The 1960s gave birth to two automotive legends: The Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Known as pony cars, the two came to symbolize a new era in automotive lore, which allowed these compact yet powerful performance machines to sell in droves. Not to be sidelined, Chrysler Corporation introduced its own pony car, the Dodge Challenger, in 1970. Unfortunately, the pony car era had seen its heyday and by 1974 declining sales brought an end to the mighty Dodge. Once again in the ring with the Mustang and Camaro, the 2011 Challenger delivers clearly recognizable Challenger DNA, a Hemi engine and a relatively affordable price. Unlike the first Challenger, however, today's car features a modern suspension, traction and stability controls and reliable anti-lock disc brakes that are actually capable of dealing with the car's immense power.

You'll Like This Car If...

Whether you grew up owning one, or regret being born too late for the privilege, lovers of the genre will find the 2011 Dodge Challenger promises the same head-turning good looks and Hemi-powered acceleration as the original.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're looking for a light, nimble performance car, the Challenger's large dimensions and somewhat claustrophobic interior may have you moving to perhaps tidier performance-oriented coupes, such as the BMW 3 Series or Infiniti G37.

What's Significant About This Car?

For 2011 the Challenger gets a new base V6 of 3.6 liters and 305 horsepower (55 more than the previous 3.5-liter V6) and 268 pound-feet of torque; it is truly a huge improvement and gives even the base SE model a genuine performance feel. New chassis architecture delivers higher cornering levels and there is additional standard equipment. But the big Challenger news for 2011 is the debut of the SRT8 392, powered by a 6.4-liter version of the Hemi engine and making 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. There will be only 1,142 of the Inaugural Edition models (1,100 for the United States and 392 for Canada), and they will be either deep blue with white stripes or white with blue stripes. The "392" moniker refers to 392 cubic inches, in memory of the 392-inch Hemi of 1957 and '58, but the modern version actually measures only 391 cubic inches; somebody needs a new calculator.

Driving the Challenger

Driving Impressions The base SE, with the 3.6-liter V6 of 305 horsepower, offers plenty of more-than-reasonable performance. It's also lighter than the previous engine, which helps vehicle balance and handling, and the...

SE will be available with a Super Sport Group with performance suspension and brakes and 20-inch wheels and tires. But it's the V8-powered models that breathe serious life into the Challenger's body. Unlike many cars in the genre, the Challenger's interior is pleasantly quiet at speed and the ride is controlled without being jarring; this is true even for the R/T trims, although increased tire size and a stiffer suspension somewhat diminish ride comfort. In R/T form, the 5.7-liter V8 has plenty of push for fast off-the-line starts and blindingly quick passing maneuvers. The steering is a bit heavy, but it's precise enough to inspire confidence executing high-speed maneuvers. The Challenger R/T's suspension is sufficiently tight to control excessive body roll but, if all-out handling and gut-punching acceleration take precedence over a comfortable ride and reasonable fuel economy, the SRT8 392 trim is the obvious choice.

Favorite Features

6.4-liter Hemi V8
It's the Hemi that brings the Challenger legend to life and with 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, the 6.4-liter monster motor in the SRT8 392 ensures only a handful of cars will be able to keep up.

13-speaker Kicker Audio
Available only on the SRT8 392, Dodge calls this 13-speaker, 522-watt sound system the "mother of all audio," and we agree. With this system cranking your favorite tunes, the only notes sweeter than the ones inside the car are found at the end of each exhaust pipe.

2011 Dodge Challenger Details

Interior

When compared to the Challenger's exterior, the lackluster interior design seems to fall flat. The four-spoke steering wheel from the base Charger is definitely out of place, as is the transmission selector (it should be a pistol-grip knock-off similar to the optional manual transmission's knob). Comfortable front bucket seats do a good job of holding the driver and front passenger in place and the Challenger's rear seat can comfortably fit two adults; the same cannot be said for either the Mustang or Camaro. Sub-par plastics don't do much to brighten the interior, but a long list of creature comforts makes spending time inside the Challenger enjoyable nonetheless. A sizeable trunk also gives the Challenger a leg up on its Mustang and Camaro rivals.

Exterior

The Challenger's exterior is less about retro and more about the logical evolution of the original. This strong connection to the past allows the Challenger to attract both old and young, with bright, over-the-top exterior colors, bold stripes and available accessories such as a hood scoop and spoiler. The narrow side glass helps disguise the Challenger's Charger-based roots; we just wish Dodge could have incorporated the original car's hardtop roll-down rear windows into the design.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SE has Chrysler's new 3.6-liter V6 engine that makes 305 horsepower, a five-speed automatic transmission, automatic air conditioning, 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, six-way power driver's seat with power lumbar adjustment, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, leather-wrapped shift knob, vehicle information center and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary audio input jack. Depending upon the trim level, additional features include the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, a six-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, fog lamps, security alarm, Sirius Satellite Radio, USB port, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather seating, Boston Acoustics speakers, 276-watt amplifier, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, heated front seats and a variety of trim and convenience features. The SRT8 392 includes premium leather with accent stripes, 20-inch wheels with performance tires, a functional hood scoop, rear spoiler, performance-tuned steering, Brembo brakes front and rear, specific trim features and the SRT Track Experience, where new owners can go to learn how to better control the car's incredible performance.

Optional Equipment

Available options for the SE include an interior appearance group and Sirius Satellite Radio. The Rallye can be equipped with a power sunroof, 368-watt sound system with Boston Acoustics speakers, leather seating, a variety of color choices, 20-inch alloy wheels and other trim and convenience items. R/T trims can be equipped with the Track Pack that includes 20-inch wheels and performance tires, heavy-duty brakes, performance steering and a track-tuned suspension. There are a variety of options for the SRT8 392 which are appropriate for its very high-performance mission in life.

Under the Hood

The Challenger offers a choice of three engines. Chrysler's modern 3.6-liter V6 makes 305 horsepower and delivers plenty of performance for any reasonable use on the highway or a curving mountain road. The value leader is to be found with the 5.7-liter Hemi; with the five-speed automatic it's rated at 372 horsepower and with the six-speed manual it's at 376 horsepower. At the top end resides the SRT8 392 of 6.4 liters. Producing a whopping 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, the only drawback to owning this powerplant is the cost incurred at the pump and possibly the court house.

3.6-liter V6
305 horsepower @ 6350 rpm
268 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27

5.7-liter Hemi V8
372 horsepower @ 5200 rpm (automatic)
376 horsepower @ 5150 rpm (manual)
400 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm (automatic)
410 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4300 rpm (manual)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/24 (manual), 16/25 (automatic)

6.4-liter V8
470 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
470 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/22 (automatic); 14/23 (manual)

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2011 Dodge Challenger Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.3

Out of 10

Based on 272 Ratings for the 2008 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.3/10

Quality

9.3/10
Reliability

9.5/10

Performance

9.4/10
Comfort

9.5/10

Styling

9.6/10

Fun to drive city or highway.

By pLUM cRAZY pURPLE (NC) on Friday, May 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "L@@KS, Drivability, Feel, mileage,"

Cons: "Access to the rear seats only on passenger side"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Fun to drive city or highway, we get fantastic gas mileage on highway with 6 gear overdrive. The hold the hill feature is great in town. All the instruments are well in reach and the radio has excellent sound. The seats are heated and contour to the body for an all around feel."

4 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Great looking car!

By onionhead (KS) on Sunday, May 05, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 475

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I've only had this car for about 5 weeks but so far I really like it. I bought this car primarily because of its retro looks and its size compared to the camaro and mustang. I got the SXT PLUS which has everything the RT has except the HEMI engine and found that it has plenty of power for every day use. I get lots of comments and looks when I drive it. The other day I was at the car wash and this guy came up to me and told me how much he liked the looks of the car and if he could take a peek inside. He said he owned a 74 CHALLENGER when he was younger and that he was thinking about getting a new one because it brought back his youth. I can relate to him. This is a fun car to drive!!!!"

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lots of power ! Everyone loves the looks !

By Bainy (PA) on Saturday, May 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,100

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Just a great car!"

Cons: "Could be a little louder at the exhaust ."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This vehicle is stunning to look at.Every where you drive people give you the thumbs up. The car is a pleasure to drive . Lots of power, very comfortable seats,smooth,firm ride.The exhaust note is music to my ears when accelerating.Fun to drive."

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What a Ride! Cat Back Muffler System Sounds Great

By Back in Black (MI) on Friday, May 03, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 105

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"Detroit Black Top Edition, Dodge Hit It right on the nose!! I love this car!, turns heads everywhere i go!. I have found myself running faster than the posted speed limit many times. 6 speed manual trans is flawless,interior looks great!,Paint job is flawless,love the interior lighting!. I would buy another."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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I can't say enough of how much I love this car

By Matthew (MO) on Thursday, May 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 22,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Turns heads/Cool body style/Hemi eng."

Cons: "I wish the stock muffler was louder..replaced it"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had a lot of cars most makes and models and the longest I have had a car was about 42 month and I have wanted a Dodge Challenger since I first saw them and finally got the chance to buy one and it is everything I thought it would be. There are faster cars but the style, confort headroom (I'm a tall guy and a Camaro has no headroom & small windows..its faster but that does not matter when your are hunched over) the Challenger's cool body design the Hemi engine just make it a great car to drive and turn heads..did I mention it's cool. I would buy another one in a split second. The MDS gets me great mpg 26+ mpg when driving the posted hwy speed...but it's oh so hard not to put the foot down all the time so I normally avg. 21-22 combined hwy/city ...I have a 38 mile commute on way which is just fine for such a great car. If you want a classic body style, great performance that turns heads everywhere don't settle get one."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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