Overview
The 2021 Dodge Challenger is a nostalgic muscle car masterpiece, blending classic American style with exhilarating performance. The Challenger prioritizes relaxed cruising and comfort, and its capacious trunk, all-wheel-drive option, and colorful paint schemes make it a standout. With a range of potent V-8 engines, including the mighty 807-horsepower SRT Hellcat, the Challenger is a force to be reckoned with.
Price
Priced from $31,045 to $50,365, the Challenger offers exceptional value. We recommend the R/T Scat Pack model, featuring a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 and eight-speed automatic transmission, for $42,995. Adding adaptive dampers, the Dynamics package, and Plus package brings the total to $49,485.
Engine and Transmission
The Challenger’s engine lineup includes a 305-horsepower V-6 and three V-8 options: a 375-horsepower 5.7-liter, a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter, and the 807-horsepower SRT Hellcat. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers quick power-on downshifts, while the available six-speed manual provides a more engaging driving experience.
Dimensions and Interior
Inside, the Challenger boasts a classic muscle-car design, comfortable accommodations, and generous passenger space. The broad front seats are perfect for cruising, and the trunk offers an impressive 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space. However, rear visibility is limited, and materials could be more premium.
Performance
The Challenger’s V-8 engines deliver exhilarating performance, with the 6.4-liter V-8 producing 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. While not as sharp as its rivals, the Challenger hustles through corners with a satisfying rumble and responsive throttle.
Fuel Economy
The EPA estimates up to 19 mpg city and 30 highway for the V-6, 16 mpg city and 25 highway for the 5.7-liter V-8, and 15 mpg city and 24 highway for the 6.4-liter V-8. Its testing revealed 26 mpg highway for both the V-6 and 485-horsepower V-8 models.
The 2021 Dodge Challenger is a nostalgic muscle car icon, prioritizing comfort and relaxed cruising over razor-sharp handling. With its potent V-8 engines, spacious interior, and generous cargo space, the Challenger is an excellent choice for those seeking a classic American driving experience. While not perfect, its unique personality and value make it a compelling alternative to the Camaro and Mustang.