When Dodge boss Ralph Gilles introduced the 2011 Dodge Charger at the LA Auto Show, he said that they call it the “car that makes other sedans wet their pants.” When he introduced the 2011 Dodge Challenger, he smiled.
He explained that all of the work that had gone into remaking the Charger had been transferred over to the Challenger as well. The suspension and steering upgrades, combined with the upgraded Hemi V8, make the car handle like it weighs 500 pounds lighter than it really does. That should bring it into Camaro, if not Mustang, territory. Also new for 2011 is the Pentastar V6 in lesser Challengers, as well as a new 392 Hemi in SRT8 392 special edition models.
That new 392 cubic inch Hemi V8 produces 470 horsepower and 470 ft-lbs of torque. The SRT8 392 will cost $42,555 and will be introduced with an inaugural series of 1,100 units in the States. The Pentastar V6 equipped SE models will produce 305 hp and will start at $24,670. Dodge will also offer just about every option previously available on only one trim level across the board now, so you won’t have to upgrade to an R/T to get 20-inch wheels for instance.
GALLERY: 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392
Official release with pricing after the jump:
PRESS RELEASE
New 2011 Dodge Challenger: Upgraded Performance, Handling, Style and Value
The new 2011 Dodge Challenger delivers more of what muscle-car enthusiasts want — a more powerful and efficient engine lineup, maximum grip with an all-new performance suspension design and even more athletic styling — all executed with quality and precision. The new 2011 Dodge Challenger combines world-class ride, refinement and braking performance with more power and new track-tuned suspensions to deliver a thrilling driving experience. With its all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower — 55 more horsepower than the engine it replaces — the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SE is the most powerful, refined and technologically advanced entry-level Challenger ever.
The starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2011 Dodge Challenger:
Dodge Challenger SE: $24,670
Dodge Challenger SE (with “Rallye” package): $26,670
Dodge Challenger R/T: $29,670
Dodge Challenger R/T (with “Plus” package): $31,170
Dodge Challenger R/T (with “Classic” package): $32,970
(All prices exclude $825 destination charge.)
Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Delivers New Levels of Performance With Loads More Torque, Horsepower and Maximum Handling
With the introduction of the legendary 392-cubic inch HEMI® V-8 for the street, the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 builds on its original mantra of a rear-wheel-drive coupe that promises a balanced approach between form and function. The new 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 pumps out 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. However, impressive straight-line acceleration is just part of the performance story, as world-class ride and handling, high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency, results in the newest version of the quickest coupe in the Dodge product lineup.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 392: $42,555
(Price excludes $825 destination charge and any applicable gas guzzler taxes.)
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