The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

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


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

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(R) V-8 delivers zero to 60 mph performance in less than 6 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., January 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(R) 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(R) V-8 engine under a long, raised performance hood with functional hood scoops to increase engine cooling. The newest generation 5.7-liter HEMI(R) 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(R) 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(R) 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(R) 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.