The Dodge Challenger is a large, sport coupe, a model this Stellantis brand pairs with the Dodge Charger sedan. The duo delivers an unusual and potent 1-2 punch in a segment that has seen better days. For 2023 the Challenger marks its final year with multiple special editions as a replacement EV steps in for 2024.
What’s New for 2023
Dodge brings down the curtain on the Challenger, a model reintroduced in 2008. Ahead of its pivot to full electrification, the brand celebrates by releasing seven “last call” special-edition Challenger and Charger models. Under the Challenger moniker, are Shakedown, Scat Pack Swinger, Black Ghost, and a fourth to be named in March 2023. Each of these heritage models will cost at least $60,000.
Grade Levels and Pricing
The 2023 Challenger is available in multiple permutations. These include the SXT ($30,940), GT, ($33,940), R/T ($39,780), RT Scat Pack ($46,940), R/T Scat Pack Widebody ($53,235), SRT Hellcat ($70,835), SRT Hellcat Widebody ($77,835), SRT Hellcat Redeye ($79,440), and SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody ($85,745). Add $1,595 for the destination charge.
The Last Hurrah
After 16 years, numerous updates, and the introduction of countless special editions, Dodge draws the curtain on the Challenger. Likewise, the gas-powered Charger goes away, but at least it will be replaced by a fully electric model. Although Dodge counts 2011 as a new model, it essentially represented a heavy refresh. On the other hand, the Challenger has undergone enough changes to keep enthusiasts coming back to the coke-body design that they love. The seven “last call” models will certainly be pricey and offered in small quantities. They’ll also quickly become collector items and fitting signatures on a memorable model run.
Power to the People
We get it that “only” 303 horsepower with the standard V6 is enough for most enthusiasts. After all, there is a reason why Dodge offers three V8 engine choices to reach consumers. What the V6 does offer is available all-wheel drive, an almost necessary option for owners in snowy climates who can’t or won’t garage their cars for the winter. The V8s, though, offer power numbers ranging from 485 to 717 horsepower, with the latter choice benefitting from supercharging. All but the supercharger choice come with a 6-speed manual gearbox. An 8-speed automatic is optional or standard as in the case of the Hellcat models.
Roomy Cabin and Trunk
The Challenger’s spacious and well-appointed interior is both stylish and functional, with high-quality materials, comfortable front seats, and a straightforward infotainment system. Moreover, the Challenger offers more cargo space than many of its competitors, making it a practical choice for those who need to transport larger items.
The Widebody Option
The Dodge Challenger Widebody models are characterized by several key features that make them stand out from the standard Challenger models. Firstly, the Widebody models feature an aggressive and muscular exterior design, which is achieved by adding 3.5 inches of width to the vehicle’s body. This results in a much wider stance and improved stability, especially when cornering at high speeds. Secondly, the Widebody models come with 20-inch alloy wheels, which further enhance the vehicle’s sporty appearance and provide better grip on the road.
Peer Group
The Dodge Challenger’s chief competitors are the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. Buyers might also wish to compare the Nissan Z and the Toyota GR Supra.
2023 Dodge Challenger Specifications
| Dodge | Challenger 2023 |
|---|---|
| Segment | Coupe |
| Price Range | $30,545 to $66,045 |
| Destination Charge | $1,595 |
| Drivetrain | Front-engine, Rear- or All-Wheel Drive |
| Engine No. 1 | 3.6-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 303 @ 6,350 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 268 @ 4,800 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 3.78 x 3.27 (96.0 x 83.0) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| Engine No. 2 | 5.7-liter, V8 |
| Horsepower | 372 @ 5,200 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 400 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 3.92 x 3.58 (99.5 x 90.9) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| Engine No. 3 | 6.4-liter, V-8 |
| Horsepower | 485 @ 6,100 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 475 @ 4,100 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.09 x 3.72 (103.9 x 94.5) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic |
| Engine No. 4 | 6.2-liter, Supercharged V-8 |
| Horsepower | 717 @ 6,000 |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 656 @ 4,800 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 4.09 x 3.58 (103.9 x 90.9) |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Seating | 2/3 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 3,841 to 4,481 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 116.0 |
| Length (inches) | 197.5/197.9 |
| Width (inches) | 75.7/78.3 |
| Height (inches) | 57.2 – 58.4 |
| Headroom (f,r…inches) | 39.3, 37.1 |
| Legroom (f,r…inches) | 42.0, 33.1 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 58.5, 53.9 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | 55.3, 47.8 |
| Pax Volume (cu. ft.) | 93.9 |
| Cargo Storage (cu. ft.) | 16.2 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | NR |
| Towing (pounds) | 1,000 |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel Type | Regular, Midgrade, or Premium |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 18.5 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | 13/21/15 to 19/30/23 |
| Manufacturing Plant | Brampton, Ontario, Canada |
Specifications and photos supplied by the manufacturer. Statistics assembled by Tom Keegan.
