More of a result of pipe-dreaming than actual inside info, the 2010 Plymouth Road Runner Concept that’s featured in the August/September issue of Mopar Enthusiast magazine is based on the new Dodge Challenger using styling cues from the ’71-’72 model year Road Runners. The folks at Mopar Enthusiast are pretty optimistic that gas prices will drop since they believe that the car should be powered by a HEMI 5.7L V8 as standard with 6.1L and… 7.0L V8 HEMIs being offered as optional equipment.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Whilst under the DaimlerChrysler Corporation the Dodge Charger was rescued from obscurity and relaunched with a brand new model in 2006 following its debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Sales figures have so far proved to be positive but there have been lingering rumours circling the internet that it could well be axed as it competes with Crysler’s other full-size vegicle – the 300. If the boffins at the Pentastar do decide to continue with the Charger, development should be well under way for an all new model for launch possibly in 2012 or 2013.

As a helping hand for the next generation model we present a series of renderings of the 2010 Dodge Charger Concept – the brain child of artist/designer/illustrator Michael Leonhard.

“The Dodge Charger is a muscle car legend. The sound of the 1968-1970 Charger was my starting point to rebirth/redesign the legendary Dodge Charger for 2010. A bad-ass two-door Coupe that pays Homage to the days using the design characteristics and styling cues from the original with a touch of 21st century refreshment. Modern and futuristic incorporating today’s styling and design standards. The result is a car that could rule the road like Darth Vader rules outer space.” commented Leonard.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Chrysler has officially announced that the drag package for its upcoming Challenger, initially shown at SEMA in late 2006, will be released on an unsuspecting public. Previous rumors have the drag pack getting hi-po versions of the 5.9-liter Magnum and Hemi V8’s, while jettisoning around eight-hundred pounds of dead weight unnecessary for mass-acceleration. The National Hot Rod Association is said to be going through the package as we speak in order to certify it for racing duty. After all of the necessary paperwork is complete, the Challenger is expected to race in the Stock Eliminator class. According to Chrysler spokeswoman Patricia Georgevich, Chrysler is looking at a possible introduction in July.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Steve Saleen and his new tuning company SMS are creating two limited edition versions of the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T. The SMS 570 Challenger and SMS 570X Challenger will feature a SMS Supercharged 5.7-liter V8 Hemi delivering 500Hp to more than 700Hp respectively. Both models will come equipped with a series of performance parts, including drivetrain, suspension, aerodynamics, tires, wheels and interior.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Chrysler’s last few years have been emblematic of the difficulty some of the older portions of the automobile industry are having adjusting to the increasingly mature, saturated and urban U.S. and global automobile markets. But Chrysler isn’t counting itself out yet. Repackaging the Chrysler structure as a smaller, lighter company is going well, according to Chrysler’s top executives, but it’s not going to be quick - or painless.

Though they don’t hold hope for a profitable 2008, and are doubtful about next year as well, the top brass at Chrysler think it will weather the reformulation of its business to emerge more fit for today’s auto industry. The company is on plan or ahead of its goals to return to profitability, according to CEO Bob Nardelli. They are also proud of their ability to keep fighting despite the tough times.

“Lesser companies would have buckled,” said Nardelli, speaking with the Detroit Free Press.

The company continues to streamline its dealer network, vehicle lineup and worker pay structure as it slims its business model to fit the times. But all of these initiatives are slow, careful maneuvers that will take five to seven years to complete.

The company is also taking some creative new steps to help ensure its changes keep it relevant to the people that will buy its cars. A design forum for the public that allows up to 5,000 people to give their input on videos, presentations and upcoming products will help guide Chrysler’s future direction.

And although the Dodge Challenger - especially the potent SRT8 version - isn’t slated for high-volume sales, the image of strength and performance it presents is something that’s been missing from the brand’s stable, with the notable exception of the Viper, for quite some time. The greater availability and therefore visibility of the new muscle car should help kick start the change in perception the company is seeking as it moves forward.

Popularity: 1% [?]

The Dodge Challenger in SRT8 trim has been a runaway success for Chrysler with most of the car’s first year production run already accounted for despite its relatively high $37,320 starting price. But it’s the bread and butter SE and R/T models that will ensure the overall success of the new product line, which means the pricing of the car has to be set just right in order to maximise sales and profits.

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You can almost hear the muscle-car guys cringing at the thought of a V6 engine up in Dodge’s new Challenger coupe. Well gentlemen, the Camaro, Mustang and Firebird all came with V6 power to help them appeal to a wider audience- and for 2009, Dodge’s latest coupe will do the same.

Yesterday, the automaker announced further details on their Challenger lineup. Later this year, the muscle-coupe will be offered as a 2009 model in four different trim levels: SE, SXT, RT and SRT8.

SE models are powered by the automakers 3.5 liter V6 with 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft of torque. Power is sent out back by a four-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the SXT model adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, traction control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and fog-lamps. A security alarm and power-adjustable driver’s seat are also included.

The RT designated model is motivated by a new generation 5.7 liter HEMI V8 that’s been tuned for 370 horsepower and increased fuel mileage in the range of about 5 percent. A five-speed automatic transmission is available, though performance buffs will rejoice at the availability of a new six-speed manual transmission. Dodge says that when fitted with this gearbox, Challenger will be deliver a slight boost in horsepower when running on premium fuel. The manual transmission features hill-start assist to help keep the vehicle in place when taking off from a standstill on an incline.

Other available high-tech features include the MyGig infotainment system, UConnect hands-free phone system and a keyless access system that frees drivers of having to handle the key-fob, as long as it’s in their pocket. Challenger will be built in Brampton, Ontario alongside the Charger and 300.

Popularity: 1% [?]