Last time we got our hands on a Challenger SRT8, let’s just say the tires paid the price. We couldn’t resist unleashing the beast within. But after numerous requests from our fans, we knew we had to give the Dodge Challenger SRT8 another shot, this time focusing on the full experience beyond just burning rubber. Chrysler was kind enough to lend us their retro-inspired powerhouse for a week, and we’re here to tell you what it’s like to actually live with this 470HP machine before you consider dropping serious cash on this modern-day muscle car.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 review
Retro Charm Meets Modern Muscle: The Challenger SRT8 Exterior
The Dodge Challenger SRT8 wears its retro design proudly, drawing clear inspiration from the iconic 1970s model. Designing a “retro” car might sound straightforward – just blend the classic lines with a modern sedan platform. And in many ways, that’s what Dodge has achieved. The Challenger SRT8 is undeniably large, built on Chrysler’s “LC” platform, which, while technically shorter than their “LX” sedans, still results in a substantial coupe. Compared to rivals like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, the Challenger SRT8 is a giant. Its wheelbase is significantly longer and the overall body stretches out, making it a true heavyweight in the muscle car arena.
This sheer size sets the Challenger SRT8 apart. Cross-shopping it directly with a Mustang Boss 302 or Camaro SS feels almost illogical. They occupy different niches within the performance car world. While some buyers might be put off by the Challenger’s dimensions, there’s an undeniable allure to its imposing presence. For those who appreciate classic American cruisers, the size is part of the appeal. It evokes a sense of grand touring rather than nimble track days. In fact, its size brings to mind vehicles like the BMW 650i – a surprising comparison, perhaps, but dimensionally, they are in the same ballpark.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 exterior design
Inside the SRT8: A Retro-Modern Cabin Experience
Stepping inside the Challenger SRT8 is like taking a step back to the late 2000s, specifically the era when Chrysler was navigating its post-Mercedes but pre-Fiat phase. The interior plastics reflect this period – not as subpar as earlier Chrysler models, but not quite as refined as the later revisions. However, it’s worth noting that the Camaro and Mustang of this era weren’t exactly paragons of luxury materials either. While the Challenger’s cabin might feel a bit rubbery in places, it’s on par with its American muscle car competitors.
Where the SRT8 distinguishes itself is with its upscale features. Standard leather upholstery with Alcantara inserts on the seats and doors elevates the cabin ambiance. The SRT8 also comes generously equipped with standard features, and boasts one of the best OEM steering wheels you’ll find. This SRT-specific wheel is a highlight – chunky, well-padded, wrapped in soft leather, heated, and genuinely addictive to hold. It almost makes you forgive some of the less premium plastics on the dash and the somewhat awkward placement of the door handles. For budget-conscious buyers, Dodge introduced a “core” SRT8 model, stripping away some of the leather and features to lower the price, offering a more accessible entry point to SRT8 performance.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 interior comfort
Front seat comfort is excellent, even for longer journeys. However, the seat cushion design, with its “dome” shape, might give the sensation of sitting “on” rather than “in” the seat, a characteristic shared with other Chrysler models of the time. To compensate for the potential for spirited driving that 470 horsepower encourages, Dodge has added substantial bolstering to the seats. Crucially, unlike some European performance cars, these seats are generously sized to accommodate a wider range of body types. Interior color choices at the time included black-on-black and the red-and-black combination seen in our test vehicle.
The Challenger SRT8’s generous dimensions and long wheelbase translate to a surprisingly spacious rear seat. Unlike the cramped rear quarters of many coupes, the Challenger offers genuinely usable rear seats. While on paper, rear legroom and headroom figures might only be marginally better than the Mustang or Camaro, the actual feeling is of a much more cavernous space. You can even realistically fit three adults in the back for shorter trips, something unthinkable in the Camaro or Mustang. The optional sunroof is also designed to avoid compromising rear headroom, a thoughtful touch.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 rear seats
When it comes to cargo, the Challenger SRT8 adopts a retro approach with a traditional trunk lid rather than a modern hatchback. This results in a high liftover, making loading heavy items a bit cumbersome and increasing the risk of scratching the rear bumper. On the plus side, the trunk itself is enormous, boasting 16.2 cubic feet of space – a significant 44% larger than the Camaro’s trunk. While the trunk fabric might be basic, the traditional trunk hinges are a welcome feature, as they don’t intrude into the usable cargo area.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 trunk space
Infotainment: A Step Behind the Curve
The potent 392 HEMI engine didn’t bring with it Chrysler’s latest and greatest infotainment system. Buyers of the Challenger SRT8 were presented with a choice of somewhat dated radio and navigation options. The base system included a 6-speaker Dodge-branded audio setup with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and USB/iPod interface. Stepping up to the navigation system added a Garmin-based GPS and Sirius Satellite radio to the 6.5-inch touchscreen. This system was user-friendly, mirroring aftermarket Garmin units, but lacked voice command destination entry. The top-tier “730N” navigation system offered voice command functionality but came at a premium price, as it required opting for the Harmon Kardon amplifier and speaker package.
The premium Harmon Kardon audio system, utilizing Logic 7 surround processing (similar to systems found in BMW 6-Series models), boasted 18 speakers and Green Edge amplifiers. This upgrade could be paired with any of the infotainment options. While the base audio system was merely adequate, the Logic 7 system delivered sound quality that wouldn’t be out of place in a luxury vehicle costing considerably more. However, all infotainment options shared a common drawback: the uConnect system of this generation wasn’t particularly user-friendly with USB devices and browsing music libraries could be cumbersome. Compared to systems like Chevy’s MyLink or Ford’s SYNC, the Challenger’s interface felt outdated and lagged behind the competition.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 infotainment system
The Heart of the Beast: 392 HEMI Drivetrain
Under the hood of the Challenger SRT8 lies the magnificent 392 HEMI engine. While technically closer to 391 cubic inches, “392” sounds better and that’s what the marketing team went with. And while the term “HEMI” evokes images of fully hemispherical combustion chambers, the reality is that the heads are only partially hemispherical. But none of this nitpicking detracts from the sheer power and character of this engine.
The 392 HEMI wasn’t simply a bored-out version of the 6.1L engine. It shared technology with Chrysler’s revised 5.7L V8, incorporating features like variable valve timing, a variable length intake manifold, and cylinder deactivation (on automatic transmission models). Despite sticking with pushrod technology and two valves per cylinder, the 6.4L engine was far from antiquated. These upgrades resulted in a significant boost in power compared to the old 6.1L SRT engine, jumping to 470 horsepower and a massive 470 lb-ft of torque. Crucially, torque was substantially improved in the mid-range, from 2,000 to 4,000 RPM, addressing a slight weakness of the previous engine. The 392 felt responsive and eager across the rev range.
Dodge made the robust Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual transmission, borrowed from the previous-generation Viper, standard equipment – a surprising move given the prevalence of automatics in their lineup. The manual transmission offered short, precise shifts, near-perfect engagement, a linear clutch pedal with predictable engagement and light effort. For those preferring automatic transmissions, a Mercedes-sourced 5-speed automatic was available, but it was widely considered the less desirable option. While the automatic enabled Chrysler’s Multi Displacement System (cylinder deactivation), the 6-speed manual was superior in nearly every aspect, including fuel economy. Speaking of fuel economy, the Challenger SRT8 did incur a gas guzzler tax due to its EPA ratings. However, the tall 6th gear in the manual allowed for surprisingly decent real-world fuel economy, with averages exceeding the EPA estimates on longer drives.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 engine bay
Driving the SRT8: Grand Tourer Muscle
Weighing in at over 4,200lbs and stretching nearly 198 inches long, the Challenger SRT8 is fundamentally a GT car. Its driving experience is more akin to a large luxury coupe, like the BMW 6-Series, than a nimble pony car like the Mustang. This isn’t necessarily a drawback, but rather a defining characteristic. The Challenger SRT8 has a larger turning circle than the Mustang, isn’t as sharp on a track, and its straight-line performance is comparable to the less expensive Mustang GT. However, it offers a distinct driving experience that many will find more appealing.
The Challenger SRT8 provides a more refined and comfortable ride than its high-horsepower American rivals, thanks to its standard computer-controlled suspension system. This contributes to its GT-like character, making it a comfortable and capable cruiser. Comparing the Mustang/Camaro to the Challenger SRT8 is truly an apples-to-oranges comparison.
Performance figures are always a key part of any muscle car review. Our test car was equipped with the manual transmission, meaning driver skill plays a significant role in achieving optimal numbers. The 2013 SRT8 featured launch control, but it proved to be somewhat cumbersome to engage and wasn’t used in our testing. It’s also worth noting that reaching 60 mph in the manual requires a gear shift (1st to 2nd), and the quarter-mile run involves four gear changes (1st to 4th). Traction is also a limiting factor with any rear-wheel-drive car packing this much power.
Our initial acceleration runs were… humorous. One run resulted in an 8.1-second sprint to 60 mph – because the test was accidentally performed entirely in third gear, highlighting the engine’s immense torque. With proper technique, we achieved a best 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, with a 0-30 mph time of 2.0 seconds, showcasing the traction challenges. With wider, stickier rear tires, an estimated 0-30 mph time of 1.8 seconds and 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds should be achievable. The automatic transmission, while slightly slower to 60 mph, is claimed by Chrysler to be slightly quicker in the quarter-mile due to requiring fewer gear changes during the run.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 driving performance
Starting at around $44,775, the Challenger SRT8 was positioned above the Mustang Boss 302 and significantly more expensive than a comparably equipped Camaro SS. However, the price premium brought features like dynamic suspension, a larger trunk, a more spacious backseat, and a truly captivating exhaust note. The introduction of the “core” model aimed to make the SRT8 more competitive on price, bringing the starting point just under $40,000. While the Challenger SRT8 might not be the most direct competitor to the Mustang and Camaro in terms of track prowess, it carves out its own niche as a comfortable, powerful, and stylish muscle car. The SRT8 392 is undeniably large, perhaps not the most practical, and thirsty for fuel, but it delivers a unique blend of comfort, performance, and retro charm that results in an abundance of smiles per mile. It’s a muscle car that’s hard not to enjoy. Just maybe leave the pink slip races to others.
Dodge Challenger SRT8 on the road
Dodge Challenger SRT8 side view
Dodge Challenger SRT8 front view
Dodge Challenger SRT8 rear view
Dodge Challenger SRT8 dashboard
Dodge Challenger SRT8 steering wheel detail
Dodge Challenger SRT8 seat detail
Dodge Challenger SRT8 interior door panel
Dodge Challenger SRT8 uConnect screen
Dodge Challenger SRT8 gear shift
Dodge Challenger SRT8 engine close up
Dodge Challenger SRT8 wheels
Dodge Challenger SRT8 exhaust pipes
