2008 Dodge Challenger: Road Test
2008 Dodge Challenger ▼
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- MSRP: $37,320 -
- Invoice: $34,803 -
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Our road test for the 2008 Dodge Challenger includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Dodge Challenger from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Dodge Challenger, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Dodge Challenger help you decide if a 2008 Dodge Challenger is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 6.6 |
Enormous thrust is available from any speed at any time. Dodge claims Challenger SRT8 will do 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds, which feels reasonable to us. Though not subtle, the responsive transmission shifts without harshness.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 5.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 15.8 mpg. Challenger SRT8 requires premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.1 |
Challenger's ride is always active but never harsh. Small bumps and ruts are felt, but they don't jolt as would be expected from a high-performance car.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 8 |
Steering is accurate, but marred by excessive power assist. A shame, because Challenger is an otherwise sharp handler, with impressively controlled lean in corners and abundant, usable grip.
QUIETNESS
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.4 |
Sound levels are not excessive, but are in keeping with this car's high-performance character. The engine lets out an intoxicating bellow under acceleration but recedes nicely into the background while cruising. Most other noise sources are well muffled.
CONTROLS
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.6 |
Major gauges are deeply recessed and at night are dimly backlit, making them hard to read at times. The Chrysler-standard control layout places most systems within easy reach. The navigation system incorporates most audio functions, but mostly with good results.
DETAILS
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5 |
Challenger's cabin houses plenty of cheap plastic, but everything is nicely assembled. There's some chrome, faux carbon fiber, and suede to help dress things up a bit. Overall, the ambiance is miles ahead of a Mustang or Nissan 350Z.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 5.4 |
Ample space for even larger and taller drivers. The aggressively bolstered seats provide long-trip comfort. The large doors are a pain in close parking situations, but offer easy entry and exit. Challenger's roof design severely limited visibility to the rear corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 1.4 |
Compared to the similar-mission Ford Mustang, Challenger's rear-seat accommodations are palatial. In reality, smaller adults may tolerate short trips, while kids will fit fine. Entry and exit are sporty-coupe awkward.
CARGO ROOM
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3 |
For a sports coupe, Challenger has impressive trunk space. Compromised somewhat by a high liftover, the usefully deep trunk offers more room than many midsize sedans.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6 |
With fuel prices foremost on many shoppers' minds, Challenger's (re)introduction seems ill timed. That said, Dodge's muscle machine comes off as more practical than Ford's Mustang, and is less expensive than Chevy's Corvette. Prices are high now, as a top-line SRT8 model is the only version offered for 2008. We look forward to more-moderate prices when the planned 5.7-liter R/T and V6 SE models arrive for the 2009 model year.
Total Score
| SRT8 | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 54 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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