2009 Dodge Challenger: Road Test
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2009 Dodge Challenger ▼
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- MSRP: $22,220 -$40,220
- Invoice: $20,890 -$37,270
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Our road test for the 2009 Dodge Challenger includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Dodge Challenger from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Dodge Challenger, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Dodge Challenger help you decide if a 2009 Dodge Challenger is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 9 | 6.7 |
R/T with the manual transmission is quite potent, though it doesn't feel quite as fast as its 376-hp rating would suggest. SRT8 is very strong with either the manual or automatic transmission. Dodge claims Challenger SRT8 will do 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds, which feels reasonable to us. The manual transmission has positive, mechanical shift action and a smooth clutch. Though not subtle, its responsive automatic transmission shifts without harshness. No opportunity to test an SE with the new 5-speed automatic transmission or an R/T with the automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.3 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission R/T averaged 16.5 mpg with slightly more city driving than highway use. A manual-transmission SRT8 averaged 16.8 mpg. Test automatic-transmission SRT8s averaged 15.8-16.8 mpg. Chrysler recommends mid-grade 89-octane gas for the SE and automatic-transmission R/T. Premium-grade gas is recommended for the manual-transmission R/T and required for the SRT8.
RIDE QUALITY
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
Challenger's ride is surprisingly supple, especially given this car's performance mission. Bump absorption is quite good across the lineup. Only major impacts can be described as harsh. The R/T Classic package's 20-inch tires have little effect on ride quality.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 8.1 |
Accurate steering is marred by excessive power assist. Though not as agile as a Mustang, Challenger handles well given its sheer size and heft. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled, and the brakes provide sure-footed stopping control.
QUIETNESS
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.3 |
R/T and SRT8 models produce sound levels in keeping with their high-performance character. Engine, exhaust, and road noise are are not as prominent as might be expected for a high-performance car.
CONTROLS
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Major gauges are deeply recessed into the dashboard and are dimly backlit, making them hard to read at times. The Chrysler-standard control layout places most systems within easy reach. The navigation system absorbs most audio functions, but mostly with good results.
DETAILS
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
Challenger's cabin houses plenty of plastic, but everything is nicely assembled. R/T and SRT8 are available with chrome, faux carbon fiber, and other accents that help dress up the interior a bit.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
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 limits visibility to the rear corners.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 1.4 |
Challenger's rear-seat accommodations are quite good for a sporty car. Smaller adults may tolerate short trips, while kids will fit fine. Entry and exit are expectedly awkward.
CARGO ROOM
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 2.8 |
For a sporty car, Challenger has impressive trunk space. Compromised by high liftover, the usefully deep trunk offers more room than many midsize sedans. The rear seatbacks fold, but the release levels are awkward to reach, and the only way they lay close to flat is if the front seat ahead of it in a well-forward position. Interior storage is decent, with a good-size glovebox and console bin, two small console trays, and small door map pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 6.3 |
Challenger is not an ideal choice for those looking to save on gas, at least in V8 form. That said, Dodge's muscle machine comes off as more practical than Chevy's Camaro. With the addition of lower-priced SE and R/T models, this fun-to-drive retro-themed machine becomes an easy Recommended pick.
Total Score
| R/T, manual | SRT8, manual | SRT8, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 62 | 61 | 54.2 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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