2011 Dodge Challenger cars

The 2011 Dodge Challenger has reached S1 status, according to insiders, with production of Pentastar-equipped models. There is reportedly an electric power steering system, a feature which has grown increasingly common in new cars (and which is reportedly planned for the Grand Cherokee as well). Recent rumors claim that the floor pan of the Challenger is being altered, possibly to make it eaiser to make Challengers alongside Chargers and 300s.

The spy shots above and below were taken by Brian Stewart in Eastern Kentucky; the car appears to be the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 version.

JackRatchett wrote that the styling remains almost identical, except the lower opening was flipped upside down and made taller; the Ram emblem has been removed; the door handles will be the same as those on the Charger; and there will be a wagon-style Dodge Magnum switch to pop the trunk open.

JackRatchett also wrote that the 6.4 SRT8 Challenger will probably have a wrap-around front spoiler incorporating the black flap at the front edge of the wheel well. It was described as having an Abe Lincoln beard and side burns, and one with the hood open appeared to have a blacked out intake manifold. The aluminum manifold will be replaced with a plastic one on the 6.4; which will keep the traditional hydraulic steering pump even as the other Challengers go to electric steering. (Electric steering reduces the number of moving parts, eliminates fluid leaks, and allows for easier integration of start/stop and hybrid systems).

The interior is expected to undergo major upgrades, and the usual electronics updates are expected: moving to Garmin navigation, adding whatever safety and A/V options are de rigeur, etc. Mainly, the dashboard should be dramatically upgraded and materials may be improved.

2011 Dodge Challenger powertrain

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SE’s mileage and power will rise with the upcoming Pentastar V6 engines, generating an estimated 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque — versus the existing 250 hp, 250 lb-ft.

When the new, bigger 6.4 liter SRT8 engine debuts on the Dodge Challenger SRT8, in late 2011 according to sources, it will have cylinder deactivation, helping real world gas mileage. Rumor has the Challenger SRT8 being the first car to get the new engine, which has been in the works for years now, following the successful debut of an all-out race version.

The standard Hemi is not expected to get a substantial power boost, though, later in the model run (2012?), seven speed automatics will help acceleration or economy. The 6.4 liter SRT8 engine (2012 model year) is, we think, to be hooked up to the five speed Mercedes automatic at first, but an eight speed ZF/Chrysler-collaboration automatic transmission is in the works for calendar-year 2013 or 2014, as far as we know.

Predicted mpg is not based on “leaks” but is an educated guess. Predicted power levels are based on a range of information. Chrysler might downgrade the published SRT8 engine power to avoid insurance surcharges; gas mileage shown is for the automatic with MDS.

Special 2008-2010 Dodge Challengers

We have separate sections on the:

• Furious Fuchsia cars, Hurst Challenger, Challenger R/T Classic, SEMA V-10 Dodge Challenger
• Super Stock Dodge Challenger Drag Pack and Challenger 1320
• Mr. Norm’s Super Challenger and Super ’Cuda
• Moparized Dodge Challenger
• Dodge Challenger police cars
• SMS 570 and SMS 570X (street legal cars with supercharged Hemi engines)
• NASCAR Challenger
• ... and reviews:
  • Dodge Challenger SE review
  • Dodge Challenger SRT8 review

Dodge Challenger SE review • Dodge Challenger SRT8 review