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Dodge Challenger: muscle cars, engines and trims
The Dodge Challenger is an American muscle car with rear-wheel drive and powerful V6 and V8 engines. The current generation has been produced from 2008 to 2023, with most cars in Lithuania being imported. We'll look at the engines, trims, and what to check.
Challenger in brief
The Challenger is a large two-door coupé with a design inspired by the 1970 original. In the current generation, it ranges from everyday V6 models to extreme, multi-hundred-horsepower SRT Hellcat variants. The interior seats four, and the boot is spacious.
Used Challenger buyers choose it for its unique sound, looks, and substantial power for a relatively accessible price. Downsides include high fuel consumption, size, and parts availability in Europe.
Which trim to choose
The current generation, from 2008, has seen several updates, with the most significant in 2015 featuring a new front end, refreshed interior, and more modern infotainment. Earlier cars (2008–2014) are simpler and cheaper, while later ones are more tech-savvy.
The main choice is the engine. The V6 is suitable for daily driving, the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 (R/T) for general enjoyment, and the 6.4-litre V8 (Scat Pack) and Hellcat for serious speed enthusiasts. All-wheel-drive GT versions are also available.
Engines and transmissions
Most common engines: 3.6 l Pentastar V6 (around 300 hp), 5.7 l Hemi V8 (around 375 hp), 6.4 l Hemi V8 (around 485 hp) and 6.2 l supercharged V8 Hellcat (over 700 hp). Earlier versions featured 3.5 l V6, 5.7 l and 6.1 l SRT8 V8.
Transmissions come as a 6-speed manual or automatic (5, 6 or 8 speeds, depending on the year and engine). More powerful versions demand meticulous maintenance, better tyres and a confident driver.
What to check when buying a used Challenger
V8 Hemi engines sometimes suffer from the notorious 'ticking' (often a sign of worn lifters or a failing timing chain), so listen to the engine and ask for the service history. Check the oil level, leaks and how the cooling system operates.
Check the import history of the car via VIN (accidents, floods), inspect the mileage (shown in miles in the US) and ensure the equipment meets European standards. In more powerful versions, inspect the brakes, tyres and suspension, as they are often used aggressively.
Trim levels
The Challenger was never officially sold in Europe; we list the manufacturer's (US market) versions that are most commonly found in imported cars.
SXT
2008–2023Base version with V6 engine.
- 3.6 l V6 engine
- Often — 18–19-inch wheels
- Often — basic multimedia and air conditioning
R/T
2008–2023Popular version with 5.7 l V8.
- 5.7 l Hemi V8
- Often — sportier suspension
- Often — more chrome and sporty details
R/T Scat Pack
from 2015The more powerful version with a 6.4-litre V8.
- 6.4-litre Hemi V8 (around 485 hp)
- Often — 20-inch wheels
- Often — more robust brakes and a sporty suspension
SRT Hellcat
from 2015The most extreme version with a supercharged V8.
- 6.2-litre supercharged V8 (over 700 hp)
- Redesigned suspension, brakes, and cooling
- Sporty interior and unique trim
Comparing the versions
| SXT | R/T | R/T Scat Pack | SRT Hellcat | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily driving | For muscle car comfort | For active driving | Distinctive power |
| Wheels (usually) | 18–19 inch | 20 inch | 20 inch | 20 inch |
| Engine | 3.6-litre V6 | 5.7-litre V8 | 6.4-litre V8 | 6.2-litre V8 with supercharger |
| Interior | More basic | Sportier | Sport seats | Sporty, unique trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€€ | €€€ |
If you want a muscle car atmosphere without the big expenses, go for the R/T with the 5.7-litre V8. The Hellcat is only for high-budget and experienced drivers.
Pros
- Distinctive looks and a powerful sound
- Lots of power for a relatively affordable price
- Spacious interior and boot for a coupé
- Wide range of engines — from V6 to Hellcat
Cons
- High fuel consumption and restrictions
- Large body and limited visibility
- Parts availability is limited in Europe
Frequently asked questions
Is the Challenger suitable for daily use?
Yes, the V6 or R/T versions are used daily, but you'll have to pay for fuel and get used to the large size. The Hellcat is more about fun than daily driving.
Which Challenger engine is the best?
For most, the 5.7-litre Hemi V8 (R/T) is the sweet spot: powerful enough and simpler than the 6.4-litre or supercharged V8. The V6 is more economical but less exciting.
Does the Challenger come with four-wheel drive?
Some models do: since 2017, GT versions with four-wheel drive and a V6 engine have been available, which are handy in winter conditions.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
