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2009 Dodge Challenger R/T
New Excitement for the Pony Car Wars

Challenger, one of the most iconic names from the pony-car era has returned to the Dodge stable for 2008 after a 35-year hiatus. The design of the new Challenger, remains true to its heritage, but of course benefits from modern technology to deliver a whole new level of comfort along with performance.

The Challenger R/T, powered by a 370-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission, has power bumped up to 375 when equipped with the optional 6-speed manual transmission, which is what the test car was. What’s nice is that the R/T has 398 lb-ft of torque and that makes this car sit up and talk when you get on it. It’s on of the things I like best about American muscle cars.

This car is all about driving though and it has a huge fun factor; handling is much better then one would expect from such a big car that actually sits relatively high. Acceleration is invigorating and the exhaust note was so sweet that I rarely had the stereo system on.  You don’t want to buy this car if you’re concerned about fuel economy with an EPA rating of 16/23, numbers that are in fact attainable but unfortunately not by me as I love driving this car as it should be, within legal limits I’m quick to point out.

Overall, I have to say that I felt very cool in this new iteration of an icon, and I don’t think Dodge will have any problem selling all they can produce. So if you’re looking for lots of fun in a throwback muscle car for under $40k, check out the 2009 Challenger R/T. I’m thinking you’ll be glad you did. Read more about the Challenger…