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Reader’s Question:
I have read in a Houston, Texas magazine an upcoming model for Dodge. Can you give me a preview about the 2010 Dodge Challenger?
Sara
Houston, TX
Blogs, car sites, and auto shows have been buzzing up about the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think that the car is almost ready to roll off of a DCX assembly line. Saying that the prototype is well applauded is an understatement. Honestly, if the Challenger would be available today, you’ll have to wait for months on the waiting list. Such is the demand for a retrospect car that takes its styling roots right from the 1971 Challenger.
With its current standing, the car will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. Still, the Challenger is more than 2 years from being manufactured as it is most likely to be released some time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will belong for many, but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will certainly be worth your while.
Some people are really not into the whole retro car evolution. On the other hand, I believe the many revived models being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit finally listening to its customers: we want cars that are uniquely styled and we want them to perform exactly the way you will say they will perform. We don’t want any fake hood scoops, not even heralded names slapped on a car that doesn’t even match the original. No, we don’t want you to rebuild the original model we want you to build the original model and make it better. Get the styling cues and combine them with modern technology to improve upon the original design.
So, just what can enthusiasts expect when they take home their Challenger? Like I said, the car is still in the planning stages, but what I have learned from various sites is the following information:
Modified Platform — DCX is planning to modify the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many cars built upon it. Some have even suggested that the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.
Every Mopar product of importance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger has no exception. You can expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the car. Some have also suggested that the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be available for the Challenger.
Chrysler states that the Sebring will be its only convertible product, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market (other than the Viper, of course). Despite this small piece of information, look for a Challenger convertible to show up one or two years after the car’s debut. If DCX does not want to build one then aftermarket coach builders will do the job for them. Certainly, Dodge dealers will make have arrangements if DCX doesn’t want to.
Yes, the Challenger won’t be in new Houston Dodge car showrooms any time soon. For those of us waiting, we’ll have to console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and car shows hyping the car. Most of all, just imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side.
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