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We also drove the T/A 392 with the automatic and admired the exhaust's cannon-blast startup sound and baritone roar when prodded. Those looking to maximize the Challenger's potential will want the 6.4-liter V-8, which produces 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The 375-hp 5.7-liter we tested had plenty of juice to powerslide on demand, and its guttural growl was gratifying. The Dodge's Hemi V-8 engines are another story. The modest engine mates exclusively to the eight-speed automatic, but in the heavy Challenger, it lacks the acceleration and excitement of rivals. The Challenger's base 305-hp V-6 won't satisfy thrill seekers. It requires the Driver Convenience Group, too, which brings blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert, power mirrors, and high-intensity-discharge headlights. The Plus package improves the interior with ambient lighting, faux-suede seat inserts, and much nicer materials on the dashboard and doors. We'd also add the adaptive dampers for adjustable ride quality, and the Dynamics package for its wide 20-inch wheels, six-piston Brembo front brakes, and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Believe it or not, we'd opt for the $1595 eight-speed automatic over the standard manual transmission because it's much more responsive than the slushy-feeling stick shift. We'd select the R/T Scat Pack model for its 485-hp 6.4-liter V-8. This feature is also now included with the Convenience Group package. The only difference between last year's models is that the R/T Scat Pack now includes a deluxe security alarm. What's New for 2022?įor 2022, Dodge does what Dodge does by not making any significant changes to the Challenger lineup. And while the 2022 Challenger is marred by mediocre interior materials and an unsatisfying manual transmission, it's still a cool coupe that regularly reminds its driver of a bygone era. However, it rides smoother and offers more comfortable passenger accommodations. Compared with the Chevy Camaro or Ford Mustang, the Challenger is larger and less athletic. We review the supercharged SRT Hellcat separately. Get behind the wheel of any R/T model to experience the sound and fury of a Hemi V-8, either a 375-hp 5.7-liter or a 485-hp 6.4-liter. The least expensive way to join the Challenger's brotherhood of muscle is through the entry-level V-6 model-the only two-door muscle car to offer all-wheel drive. The 2022 Dodge Challenger is a blast from that past, not only because its whole vibe is inherently old school, but some models are seriously entertaining.
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