Challenger Designers Love Blog Readers
Oct 18, 2007 at 4:20PM
So when is someone around here going to ask about Challenger?
Seriously folks…wow. If you’ve ever wondered if leaving comments on a blog makes a difference, you’ll be pleased to know that none other than Micheal Castiglione – the designer of the Challenger concept – is reading what you’re saying.
In fact, RLD just paid a visit to Micheal and Alan Barrington (designer of the concept’s interior) down in Carlsbad, Calif. for a long chat about this vehicle. And in the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing that conversation with you right here. So stay tuned.
For the moment, we’ll leave you with these stories from our visit (and maybe an update on ‘08 pricing and specs if you click through):
–For those who haven’t noticed, there’s a few readers around here who care about the Challenger – what engines will be available, which colors, what prices, etc. – and have left questions for us, often followed by a threat to our health if we don’t answer them soon. Well, the designer of the concept himself is a reader of RLD and when we hit him with the latest list of comments from you folks he broke out in a smile as wide as the Pacific Coast Highway. “I’m stoked. I’m so stoked that people are this excited about it. I mean…that’s great to see. I can’t wait for them to see the production model,” he said. Alan, meanwhile, kept his trademark cool, but couldn’t help but smirk.
–During our chat with Micheal and Alan, we were blown away to learn that during the development of the concept, the comments of bloggers (maybe you?) helped spur Micheal to circulate a memo that led to a significant change in how the final show vehicle was designed – a change to which Micheal attributed some of the overwhelming success of the concept. So again…yes, important folks are listening when you share your thoughts. So keep ‘em coming.
So check in often with us for the rest of these interviews, and for more on the upcoming 2008 Challenger. As for Micheal’s thoughts on the ‘08 ? “They nailed it,” he said.
And…this just in…in response to every Challenger question you’ve asked we can say Dodge will be releasing official pricing and some specs for your enjoyment after Thanksgiving. So hang in there!
To be continued…
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97 Comments
Well, it’s after Thanksgiving. For those of us who have the cash, it’s getting old. If there are only 5000 automatics in 08 with dealer gouging,forget it. It will be too late for the summer of 08. I will wait and pick up a used one that someone else lost their butt on. (6 speed manual)
My ideal Challenger would look like this:
Hemi-orange
Functional hood scoops (flat black stripe with 6.1 HEMI logo)
Chrome hood pins
Front and rear spoilers
Side “megaphone” exhaust pipes (like T/A)
“Dodge” on hood (no Rams head)
SRT side tape stripe (like T/A)
SRT emblem on rear
Rear window louvers
White-lettered tires
Same interior and guages as Concept Car
A lot of the Charger SRT owners have been complaining about the stock Goodyear tires. Have you considered installing the Pilot Sport PS2s? Also, to complete the retro look, can you talk the manufacturer into offering white-lettered tires?
Open up the paint palette to all Challenger models, including the SRT. Give us the option for some of the retro colors like, Plum Crazy, Sublime, Lemon Twist, Panther Pink, Rallye Red, etc.
Will it have the dodge death knock?
If you eventually come out with the 6.4 Hemi, make it a true limited edition like the 1970 Challenger T/A. Give us a fiberglass hood with a large functional hood scoop, hood pins, duck-tail spoiler, side exhausts, and side striping!
How about some technical discussion about the new LY platform compared to the LX platform, covering things like rigidity of the structure. Also some in-depth information about the new generation Hemi with variable camshaft/valve timing. Will it be 5.7L?
I have heard that the hood scoop on the Challenger will not be totally functional (i.e., it will only provide cool air to the engine and manifolds). This is a big mistake! If the vacuum-activated butterfly valves are too costly, why not give us a manual control, like was offered on the Challenger and ‘Cuda shaker hood scoops from 1970-1971?
Also, give us a chrome racing gas cap and chrome hood pins to complete the retro look.
Where’s the dual clutch transmission? I’ll drive you over to Borg Warner so you can have a pow wow about the matter any time.
What about an se version of the challenger with an chromed out front and rear? To make it look more like the 1970
Will there be an option for the “MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System w/ Navigation” ? OR how about the new Microsoft Sync system as seen at http://www.syncmyride.com which other car manufactures are implementing.
A suggestion for a Challenger option- rear window louvers. They looked great on my 1971 Rallye Red ‘Cuda.
When will it be ready? How do I get on the list?
i restore musclecars as a hobby and i have done everything from camaros to ferrari\’s. the appeal of the challenger is simple, it is a chance to go back in time and own the car you always wanted, the way you remember it. it\’s too bad the new cafe standards are going to kill these type of cars within the next few years. thats why i am hoping the car gets put out the way i want it the first time as their may be no second chance. i have written many letters over the years for this day to come. the introduction of the miata (a rip-off of an antique lotus design) was the first to get it right. followed by the vw bug, bmw z-8, ford t-bird, plymouth prowler, pt cruiser, gto, gt-40 and mustang.all with varying degrees of success. however, the real excitement is being able to buy a recreation of the baddest muscle car that ever lived with factory financing and a warranty and oh yes, state of the art brakes, safety equipment, suspension and reliability. there is no question that dodge can sell a ton of 6 cylinder challengers, or for that matter 2 cylinder barracudas. the magic formula is simply recreate a late 1960\’s muscle car as true to form as possible, offer all the rarest options of the day and actually win back customers that will not be able to settle for driving a proletarion camry or accord any longer.
don\’t let me forget, dodge, you should have put out the convertible in the first year, in fact the car should have been designed as a convertible. did you really think you needed to hold this back to improve future sales? i hope you don\’t pull a pt cruiser routine on this.
I love the new Challenger! With the reproduction of all the legends(Charger, Mustang, Camaro, etc.) the new Challenger looks most like the original. You guys did a great job with this one. I do believe this one will be a legend in it own right. Wish there was a manual transmission but other than that it is just about perfect. I’m sure we will be seeing more from you, and i cant wait.
I HOPE THE DESIGNERS SEE THIS
PLEASE remove the RAM badges off of this car. Seeing those ram’s horns on the wheels and the hood makes be want to puke! I signed up on the buyers list at my local dealership for one of these cars, but I wont buy with that UGLY badge on there!! This is a car, not a dodge RAM… a ram is a TRUCK not a performance car! You dont have any nasty badge on the front of your Vipers ( actually the viper tag is really cool! ) so make your own cool Challenger tag. Another thing to make sure you keep is the rear tail light. DO NOT change to some “regular” tail lights as per every other car out there, be different! This car being different is one of the MAJOR reasons I want to buy it. My two cents….
LOVE the new Challenger!!! I can hardly wait for April, I hear that’s when I should be getting a call from my dealer. Please, please tell me there will be a hemi orange convertible with a shaker hood and hood pins with my name on it!!!!
Also, the wheels are too big, not enough rubber and the dash is too futurist for a retro car. Hopefully that too will change by production time.
Good work guys!
If the Challenger is succesful (no doubt, here), you should consider developing a special 40th anniversary edition for 2010 (with more hp, custom interior/exterior, special badging, etc.).
As I read through many of these blog entries I am seeing a similar desire. For you to offer the 6.1 with a 6sp manual transmission. I understand the trend toward paddle shifting auto stick transmissions but most of us who are interested in a car like this would like the option of shifting our own gears. The lack of a manual transmission is the only reason why I have never considered the 300C/Charger. I would also suggest that you offer a tan interior option in addition to the standard black that everyone else offers. I think that it would add a touch of class to the available color combinations.
The exterior design on the Cuda is right on. The interior however, leaves much to be desired. It just does not fix the muscle car feel. It maybe that Chrysler was short on time and just used the interior from the Charger.. so that is understandable but it needs major re-work in the final version of the Cuda… mainly get rid of the ugly center counsel and putting one in that it more sporty including a real pistol grip and manual tranny. The steering wheel also needs a more powerful look (as opposed to something I would find in my grandfather’s car).
All in all a great job. Please build the Cuda, that way I can park it next to the new Challenger in my garage!
At the 2007 SEMA show, there was a hemi-orange ‘Cuda concept car.
Although it is great that Dodge is thinking about the ‘Cuda, basing it on modified Charger body does not work. It MUST be based on the Challenger!
See:
http://wkjeeps.com/misc/SEMA_2007/SEMA07.htm
I wish it was out for sale! can’t wait til 2008. i want to see them on Sydney streets, i’m sure lots of us Aussie’s will bring ‘em over. Its a dream looker.
PLEASE make this Challenger a car that everyone who wants one can buy one!!!! And market the car, like they did the Dart sport,Demon and Duster in 1960 and 1970’s
This is a great car and well put together!!
First production 5,000 cars????? You must not be listening to the people at the car shows. Because almost every one who has seen or heard car run wants one? I think you well sell yourself short. Have more colors, you will find that the 1970’s will do I’m sure. And alot of Ladies would like to see panther pink make a come back!! Interested in finding a reasonable price on this car so everyone can own one!!
It’d be nice if it were as light as my Mustang. The Charger’s 425 hemi’s got to push 4200 lbs.; that 425 here pushing 3300 would be sweeeeeeeet indeed. Enough to make me forget about the gimmicky retro [albeit beautiful] styling.
Power is nothing without control!
Please tell us AWD will be available with the Challenger (even on the SRT models). I realize some muscle car purists will only accept rear drive but I think the 60/40 power distribution you have on the Chargers and Magnums preserves that experience. I wish I could have a separate winter car but I can’t so I gotta have something that won’t leave me stranded if it snows. I’ve had RWD muscle cars before. They’re great if the weather is dry but if it rains or snows, all that HP is wasted while some chump in a Subaru leaves you in his dust (or slush since its wet). Also, is it too much to ask for a convertible option? Maybe even a hard top convertible? Why can’t there be a cool, American, AWD, convertible that doesn’t cost over $50k? Right now I’ve got to buy a tiny, German, $80k Porsche if I want that. You’d have a corner on that market if you did.
Having owned a 71 HEMI Challenger RT, Prowler, Viper and more I can tell you I am ready to bring home a new Challenger! I am looking for a minimum 500 hp engine option and it has to have a manual transmission.I like most of the car but I do have a problem with the dash.Why didn’t you reproduce the rallye dash? It had 4 nice BIG gauges that told you everything you needed to know. Hopefully the production dash will not have the small group in the prototype.Don’t forget, we’re going to need a Shaker at some point too. However you guys have nailed the really important stuff,exterior looks great and we have a big horsepower HEMI and a manual transmission. Well done guys, I’ll take mine just like my 71….Plum Crazy Purple with a white interior and a pistol grip Hemi!!
Say Mike, You guys have done a wonderful job keeping to the original body lines and the look is great. I would only ask that you take a second look at the tail end. I think the current tail light lens could be dressed up using the ‘71 Challenger’s design concept. Food for thought.
Hey, I grew up oogling Challengers, I love the sexy lines! I’ve a severe itch in my blood to purchase a sexy muscle car. It has to be two doors, it has to look great and peform well. I’ve seen the Mustang and I have to say, I’m not impressed. I’ve seen the new upcoming Camaro, and although the outside looks marginally nice, the interior looks like crap.
I’ve looked at Mercedes, BMW, Porsche and Audi, but they just don’t have what I want. Plus I’m in my mid twenties, so I’m too young to be driving those old, expensive, midlife crisis vehicles.
From what I’ve seen of this Challenger, I am really liking both the inside and outside. I understand that ultimately things have to be changed from concept to production (that’s okay with me), but I’m liking the whole flow of the car. So kudos on that.
My only criticisms are those HUGE (and I mean massively blown out of epic proportions) wheels! I should hope that 15 or even 16 inch wheels will be offered with the Hemi engine (big grin). Will it be an option?? I’d love to stick on some really wide, pavement gripping tires all around.
Also what color will the interior dash/radio lights be? My vote is for a cool neon blue.
I hope that we won’t be limited to either medium gray or khaki as an interior option. I want black seats in mine. I prefer cloth, but if I absolutely have to, I’ll opt for leather. [xx(]
One last thing, will we be able to purchase a Hemi with cloth interior and an automatic? Or for cloth will we be forced to purchase the V6’s or lessor powered V8’s?
Sorry for all the questions, but I’m really excited about this Challenger!
First off, let me say that I found out about the concept much to long before the production is up for sale. I dream about it so much that my wife is so jealous of the car, and I haven’t even bought one yet.
Some of us are very big challenger fans. You have no idea how long I have wanted a 1970’s version, how ever you can barely get one that runs for under $100,000. So a brand new one is the next best thing. And I can’t wait for it to come out. I have always been a model collector of the original ‘70 car, and now the ‘08 as well. I can’t wait to have the real thing in my garage…or better yet be cruising in it.
As for what to put in it, the biggest eng. you can get with out making me cry when I look at the price. The concept was perfect with one exception…the radio…to fake looking(i realize that it was probably a fake in the concept), but just the looks of it….it didn’t fit. Don’t change anything else on the concept and you have yourself at least one buyer!!!
Hear are my questions:
Should I get the plum crazy purple, or the orange? and
When can I walk into the dealership and reserve one?
Great job on the design of the new retro challenger, i couldn’t of seen it any other way than the way you guys have designed it. But the interior is a little bit blan, it would be nice to see it with a more modern design for the interior; especially the air vents inside.
It’s about time we got back to a real muscle car. Can’t wait to add this one to my collection. But I guess I’ll have to buy two because my wife won’t be driving mine. Just please make it available in all the old colors. It’s a winner!!!!
Congratulations on designing a great reto-car! I used to have a 1971 340′Cuda and was thinking about re-buying one. However, now I can buy something very close to what I had but with 6.1 Hemi power! To keep the 1970s theme going, please give us a shaker hood, chrome gas cap, spoilers,and hood pins. Also, replace that rams head emblem with “Dodge.”
Dodge Challenger…..I need A moment….I LOVE THIS and ALL MOPARS.
I am as big of a HEMI fan as one can get.The HEMI has and been and will be the king of all engines(lets keep it that way).How about topping the competition with more Horsepower then they can handle. Nothing makes me more happy then looking at a Mustang or Camaro and knowing a HEMI can leave it in the dust. This reasurence is vital to all Dodge fans and hopefully will be given with the Challenger.All I can say is I hope the company steps up.
Please offer the same all wheel drive feature as the charger coupled with the 6 speed manual tranny and the challenger will something very special to own
Man still 106 day to go!! I had a ‘71 convert. and an ‘81 Challenger. Miss them both. Praying I don’t have to wait until 2011 to be able to aford the price of a used ‘08 or ‘09. The cost should be set at least the same as the Other Guys. Options options, everyone would love to choose their own, but in reality, since when does the big guy think we know what we want. Besides it would take forever for Production to get the cars out of the factory.
I am your target market, middle age ex cuda guy wanting to relive those high school days with modern technology. Do I need a 3rd car no way but already have put my name on list at dealer. Give me the big hemi now, don’t want to wait for later models with ragtops or other enhancements. Great work guys.Price it right and I’ll buy a new Chrysler ‘cuda to keep it company someday.
The Challenger concept is an sweet car. You Dodge guys need to offer low budget V-6 cars like the Ford guys did with the Mustangs. This will give the people on budgets a chance to have this sweet ride and keep your sales up.
Some people just want looks and gas mileage, they don’t care about tire shredding power. But don’t get me wrong, we still want to keep the tire industry in buisness:)
So give us Engine/Transmission Options!!!! I’m waiting on the CONVERTIBLE!
What size engine and how much horsepower and torque will the SRT model have?
I have to agree with the post by Mark ninetytwoDakota. Let’s bring back the Challenger for all Mopar fans, and let’s create new and enduring Mopar fans by offering a variety of models for a range of budgets, from the get-go. A handful of high-priced, dealer inflated, ‘only the rich are invited’ rollout cars won’t win Dodge a lot of points with hardcore Mopar fans who have been waiting for this Challenger for decades but don’t have the means to afford luxury car prices. Let’s remember what muscle cars are all about - power, speed, and rumble in an affordable yet stylish package. We all want the Challenger to be a roaring success. C’mon Dodge, make us proud!
(This may seem strange but im curious)
are plymouth and amc(long time no use) monikers that will never be used again?
Why is suzuki using sx-4?you should own the name still. the hatchback eagles were sx-4s if you don’t remember.
hockey stripes with cubes prominately displayed
challenger- great looking drawings with the sublime and plum paint we need these special colors, need a 6 speed, no B pillars, customer orders, hopefully something with a supercharger option, please…please.. please… shaker and flip gas cap!!!
this is unrelated but Im not sure where to ask.
Will there be a demon or scooter, or whatever it will be eveuntually called? The challenger has stolen its thunder but Im sure that there must be a market, with the solstice, sky, etc. Is the caliber or avenger to fulfill this niche?
I know it has been mentioned in this blog before but the sound is just about the most important thing to get right. Lines, look and feel come together with the right sound. I know I’m not breaking new ground here but when I see a car on the road that catches my eye I always reserve final judgement until I roll down the window and give it a listen. I can’t tell you how many sweet rides I have cast off as rip-offs because the sound wasn’t right. I would venture to say that the is always the case for muscle car guys.
Please PLEASE tell me you’ll offer a manual transmission in this one. There’s no more american cars w/ stick anymore. I’m almost giving up on Detroit. It really hit home when the ‘99 Ford SHO removed the stick. Where’s the FORD SVT vehicles now? Nowhere. How can you offer a Charger w/ over 400hp with NO stick? How can you sell a muscle car, “inspired from the past” without a stick as well? If this has a stick, then I’m ordering one early spring 2008.
When is the Challenger commercial scheduled to run again? With all the hype the average consumer will be fortunate to get one during the ‘08 calendar year. Remember the Prowler and the PT Cruiser?
This is about me and what I want!
Personally I want an orange one with black stripes a 6.1 with the autostick 5 speed.
I want all SRT options as available on the Charger. I want a sunroof. I want to be able to change rear end gearing with the car on a lift for an hour.
But please bring it out with the same pricing as the SRT Charger.
Then, we have a deal!
The comments made by ninetytwoDakota were all based on assumptions of low volume. If high volume, all comments are invalid…right? I assume that ninetytwoDakota needs to trade-in his 15-year old vehicle for a Challenger…and fast.
Recent automotive news suggesting that the new Challenger will be limited production is deeply troubling. An automotive manufacturer, who lost 1.2 billion in the first ninety days of the year doesn’t have the luxury of building an exclusive vehicle when entering new market segment. For the sake of comparison let’s look at approximate sales figures from the prior production run of this model. With a glut of affordable performance vehicles available from Chrysler as well as other auto manufacturers, there were 83,012 Challengers sold in 1970, and during the same year sold 55,499 Barracudas. In the worst year for sales 11,354 Challengers and 11,734 Barracudas were sold in 1974, with approximately 600,000 of these cars sold during the 4 year time span, how can an initial production run of 5000 cars be considered acceptable? When you re-enter a market segment late you have to be prepared to do two things:
-you have to be better
-your product must cost less than your competition
To be better you have to overcome skepticism from customers that you are learning a market segment that they have been purchasing from for years prior. Customers know what they want and know what they should expect, the luxury of learning this the hard way is not an option when you are behind. Low volume prevents increasing your brands market share and turns away potential new customers to your competitors. An exclusive market puts the wrong people behind the wheel. If you are looking to boost corporate image there is nothing better than seeing a rolling advertisement on the road and in every business parking lot. Instead of attracting youthful customers who will use the vehicles for transportation, you end up with affluent owners who only drive their vehicles on special occasions. Toyota struggles with a similar problem with the xB, the wrong image is behind the wheel. Pricing the vehicle out of the reach of consumers with average means is a bad decision that has a negative effect on total sales. Sadly, you loose in comparison with the retail costs of the Ford Mustang, $28,000 buys a lot of car. Being the late entry you must be able to beat Ford on price on all model variations, and thwart sales of the upcoming Camaro. Lastly, listening to the customer’s wants and expectations is important to gain sales in a given market share.
Dodge - Do this one right ok? Learn from the mistakes of the so called Charger. You guys lost a ton of money and market share on that boon doggle. I am a 52 year old retired veteran who has waited for this car since 1973 when I was 18 years old.
No doubt this will be my last NEW car and I buy and it be passed on to my only child when I leave this world. So, make an old soldier happy and do this one right.
I am glad to see that the folks at Dodge are going to release some pricing and eng. specs.However,I’m still interested in buying a convertible. Please, let me know for there are any talks,and or plans for such a car in the near furture. you know, to compete with the Stang and Camaro. Just let me know either way. I’m sure that by now, someone in headquarters must know.
Thanks…..
Just another thought…..why not throw in the new 600 HP Viper motor as an option!! That would be sweet. I would sell everything not necessary in my life to get one.
The Challenger seems like it is going to be a home run. I agree that it would be great if the consumer can pick and choose options instead of having to pick packages. I own a 70 R/T Challenger convertible 440/4 speed with pistol grip and dana rear end. I am not sure I will be able to afford 2, but am going to do everything I can to make it happen. I also agree that bringing back most retro stuff, stripes, cubic inches on the side, and losing the rams head are great ideas. Good luck. Go Mopar!!
Clo, I saw that commercial a few times. Luckily I have a cable DVR machine. I can watch it over and over and over again.
It’s all very simple a stripped down interior
with the big V8, manual transmission, reduced sticker ($), Dodge sells a ton of these amazing looking cars and re-takes the American car market….now will they be smart enough to make the right decesion?
I’m a MOPAR fan since I’m 5 year old. Me and my dad owne a 1970 convertible and I would like to buy the new model. My dad owned a Sattellite, a 1971 challenger, tow dodge colts and 3 dodge caravans. So as you can see we are are a true Dodge famly. I heard the rumours about the production number and the princing. Please dont kill the chance you have to beat the mustang. Give a chance to all mopar fan to buy one of those beauty. Remember that those fans are those who gone make that car a success.
A dodge fan
I know that you guys are probably planning on offering package options with the Challenger - similar to all of the other cars that consumers can purchase. If you really want to differentiate the Challenger, you should listen to all of the comments on allowing the buyer to select specific options. It will cost you some inefficiencies and flexibility on the production line, but would more than make up for itself in sales and media excitement. Think of what makes the original muscle cars so collectible. As mentioned by several posters in this blog, it is a “feeling” you get - a feeling of nostalgia, power, freedom, youth. But it is also the unique nature of the vehicles. How many articles do you read in muscle car magazines with the headline reading “1 of 30 … made” or “1 of 1 … manufactured”? I think Dodge could reinvent the collector car market with the Challenger if you would just let the consumer “create” their own dream. Do you know what a punch in the gut this would be to Chevy and Ford? You would be offering something that no one else could match. Let us create our dream with the new Dodge Challenger!
Anyone else catch the Dodge commercial on ABC on Sat. Oct. 20, during the football game (around 5:30 pm). The first commercial I’ve seen with the new Challenger.. it looked just like the concept.. and it was leaving some serious burnout tracks from dragracing at a stop light (just like I picture mine will do in the near future). Dual tracks mean posi-traction must be an option. GREAT Commercial!!!
I sold my 2002 M5 in order to wait for this thing. The power and performance should be unmatched with any other American made muscle car of the 21st century. I just hope you guys will build the body just like its prototype. The looks are totally awesome !!! This would be a dream come true !! Lets see….. an SRT-8 in Plum Crazy or maybe white (wife don’t like white). I agree with the other guy…. customer should be able to build the Challenger the way we want it, just like the in the old days. BMW still lets you order the cars with some options. I think the Challenger should definitely be a car that a customer orders from a list of options…. that would be da-bomb !!!! Please have it available sooooonnn.
I think you should have used the 78 challenger as the inspiration for the new one instead of the \”older\” ones
I like that class of cars (which includes FWD, RWD, and AWD) like the Nissan 240SX and NX2000, Isuzu Impulse, Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, etc.
Will it be available with t-tops? I GOTTA HAVE T-TOPS!!!!! If it did I would buy one!!! Almost as important as the cup holders!!! They don\’t have any cars with t-tops anymore!!
Oh, also I think AWD should be available too
make mine an SRT-4 Turbo AWD, t-tops, automatic, unusual color outside (including the wheels) and interior black leather mixed with accents of the outside color, automatic transmission, t-tops, good sporty suspension and brakes and tires, and hopefully you can keep this under 2700lbs.
Please feel free to email me with a response
Woodstock and Mike hit this on the head.
Let me add my .426….
Having owned many classic Mopars in the past ( Currently have my dads original 383 pistol grip 70 Road Runner ) I know what the \”feel\” of this segment is. Its not about option packages ( unless its a Super Trak pack… ), most of us dont give a rip about too much comfort ( I will agree that heated seats have been a nice improvement! ), and dont need a ton of electronic gimickness to make this car a success.
This car is all about blood boiling performance and styling that hearkens back to the days when performance ruled! Give us the biggest, meanest motor you can ( can you say 426 cubes? I knew you could… ) and an available 6 speed. The ability to build the car to suit. IE, I want this color, with these specific options ( NOT PACKAGES ), and THIS motor, and THAT tranny. I want spoilers to be an option, leather/cloth to be an option etc etc.
In other words, let us build this car to our own specs. Let us make this car our OWN. Not what some beancounter thinks we want.
Do that, and you will not be able to build enough even if you cut the Charger/300/Magnum production and built just Challengers…
I also work at a dealership, and I have people coming in almost daily ( this isnt a huge town.. ) asking about the Chally. This car is getting the reaction that you want! Dont let the customers down!!
Danno
Price it inline with the Mustang and you won’t be able to build them quick enough. I’ll take mine with the 6.1L, and a T-56 trans with pistol grip…but please price it around $35K (preferably less). A functional shaker hood would be nice also. The only thing I can’t decide on is color…either Plumb Crazy or Sublime.
why is my statement not on here -
The new challenger rocks like VanHalen reuniting reunite me with a Challenger, Ive tried to get on the list for an 08 and will probably have to wait for a 09, so I put my 82 shortbox chevy in for some work and am going to have it re-painted, but in the mean time my 05 civic is paid for and waiting to be sold when I can use it as down payment on the challenger! ha ha how ya all like the sound of that Chrysler!
You guy’s nailed it on the challenger, it’s perfect. The HEMI’S are awsome. I would love to see a T/A version with a modern 340ci (the new 302hp 4.7 perhaps?)I’d also love to see closer version of the old Ralley dash, I have a ‘73 Cuda with it and that dash looks as good today as it did back then. You guy’s are on the right track, keep it up!
Eric Olson….
Dodge Fever is back with this new Challenger. I am looking forward to a Vanishing Point edition in Alpine white only. Bring back the 340 wedge with that perfect bore and stroke combination and a live axle Sure Grip for an old mopar head stuck in the 1970’s. Keep the production car like the concept this time. Maybe I can turn my wife on to one too? Mopar all the way Milton Reeve
Competitor’s retro “pony car” sales:
2005 - 160,695
2006 - 166,530
2007 - ?
10 trim levels (5 of each in coupe and ragtop). Limited edition model - 5,000 / year (again, in coupe and ragtop).
Haven’t seen the “other” competitor’s numbers - they aren’t being built YET.
If this segment of the market is split into 3 equal parts, that’s over 55,000 cars per manufacturer per year.
Now here’s the thing….the new Challenger is a better looking retro muscle car with a comparable heritage, BUT has a HEMI (the MOST recognizable and renouned engine in history) under the hood.
Chrysler could take a BIG step forward toward being the #1 US automaker (instead of #3) by making enough Challengers in various trim levels to satisfy AT LEAST a third of the market segment that “the competitor” has had an exclusive share of for many years.
You folks now have the new Challenger - something that the buyers WANT. Make enough of them, offer enough trim levels to satisfy everyone’s needs, and offer them at a price that’s competitive and like their “pony car”, they’ll be left in the dust - on the track and the bottom line.
Remember: 392 cu in + 6-speed posi in the Super Stock = instant Camaro & GT500 killer. Keep the MSRP under $42,000.00 and I’ll take two! Thank you!
:O)
I work at a dodge dealer… I know for a fact how important power is to the customer. alot of people are let down by the Charger design but not by its power. It still sells very well. I only imagine a true throwback design with alot of power under the hood. I thought the pictures i’ve been seeing and showing off to customers where the real deal. I just hope there isnt a big change to the prototype i’ve got posted all over my little cubicle. I really want to get excited about this car when it pulls up on the trucks. I will definatly give you an inside opinion of the reaction from the customer to your design. Its not all about numbers all the time its about the people. And Im your ear to the streets… You will hear it from me. Dont turn this car into a car that blends in. People dont pay 30,000 dollars to blend in any more. They go buy Kia’s and Suzuki’s to do that. Im very excited. Keep the car aggressive in appearance. Keep the design true for all the Mopar fans who are very excited for the unvealing in Feb. Cant wait…
-Chuck
Woodstock’s point is right on. Ford has tapped into their ‘Stang heritage and Chevy into thier ‘69 Camaro’s. The Challenger is just a natural win here.
The Charger has the name, but no memories are jarred with it’s presence. I was flipping trough a mag a few months back, saw a pic of the Challenger and immediately knew what it was and I couldn’t get that damn smile off my face all day. I bought the mag just for the pic!
You seen to be doing it right, please don’t let us down. Like Woodstock said, “we’re not all dead yet!”
I will have one this time around, probably my last time around. The era of the “muscle car” was thought extinct in the mid 70’s and into the 80’s.
This new era we are set to enjoy may also be threatened by new regulations; going green, hy-breds, etc.
When you open the barn doors in February for our “first” peek at the production version, please no foresake us. Let the Challenger breathe and ignite the fires the concept car has sparked. You only have yourselves to blame if it fails. We’re ready to cruise and you better believe we’re damn ready to buy!
ok everybody makes a good point except im putting duel exhaust on it no matter what cause my ram with a hemi screams like a freight train 4inch flowmasters ha ha so i don’t know about that guy but anyway CONVERTIBLE!!! CONVERTIBLE!!! CONVERTIBLE!!! CONVERTIBLE!!! COVVERTIBLE!!! CONVERTIBLE!!! PEACE.
please just let us know when we can get one or two !!!! and also the colors please the colors !!!! i already own a 06 charger , a o5 magnum , a 07 nitro & an 06 srt 10 ram truck so you know i can’t wait for the retro challenger ( orange w/black stripes or black w/silver stripes ) way to go guys you sure hit a homerun with this one !!! GO DODGE !!
Great post Woodstock I couldn’t have said it any better.
Yes, lose the Rams head, the L, and all of the fancy dodads. Add the black hockey sticks, numbers on rear quarters. In the back, put the keylock over on the right side for the trunk.
Sorry to hear about your Dad, Mark he probably would have loved this car.
In the picture that’s a Charger on the left and Challenger on the right behind the guy. If that’s a Challenger on the left it looks too much like a Charger.
Hi Iam 22 college grad and I Love this car. The cool classic muscle car look from before my time with some hints of modern style, it just drives people to it flys on….. food. I own a 01 dakota Quad, I love my truck and now hope to add the challenger in my garage.
I like the cross grill on the prototype it says DODGE from a mile away, and Plz put the GPS,Bluetooth, and all the modern toys as an option, this is 2007 not 1970. It should not be a clone of an classic with a face lift, it should be an interpretation of the classic in a modern age.
I don’t understand why the folks at Chrysler are surprised at the response to the Dodge Challenger. Some fans are rabid and desperate. The market for a car with real Mopar heritage has been ignored for 34 years. It took the retro Mustang to realize it. Or maybe it was the million dollar Hemi Cudas at auction. Chrysler has a real heritage with loyal fans. But the company chose a different direction of trucks, mini-vans, SUVs and crossovers. The problem with the Dodge Charger and Pontiac GTO is that there is no tie to the history, just name only. You can’t re-capture past customers with only a name, just a few new customers. The new Challenger is a real Challenger.
There are plenty of guys that had a Roadrunner, or GTX, or Sport Fury, or Dart GTS, or Cuda, Coronet, … or CHALLENGER back in the good ole days. They have been waiting for Chrysler to make something for them. We’re not all dead yet, and we don’t all drive trucks and minivans. Nowdays, an Old Skool Mopar guy would walk onto a dealer and turn up his nose at everything on the lot. Nothing for me here. We only watch the Fast and Furious to see the Mopars. I go to cruise nights to see the Mopars. Hasn’t Chrysler seen people plow thousands of dollars into the restoration of a rustbucket Dodge or Plymouth. That is where the loyalty has been displayed. It would seem that the marketing department would notice this, and make it easy; instead of restoring that old rustbucket, just go down to the Dodge dealer and order a new one. Well finally next year, I can.
But heritage doesn’t have to be completely retro. Retro is a great start. But the new challenge is to move the excitement of retro forward to meet the new designs that create excitement. Remember us old Mopar guys, and give us old horsepower junkies something to get out of our BMWs and Porsches. The hemi is great, but give us a sweet coupe to put it in, not just trucks, sedans, and wagons.
I will support Chrysler’s decision to build the Challenger by voting with my dollars. With the Challenger, I can finally become a Chrysler customer again.
Trust me when I say, Dodge has plans to offer some of its cool ’70’s muscle car colors and more!
Stay tuned…
This is the best “retro” muscle car yet. Keep it simple, fast and loud. No RAM’s head, just Dodge. PLEASE don’t screw this up! Make mine Screem’n yellow, white interior with a hemi and pistol grip to go.
No fries…
When and where can we prepay? Plumb crazy purple? Excellent modern take on a classic! Make sure there is plenty of Mopar muscle under the hood!
Please offer a Metallic Black with White Hard Top and White Leather Interior!!!!! Bluetooth and an inverter would be a plus.
Michael and Alan,
This is the most excited I have ever been about a vehicle that is still in the pre-production stage. Thank you for turning fantasy into reality for so many hard core muclecar fans.
As I drive off into mid-life, at least I can do it looking cool! Bravo!
Guys,
It’s simple…You don’t need to remember all the do’s and dont’s to building the new Challenger…simply do as much with the new one to align with the characteristics on all aestetic and performance levels of the original…The bottom line in all these comments is….we want a modern version of the original….Define “modern version” can be done in many ways..just keep the philosophy of the original alive and intact and it’ll blow away your sales…Now sales…we all know that Chrysler Corp. is interested in the bottom line…fine, they’re in business to make bucks and we’re more than happy to give bucks to them. Just build it with the true muscle car flavor…no dvd gadgets…stuff like that…stick to many color options and a high production number…tell the dealers not to rape us on pricing…offer a few transmissions, offer options alone and in packages, stick to “Dodge” vs “Ram”..don’t use “repeat” designs like Chrysler does with some vehicles…I mean, it seems like everything has a “Crossfire” front end anymore…stick to basics…Listen to me…after all that advice, I tell you all the do’s and dont’s anyway…
Mike
What’s the latest news on the Challenger?
I’am as big a Challenger guy as they come had to buy my first in the 80s when I got my license most were rough to say the least but still very cool and ya the girls liked them as well, still have the same girl and she still likes the Challengers for the same reasons this time around but it won’t be the same with out the cool colors big engines and yes no ram on the hood just DODGE oh and the grill lets just say retro old school Thanks Dodge Now at 41 I get my chance to buy a new Challenger like my Dad did in 1970 just wish he was around to get caught up in all the hipe.
I’m in agreement with everything mentioned above. They are all very good, and important thoughts!
I’d add this one: A “sure-grip” option!
Be proud
D O D G E
not a ram’s head, please
and hurry up
One additional thing that has not been mention before.. How about getting rid of the references to Liter (i.e. 5.7L, 6.1L) and going back to cubic inches. I would love to see my Challenger stamped with factory badging that says “426 Hemi” or “392 Hemi” (hell while I’m thinking about it a “500 Hemi” would also be nice).. GO BACK to the Cubic Inch measurement and give us the option to badge it on the car.
If you aree reading this PLEASE remove the Ram head from the nose or at least make “DODGE” optional. That Ram is purely a truck thing!!
Thx
Great, thanks for the info!
Please let us know as much as possible after Thanksgiving including some pictures of the actual production car.
I agree that the ram should be left off the car. The grill should not look like a truck. The concept car grill was just about perfect.
Please make it loud so we dont have to buy aftermarket exhaust as soon as we get it home. Need to hear that Hemi.
So hmmm….. have you guys got that covertible figured out yet? Am I the only one that wants one? Seriously.
It’s great to know that Micheal and Alan are checking out our input. Great job on the car guys - we love it! I would also like to see the Ram head removed and replaced with D O D G E. I have a 2005 Dodge Ram and the emblem looks greate on the trucks, but not the retro-styled challenger. I like the redesigned tailights and open grill on the production model, but I am still disappointed in the b-pillar. Keep the info coming - Thanksgiving is still several weeks away!
Oh, and BTW, I agree with Yankee on the production numbers issue.If Dodge has spent the time, money and effort to create such an incredible looking and performing car, you HAVE to make it available to the masses. Don’t restrict the numbers and stunt potential sales - make enough available for everyone that wants one in a trim level they want and can afford.
And yes, more than just the current SRT colors would be MUCH appreciated!
Let’s hope Dodge will make this entire package retro. Used to be you could order items individually, not in “(in)convenience groups” where you get a lot of add-ons you don’t want - to get the ONE you do - only because it’s “only available in xxxx package”.
Used to be able to order specific gears, appearance items, glove compartment light, engine compartment light (cigarette lighters and ashtrays were standard items), you get the idea.
Now, when you get an SRT8 “anything”, the dealer usually has it loaded with options (because they come in “groups”) which add cost and weight to a car some of us would rather have a bit more “stripped down”.
Build mine with a pistol-grip shifter hooked to the Tremec 6 speed, biggest motor I can get (the 6.4 WOULD be nice! - If I have to pay a “gas guzzler tax”, may as well make it worth it!), functional hood intake flaps, a killer sound system, power door locks, power/heated seats, power windows, power/adjustable pedals (my wife would like to reach the pedals when she drives it), fog lights, Magnaflow exhaust system (from manifold to chrome exhaust tips), a chin and rear wing spoiler - and no other “convenience group” items. Okay - if you come up with one like the original, add a locking chrome gas-cap on it too.
I have no need for “hands-free” ANYTHING in a musclecar! My hands will be on the wheel and my attention on the road.
I’m a man - I don’t NEED a GPS - I’d rather be lost (and act like I’m not).
I don’t have, need or want “blue-tooth” anything either. Teeth are supposed to be white (or CLOSE to white).
I don’t need a DVD system in the back - for what?, my jacket? Keep it.
And please….take the Ram’s head off of the hood and put D-O-D-G-E back on the nose where it belongs, along with “Challenger” in script letters on the rear quarter panels - like the original.
You guys are SO CLOSE to making this thing PERFECT…. I gotta go take some Prozac now and calm down.
We can appreciate you PR guys being busy PR-ing and such, but it sure would be nice to have you guys reply perhaps every other day instead of every other week.
As far as Micheal Castiglione and Alan Barrington being “surprised” at the attention the car has been getting… have these guys been living under a friggin ROCK for the last year? Of course the car has been getting attention, which is why us peons have been craving all the attention we can get about it.
You have an opportunity like you’ve never had before (and probably will never have again), reinventing a legend like the Challenger. You’re only going to have one shot to get this right. So, for the love of everything that’s holy, please…
- DON’T make this car available in only 3-4 colors like the rest of the SRT line (excluding the Viper). Give us something OTHER than the usual red, black and silver… k? This isn’t a hard request to fulfill.
- DON’T make this a “limited edition” car. I’m gonna give you guys a pass in 08, most of these cars are spoken for anyway, and for those few that aren’t, the dealers are going to have Fort Knox-style security around then and gouge the holy hell out of them - for those that absolutely HAVE to have a first-year 08 model, let the buyer beware, so to speak. But when the 09 model year rolls around… I’d like to see V6, 5.7 and 6.1 Hemis V8s available with either automatics or honest-to-god 6-speed manuals for all engines - plus the dealer gouging GONE.
- DO understand that we are going to absolutely love this car and WE, the customers, are going to be why this car is going to be the success it will undoubtedly be. Treat us right. Please. That’s all we can ask.
In reponse to the comments posted by “Dodge” below….”Pony Up” is a reference to the Pony wars between the Pony Cars (i.e. Challenger, Camaro & Mustang).
Is it going to have functional air scoops or a shaker hood. I had a ‘70 Cuda 383ci Plum Crazy color, black vinyl top.
Finally word on the specs and pricing release date. This will be a happy day for this old soldier.
Thx guys
Greg Anderson
US Army Retired
Who wrote the slogan “Challenger. Pony up . . . and get ready to roll”?
Pony Up? What an idiot. Do they think this is a Mustang?