Dodge Expects V-6 to Power Almost Half of Challengers

Spurred by high gas prices, Dodge unexpectedly sped the introduction of a V-6 version of the 2009 Challenger, a model that could account for 40% or more of Challenger sales. The Challenger SE, powered by a 3.5-liter V-6, joined the much-anticipated 2009 Challenger R/T — which uses a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 — on stage at the New York auto show. Come fall 2008, those versions will join the current Challenger SRT8, which has a 6.1-liter version of the Hemi V-8 and is the sole trim level available as a 2008.

While Dodge expects the R/T trim level to be the volume seller, Bryan Zvibelman, Chrysler Group's manager of car, minivan and truck product communications, says the model's appeal is broad enough to attract buyers who are less interested in speed. "The look of the car is a big part of its appeal, and people will be happy to have that for just over $20,000," he said. That rough price refers to the base SE trim level; the SRT8 stickers for $37,320.

Zvibelman said he expects V-6 Challenger sales to follow the class, which is most directly illustrated by the Ford Mustang. The V-6-powered base Mustang historically has comprised 40% of sales, with the balance opting for the V-8-powered GT and other special editions based on it, such as the Mach 1 and Bullitt. Where the Mustang offers five-speed manual and automatic transmissions with both engine sizes, the Challenger SE will come only with a four-speed automatic.

Though it's one gear shy and weighs a few hundred pounds more, the Challenger SE is estimated to get 18/25 mpg city/highway, versus the base Mustang's 16/24 mpg. The manual Mustang V-6 is rated at 17/26 mpg.

More on the Dodge Challenger

Comments

[Amuro Ray]

Man, is Chrysler desparate? Although having a V6 engine sounds "better" in mileage, truth is, this V6 engine isn't really THAT fuel efficient vs the other V6s from other companies, let alone the fact that the V6 itself is not really that good in mileage. Moreover, in a down economy, what consumers need are gas-guzzling V6/V8, 2 door impractical sport cars....right! Sure you can sell this V6 ver @ ~ $20K, and have SOME people put their names on the dotted line, but once they call the insurance companies - many sales will be canceled (unless you are in 1 of those states that can drive a car off the parking lot without insurance).

Rather than spending investment on fuel efficient 4 cyl, economical & practical (yet not LOW quality) family vehicle(s), that's all Chrysler can come up with...

[Sal]

I find their V6 engine to be rather crude. Now if they were to drop a V6 similiar to Toyota or Acura into the Challenger then that would make things interesting.

Maybe if Dodge didn't screw me out of warranty work twelve years ago one of my last three cars would have been one of their's instead of two Toyota's and a Honda. I won't miss Chrysler for one second.

[Infosaur]

I'm VERY interested in the V-6. But I'm waiting for the 4.0L engine that's rumored to come out in 2010.

Supposedly it's from the next generation of Chrysler engines.

[L]

I can't buy a car like this in a V6. What's the point? You buy a Charger, Challenger, Mustang, Camaro to be bada$$ - you can't get that with a sissyfied V6! I cringe everytime I see one of these cars with the base engine; all show and no go! I will buy the new Camaro, but I'll wait for the SS version or whatever they decide to call it that will compete with the Mustang GT500. When I buy a muscle car, I want all the muscle. If I wanted a V6, I'd by an Accord.

[MikeyB]

V6 may be a downside to the car,though 0-60 in 4.9 isn't bad at all. And it is still a hot looking car. I unfortunately missed the show in NY this year, but these blog postings have really helped make up for what I missed. I found another site with video of some of the cars and some of the Execs talking about the cars. And I love the beer holder under the hood, that's classic. http://www.expotv.com/videos/expo/203/207/Auto-Show-2009-Dodge-Challenger/256156

[J]

Why do they even bother to make the "Challenger" then? Oh~ to challenge the mileage rules?

I like wat Amuro Ray said, spend more time on making practical, efficient, and RELIABLE 4 cyl powered cars, with reliable transmissions (im still hearing bad things about said engines and trans), they could turn themselves around. That Challenger is a really sharp car though, but I'd much rather get the new Camaro.