With its prodigious engine options, driver-focused cockpit, and classic styling, the Dodge Challenger represents the last word in muscle car performance. But while its design and ethos stay true to its pony car heritage, the third-generation Challenger also delivers a great daily driving experience with comfortable accommodations, appealing amenities, and surprising practicality.
The 2023 model year represents the end of the road for the Challenger in its current form – and Lafayette-area enthusiasts from Abbeville to St Martinville can find it here at Musson Patout Automotive in New Iberia. In this blog, we'll take a look at some of the highlights, including what's new for the Challenger's final iteration.
2023 Dodge Challenger Performance
The Dodge Challenger offers an extensive powertrain roster, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 (SXT, GT) making 303 horsepower, 268 pound-feet of torque, turning the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. From there, the Challenger offers a range of V8 powerplants, gradually ascending in potency, including:
- R/T 5.7-liter V8: 372 horsepower/400 pound-feet of torque or 375 horsepower/410 pound-feet of torque with the optional six-speed manual.
- R/T Scat Pack 6.4-liter V8: 485 horsepower/475 pound-feet of torque, plus ) enhanced engine cooling, Line Lock/Launch Control, Brembo brakes, and performance suspension.
- SRT Hellcat 6.4-liter V8 supercharged for 717 horsepower/656 pound-feet of torque, plus competition-grade adaptive suspension, wider performance tires, and dual hood scoops.
- SRT Hellcat Redeye 6.4-liter V8 supercharged for 797 horsepower/707 pound-feet of torque, plus an SRT Power Chiller
- SRT Super Stock 6.4-liter V8 supercharged for 807 horsepower, plus widebody kit and Nitto street-legal drag tires.
2023 Dodge Challenger Last Call Special Editions
With the Challenger bidding farewell after the 2023 model year, Dodge is commemorating the muscle car icon with a few unique touches, including a new "345" fender badge on all R/T models, paying tribute to the legendary Hemi V8 powerplant under the hood. The 2023 Dodge Challenger will also be offered in four exclusive "Last Call" special editions, which we'll detail below.
- Shakedown: Limited to 1,000 units, the Dodge Challenger Shakedown builds on the R/T Scat Pack trim (including Widebody options) with a Shaker hood scoop, unique graphics and badging, red-painted Brembo brakes, and special leather/synthetic suede combination upholstery with red accent stitching.
- Swinger: Offered in a run of 1,000 units, the Swinger edition builds on the R/T Scat Pack Widebody with special green or white paint, gold wheels and exterior accents, and black-painted Brembo brakes. Inside, it features green contrast stitching and unique cabin details.
- Black Ghost: Limited to just 300 examples, this ominously named trim builds on the Hellcat Redeye Widebody (tuned for 807 horsepower) with black exterior paint, white fender strips, silver wheels, and a unique gator skin roof graphic. It also features exclusive interior styling and leather/sued combination upholstery.
- SRT Demon 170: Offered in a run of 3,300 units, the Demon 170 is designed to deliver the ultimate in factory-tuned drag racing performance. It features a modified supercharged V8 with 880 horsepower. Or you can use ethanol race gas to unlock an eye-watering 1,025 horsepower. Unique drag-focused attributes include staggered drag radials, a wider rear track width, and a TransBrake system. It's also available with options like a rear-seat delete, carbon-fiber wheels, and a parachute mounting system.
2023 Dodge Challenger Accommodations and Features
The Dodge Challenger's cabin includes modern design details, ample passenger space, and cozy, ergonomic seats. It's also more practical than you might expect, thanks to the 16.2 cubic-foot trunk and standard 60/40-split folding rear seats. Amenities include a standard power driver's seat and dual-zone automatic climate control, plus options like heated/ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and Alpine or Harman Kardon premium audio.
The 2023 Challenger includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration via a standard 7-inch touchscreen or an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen with SRT Performance Pages. Several advanced driver aids are available depending on the configuration, including:
- Blind-Spot and Rear Cross-Path Detection
- ParkSense® Rear Park-Assist System
- Forward Collision Warning
- Adaptive Speed Control
- Automatic high beams
Shop New Dodge Challenger Models near Abbeville and Broussard, LA
Get in touch with Musson Patout Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today for more information about the 2023 Dodge Challenger, including its configuration options, financing offers, and available ordering opportunities. Ready to try out the Challenger's accommodations, amenities, and performance for yourself? We welcome you to schedule a test drive or visit our Dodge dealership in New Iberia, LA, at your convenience. We'll be happy to show you around.