Dodge Challenger 2010

2010 Dodge Challenger : Back to the Future!
Blogs, car sites, and auto shows have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where one might think that the car is almost ready to get out of a DCX assembly line. To say that the prototype is well received is an understatement - quite frankly if the Challenger was offered for sale today the waiting list is long months. Such is the demand of a retro car that takes its style buttons from the '71 Challenger.

In its current version, the car will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. But the Challenger is more than three years to be built because it is likely to be released some time during the year 2009 as 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be difficult for many, but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will be definitely worth your time.

Some people are against the whole retro car revolution. Indicating that Detroit should return in time to come to make vehicles in question is testimony to the evils of the automobile each. Instead, I believe that many models currently listed under consideration or already in our streets is a clear testimony of Detroit finally listening to its customers: we want cars that are of unique style and we want them perform exactly the way you say they will perform. No fake hood scoops, no model name announced slap on a car that is nothing compared to the original. No, we do not want you to build the original model, we want to build the original model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and integrate modern technologies to improve the original design. That's all we ask.

So what can fans expect when they take possession of their Challenger? Well, as I said the car is still at the planning stage, but what I gleaned from the various sites have the following information:

NEWS Updated Platform - If you like the Mercedes based LX platform currently used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you well. DCX plans to change the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and Ly based Challenger will be one of the many cars built upon it. Some have suggested that Ly be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.

NEWS You said "HEMI? - Every Mopar product importance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is no exception. Expect a V6 series with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the car. Some have suggested that the SRT 425 HP 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.

NEWS Ragtop Regalia - Chrysler Sebring said that its offer will be convertible only, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a car hood on the market [other than the Viper, of course]. Despite this lack of information, looking for a Challenger convertible occur one or two years after the debut of the car. Heck, if DCX does not build, bodybuilders and Aftermarket will work for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these arrangements if DCX does not.

Yes, the Challenger will not be in the showrooms new car anytime soon. For those of us waiting with "baited breath" we must console ourselves with the many blogs, websites, car shows and hype around the car. Other than that, imagine your very new Challenger stopped at a traffic movement with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side ...