'11 Challenger SRT8 to Get 480HP, 8-Speed Auto

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We as Mopar enthusiasts, hate to see all the love being dolled out on Mustang's latest 5.0 and the couldn't-come-soon-enough supercharged 520hp Z/28. The Challenger made a splash with retro-lovers when it first debuted, but waxed a little plain within two short years. Wanting to fix that, Dodge has decided to really kick it up a notch. Allpar.com is reporting that Chrysler’s 2011 Challenger is due for a freshening, according to a source familiar with the company plans. Pre-production 2011 Challengers may have been shown recently outside the company.


Photos: Chrysler LLC

Information provided suggests that the new Challenger's styling may receive a few minor tweaks, while the interior is likely to see a significant makeover. Higher quality materials, improved electronics and a name-brand GPS system are expected.

The big news, however, comes from the SRT group, who are planning to release a 6.4-liter HEMI configuration later in the 2011 model year. The current engine pumps out 425hp and 420 ft-lb of torque. These numbers are expected to jump to 480 or more horsepower, along with 460 ft-lb of grunt. The 6.4-liter HEMI has been expected for some time, including plans for cylinder deactivation to deliver more favorable mileage numbers than the current 6.1-liter sibling.



Continued use of the Mercedes 5-speed auto transmission is expected. This could be replaced in the near future when the joint ZF/Chrysler-developed 8-speed auto begins shipping. While other 2011 models in the Challenger line are likely to receive electric-assisted steering, the SRT8 is expected to retain the hydraulic approach.

The new model year will also see the brand separation previously announced, highlighting Dodge and removing the "Ram" touches from the car. The Ram brand is to be used exclusively with the company's trucks. Assorted other speculators have suggested that additional 2011 changes could include a passive entry system, roof-mounted fin antenna and a revised steering wheel.




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