The Best Of Automotive: 2011 Dodge Challenger STR8

Sunday, July 31, 2011

2011 Dodge Challenger STR8

As usual, Chrysler's accessory design teams are hard at work crafting a number of vehicles for the 2010 Specialty Equipment Market Association show, but it appears the automaker has at least one production vehicle lined up for the event as well. Dodge announced today that the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition will make its first public appearance at the SEMA show in early November.
As previously reported, all 2011 Challenger SRT8 models receive a little more power. The 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 was bored out to 6.4-liters, and, according to Dodge brand CEO Ralph Gilles, tuned to deliver more low-end torque than peak horsepower. Dodge rates the new engine at 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. For those keeping score, that's roughly 45 horsepower and 50 pound-feet more than what the current 6.1-liter engine cranks out.
Other changes for 2011 SRT8 cars include revived damper valving, new suspension geometry, quicker steering ratios, and an SRT-tuned hydraulic steering pump, which reportedly delivers better feel and response when compared to the last design. Exterior revisions are limited largely to new door handles, a new front splitter design, and a conspicuous lack of the brand's former ram's head logo.
2011 Dodge Challenger Srt8 392 Inaugural Edition 2
To celebrate the new refinements, Dodge's crafted the 392 Inaugural Edition. Buyers will have their choice of two exterior paint schemes -- Deep Water Blue with white stripes, or Bright White with Viper Blue stripes -- capped off with unique 20-inch SRT wheels, quad exhaust tips, and unique 392 emblems. Inside, Inaugural cars receive unique white leather seat skins, complete with blue stitching and insert stripes, along with embroidered logos on the front headrests.
We've yet to see finalized pricing for the new Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition, but Dodge has capped production at 1492 cars. Expect Inaugural cars to command a slight price premium over standard Challenger SRT8 392 models once both arrive at dealers nationwide in the fourth quarter of 2010.