Compared to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, the Dodge Challenger has some rather hard-to-ignore factors working against it. It’s both considerably older and quite a bit heavier than the two aforementioned nameplates slugging it out for No. 1 status; on the other hand, its overtly retro styling, colors and option packages appeal to those who love the 1970-’74 originals, and of course there’s the insane-in-the-membrane SRT Hellcat version that outguns any Blue Oval or Bowtie pony car past or present. Now the Challenger has yet another unique selling point to separate it from its crosstown rivals, and it comes in the form of all-wheel-drive.
Fitted exclusively to the new Challenger GT trim level (Base MSRP: $34,490.), the system is shared with the flashy coupe’s four-door LX platform-mates, the Charger and Chrysler 300. It has an active transfer case and a front axle decoupling feature which helps save fuel when the extra traction isn’t needed. Extra fuel saving comes by way of the 305 horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 8-speed automatic transmission (No V8s or manual transmission will be offered, unfortunately.), while extra touches like subdued “GT” badges on the front fenders, 19” Hyper Black alloy wheels wearing all-season tires, and Nappa leather upholstery over heated and ventilated front seats distinguish the first production four-hoof pony car from its less winter-friendly siblings. And with deliveries set to begin in the first quarter of next year, you might just be able to make use of the Challenger GT’s surefootedness before the spring thaw. Just try not to rub it in Camaro and Mustang drivers’ faces too much, okay?
Source: Dodge
I would still rather drive the Mustang and buy a beater for winter.