2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 official details

After months of leaked images and drip-fed teasers Chrysler has finally released full details for its all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 muscle car. The new model will be making its world debut this week at the Chicago Auto Show but it has actually been on sale since December of last year. The Challenger is the fourth vehicle to ride on Chrysler’s LX platform, succeeding the 300C, the Charger and the ill-fated Magnum, but unlike its siblings each SRT8 variant will come with a unique numbered dash plaque, carbon hood stripes, forged aluminum 20in alloys, and the SRT prepped 6.1L HEMI V8 engine complete with 425hp and 420lb-ft of torque.

Performance targets for the new Challenger SRT8 include a 0-60mph time in the low five-second range, 0-100-0mph in less than 17 seconds, a quarter mile time of less than 14 seconds, 60-0mph braking distance of approximately 110ft, and a skid pad performance of 0.88g. Transmission options include either a five-speed auto or six-speed manual, although the car will initially be available with the automatic only.

Though the 2008 Dodge is a pure-blooded muscle car it also comes packed with the latest in in-car technology. Some of the gadgets include GPS navigation, keyless start and entry, a MyGIG infotainment system and UConnect hands-free communication.

SRT8 models are limited to just three different colors, the familiar HEMI Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal, so picking a color won't be too hard when the first cars arrive in showrooms this spring. As earlier confirmed, the car will be manufactured at Chrysler's Brampton, Ontario, Canada assembly plant and will be priced from just $37,995.

Dodge will follow up the SRT8 with regular Challenger models, which will be available with both V6 and V8 powerplants, but no official details have been released yet. Base models are expected to get a 3.5L V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, while the mid-spec R/T will come with a 5.7L V8 engine.