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- Highs Power galore, cool retro styling, loads of standard features.
- Lows Handling lags behind rivals, some low-grade interior trim, cost of replacing tires will add up.
- Verdict The Challenger SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat's ultra-powerful engines makes them formidable weapons in the pony-car wars.
Overview
Billowing burnouts and thunderous emanations are standard equipment on the Challenger SRT siblings. Dodge’s devilish duo are fitted with an adaptive suspension and substantial brakes; the SRT 392 packs a 485-hp Hemi V-8, and the Hellcat summons 707 horses from its evil-sounding supercharged V-8. Both retro-styled coupes route power to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. While the stripped-down 840-hp Challenger SRT Demon dominates the drag strip, the SRT twins terrorize weekly cruise nights with a comfortable ride and snazzy standard features.
What's New for 2017?
Every Challenger has an updated Uconnect infotainment system for 2017. The 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation—standard on SRT models—adds multitouch gestures. New exterior paint colors include Green Go, Yellow Jacket, Destroyer Grey, and Octane Red; White Knuckle and Contusion Blue are renamed carry-over colors. Both SRT cars add an illuminated steering-wheel logo. The Hellcat has new badging, and its standard 20-inch wheels are redesigned to save 16 pounds.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- SRT 392: $51,290
- SRT Hellcat: $65,290
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both SRT models carry powerful V-8 engines, but the mad scientists at Dodge’s SRT laboratory pulled out all the stops in creating the almighty 707-hp Hellcat engine. High horsepower ratings are supplemented by ample torque support. The 485-hp SRT 392 generates 475 lb-ft from its 6.4-liter V-8, while the Hellcat’s supercharged 6.2-liter produces 650. The standard six-speed manual transmission is plenty of fun, but the clutch pedal is stiff, and the throws are long. The eight-speed automatic can snap off lightning-fast shifts while still providing a pleasurable cruising experience. Both SRT models might lack an incredible track attack, but they’re ferociously quick. And although the Hellcat's handling feels sloppy in comparison with the racetrack-ready Camaro ZL1 and Shelby GT350, it still doesn’t drive like a boat. The Hellcat is capable enough on twisting two-lanes to give you a thrill, and it makes amazing speed between corners, so the powerful Brembo brakes will get a big workout.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The SRT twins have standard leather finery, unique badging and gauge colors, and heated and ventilated front seats. Despite their roomy cabins, the plastics look low-grade, and visibility to the rear is poor. The SRT 392 and Hellcat have lovely leather throughout, and opting for faux-suede inserts is free. The gauge cluster features a 7.0-inch display that’s shared among Fiat Chrysler products, but the SRT 392 has white-faced gauges and the Hellcat—fittingly—has red ones. The Challengers have broad front seats with decent lateral support that will fit all body sizes and are great for long road trips. The SRTs' considerable size allows for a big trunk that swallows more carry-ons than its rivals.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Both SRT models boast Uconnect infotainment that is simple to use and filled with features. These include navigation, a bumpin’ stereo, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard 8.4-inch touchscreen is usefully large and features icons that can be easily selected with a finger, and there are volume and tuning knobs for quick stereo adjustments. The standard Harman Kardon sound system pumps out 900 watts through 18 speakers. While the navigation responds quickly to inputs with a large onscreen keyboard, the map graphics look dated and cartoony.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Dodge Challenger SRT 392 / SRT Hellcat’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
