The 2023 model year will mark the end of the line for the Dodge Challenger. Dodge is giving the muscle car a proper send-off with seven special editions and an easier way for shoppers to order a Challenger convertible via third-party company Drop Top Customs. Lastly, Dodge is also expanding its SRT Jailbreak models for 2023 to include the more affordable Hellcat models.
The exterior design of the 2023 Dodge Challenger will remain the same for the upcoming model year. While Dodge isn’t offering the Challenger as a convertible, it’s made it easier for consumers to purchase a soft-top model via a new partnership with Drop Top Customs. The Challenger will continue to have a retro design with round headlights, a grille that’s recessed in the front fascia, and massive air vents. The rear end of the Challenger features a similar recessed piece for the taillights, a blocky rear end, and massive exhaust outlets.
Dodge won’t be making any changes to the Challenger’s interior for the 2023 model year. The Challenger has an interior design that’s inspired by classic muscle cars. The car has a thick-rimmed steering wheel, a center console that’s angled toward the driver, large gauges, and a thick shift knob. Because of the Challenger’s large stature, the coupe offers a generous amount of space and has a spacious set of rear seats.
Tech features for the 2023 Challenger will remain the same as the ones found on the current model. A 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and six audio speakers are standard. Available features include an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, navigation, and satellite radio.
Under the hood, the 2023 Dodge Challenger will continue to be available with a wide range of engines. A 3.6-liter V6 engine is standard, while a 6.4-liter V8 engine and a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine are available. Power ranges from 372 horsepower up to 807 hp. The Challenger is available with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available.
The current Dodge Challenger is only available with a handful of safety features. A rearview camera is the only noteworthy standard safety feature. Available safety features include forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beam assist, and rear parking sensors. These features should continue to be available on the 2023 Challenger.
By now, every gearhead must have heard of the end of an incredible era. After an impressive run, Dodge has decided to retire their iconic duo - the Charger and Challenger. After 2023, the manufacturer will no longer produce Hemi V8 engined cars. The Hemi engine is popular with Dodge models, so there was some surprise when the automaker made this announcement. Both Chrysler and Dodge developed their Hemi V8 engines in the 1950s, and by the 1980s, most muscle car brands were using Hemi V8s. Throughout the years, Hemi engines have gained a solid place in American muscle car history.
Understandably, Dodge fans are distraught by the carmaker's decision. However, the tide is changing, and Dodge doesn't intend to be left behind. Most auto manufacturers are building electric cars, and Dodge will join in by 2024. Stellantis has already expressed its vision to have about 40% of its sales from EVs. To replace their Hemi-powered cars, Dodge will be introducing their 'eMuscle' car. Before Dodge discontinues the Charger and Challenger, it has one last lineup for enthusiasts. Here are ten things we know about the 2023 Dodge Charger and Challenger lineup.
10/10 The Last Call
Dodge
The Dodge Charger and Challenger are very iconic cars, so they won't be discontinued without a proper show. Dodge has planned an elaborate and dramatic exit dubbed the ''Last Call''. To mark the end of the Charger and Challenger, Dodge will release seven special edition models.
Dodge
These models will be the last Hemi-powered Charger and Challenger models from the company. After releasing the special edition models, Dodge will focus on adding electric cars to their lineup.
9/10 Special Edition Models
Dodge
According to Dodge's announcement, the car models will pay tribute to older Charger and Challenger models. We don't know the cars and their specifications as the automaker is keeping everything under wraps. Dodge will not be volunteering additional information on the vehicles till later on.
Dodge
The special edition models will have an aluminium "Last Call" plaque to distinguish them. Instead of releasing all the cars simultaneously, Dodge will introduce them one after the other at different dates. The exit plan is a bit dramatic, but it suits the Charger and Challenger.
8/10 Dodge Throwback Color Options
Dodge
After a rather long hiatus, the Dodge Charger and Challenger returned in 2005 and 2008, respectively. In the muscle cars' modern era, Dodge introduced some heritage colors. These colors have unique names like TorRed, Toxic Orange, Go ManGo, and Top Banana.
Dodge
When releasing a new model, Dodge usually adds some heritage colors to the available color options. In a press release, Dodge revealed the heritage colors available for the 2023 special edition models. The heritage colors are B5 Blue, Plum Crazy Purple, Sublime Green, and Destroyer Grey.
7/10 1,000 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown Units
Dodge
In August, Dodge unveiled the first of their seven special edition models, the 2023 Challenger Shakedown. The Challenger Shakedown is inspired by the 2016 Shakedown concept car. Dodge hasn't done anything with the concept since they presented it at the 2016 SEMA show.
Dodge
The manufacturer has revealed that they will build only 1,000 units of the 2023 Challenger Shakedown. Of the 1,000 cars, 500 units will be in Destroyer grey R/T scat pack. The remaining 500 Shakedowns will be pitch black R/T scat pack wide-bodies.
6/10 You Can't Order On Dodge's Website
Dodge
Unlike every other release from Dodge, the 2023 special edition models won't be available on the website. Dodge is doing everything differently this time around. The plan is to build and ship the cars to high-volume dealerships across the United States. By October, the American manufacturer will finish unveiling all six buzz models.
Dodge
Then, it will allocate units of the different models to dealers across the country. However, not every model and trim will be available in all the dealerships. To solve this, Dodge will give updates on the dealers that have access to particular models.
5/10 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Concept
Dodge
As Dodge announced that it had ended the Hemi-powered Charger and Challenger models, it also released an electric concept. In a way giving us a peek at the automaker's future. The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona SRT is an all-electric muscle car.
Dodge
Earlier, we had a go at what the car may look like, and our prediction came pretty close. The 2024 Charger Daytona looks modern while retaining the traditional silhouette. Also, the concept car has an all-wheel drive setup and brings back the Fratzog badge. It also has an aerodynamic design with cues from Dodge's past, and unlike most EVs, it has a 126 dB loud growl, unlike anything we've ever heard.
4/10 Dodge Challenger Convertible
Dodge
Dodge is making it super easy for enthusiasts to get convertible modifications for 2022 and 2023 Dodge Challenger models. According to the automaker, Drop Top Customs will handle the modifications, while costumers can place orders via participating dealerships in the US. Dealerships had begun to take convertible orders since August 16, and once the vehicle is complete, they can pick it up at the same dealership.
Dodge
Dodge first offered Challenger convertibles for the 1970 and 1971 model years as production vehicles, and for the 2023 model year, the convertible option will be available for the Dodge Challenger R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and all Challenger SRT models. The automaker stated that the convertible-top option will cost $25,999, while additional information, including warranty and ordering, can be gotten from Drop Top Customs.
3/10 When To Order
Dodge
If you want to get the 2023 Dodge special edition, you have to go through a dealership. Dodge will keep revealing the remaining buzz models till mid-September. Then, you can start calling your dealership to ask if the car is available for order. If you don't have a dealership, you should get in contact with one.
Dodge
You have to check regularly with the dealership to avoid missing out. Dodge doesn't update their main website early, so you can't rely on the website for news. However, you can check the Dodge garage website for updates.
2/10 Limited Numbers
Dodge
From the information available so far, the 2023 Dodge Charger and Challenger special edition will have limited numbers. Only the Challenger Shakedown has been unveiled, and Dodge will make 1,000 units. The carmaker divided the cars into two trim levels. Other models that will be revealed later might have even more limited numbers.
Dodge
If you want to get any of these special edition models, you'll have to make your order early. Being the last Hemi-powered Chargers and Challengers from Dodge, the special edition models are surely collectible materials in the future.
1/10 A Possible E85-Fueled Challenger
via Dodge
While Dodge's CEO— Tim Kuniskis, announced the end of Dodge Hemi-powered vehicles, he had seven prop cars with him. The cars represented the seven special edition models for the 2023 model year. One of those prop cars was covered and wouldn't be unveiled until November at the 2022 SEMA show.
via Dodge
According to insiders, the mystery vehicle might be powered by E85. There's also talk that the car has 909 horsepower. Using E85 or flex fuel is one way of getting high power and beating emission standards, so until we hear from Dodge, it's fingers crossed.