Posted in car review

2015 Dodge Challenger – The refined muscle car

 Published Date: 03/29/2020


The Dodge Challenger was one of the more significant cars to come out of the 1960s and ’70s muscle car era. Four decades later and Dodge’s Challenger continues to offer its legendary rubber shredding performance. Featuring styling cues inspired by the original model and, for the most part, powerful engines driving the rear wheels, the Dodge Challenger is a true muscle car.

2015 Dodge Challenger range

But unlike its older sibling, the current Dodge Challenger comes adorned with modern-day refinement and safety features. Recently Dodge updated the Challenger to better challenge its more refined rivals. The result of Dodge’s hard work is visible with the launch of the 2015 Dodge Challenger. The 2015 Challenger is available in eight trim levels: SXT, SXT Plus, R/T, R/T Plus, R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker, 6.4-liter Scat Pack and 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker. 

Inspired by the 1971 Challenger
Design
Inspired by the iconic 1971 Challenger, the 2015 models take on a bold new appearance that draws on the 1971 model’s split-grille and split-tail lamp cues, updated to 2015 with four signature LED headlamp halo surrounds offset by piano black trim.

Updated headlamps

Single projector-beam headlamps at each front corner light the road ahead. Optional high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps are also available. In profile, the 2015 Dodge Challenger’s signature muscle car proportions and large rear-quarter panels stand out, while fender and belt lines tie together at the front and rear of the car to create a sleeker appearance.

New rear lights

A new split tail-lamp design continues the historic 1971 model’s inspiration. For a modern look, the Dodge brand’s signature LED treatment creates a single ribbon of light within each lamp. The redesigned rear provides the 2015 Dodge Challenger with a widened, more planted appearance, while fascia-mounted exhaust tips provide a high-performance finished look.

 

Classic profile remains untouched

Performance
Entry level 2015 Dodge Challenger models, the SXT and SXT plus, get a 3.6-litre V6 power unit. The power plant delivers 227 kW (305 hp) and 362 Nm of torque. The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 is with the 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T lineup.

The 3.6-litre V6

The engine delivers 279 kW (375 hp) and 541 Nm of torque. Add the Shaker package to the RT line up and the Dodge Challenger gets an engine mounted fully functional cold-air induction hood with up to 555 Nm of torque.

6.4-litre engine with the Shaker package

New to the 2015 Dodge Challenger range is the 6.4-litre V8 Scat Pack HEMI power train. This particular power unit has 361 kW (485 hp) and 643 Nm of torque. The 2015 Dodge Challenger 6.4-liter Scat Pack and 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker models deliver up to an estimated 84 KW (113 hp) and 88 Nm of torque more compared to the 5.7-liter V8 Challenger. All engines are paired with a six-speed manual or an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. 

 

The 6.4-litre 392 HEMI Scat Pack engine

Interior
To highlight the muscle car’s performance abilities, the 2015 Dodge Challenger is designed with a performance cockpit that embodies the trapezoidal themed exterior in an artistic and more organically styled way. Dodge Challenger’s all-new cleanly executed instrument panel features an aluminum-stamped outline.

Cockpit

A 7-inch TFT instrument cluster screen is visible behind the steering wheel. The fully customizable screen sits between the analog speedometer and tachometer. Additionally, the center console neatly houses the new standard 5-inch and an optional 8.4-inch touchscreens.

Shifter for the 8-speed automatic

A new trapezoidal shaped aluminum-stamped center console provides Dodge Challenger’s interior with a fresh, asymmetric look, while the leather-wrapped surface and French-seamed accent stitching exudes craftsmanship and style. 

 

Comfortable seats

With its unique elevated design, the new center console houses additional controls for the touchscreen above with ergonomically located buttons and knob controls for audio and climate functions.

Spacious boot

An all-new media hub with an SD card slot, USB outlet and auxiliary audio input is neatly housed inside the center console’s armrest. The new Dodge steering wheel features a sculpted rim so the driver’s hands have a sure grip, while available paddle shifters (fitted with the eight-speed automatic transmission) are located on the backs of the upper spokes.

Customizable 7-inch screen

To make long cruises more comfortable, the new 2015 Dodge Challenger features redesigned seats with improved cushioning and more comfortable contours.

 

Three versions to choose from

Verdict
The Dodge Challenger revives the spirit of its retro sibling through its design. The muscle car’s generous proportions and spilt folding rear seats offer great rear passenger comfort and storage space. The recent updates have not only made the 2015 Dodge Challenger more striking, but a better performer as well. Whether it has a V6 or V8 under the bonnet, the Dodge Challenger offers the best performance you expect from a true American muscle icon.