If you're looking for pure performance, power, and speed, the 2021 Dodge Challenger is your ideal car.
First introduced in 1970 and revived in 2008, the Challenger is a classic piece of American engineering. Dodge delivers speed, power, and control in an aggressive, wide-bodied frame that has become a modern icon of car design.
But what differentiates the 2021 Dodge Challenger from its competition? Read on to discover the specs and features of the 2021 Challenger, and to find out what makes it the fastest muscle car in production.
New for 2021
The 2021 Challenger adds minor updates to the 2020 version, such as a new memory feature on the steering column, seat, and side mirrors. It also adds a new set of 20-inch wheels on the all-wheel-drive GT model.
2020 models added new paint options and wheel designs. It also introduced a special 50th-anniversary edition with custom badges and a new interior.
Pure Performance: Under the Hood of the 2021 Dodge Challenger
The Challenger has options galore for engines, from a base V-6 to the most powerful muscle car engine on the market.
The base V-6 has 305 horsepower, but most drivers will likely want to upgrade to one of the Hemi V-8 engines. Buyers can opt for a 5.7 liter 375-HP model or a maximally powerful 6.4 liter V-8 with 475 horsepower and 475 lb-feet of torque.
Both automatic and manual transmission options are available, as well as all-wheel-drive. The Challenger is the only vehicle with all-wheel-drive in its category.
Because it is a muscle car with a powerful engine, you might expect low fuel efficiency from the 2021 Challenger. However, it is surprisingly economic for its class, reaching around 26 miles per gallon on the highway.
This is due to a proprietary Dodge system that automatically deactivates some of the cylinders at steady speeds, increasing efficiency. City driving will earn around 15-17 miles per gallon depending on the model.
In an essentially separate category from the base Challenger models is the Challenger SRT Hellcat. Designed especially with drag racing and acceleration in mind, the SRT Hellcat has a staggering 806 horsepower and lunges to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds.
Built for the Track
Higher-end models such as the SRT Hellcat and SRT Super stock include features designed specifically for racing and stunt driving. You can shift from track mode to sport mode, to normal auto mode. You can also customize the transmission, traction, and steering to fit your preferences.
The 1320 model even has a special "drag mode" designed for maximum acceleration over a straight track. The driver can hold the car at the maximum RPM automatically before releasing the brake. This not only leads to blindingly fast acceleration but also produces a crowd-pleasing burnout effect.
Interior and Storage
The Challenger has a simple, no-nonsense interior inspired by its early models. However, the interior is surprisingly roomy compared to others in its class. The front seats are broad and comfortable and the back seats can easily fit two adults.
Buyers can choose from several colors of the interior on every trim. The specially-designed sport seats come in black leather, black cloth, caramel, or ruby red. The performance seats offer even more ways to mix and match patterns and colors.
The Challenger is also the only car in its class to offer five seats instead of four. However, fitting an extra person may be a tight squeeze.
The back seats can also be folded down for additional storage. The Challenger's wide body allows it to store seven more cubic feet than the rival Camaro. That is the equivalent of two full bags of luggage.
Infotainment
All Challengers come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They also come with Dodge's UConnect feature, which allows drivers to lock, unlock, and even start the car from an app on their phones.
An optional sound system upgrade offers a 900-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio setup
The Challenger also features Performance Pages, information screens that show your car's critical systems at the touch of a button.
Use the timers to measure how quickly you can accelerate, or see your total engine power and torque. You can even see the total amount of G-force you experience when accelerating.
Performance Pages are great for any serious driving hobbyist. They tell you exactly how much power, speed, and handling you control at the wheel of the Challenger.
Safety Features
The Challenger blends the specs of a high-speed performance vehicle with many safety features to keep you on the road.
A rear backup camera, blind spot monitoring for changing lanes, and adaptive cruise control are all available. Also available is a forward-collision warning system that automatically applies the brakes to avoid rear-ending or head-on collisions.
The Challenger also has automatic high-beam headlights, which switch to low-beam headlights upon detecting an oncoming car. Standard rain brake support helps to remove water from brake pads, ensuring control even in wet conditions.
For maximum driver protection, electronic stability control and traction control systems are available. These help you steer and maintain traction even at high speeds, such as on a test track.
Where to Buy the 2021 Dodge Challenger
If you're looking to get into a muscle car with pure performance and power, test drive the 2021 Challenger today.
McKinney Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep is located in Easley, South Carolina, and supports the surrounding area. We carry a variety of new and used vehicles and also support parts and services for Dodge vehicles.
We are open every day of the week except Sunday. Contact us today to schedule a test drive and get behind the wheel of the 2021 Challenger.