Keeping up with the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, Dodge revealed a series of changes for its own muscle car, the Dodge Challenger at the New York International Auto Show. The 2015 model promises to have best-in-class horsepower and the segment’s first eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Challenger’s outside is clearly influenced by the 1971 original and the 2015 model still has clear nods to its ancestor. The Challenger now has a new split grille, a more pronounced (and functional) hood bulge, LED “halo” headlamps, and rear LED tail lamps.


Inside, the all-interior also nods back to 1971 with the high-sill center console design. The interior is available in 14 different combination including seats covered in Nappa leather or Alcantara. Retro aside, the 2015 Challenger features cutting-edge features such as a new 7-inch TFT “tic-toc-tach” gauge cluster, UConnect with 8.4-inch touch screen, and a rear parking camera.

To keep up in the horsepower race, the Challenger benefits from three improved engines. The 305 horsepower, 3.6-liter Pentastar V6; the 375 horsepower, 5.7-liter HEMI V8; and the new 485 horsepower, 6.4-liter HEMI V8. Surprisingly, the V8s are available with either a 6-speed manual or the 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic. The 8-speed automatic is controlled by a class-exclusive electric shifter. Other handling goodies include a new electric power steering system with adjustable steering modes, lighter axles, updated suspension, and available Brembo brakes.