Dodge Challenger

Name: 2008 Dodge Challenger
Brand: Dodge

EPA MPG: NA

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

First Take

This retro-themed large coupe is based on the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger twins, and is styled much like the original Challenger. It will compete with the current Ford Mustang and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro, reviving the muscle-car era of the 1960s and '70s. Base models will come with a 3.5-liter V6, but the performance version will sport a 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The top-line SRT8 features a 6.1-liter V8 and is now on sale. A convertible version is not planned.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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2008 Sports cars & Convertibles Reliability

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Dodge Challenger

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Dodge vs. Other New Car Brands

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Owner Reports

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Driving Experience

Comfort

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Dodge vs. Other New Car Brands

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Dodge vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

2008 Sports cars 4/5-seat Ratings

2008 Dodge Challenger

$12,650

EPA MPG NA

Road test

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$5,100 - $6,200

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$ NA

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2008 Mercedes-Benz CL

$8,950 - $12,500

EPA MPG NA

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$5,025 - $10,700

EPA MPG NA

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EPA MPG 32 mpg

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EPA MPG 32 mpg

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$32,425 - $61,550

EPA MPG 21 mpg

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2008 Subaru Impreza WRX/STi

$ NA

EPA MPG 23 mpg

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$4,675 - $6,500

EPA MPG 23 mpg

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EPA MPG 24 mpg

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EPA MPG 20 mpg

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EPA MPG 22 mpg

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2008 Volvo C70

$4,850

EPA MPG 21 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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Features & Specs

coupe

2 front, 3 rear

Rear

3.5-liter V6 (250 hp)
5.7-liter V8 (370 hp)
6.1-liter V8 (425 hp)

5-speed automatic
4-speed automatic
6-speed manual

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

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Model History

2011-2023

2011 Redesign Year

The Challenger was updated for 2011 with suspension tweaks that bring more responsive handling with but a slight loss in ride quality. This makes the big muscle car feel more controlled and responsive, while retaining its easy-going cruiser personality. Ride and overall noise levels are civilized for this class and the Challenger retains its throaty exhaust note from its powerful 5.7-liter V8. However, at 19 mpg, fuel economy is nothing to brag about and outward visibility is limited. Updates in 2015 brought various cosmetic changes, performance-oriented features, and a choice of V6 and V8 engines spread over a bewildering eight different trim lines, culminating in the outrageous 707-hp "Hellcat" version. Our tested R/T model felt bulky in routine driving, but proved surprisingly capable despite its heft. It snarls and hangs on in corners like a Rottweiler with a rib eye. Braking was exceptional. New for 2017 was an all-wheel-drive GT version with a V6 engine. 2023 is the Challenger's final year.

2008-2010

2008 Redesign Year

This large retro-look coupe was reborn in 2008, derived from the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger siblings with styling inspired by the original 1960s muscle car. While superficially resembling its namesake, this is a larger and heavier car that comes up a bit short on sporty credentials. It's very quick in a straight line, but handling lacks agility -- though the car is quite comfortable on the highway. The brawny 375-hp V8 emits an invigorating growl, and a larger V8 and smaller V6 are also available. It's a fairly comfortable and effortless cruiser. Good controls, decent interior quality and the ability to seat five are pluses.