2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 pricing announced

Monday, December 3, Mopar enthusiasts can place their order for a 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, with pricing to start at $37,995, including destination. The limited-edition SRT8 models will be available in black, Hemi orange, and silver, each with dual hood stripes. This model will carry a $2,100 gas-guzzler tax, bringing the true price to $40,095. (The Challenger concept vehicle shown.)

The next muscle car era begins in spring 2008, when the first Challenger SRT8s reach dealerships. The current-generation Ford Mustang has benefited from being without its traditional marketplace, and drag strip, rivals since the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird were retired after the 2002 model year. However, with clear visual links to their potent progenitors, the Dodge and Ford coupes will face the reborn Camaro about a year later.

Official Challenger SRT8 specs and other model line details are a closely guarded secret until the Chicago Auto Show in February, though Dodge has released a peek at the production grille, shown here. We do know that the SRT8 will feature a 6.1-liter V8 engine; that powertrain produces 425-horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque in the comparably priced Dodge Charger SRT8 sedan. It is expected that the high-performance Challenger SRT8 will be joined by V6 and less-powerful V8 models, bringing it in line with the Mustang. Currently, the Charger offers a 250-hp, 3.5L V6 and 335-hp, 5.7-liter V8.

The countdown is on...

—Jeff Bartlett