First look: Dodge has a new Challenger

IT would be easy to describe the Dodge Challenger concept as a Dukes of Hazard-style two-door version of the same DaimlerChrsyler brand’s Charger sedan – but the Detroit show car is more than that.

Underpinned by the 300C and Charger sedans’ rear-drive LX platform, Challenger is a precursor to the next-generation of Dodge/Chrysler models expected to appear from late next year in the US, based on a new LY-codenamed platform.

Likely to eventually be available in the US alongside Chrysler’s Imperial sedan flagship and an all-new Chrysler 300C, plus a next-generation Dodge Charger, the Challenger coupe is Dodge’s answer to Ford’s Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette from GM, which may also put this year's born-again Camaro coupe concept into production.

Styled by Chrysler Group’s West Coast Pacifica Studio, Challenger features five-spoke chrome wheels – 20-inch items up front and 21-inch rears. Wheel tracks (1625mm front 1650mm rear) are wider than both 300C and Chrysler’s original 1970 Challenger.

If approved for production, Dodge’s new sports coupe could go on sale in the US as early as mid-2007, powered by a 6.1-litre V8 as the 2008 Challenger SRT-8, before becoming available with 5.7-litre HEMI V8 power.