The Challenger's classic muscle car styling will draw you in, but its refined ride and handling and spacious interior make this big coupe appealing to drive. It takes many of the original's design cues. Of the modern-day muscle cars, the Challenger - especially in SRT8 form - holds closest to the original formula of blistering straight-line speed matched with hulking road presence. 

Powering the 2013 Dodge Challenger

The V-6 Challenger is available with an optional performance-tuned suspension. The standard 305-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine is smooth and refined, but it doesn't have a lot of grunt from a standing start. Driven aggressively, the SRT8 is a monster of a car with a knack for intimidation. The V-6 gets an EPA-estimated 18/27 mpg city/highway. Both the V-6 Challenger and the SRT8, with its Brembo-brand brakes, have some of the best brake-pedal feel around.

'13 Dodge Challenger Design

The Challenger's controls are easy to use and logically placed, and that wins it points with many drivers. The SRT8's front bucket seats are appropriately bolstered and wide. For a coupe, backseat comfort is pretty good for adult passengers. Standard safety features include required equipment like antilock brakes and an electronic stability system. Even though there's a modern car underneath the Challenger's throwback sheet metal, the design's close adherence to the past will be too much for some shoppers.

Conclusions

Try as you might, it's impossible to escape the considerable charm of this ultimate modern-day boulevard cruiser. The 2013 Dodge Challenger is a rolling homage to the original coupe.