2009 Dodge Challenger Photos, engines & full specs

Dodge sold all the 6,400 units of the 2008 Challenger like hotcakes, and customers who craved one had to wait for the 2009 model year, which came with more engine options and was available at lower prices.

While the world financial crisis started to bite the automotive industry, those in the market for a spectacular-looking coupe had to reconsider their priorities. However, Dodge considered that and provided the 2009 Challenger with more engine options, including a V6. That version, even if it couldn’t keep up with its bigger and more potent brothers, was more affordable. At the same time, some mid-grades had V8s under their hoods, but not as powerful as the mighty 6.1-liter powerplant offered on the 2008 Challenger. A few grades allowed customers to get their hands on one of the most representative retro-styled muscle cars on the market, with or without a V8 under their hoods. In addition, those who wanted a punchy engine to match the vehicle’s look could get one with over 400 ponies to smoke their tires.

With a front fascia that resembled its original 1970 predecessor, the 2009 Dodge Challenger was sure to conquer enthusiasts’ hearts and pockets. Its quad-headlamp design with recessed grille and the available SRT chromed badge (for specific versions) was unique. In addition, the hood featured a pair of vents that flanked the raised center-mounted power dome. The lower bumper could be fitted with a lower chin spoiler and a pair of round fog lamps.

Dodge’s design team took its inspiration from the 1970 model when it penned the Challenger. As a result, the big coupe looked like a pony car made for the twenty-first century but with some traditional cues. For instance, the long hood, low-slung greenhouse, and step-up rear fenders were classic lines for such a vehicle. Furthermore, Dodge installed an exposed gas-filler cap on the left quarter panel. The flush door handles and body-colored mirror caps added flavor to the revived Challenger. At the back, the full-width taillights sported the carmaker’s name in the middle, while an available retro-styled spoiler adorned the trunk’s lid.

Inside, all versions featured an instrument panel with four individual clusters for the speedometer and tachometer in the middle, flanked by the fuel level and the temperature gauges. The center stack housed the infotainment unit and the HVAC controls. At the same time, Dodge installed the gear stick or the gear selector (depending on the options) on the center console between the front occupants. In the back, the bench seat could accommodate three people on short jaunts, albeit it was profiled for two. Legroom and headroom were not impressive but adequate for adults.

The 2009 Challenger shared its platform with the 2006 Dodge Charger. It featured unequal-length arms for the front independent suspension and a five-link system for the rear axle. Thanks to this setup, the revived pony car was way more comfortable than its illustrious ancestor. A 3.6-liter V6 opened the list for the 2009 Challenger, while at the other end of the scale was a 6.4-liter Hemi engine. There were two transmission options: a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic with manual override.