What is it?
2009 Dodge Challenger R/T

What's special about it?
It might be the lesser version of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 that we've already driven, but the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T is still a serious muscle coupe. After all, it has a Hemi V8, too. More important, you can match it to a manual transmission.

Upgraded for 2009, the R/T's 5.7-liter Hemi V8 now produces 375 horsepower and 404 pound-feet of torque when paired with the manual. Go with the five-speed automatic and the ratings drop to a mere 370 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque.

A higher compression ratio, variable valve timing and two spark plugs per cylinder help the revised Hemi generate the extra power, while continued use of Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System (MDS) contributes to a 5 percent increase in fuel economy.

A 5 percent increase not enough for you? Then consider the Challenger S/E. It uses a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Of course, it only comes with a four-speed automatic, so you stand a good chance of getting waxed by a Camry. Dodge hasn't offered up any performance figures for the SE, but it says the R/T will go from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T's optional manual transmission is a Tremec TR6060 six-speed. It's essentially the same gearbox used in the Viper, but the gear ratios have been changed to deliver better fuel mileage. It has triple-cone synchronizers for 1st and 2nd, double-cone synchronizers for 3rd through 6th, and a dual-disc clutch. It's also worth noting that the SRT8 model will have the same six-speed manual as an option for the 2009 model year.

All manual-equipped Challengers will also get a limited-slip differential and a special dual-exhaust system that Dodge says optimizes the trade-off between minimal backpressure and optimal sound reduction by replacing the standard muffler with twin bottle resonators.

There are no big changes for the suspension setup on the 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T. It has roughly the same fully independent, coil-spring rear setup as the SRT8, but all the settings have been softened a notch. Same goes for the brake system, as it uses twin-piston calipers in front and smaller rotors all the way around. All R/Ts will come standard with 18-inch wheels and 235/55R18 all-season tires. A set of 20-inch chrome wheels with 245/45R20 all-season tires will be optional.

On the inside, the Challenger R/T and SE models get smaller seat bolsters than the SRT8, along with standard cloth upholstery. Leather is on the options list along with keyless start, navigation, hands-free calling technology and even a dedicated iPod adapter.

What's Edmunds' take?
With this much horsepower and torque, the Challenger R/T should make quick work of a Mustang GT. We'll see what the Camaro shows up with next year.

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