Market Snapshot

CHRYSLER CONFIRMS CHALLENGER SRT-8

According to Ward’s Auto, Chrysler Group has confirmed that it will build a high-performance version of the Dodge Challenger. It is expected to launch sometime after the 2009-model base car rolls out. The SRT-8 Challenger will be based on the next-generation LX platform, the LY.

Currently, the LX platform serves the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans and the Dodge Magnum. All of these are expected to migrate to the new LY platform. Despite the price of gasoline, Steve Landry, executive vice president of NAFTA sales, global marketing, service and parts for Chrysler, says the automaker is not concerned. “In recent research with SRT owners, the price of fuel does not come up on the radar as something that concerns them,” Landry says. 

SRT-8 products are equipped with a 6.1L, Hemi V8. The Dodge Avenger has been mentioned as a potential SRT candidate. According to Ward’s Auto, Chrysler’s future high-performance lineup will consist of SRT-8 versions of the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Viper and Dodge Caliber SRT-4.

Source: Mayne, Eric. (July 12, 2007). “Challenger SRT-8 Coming, Chrysler Confirms.” Ward’s Auto. Retrieved July 12, 2007 from www.wardsauto.com.