Dodge has combined many of the retro looks of the Challenger, which first hit the streets as a 1970 model and was discontinued in 1984, in the all–new 2009 Challenger while paying attention to all the automotive amenities today’s buyers expect. (The Dodge Challenger SRT8, top–of–the–line and the most powerful Challenger, was brought back as a 2008 edition.) This year Challenger added the all-new base SE and R/T, our test-drive. Pushing off with more than 400 ft–lbs. of torque, this rear–wheel drive five–passenger coupe produced some unintentional wheel squeals, which helps make the 2009 muscle car reminiscent of its ancestry.

Our vehicle was equipped with a 5–speed automatic with a side–to–side manual shift option and boasted a 5.7–liter Hemi engine using a multi–displacement technology that reduces gasoline consumption at cruising speeds and improves fuel economy 20% without hurting performance. Sitting on 18–inch, five–spoke machined–aluminum wheels and using a multi–link front and rear independent suspensions, the Challenger handles surprising well for a two–ton car sitting 5.5 inches off the ground. And the brakes are capable of handling quick and precise stops from higher speeds.

The Challenger’s profile attracts older gawkers who remember the original cars and youngsters intrigued by its good looks. The long, raised hood has side scoops and chrome Hemi logo, a recessed chrome–rimmed honeycomb grille, a low–to–the–body rear spoiler, dual chrome–rimmed rectangular exhaust pipes and headlights reminiscent of the first Challengers. The fuel cap is chrome stamped with the word FUEL in the original font. Inside, the cockpit is comfortable with bolstered seats and power adjustments for the driver. Rear occupants will find the best–in–class head and legroom, although entry can be challenging (pun intended). Long coupe doors require extra breathing room in parking spaces. Neat design touches include a three-tray glove compartment, two-tray door map pockets, a sliding center console top above a deep compartment with coin chutes and extra storage spots front and rear of the gearshift. Spacious trunk space, with a lift over lip, is 16.2 cubic feet plus the rear seats are 60/40 split fold-down. Interior chrome is minimal, most around door handles, dials and gearshift. Climate and audio controls are easily reached. Dodge cites 25 safety and security features — standard and optional — for the Challenger. Options exist for audio access, remote start, keyless fob and navigation with voice recognition.

The Challenger uses the same platform as the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 sedan. All three are built in the same Brampton, Ontario, Canada plant.