Well, to add fuel to the rumor fire, here's what Allpar has.

The 2008 Dodge Challenger cars (and the 2006 Challenger concept car)

The first Challengers will be SRT-8 models with automatic transmissions, with a HEMI® Orange exterior, hood stripes, and a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine. The first three will be auctioned off for charity.

The always-reliable oh20 reported that the Challenger would start production in March 2008 with the SRT8 and 6.1 liter engine (LC series). The 2009 Challenger, to be built starting in July 2008, will include a 3.5 liter SXT with the 3.5 liter engine and four-speed automatic, R/T with the second-generation 5.7 Hemi, and the SRT-8. The 2010, to start production in July 2009 - with convertibles starting in early 2009 - will be similar but with SXT and R/T convertibles, and a new 6.4 liter High Output SRT8 option. Finally, the 2011 Challenger will include the 4.0 liter Phoenix engine instead of the 3.5 liter.

Features and options on the 2008-09 Challengers should be similar to the 2008 Chargers, except for a functional hood scoop, keyless ignition starting in 2009, Boston Acoustics audio, and the six-speed manual TREMEC transmission.


The Hemi engine is set for an upgrade, which may be why the non-SRT Challenger will take some time to show up. By 2009, Chrysler will have variable cam timing set up for its Hemi engines, neatly leapfrogging most variable-valve timing systems. The multiple displacement system is expected to remain for most, if not all, 5.7 Hemis. A 6.4 liter version is still expected, with 450-500 hp, though whether this is earmarked for the Challenger or not is still in question.

The official introduction / unveiling is set for February 6, 2008, 11 am, CST. Actual production is reportedly set for April 21, 2008. Availability should be around May-June 2008. We will be in Chicago for the reveal.

The Dodge Challenger will be produced as a coupe, to arrive in dealerships in 2008 (as a 2008 model year car), and to be built on the same line as the 300, Charger, and Magnum. Chrysler assures us that the production car will be practically indistinguishable from the concept. We have been told to expect a price of about $31,000.

Source: http://www.allpar.com/cars/dodge/challenger.html