BootCamp

I think the designers of the Challenger concept car did an outstanding job! It LOOKS like a 1970's Challenger - inside and out. They got the modern look without sacrificing the muscle car roots it originated from.

Judging from what I've read and heard (no, I don't know anyone of any importance in the auto industry or in Detroit), I'm guessing the Challenger will come with a 6.1L 6-speed manual with CatBack or FlowMaster exhaust in the top level trim model (maybe something named the "SuperBee" since the "Daytona" marque went on the Charger?). The R/T badge is prominantly displayed on the concept car which sports the 6.1L 6-speed manny tranny...but I don't think that means too much right now. While I personally think the "SRT" level has been beat to death with other models in the past, it wouldn't surprise me to see it on the Challenger. I hope they fabricate a low-profile spoiler for the top trim level, as well as a lower nose (one piece air dam) with integrated fog/driving lights.

I also agree that the 18" wheels that the Charger R/T wears will be plenty large to give good looks, good performance and proper wheel well clearance, with a possible option for 19's.

I think they'll keep the front end appearance pretty close to the concept car (with working hood flaps) since it's very similar to the original Challenger, and I HOPE they put more original styled taillamps on it instead of the 1986 Buick Somerset lightbar across the back (as they have on the concept car). The louvered tail lights from the old Challenger would be a nice touch!

I think DCX is targeting the Mustang/Camaro Baby-Boomer retro-segment of the market, and to do so effectively (and make it financially profitable), will have to offer a 6 cylinder in an "entry level model", as they do with the Charger and Magnum. With the substantial financial investment of bringing a new model through production, it makes good business sense to offer something for everyone, capture a bigger segment of the market, and regain a good part of the initial investment it took to get it into production while it's new and people are eager to get it. DCX knows the sales figures on the Mustang, and won't ignore how many of each trim level they've sold (the majority of which are 6 cylinder models).

I can't imagine much change for the interior. It's clean, simple, and all business. It should be easy to bring to production as it is. I think there may be some changes as to a brushed or machined aluminum dash plate, or the leather/cloth trim for each trim level. But I think the styling will basically look the same as in the concept.

Judging by the options available on the Charger & Magnum, I expect MOST of the items touted on the concept car (i.e. telemmetry) will be on the production models with availability varying by trim levels.

What I think will be MOST interesting is to see what colors they make it in, and what graphics come on the different trim levels. I can't guess which direction they'll go with that. It should be interesting, for sure!

The views and opinions expressed herein are soley those of the uneducated and uninformed author (whose rantings and ravings have been compared to those of people who are not entirely responsible for their own behavior or actions) and in no way reflect or represent those of anyone else.
Bear in mind that opinions are like backsides.....everyone has one and they ALL stink. :O)