1 Bad Mirada

2008 Dodge Challenger is a Go
Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda says nearly 35 years later, Dodge Challenger will return as the ultimate modern American muscle coupe as a 2008 model -- July 1, 2006

Motor Trend

Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda today announced that Dodge Challenger will return to production after a nearly 35-year hiatus. The unprecedented public response to Challenger concept leads to "green light" decision to build the all-new Dodge Challenger to debut in calendar-year 2008.


The announcement was made shortly before the Pepsi 400 NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. Driving out with the Dodge Challenger was Chrysler Group Chief Operating Officer Eric Ridenour.


"We haven't seen this kind of spontaneous, passionate response to a car since we unveiled the Dodge Viper concept in 1989," said LaSorda. "But it's easy to see what people like about the Dodge Challenger. It's bold, powerful and capable. It's a modern take on one of the most iconic muscle cars, and sets a new standard for pure 'pony car' performance."


The 2008 Dodge Challenger will feature the long hood, short deck, wide stance and two-door coupe body style that distinguished the iconic Challengers of the 1970s.


Chrysler Group COO Eric Ridenour says concept-to-production success story highlights focus on speed-to-market. "We drew on the rich heritage of the Dodge Challenger, but with contemporary forms and technologies," said Ridenour. "It's not just a re-creation; it's a reinterpretation."