Overview
What's New for 2014:
- Available performance brakes and suspension
- Sinister Super Sport package
- Optional Nappa leather upholstery
- Standard launch control on SRT
- Several new exterior paint colors
Introduction
As a member of the modern-day muscle-car club, the retro-styled, 2-door, 5-passenger 2014 Dodge Challenger coupe rides on a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) chassis and draws power from a V-6 or one of two high-performance V-8 engines. Primary competitors include the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, though the Challenger may also be cross-shopped with the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and the Infiniti Q60, among others.
Models and Features
Dodge offers the 2014 Challenger in three primary trim levels--SXT, R/T, and SRT--with sub-trims of each. The base SXT is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, 6-speaker infotainment system, and a power driver's seat with 6-way adjustment. To this, the SXT Plus adds satellite radio service, fog lights and automatic headlights, 276-watt sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control of the infotainment system, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. Rounding out the SXT lineup is the SXT Rallye Redline, featuring a rear spoiler, 20-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters and a sport mode, and upgrades to the brakes and rear axle.
Moving to the 2014 Challenger R/T, the list of standard amenities differs with a unique dash applique, pistol-grip shifter and unique foot pedals (manual transmission only), limited-slip differential, and performance-tuned steering. The R/T Plus contributes heated mirrors, universal garage door opener, and a security system, while the R/T Classic offers special badging and stripes, HID headlights, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, and a lower axle ratio.
For buyers of the Challenger SRT, Dodge offers buyers a Core variant equipped with the push-button start system, 20-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power driver's seat, and high-performance Brembo brakes. That version is upstaged by the SRT Premium, host to automatic HID headlights, body stripes, leather upholstery, 6.4-inch touch-screen infotainment system with a 30 GB hard drive, heated steering wheel, upgraded heated front bucket seats with leather upholstery and red accents, and a driver-selectable multi-mode suspension setup. All SRTs are sold with enrollment in a one-day driving school designed to help new owners safely explore and enjoy the capabilities of their new car.
Options and Packages
Available upgrades for the 2014 Dodge Challenger are numerous, but some of the highlights include an R/T Blacktop package comprised of Gloss Black alloy wheels and exterior trim, performance-tuned chassis components, Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, and an electronic stability control system that can be fully deactivated for track use. The Challenger is also available with various audio systems with output as high as 900 watts, and Super Sport and Super Track packages that dial up performance.
Under the Hood
Positioned as the Challenger's entry-level engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 305 horsepower and 268 lb.-ft. of torque, all of which is directed to the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Next up is the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T's 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. When paired with the automatic transmission, this engine generates 372 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. However, unlike the V-6, this Hemi can instead be mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox, a combination that nets 375 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque.
Those are some impressive specs, but they don't match the output of the Challenger SRT's 6.4-liter V-8, dubbed the 392 Hemi. Thanks to the extra displacement, the SRT's engine delivers 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. Again, buyers have the choice of the 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2014 Dodge Challenger are:
- Challenger with 3.6-liter V-6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission: 18/27/21 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Challenger with 5.7-liter V-8 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission: 15/25/18 mpg
- Challenger with 5.7-liter V-8 engine and 6-speed manual transmission: 15/23/18 mpg
- Challenger with 6.4-liter V-8 engine and either transmission: 14/23/17 mpg
Safety and Ratings
In crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2014 Dodge Challenger received an overall rating of 5 (out of 5) stars. As this overview is written, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not rated the crashworthiness of the 2014 Dodge Challenger.
Standard safety features found on the 2014 Dodge Challenger include 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution, and 6 air bags.
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