Challenger 392 Hemi: SRT8 and Inaugural Edition

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was given a big boost in horsepower and torque with its new 392-cubic inch Hemi V8, packing 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque  90 lb.-ft. more torque at 2,900 rpm compared with the previous 6.1-liter V-8 engine. Chrysler claims 0-60 times in the high 4-second range and quarter mile times in the high 12s. 

The original 392 Hemi engine arrived in the 1957 model year, replacing the 354 Hemi in Chryslers and Imperials. It was quickly adopted by drag racers of all types, and was used in historical speed runs on land and water.

The Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 also brings world-class ride and handling with high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency. New, highly damped shocks have a firm ride that maintains the feel for everyday commuting, while recalibrated suspension geometry improves Challengers balance, corning ability and steering responsiveness. Quicker steering ratios and new negative camber settings all around dramatically improve Challengers appetite for cornering. The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also has been improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

The result: the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 is now more nimble and playfully "tossable" while still capable of an incredible .93g of lateral acceleration on the skid pad the most of any production Challenger.

Inside, a new three-spoke steering wheel has a carbon fiber-accented leather wrap and silver metallic painted spokes; a four gauge cluster has chromed accent rings and new, unique SRT graphics, with the performance-adapted EVIC featuring the usual radio and trip information along with 0-60 time, 60-0 braking time, G-force, eighth-mile, and quarter-mile times. Power lumbar front seats are standard; and now, rear seat access is eased by seatback tilt with memory and a more easily reached release handle. The front passenger seat has tilt and slide with memory.

Dodge Challenger 392 Inaugural Edition

To kick off 2011-model year production, Dodge will build 1,492 Inaugural Edition cars (392 to be sold in Canada), all with unique customizations of the Dodge Challenger SRT8.

Two colors and new full-body stripe combinations include Deep Water Blue with standard Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes. All Inaugural Edition models will ride on 20-inch SRT-exclusive wheels with a polished face and satin black painted pockets. Unique 392 HEMI badges flank both fenders touting the historically significant V-8 engine; it also comes with a 392 key fob. Mopar quad exhaust tips deliver the performance exhaust note while adding a serious muscle car styling cue.

A larger front splitter and integrated front fender spats give this Challenger SRT8 392 better overall high-speed aerodynamics and balance. A newly modified front fascia chin spoiler improves aerodynamics and is accent painted for a more aggressive look. The rear decklid spoiler also is completed in matching body color, and the Mopar logo is etched onto the rear quarter window. The race-inspired interior of the Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition features standard Smooth Pearl White leather-trimmed seats and dual blue stripes accented by unique blue stitching. Each of the front seats features an embroidered 392 just below the headrest. An exclusive, serialized Inaugural Edition 392 HEMI dash plaque, showing the sequential build number from 1 to 1,492, rounds out the exclusive interior content.

The special Challengers will be offered in two color packages: white with dual, full-length blue body stripes or blue with white stripes. Other exterior special features include: 392 HEMI fender badge, Mopar decal, body color accent grille, quad exhaust tips and forged SRT aluminum wheels with painted pockets.