Dodge is an automaker that has a pretty illustrious history. One of its most iconic rides is the Dodge Challenger. The Dodge Challenger has been on the market since 1970, and the automaker has announced an impressive lineup of seven special edition Challengers to symbolize the end of the car as we know it. The seven cars are known as the Last Call models.
The first of the seven special Dodge Challengers, known as the Shakedown, is making significant waves ahead of its spring 2023 release. Long-time Dodge fans will be happy to see that it, along with the six models to come, are inspired by the Dodge Challenger Shakedown first shown at SEMA in 2016. The car retains the luxurious red and black exterior and interior shown on the 2016 concept. These were considered aesthetic highlights of the vehicle.
The Dodge Challenger is still one of the most popular vehicles of its class. It has evolved a great deal throughout its time on the market, which means adding these seven special edition models is fitting. People anticipating buying one of these rides should know that production will be limited to 1,000 units and that the automaker will announce the other six cars up until September 21st.
Here’s what we know about the 2023 special edition Dodge Challenger Shakedown.
Dodge Challenger Shakedown Engine And Performance
The Dodge Challenger Shakedown is based on the Challenger R/T Scatpack. Due to this, the car has a 6.4-liter Hemi under its hood, along with a Mopar Shaker Intake. Although neither Dodge nor Stellantis has confirmed the performance specs, we expect it to resemble the car it’s based upon. This would mean that the 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown would have a maximum output of 485 horsepower and a torque of 475 lb-ft. This will be a rear-wheel drive vehicle and will likely come with a 6-speed transmission. For the non-stick drivers, the Challenger Scatpack offers an automatic option, which means it’s a generally safe bet that this new special edition model will.
Given the recent history of the Dodge Challenger and its hefty performance-based engine, we know this Shakedown will be quick. We expect the 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in as little as 4.2 seconds. Of course, Dodge could find ways to make this special edition Challenger faster, but that’s unlikely given that the significant changes for this car are aesthetic. The 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown will be an enjoyable car to drive, and it’s the perfect way to usher the end of Dodge’s V8 Challengers.
Dodge Challenger Design And Interior
One thing that makes the Dodge Challenger's later models stand out is its striking appearance. It has retained its sporty nature inside and out. According to Stellantis, the car will feature quite a few unique features. For one, it will feature the Mopar Air Grabbing Hood, complete with stripes. The exterior of the 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown will also sport “392” graphics in red lettering. To top off the exterior, it will come with a special black grille badge.
As for the interior, the automaker states that the car will be loaded with technology from various package upgrades for the Challenger. These interior features will come from The Plus Group, the Technology Group, and the Dynamics Package. In addition, the car will come with a “shakedown” instrument cluster and premium black Nappa/Alcantara seats complete with red stitching. Red stitching can be found throughout the vehicle, and the seatbelts are what the automaker calls Demonic Red.
The 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown Is Being Highly Anticipated
Though only recently announced, Dodge fans are looking forward to the first model of the Dodge Challenger Shakedown. Not only because it promises to be an excellent car but also because it perfectly pays tribute to the overall history of the Challenger. It’s built to perform, looks fantastic inside and out, and the 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown is a perfect reminder of why the car has been on the market for as long as it has.
Dodge isn’t always seen as the best automaker on the market. However, vehicles like the Challenger and the Charger are significant reasons for the company still having success after all these years. The Challenger has evolved dramatically since its inception, and it’s difficult to see the end of the car as we know it. However, it’s going out with a bang due to these seven Last Call models. If this car is any indication of the awesomeness that’s in store, Dodge deserves the utmost respect for how the team was able to tribute this iconic car that has defined generations of auto history. The 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown won’t be easy to find due to its limited production numbers, but it will be a great option for anyone who wants a collector's item.