OurLifestyle
DODGE CHALLENGER
2 0 2 0 a head turner for any budget If you happen to do a quick online search of the word “widebody,” all sorts of varied aviation images instantly pop up. With that thought, Dodge has also adopted this same terminology with their five-passenger Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody acclaimed performance vehicle for 2020. It’s defined by Challenger’s overall side dimensions being expanded by some threeand-a-half inches wider at the flared fender openings. Adding to the coupe’s brawny appearance, the widebody design helps accommodate the car’s “steam roller” oversized wide 305/35ZR20 Pirelli racing tires mounted on robust 20-inch X 11-inch forged aluminum wheels. When comparing the all-inclusive WB version to the standard body Challenger, it’s fairly easy to pinpoint the differences. Its burly footprint stands out with its distinctive appearance and its muscular zooming presence. While test driving the 2020 model, it had amazing, head-turning curb appeal, with a modest hint of the initial design from the early 70s. When complete strangers take photos of this vehicle, it obviously translates to elevated styling and a remarkable achievement for Fiat/Chrysler’s Dodge Division. Naturally, Challenger is manufactured in a large array of trim levels, eye-candy lively colors, various exclusive exterior graphics, tire and wheel options plus engine and transmission combinations, in order to reach a vast array of buyers. My seat time with the R/T Scat Pack Widebody version had a sticker price of $56,450; but for that 14 | OUR TOWN | SEPTEMBER 2020
amount, you’re getting an awe-inspiring vehicle that’s quite suitable for driving the tots to get ice cream or take it out on the track if you have that temptation as well. I can’t help but reflect years ago when I was involved in dragstrip racing in which I overheard a newbie in the pit area ask a team owner “How much does it cost to build a race car?” The team owner responded by saying, “How fast do you want to go?” Honestly, this same logic tends to still carry forward! With Challenger, we’re starting with a base price of $28,095. From there, we begin checking the option boxes for fun extras and upgrades. The performance goodies include a 392 V-8 engine that’s rated at close to 500 assertive horsepower. This Hemi powerplant is linked with their highly-developed, eight-speed, computergoverned TorqueFlite automatic transmission. When you press the keyless ignition/ push starter button, the rumble of the exhaust note is quite telling! And in the tradition of racing, this car is set up on a rear-wheel-drive chassis, AWD is yet another option. Additionally included is their high-performance competition style/ customizable suspension as well as with an all-speed electronic traction control system, driver piloted electronic launch control, high-end Brembo track ready brakes and a unique front lower fascia. A large 8.4-inch center dash color display touch screen is included with voice command controls and Bluetooth connectivity as well as a tilt/telescope steering column, heated steering wheel and heated
front seats. The factory’s safety enhancements also proves to be a lengthy list that helps with piece of mind driving. When it comes to handling, the nicely-tuned Bilstein adaptive underside allows the Challenger WB to steer with precision and predictable certainty. With passing power being a hallmark, the factory specs reflect 0-60 MPH in just 4.5 seconds. EPA fuel consumption numbers show 15-MPG city and 24-MPG highway. Premium high octane fuel is recommended. Dodge is all about ordering the right Challenger, to match your customizing preference. The factory powertrain warranty is for five-years/60,000 miles, along with its bumper-to-bumper blanket coverage for three-years/36,000 miles. Challenger tends to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
