It all started with the Dodge Challenger SRT8, a limited edition high-end muscle car simply intended to whet the appetites of most muscle car boomers. For 2009, Dodge introduces a full line of Challengers with a cool nod to nostalgia and the hotrod of today.

The 2009 Challenger comes in SE, R/T and SRT8 trim levels. The SE features a robust 250 hp 3.5-liter V6, while the R/T includes a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 capable of 370 hp through a five-speed automatic transmission and 375 hp through the Viper's six-speed manual. The top of the line SRT8 is powered by an incredible 6.1-liter HEMI V8 capable of 425 hp.

The two-door, rear-wheel drive Challenger successfully channels the original without falling into “replica” status. Like its forbearer, the new version is large - 10.1 inches longer than a Mustang, for example, partly the result of being built on the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger platform.

With every American muscle car, the heart of the matter lies beneath the hood. Challenger doesn’t disappoint, even with the base model. Challenger SE's 3.5-liter V6 achieves 250 hp and 250 lb/ft of torque through a four-speed automatic. The EPA rates the SE at an impressive 18/25 mpg. The beauty of the Charger SE is its overall design. You can have your Challenger in this V6 coupe and afford it, too, with an MSRP of $21,320.

The Challenger R/T at an MSRP of $29,995 gets you a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with Variable Cam Timing that boosts power. A five-speed automatic handles 370 hp and 398 lb/ft of torque, and an optional six-speed manual transmission takes on 375 hp and 404 lb/ft of torque. The six-speed stick uses a two-disk clutch system to ensure easier shifting and lower effort on the clutch. Dodge's advanced Multi-Displacement System automatically switches from eight cylinders to four at cruising speeds, boosting fuel efficiency to 23 mpg. The R/T is probably the most like the Challenger of old and does the zero-to-60 mph run in less than six seconds.

The SRT8 is the thoroughly modern Challenger with the most advanced go-fast technology the Chrysler tuner tear has to offer. A reinforced engine block encloses a forged steel crankshaft, high-strength piston rods, high-performance cam and special cylinder heads with variable intake and exhaust timing. All that churn requires an anti-foaming oil pan! Put it all together and you get zero-to-60 mph times under five seconds. The HEMI is rated at 13/19 mpg, as if SRT8 owners could care!  

The Charger is based on the Dodge Charger/Magnum platform, although the Challenger’s wheelbase is four inches shorter. For comparison, Mustang uses a solid axle, and Challenger rides on a five-link independent rear suspension. It’s a key difference since Challenger’s independent ride control all around soaks up bumps that rattle the bones of a solid axle setup. The R/T is performance-based, and features a six-speed manual, firmer suspension and more powerful brakes and tires. True believers will go with the six-speed manual available in the Track Pak. The Track Pak features a performance steering, a twin-disc clutch, Charger's renowned pistol-grip shifter, rear limited-slip, metal pedals and high-performance mufflers.

The Challenger SRT8 is a beast with a 180-mph speedometer and an “ungoverned” top speed in excess of 170 mph. Thanks to standard traction control, you’ll save money on tires, but you can turn it off and re-vulcanize the 20-inch tires in a choking screen of burnout smoke.

The SRT8 transmissions are solid shifters. The stick shift is slick and gets you different mufflers with a deeper tone. The automatic is no slouch with responsive shifts and a willingness to kick down and hold a gear. Steering is quick, and the Challenger’s brakes are responsive and impressive. Front air ducts direct airflow to the front brakes, which Dodge claims reduces temperatures by 15 percent during heavy braking. Overall, the Challenger handles far better than even nostalgia would suggest.  

With the exception of the SRT8, Challenger interiors have much in common with Dodge and Chrysler sedans. Materials, fit and finish are among the best Dodge has to offer. The front chairs are well-bolstered sport seats, and the backseat is comfortable for three. It’s a good ergonomic layout with everything in its expected place and intuitive in function. The backseats fold down, adding additional utility to a very useable 16.2 cubic feet of trunk space.

The SE trim includes standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, keyless entry, cloth seats, a folding rear bench seat, and a four-speaker CD/MP3 audio system. Available features include 18-inch aluminum wheels, power leather upholstry, a power moonroof, a navigation system, a boosted stereo and stability and traction control systems. The R/T trim features available 20-inch chrome-aluminum wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, functional hood intake scoops and stripes, leather upholstry and a navigation system, while the SRT8 adds special performance trim.

Baby boomers with muscle car dreams will find the Challenger a dream come true! The 2009 Dodge Challenger lineup has what it takes to relive what nostalgia recreates.