Mopar has an exhaustive array of available Mopar parts and performance edges, it is difficult to name them all. With Mopar, customers have nearly limitless customization options to choose from. There have seemingly endless options for when you need to match your vehicle to your unique personal preferences.
In terms of its pros, the Dodge Challenger combines the very best of muscle car nostalgia with contemporary technology and amenities. The addition of Mopar accessories ups the ante, giving you a varied selection for personalization. When it comes to cons, the Challenger does have a large size that impedes its characteristics as a sports performance vehicle. The novelty may have worn off a bit since the Dodge Challenger name was reintroduced a decade ago. Interestingly, the 2019 model is loosely based on the lighter Alfa Romeo Giulia rear-wheel-drive platform. It has an l high-performance version that reaches a 750 hp plateau. The Dodge Challenger remains an attractive model for drivers who appreciate the muscle car era nostalgia and pure automotive power.
The Dodge Challenger’s lines alone are impressive, the Mopar add-on list gives the car an extra edge. There is a Suspension Upgrade Kit. The vehicle’s lowered ride height complements the aggressive stance on the 20-inch Matte Black lightweight forged aluminum wheels, which are optional. On the interior, there are Red Ruby seat inserts to accompany the all-black interior. The entertainment center on the 2016 model has a faster fourth-generation Uconnect system with Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto and other apps. There are additional under-the-hood accessories on the spec list to help increase the power numbers. The Mopar Gas Cap is quite steeply priced at around $270, a reminder that the Challenger is, in fact, a luxury vehicle with pricing to match it. Dodge Challenger models range from basic SXT V6 poseurs to the top-of-the-range Hemi V8 Hellcat halo vehicle. In terms of how much you would spend, you’re looking at $30 000 as a starting point and over $75 000 for top-of-the-range models.
The range also includes four powertrains: the incredible 707 hp 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi Hellcat V8, a 485 hp 6.4-litre Hemi V8, a 375 hp 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 305 hp 3.6-litre V6. All the engines are matched to different versions of optional six-speed manual transmissions or standard eight-speed automatics. Options also include Scat Packs and premium groups.
Mopar catalogues have a list of dealers or self-installed performance parts and accessories. In this way, the 2016 Dodge Challenger encourages a do-it-yourself approach to customizing your car outside of the available factory packages and options. In fact, this customization approach applies to any model year Dodge Challenger, whether you’re adding on to a new purchase or just considering giving your existing ride a makeover.
We tested the Challenger R/T trim level. The model does a great job of harnessing the already hefty power from an included 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 375 hp and 410 lb/ft of torque. The engine muscle was matched to six-speed TREMEC manual transmission, which is optional. Our model had an enhanced engine bay, with a front strut tower brace kit. The 5.7-litre Hemi V8 engine tuning upgrades include a special cold air intake and a cat-back exhaust system. Both items are available from the Mopar performance parts list.
On the interior, this ride was luxurious indeed. It came with a well-padded and list of standard equipment at the R/T level, this includes a heated steering wheel, heated seats, leather appointments. The entertainment center had an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment screen with extra factory-installed packages and options to further enhance your experience this sweet ride. It is perfect for keeping you entertained on a long road trip. The tester had Mopar accessories costing $4,360.00, they included all of the below.
- Short Throw Shifter P5155284AB- $193.00
- Mopar Gas Cap 82212406- $263.00
- Front Strut Tower Brace Kit P5155950- $408.00
- Cold Air Intake 77070044C- $615.00
- Cat-back Exhaust P51160040AB- $2,020.00
- Suspension Upgrade Kit (springs, rear strut mounts, shocks and isolators) -$861.00
The cold air intake and cat-back exhaust systems help to improve engine breathing. With an extra snort to the exhaust sound, the horsepower gets to show off. Our tester had a Mopar custom short-throw shifter as one of the added accessories. This added a quick-shifting feel and a unique touch to the console. The suspension and tower brace kit upgrades do a great job of tightening the handling up.
This tester had a combination of performance and handling tweaks coupled with some cosmetic upgrades for good measure. You will need to do quite a bit of research in order to decide on whether you would like the more inclusive trim levels and whether you would benefit from the particular individual option packages and accessories. As with every major purchase, this is one that will require a lot of thought and consideration.
The vehicle that we test drove had a chrome Mopar fuel filler door, adding a finishing touch to the Dodge Challenger customization palette. The Dodge Challenger will grab your attention whether you are coming or going.
Below is a summary of the key features of the Dodge Challenger R/T 2016 with Mopar add-ons:
- Engine: 5.7-litre Hemi V8 (375 hp, 410 lb/ft)
- Body Style: intermediate performance coupe.
- Cargo Capacity: 459 litres
- Fuel economy: 15.6/10L/100km (city/hwy); As tested 14.2L/100km (comb) (91)
- Drive method: front-engine, rear-wheel drive.
- Price: MSRP $39,895. As tested $45,435 incl Redline Tri-Coat Pearl ($300), 6MT ($1,000), Destination Charge ($1,795), Tech Group ($250), 20-inch Matte Black forged aluminum wheels ($900).
- Mopar add-ons: $4,360