Used 2012 Dodge Challenger Coupe Review & Ratings

The 2012 Dodge Challenger Coupe has all the style of a classic muscle car with modern improvements that upgrade safety, handling, and fuel efficiency for today's driver. Unlike the new Camaros and Mustangs, the Dodge Challenger Coupe is focused on passenger comfort and doesn't give up weight at the expense of a smooth, powerful ride. When the Challenger was first reintroduced in 2008, there was some compromise that frustrated drivers on both sides of the spectrum - the Challenger was too heavy for true performance and functioning. Now, an upgraded suspension, better steering, and new brakes offer a vehicle that performs as powerfully as it looks.

Three trims make up the Dodge Challenger Coupe line, including the base model SXT, R/T, and the SRT8, each with a different engine for varying needs in performance. At the entry-level SXT, there is a strong 3.6 liter V-6 engine that is coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission to provide 305 horsepower. Buyers can always choose to enhance the SXT to the plus package that adds leather upholstery, foglights, auto dimming rear view mirror, automatic headlights, heated front seats, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio and illuminated visor mirrors. There are also a number of other variants of the SXT buyers can opt for including the super sports group and the electronic convenience group. For those that want more, the R/T has a 5.7 liter HEMI V-8, which has less fuel-efficiency, but greater horsepower at 372 with the five-speed automatic transmission, or 376 with the optional six-speed manual. If that's not enough, the top-of-the-line coupe SRT8 has a 6.4 liter HEMI V-8 engine, with a full 470 horsepower. The V-6 engine offers competitive fuel efficiency - 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, and it goes from 0-60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. In brake tests, the SRT8's magnificent brakes brought the vehicle to a complete stop in only 114 feet.

Handling is generally quite good with the V-6 engine, avoiding the jitters that characterize some of the competition at higher speeds. However, the R/T and the SRT8 have trouble turning suddenly or sharply at high speeds as a result of all the weight they are carrying.

For safety, the Dodge Challenger Coupe offers standard stability and traction control, ready alert braking, hill start assist, and rain brake support. The SRT8 upgrades these features to include Parksense rear parking sensors, especially helpful in times of poor visibility. The 2012 Dodge Challenger Coupe has not been rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.