2019 Dodge Challenger

2019 Dodge Challenger Highlights

The 2019 Dodge Challenger may look right from 1970, but its performance is leagues above vintage muscle cars. The focus is on looking fantastic and going fast, especially in higher-horsepower trims.

2018’s Challenger Demon is gone, but 2019 Dodge Challenger configurations now include the near-800 hp SRT Hellcat Redeye. Standard Hellcats get a bump to 717 hp. Also new is the Widebody package, which can give the 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack, SRT Hellcat, and SRT Redeye bulging fender flares, wider wheels with stickier tires, new Bilstein adaptive damping suspension, bigger brakes, and stiffer anti-roll bars.

There’s also the R/T Scat Pack 1320 for drag-racing enthusiasts, representing the 1,320 feet in a ¼-mile dragstrip. This trim receives more robust driveline components borrowed from the SRT Demon, such as special wheels, front-brake line lock, and other drag-racing-specific features.

Key Details

• Full-size coupe body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Introduction of 797-horsepower SRT Hellcat Redeye
• New R/T Scat Pack 1320 trim
• Standard Hellcat now produces 717 horsepower
• The widebody package improves handling and braking
• Power-bulge aluminum hood standard on R/T Scat Pack
• Multiple engine options, from a V6 to a supercharged V8

Benefits

• Range of performance levels to suit different buyers
• Available all-wheel drive (AWD) on V6 models
• Spacious interior compared to competitors
• Modern technology features
• Distinctive muscle car styling
• Strong resale value potential

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Dodge Challengers Are Most Reliable?

2019 Dodge Challenger Overview

Performance

The 2019 Dodge Challenger offers five engine options:

3.6-liter Pentastar V6 (SXT, GT):

• 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque
• Available with rear-wheel or AWD
• Eight-speed automatic transmission

5.7-liter HEMI V8 (R/T):

• 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque
• Rear-wheel drive
• Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic

6.4-liter HEMI V8 (R/T Scat Pack/Scat Pack 1320):

• 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque
• Rear-wheel drive
• Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic

6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8 (SRT Hellcat):

• 717 horsepower and 656 lb-ft of torque
• Rear-wheel drive
• Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic

6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8 (SRT Hellcat Redeye):

• 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque
• Rear-wheel drive
• Eight-speed automatic only

Widebody package adds flared fenders and wider tires for improved grip and handling.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2019 Dodge Challenger a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features on all 2019 Dodge Challenger trims include:

• Advanced multistage front airbags
• Supplemental side-curtain front and rear airbags
• All-speed traction control
• Electronic stability control
• Rain brake support
• Ready Alert Braking
• Rearview camera

Additional safety features available on higher trims or through options packages include:

• Forward collision warning
• Park assist sensors

Driving

The 2019 Dodge Challenger takes the styling of its 1970s namesake but is a modern car throughout. Make no mistake, though, the driving experience is still rooted in the muscle-car “fast in a straight line” tradition. Competitors may have superior handling, but few can match the exhilaration of the powerful V8 Challengers, particularly those with the 6.4-liter or supercharged 6.2-liter V8. The ride quality is notably comfortable for a performance vehicle, making it suitable for a daily driver while maintaining its performance credentials.

Steering response is good across the lineup, though drivers should not expect sports-car handling from the surprisingly hefty Challenger. The eight-speed automatic transmission offers quick shifts and responds well to throttle inputs, while the six-speed manual is the choice for 3-pedal enthusiasts.

The Widebody package significantly improves handling capability with wider tires and flared fenders. 2019 Dodge Challenger GT and SXT models have optional AWD for improved slippery-weather grip.

Interior

The 2019 Dodge Challenger's interior combines modern features with classic muscle car design. The cabin is spacious for the segment, offering genuine room for four adults but not luxurious.

Key interior features include:

• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• Available heated and ventilated front seats
• Available leather upholstery
• Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Performance-oriented gauge cluster

The front seats offer good comfort and support, with enhanced bolstering in performance models. The rear seats provide more space than is typical for a coupe.

Cargo space is impressive for the segment:

• 16.2 cubic feet of trunk space
• Wide trunk opening for easy loading
• Split-folding rear seats for additional cargo flexibility

The interior design features retro-inspired elements while incorporating modern technology. The driver-focused cockpit includes a performance-oriented gauge cluster and an optional 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

Material quality is acceptable. Inexpensive plastic pervades, but such considerations disappear with the application of throttle. Performance models feature additional styling elements like SRT logos and unique trim pieces.

Technology

The 2019 Dodge Challenger technology features include:

• Uconnect infotainment system with seven-inch touchscreen (standard)
• Available 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
• Performance Pages with vehicle data and performance metrics

The Uconnect system is particularly user-friendly, offering:

• Clear graphics and responsive touch inputs
• Customizable menu layout
• Voice command functionality
• SiriusXM satellite radio (available)

Performance Pages provide access to:

• Real-time performance data
• Engine output readings
• G-force measurements
• Various performance timers
• Launch control settings (on applicable models)

Fuel Economy

The 2019 Dodge Challenger's fuel economy varies significantly by engine and drivetrain configuration. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

3.6-liter V6 (RWD):

• RWD (mpg): 19 city / 30 highway / 23 combined
• AWD (mpg): 18 city / 27 highway / 21 combined

5.7-liter V8 (Manual):

• RWD/Manual (mpg): 15 city / 23 highway / 18 combined
• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 16 city / 25 highway / 19 combined

6.4-liter V8 (Manual):

• RWD/Manual (mpg): 14 city / 23 highway / 17 combined
• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 15 city / 24 highway / 18 combined

6.2-liter Supercharged V8 (Manual):

• RWD/Manual (mpg): 13 city / 21 highway / 16 combined
• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 13 city / 22 highway / 16 combined

6.2-liter Supercharged V8 (Hellcat Redeye):

• RWD/Automatic (mpg): 13 city / 22 highway / 16 combined

2019 Dodge Challenger Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2019 Dodge Challenger an overall rating of 4.7 out of five. Owners praise the vehicle for its styling, performance, comfort, quality, and reliability.

Reasons to Buy It

• Wide range of performance options
• Large interior for a muscle car
• Comfortable ride quality for daily driving
• User-friendly technology features
• Classic muscle car styling
• Available AWD on V6 models
• Extensive customization options
• Ample trunk space for the segment

Problems

• Fuel economy, particularly in V8 models
• Limited visibility due to wide pillars
• Size can make parking challenging
• Weight impacts handling compared to some competitors
• Advanced safety features are limited to higher trims or optional packages

Explore: Is the New Dodge Challenger Worth the Price?

CoPilot's Take

The 2019 Dodge Challenger may look like a compact muscle car akin to a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. Yet, those cars have edged toward sports-car territory with their handling and braking; the Challenger is more old-school (and portly). It’s about the same size as the four-door Chrysler 300. Consider the Challenger a comfortable, stylish, daily usable straight-line rocket, though the Widebody package does improve handling.

2019 Dodge Challenger SXT and GT models have decent power from their V6s, and they’re the only ones with optional AWD. For the real muscle car experience, the V8s are where it’s at. The 5.7-liter is undoubtedly fun and will bring a smile whenever the gas pedal is pressed. To enter thrilling and terrifying territory, look no further than the 6.4-liter R/T Scat Pack and supercharged Hellcat/Hellcat Redeye models.

However, potential buyers should consider a few factors. Thanks to the Challenger's size and weight, competing with modern muscle machines will be more fun when the road starts to curve. Also, the fuel economy in V8 models can be demanding on the wallet. Visibility can also be challenging due to the car's design.

2019 Dodge Challenger FAQs

How much does a 2019 Dodge Challenger cost?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2019 Dodge Challenger costs $13,000 to $83,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace demand.

Is the 2019 Dodge Challenger reliable?

The 2019 Dodge Challenger generally demonstrates good reliability for a performance vehicle. J.D. Power gave it an above-average reliability rating, and owner reviews frequently mention dependability as a positive aspect.

Why is the 2019 Dodge Challenger being discontinued?

Dodge did not discontinue the Challenger in 2019 but rather in 2023. As for why Dodge stopped producing the Challenger, it featured an aging platform that was 15 years old, and the model couldn’t withstand increasing federal fuel regulations.

Will a 2019 Dodge Challenger hold its value?

The 2019 Dodge Challenger typically demonstrates strong value retention, particularly in specific configurations:

Factors Supporting Value:

• Limited production numbers of special editions
• Strong enthusiast following
• Continued demand for V8 muscle cars
• Regular collector interest
• Reputation for reliability

Expect rare models like the SRT Hellcat Redeye to command the highest prices.

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