Dodge Expands Redline Treatment to Hemi-Powered Challenger R/T [2013 Chicago Auto Show]

The word "Redline" seems to convey white-knuckle, at-the-limit driving intensity, so it's no wonder Dodge has applied the name to the sportiest iteration of its V-6 Challenger muscle car. Well, that and the Challenger Redline features plenty of red stripes. Regardless, the package suitably amped up the previously humdrum base version of Dodge's big coupe. But eight cylinders are always better than six, right? Correct, so for 2013 Dodge is giving its 375-hp, Hemi V-8–powered Challenger R/T a similar Redline treatment; the result, predictably, is called the Challenger R/T Redline, and it is debuting at the 2013 Chicago auto show.  While the V-6 Challenger Rallye Redline is beefed up with the R/T model's sportier suspension setup and a bevy of stripes, the R/T Redline's upgrades are more limited. Starting with either a Challenger R/T or zootier R/T Plus model, buyers who check the Redline box on their order sheet are rewarded with basically a tape-and-wheel package. There's a gray-and-red stripe that runs the length of each side of the vehicle, terminating on each rear quarter-panel with "Redline" lettering, plus a set of snazzy 20-inch wheels. The stripe package is more subtle than the V-6 Redline's setup, and though the R/T's wheels feature the same red lip accent as those found on the V-6 car, they are further, er, enhanced by a coat of red paint on the inner half of the inside of the rim. We think these red rings, visible through the wheel spokes, toe the line between cool and garish, but they're not likely to stay red for long. We bet after a week or two of use, a good coat of dirt and road grime will tone down the look. Whether or not that's a good thing is a matter of personal taste. Instrumented Test: 2011 Dodge Challenger SE V-6 Instrumented Test: 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Instrumented Test: 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit Police Package Appealingly, the R/T Redline is available with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission—the V-6 car is automatic-only. Cars equipped with the slushbox also get bright pedals, a Mopar T-handle shift lever, and remote start. Four exterior colors are available: Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Bright White, and Pitch Black. We say skip the first three paint options and go straight for Black; the color combo brings new meaning to the term "murdered-out" in that it gives the Redline a sort of Batmobile-driving-through-blood-puddles sort of look. The Redline package will be available this spring and buyers can begin placing orders now; the kit adds $1995 to the base price of the Challenger R/T or R/T Plus, for out-the-door prices of $32,985 and $34,985, respectively. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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