It\s no secret that muscle cars are some of the most fun-to-drive vehicles out there. Whether classic or brand new, the sheer power makes them the perfect grin-inducing machine to take out on those long strerches of highway.
But that’s just it. While they’re great in a straight line, handling, especially in foul weather, can be a handful. Not anymore, says Dodge, as it unveils the 2017 Dodge Challenger GT, complete with All-Wheel Drive. Yes, the same muscle car vibe now comes with an extra ounce of safety yet still packs a load of fun.
Under the long hood is Dodge’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 305hp and 363Nm of torque. Coming in between 1,800rpm all the way to 6,400 revs, the engine makes for some serious punch off the line. Couple this with the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic and you’ve got a performance machine that’s likewise efficient when driven smartly.
Yet the real draw of the 2017 Challenger GT is Dodge’s patented all-wheel drive system. The smart drive system has a front-axle disconnect feature that lets you tool around in economical and fun-to-drive rear-drive layout. Once slippage or low traction is detected, it automatically switches to all-wheel drive with no driver intervention. This is useful for snow or rainy days when extra grip is needed. Plus, it lets you tackle your favorite twisty road with more confidence.
Of course, the GT package gets the special touch, thanks to LED halo headlamps and LED taillights, a power bulge, and 1971-inspired split-type front grille. The cabin gets Nappa leather and Alcantara, a nine-speaker Alpine sound system with subwoofer, a 506-watt amp, and the Dodge performance steering wheel—all exclusive to this GT model.
And yes, the Dodge Super Track Pak can be found within the 8.4-inch touchscreen to control launch control and other go-fast goodies. One can even check stuff like reaction times, G-forces, 0-100kph time, and lap times, just to name a few. It’s all in the name of fun behind the tiller.
The Dodge Challenger GT AWD will be available in the US beginning this January
