AWD for the 2017 Dodge Challenger

A few months ago, a few details were revealed regarding future products at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and that included an interesting piece of information on the Dodge Challenger.

The modern-day musclecar will celebrate its tenth year on the market in its current form by adding an all-wheel drivetrain. Say what?

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Well, the components already existed in FCA’s parts bin, and since the Challenger shares a similar platform with the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, which have been offering AWD for years, it likely was an inexpensive tweak. The Challenger gets a unique feature that its rivals, the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, don’t have.

Only one trim level will get the all-wheel drive system. The 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD will feature a 3.6-litre V6 that develops 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque, while an eight-speed automatic transmission is mandatory. A Sport mode and wheel-mounted paddle shifters are also included. Fuel economy ratings are set at 12.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 on the highway. In comparison, the RWD Challenger with the V6 engine boasts city/highway ratings of 12.4/7.8 L/100 km.

Just like in the Charger and 300, under normal driving, the AWD hardware sends power to the rear, disengaging the front axle to reduce friction and preserve fuel. When wheel slippage is detected, the system instantly sends torque to the front wheels for maximum grip.

The 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD will arrive in Canada in February at a starting MSRP of $38,545 before freight and delivery charges. The standard-feature list will include Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable steering column, a Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system, 19-inch Hyper Black alloy wheels wrapped in P235/55R19 rubber, a decklid spoiler, rear park sonar and a backup camera.