Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Audi RS 4 Review
Much like the difference between a merely competent steed and the legendary Seabiscuit, theres quick and then theres quick. If youre a driver looking for breathtaking performance in an ultra-performance sport sedan, then theres little need to look further than the Audi RS4. Gobbling distance with ruthless speed and efficiency, the RS4 is endowed with all the traits that leave enthusiasts salivating like babies.
Other German manufacturers have performed like straight-A students in this segment, but the RS4 indicates that Audi did its homework. Ridiculously powerful engine? Check. The RS4 sedan came ready for the smackdown thanks to a V8 that, with more than 400 horsepower, offered more muscle than a WWE cage match — just what youd expect from a car in this rarefied class. Superior ride and handling? Check. Audis runner even managed to best the rear-wheel-drive competition by a nose thanks to its all-wheel-drive system. And the RS4s extraordinarily supportive seats meant your back wouldnt ever beg you to plead "time out" from all the festivities.
Downsides? The RS4s compact dimensions added welcome nimbleness, but they also resulted in rear seats that were somewhat on the cramped side. And then there was its rarity, as it was sold for just two years. With patience, though, one will certainly be able to find a used model. Price? Well, its expensive. But dont let that stop you. Retirement plan, schmetirement plan. An object of desire if ever there was one, the Audi RS4 is the type of sport sedan that puts the fun in reckless spending.
Most Recent Audi RS4
The Audi RS4 sport sedan was sold in North America for the 2007 and 08 model years and was a product of Quattro GmbH, Audis performance division. (Theres some inherent confusion here, as Audi brands its all-wheel-drive system "Quattro" as well.) Essentially, the RS4 was an amplified version of the S4 sedan, itself already a performance variant of the third-generation Audi A4 sold from 2006-08. Highlights included a higher-output V8, specific suspension tuning with Dynamic Ride Control, modified all-wheel-drive components, more powerful brakes, special 19-inch wheels and high-performance tires. Identifying the RS4 was more aggressive exterior styling, including flared fenders and a unique rear deck lid spoiler. Overall, this super sport sedan had a look that said "performance" without shouting it.The RS4 came in just one well-equipped trim level. Heated leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and bi-HID headlights all make an appearance on its standard features list. Motivating the Audi RS4 was a high-performance 4.2-liter V8 good for 420 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque; the engine offered 80 more horsepower than youd find in the S4. Only one transmission was offered: a six-speed manual. Audis Quattro all-wheel-drive system made sure the wheels never broke their kiss with the road.
This Audis cabin placed an emphasis on clean lines. Though there was the requisite supple leather, plushness wasnt the focus; rather, the cars interior championed a pared-down aesthetic that favored sleekness over opulence. The RS4s sport seats looked good and felt good, offering bolstering that cradled you in the corners without ever being too overwhelming. There was ample room for those in front, but rear seat passengers typically found their accommodations a bit cramped.
But of course, this sport sedan was all about performance. At its debut, the Audi RS4 seemed to have a couple of strikes against it. Weighing in at about 4,000 pounds, it was one of the more porcine players in the class. And its design placed the V8 engine heavily over its front axle, compromising steering feel and weight distribution. But somehow the RS4 managed to transcend all this the way a Teflon politician transcends a scandal.
Certainly helping matters was the Dynamic Ride Control system. DRC linked the diagonally opposite front and rear dampers with a gas-charged reservoir to allow more compliance when front and rear dampers were compressed at the same time, ensuring a comfortable highway ride with minimal compromise during performance driving.
In reviews, we found that the RS4s handling was near perfect, with the sort of steely composure that remains undaunted no matter what. Acceleration was explosive, shifts were quick and a broad torque band ensured that there was ample power underfoot for all situations. In testing, we measured a 0-60-mph time of just 4.3 seconds.
Past Audi RS4 Models
It should be noted that although the RS4 was new to the United States when it debuted, there was an older RS4 briefly sold in Europe. Sold for 2000 as an Avant wagon only, it came with a 375-hp, turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 engine.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Ducati Multistrada
The Multistrada 1200 is a motorcycle manufactured by Ducati since 2010. The engine is a retuned version of the Testastretta from the 1198 superbike(now replaced by the awesome 1199 Panigale) and the Streetfighter naked, now called the Testastretta 11° for its 11° valve overlap (reduced from 41°). All models include throttle by wire, selectable engine mapping (full power with sensitive or relaxed throttle response, and reduced power with relaxed throttle response) and traction control adjustable through eight levels, called DTC (Ducati Traction Control). Also, the engine is shared with the Ducati Diavel too.
The bike comes in three equipment levels, the base, the S-Sport and the S-Touring. The S models include ABS(optional on standard model) and electronically adjustable suspension, called DES (Ducati Electronic Suspension). The S Sport model features carbon fiber air intakes, cam belt covers and rear hugger, while the S Touring model comes with heated grips, hard luggage and a center stand. It competes with the BMW GS, the current market leader in its segment, the KTM 990 Adventure and the Yamaha Super Tenere.
Over 10,000 units were sold in the first year.
Engine Modes
The bike offers four engine power modes, Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro. Riders can change power modes with the motorcycle underway by using the turn-signal cancel button. Sport and Touring modes provide the full 150bhp with the Touring mode providing a softer throttle response. Urban and Enduro reduce horsepower to 100bhp and provide different levels of ABS and traction control accordingly. Riders also have the option of customizing any of these modes by changing the horsepower, throttle response, ABS and traction control levels using menu items inside the instrument cluster.
Mechatronic Suspension
The Ducati Electronic Suspension, Öhlins mechatronic Suspension, was developed in MotoGP and World Superbike motorcycle racing.
On the S-model Multistradas, with electronic suspension, preload and damping rates change with each of the engine power modes. Riders can also choose between four different base-settings based on having a passenger or luggage. Just like with the the engine performance modes, riders can customize each of these settings using menus inside the instrument cluster.
2011
For 2011, Ducati released a special Pikes Peak edition that features the black, white and red "Corsa" Paint, a red trellis frame and many carbon fiber accents. Many of the aluminum accessories, such as the sump-guard, are painted black.
2012
For the 2012 model year the riders seat was redesigned to allow more forward and aft movement and ABS is standard on all iterations of the bike.
Hero Motor Corp 250cc bike in 2014
Hero Motor Corp is working on bringing all new products.Hero Motor Corp has ended the partnership with Honda.All the new products will be developed by them own.Hero Motor Corp is developing a new 250cc bike for India and also for some international markets.Hero Motor Corp is working with their new Partner Erik Buell Racing.Erik Buell Racing is based on America.Engineers from Hero Motor Corp is already in US for the development.Initial development is done is US.While the rest of the process and manufacturing will be completely done in India.
All new 250cc bike will get a completely new platform styling and also cutting edge technology.This will showcase the strength of Hero Motor Corp.All New 250 cc engine will be a single cylinder engine to keep the costs down.Hero Motor Corp will showcase the new 250cc bike in the 2014 Auto Expo in Greater Noida.Production will start from Mid 2014.They are also working on new scooters and also entry level models.We can expect lots of new bikes from Hero Motor Corp after 2014.
source : ET
BMW X6 2013
King Engines | BMW X6 (2013) | The new BMW X6 M, adaptive LED headlights as standard. With its newly designed rear lights with LED technology, the rear as a strength of the new BMW X6 has a more intense. The rear lights are now two LED-powered light banks, distinctive design night as designed harmoniously mass of bright light. The program of exterior paint finishes for the new BMW X6 consists of two non-metallic and metallic colors, including Marrakech Brown eight metallic, Orion Silver metallic and Midnight Blue Metallic. The scope of the standard equipment of the new BMW X6 also includes 19-inch alloy wheels. XDrive in 8-cylinder model BMW X6 50th these now feature a new double spoke bi-color. Option for the BMW X6 is a dome-shaped lid remarkable power the lights (not available in Germany), the powerful appearance of the Sports Activity Coupé. The new BMW X6 is offered as standard as a four-seater model. Three rear seat is optional.
M Sport Edition for the new BMW X6 in Germany This equipment package includes attractive 20-inch M light-alloy double spokes and two-color finish with mixed tires, adaptive LED headlamps, BMW Individual Shadow Line brilliant black fog light surrounds and M cover threshold stripsFeatures here are the sports seats with memory function, electrically adjustable M-specific combination leather / black Alcantara with M-style world napa and contrast stitching, M leather steering wheel with controls on the steering wheel, M driver footrest pedal steel Black steel interior aluminum strips Wheel The BMW Individual anthracite headliner.
Gasoline and diesel BMW TwinPower Turbo technology in the BMW X6 offers impressive pulling power and fuel economy. The V8 engine of the BMW X6 xDrive50i delivers 300 kW/407 hp, while the BMW X6 xDrive35i line 6-cylinder petrol engine 225 kW/306 hp offered superior athletic performance. 6-cylinder diesel in the BMW X6 xDrive40d and BMW X6 xDrive30d models, respectively mobilize 225 kW/306 hp and 180 kW/245 hp. Both offer impressive performance, not only sports, but also emissions in the EU test cycle is 7.5 liters per 100 km for the BMW X6 xDrive40d and 7.4 liters for the BMW X6 xDrive30d is based. For further reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx), the BMW X6 xDrive30d can be installed in the spring of 2012 with optional BMW BluePerformance. BMW M Performance Automobile BMW X6 M50D sets a new benchmark for the tensile strength and effectiveness of a new line of 280 kW/381 hp six-cylinder diesel.
If additional products that supplies BMW M GmbH, which specializes in sports performance, the BMW X6 M has 408 kW/555 hp V8 engine even small improvements in design and functionality. In all other models, the power of a standard 8-speed Sport with shift paddles on the steering wheel moved. Dynamic Performance Control is standard xDrive all versions of the BMW X6 as an element of the intelligent all-wheel drive. For variable distribution of torque between the rear wheels, the control of the dynamic behavior of high directional stability and lateral acceleration in corners adhesion faster acceleration. To further improve the agility and dexterity of the management of savings (not M50D BMW X6 M and the BMW X6) (standard in the BMW X6 M50D and BMW X6 M) and Adaptive Drive available with electronic damper control and roll stabilization .
The progressive character of the new BMW X6 stands out for its wide range of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. In addition to the BMW Head-Up Display, more features for the Sports Activity Coupé, the lane departure warning system (not for the M50D BMW X6 and the BMW X6 M), Speed Limit Info, Side View, reversing camera Top View.
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Porsche 911 GT1
The Porsche 911 GT1 was a car designed for competition in the GT1 class of sportscar racing, which also required a street legal version for homologation purposes. The limited-production street-legal version was labeled the 911 GT1 Straßenversion (Street version).
It competed with the Ferrari F50, Mercedes CLK GTR and the McLaren F1 GTR.
History
With the revival of international sportscar racing in the mid-1990s, though the BPR Global GT Series (which then morphed in to the FIA GT Championship) Porsche expressed interest in returning to top level sportscar racing and went about developing its competitor for the GT1 category. Cars in this category were previously heavily modified versions of road cars, usually supercars such as the McLaren F1 and Ferrari F40, but when the 911 GT1 was uneveiled in 1996 Porsche had exploited the rule book to the full and stunned the sportscar fraternity. Rather than develop a race version of one of their road going models, what they created was effectively a purpose built sports-prototype, but in order to comply with regulations a street legal version was created, 911 GT1 Straßenversion - literally a road-going racing car.
911 GT1
In spite of its 911 moniker the car actually had very little in common with the 911 of the time, however its frontal chassis was shared with the then (993) 911, while the rear of the car was derived from the Porsche 962, including its water-cooled, twin-turbocharged and intercooled, four valve per cylinder flat-six engine which was arranged in amid-mounted position, compared to the rear-engined layout of a conventional 911. The engine was making about 600 PS (441 kW; 592 hp). In comparison, the 993 generation 911 GT2, which was otherwise the companys highest-performance vehicle, used an air-cooled engine with only two valves per cylinder.
The new vehicle was an outright success at Le Mans, winning the GT1 class at its debut race, although it lost the overall victory to Joest Racings Porsche WSC-95 prototype, still a success in that this vehicle used a Porsche powerplant.
The 911 GT1 made its debut in the BPR Global GT Series (the FIA championships predecessor) at the Brands Hatch 4 hours, where Hans-Joachim Stuck and Thierry Boutsen won comfortably, although they were racing as an invited entry and were thus ineligible for points. They followed up by winning at Spa and Ralph Kelleners and Emmanuel Collard triumphed for the factory team at Zhuhai.
The 96 GT1 had around 600 PS (441 kW) and was clocked at a top speed of exactly 330 km/h (205 mph) on the legendary Mulsanne Straight in the practice sessions of the 1996 Le Mans 24 Hours Race (presumably on a low downforce setup).
911 GT1 Evo
In 1997, the new Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR was successful in the new FIA GT Championship that replaced the BPR, as it was developed for racing. Mercedes did not enter Le Mans yet with their new car, though. The Porsche did not prove to be as fast in the FIA series, and failed to win a single race, first against the McLaren F1 GTR, and then against the new CLK-GTR.
Towards the end of the 1996 season Porsche made revisions to the 911 GT1 in preparation for the 1997 season. The front end of the car was revised including new bodywork which featured headlamps that previewed the all-new 2nd generation (996) Porsche 911 which would appear in 1997. The revised car was known as the 911 GT1 Evo (or Evolution). As far as performance goes, the car had the same 600 PS (441 kW; 592 hp) turbo-charged engine, but new aerodynamics on the car allowed the 97 car to be considerably faster than the 1996 model - acceleration was better, although the top speed was still around 330 km/h (205 mph) on the La Sarthe Circuit (in the race, the GT1-Evo reached 326 km/h). However, the works cars suffered from reliability problems and did not last the full race distance; a privately entered 1996 specification GT1 managed 5th overall and third in its class, but was beaten by the BMW-backed and powered McLaren F1 GTRs.
911 GT1-98
For the 1998 season Porsche developed an all-new car, the 911 GT1-98. Designed to match the also new Toyota GT-One and Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR, the 911 GT1-98 featured bodywork which bore more of a resemblance to traditional sports-prototypes than the previous 2 models while a new sequential gearbox was installed. As per the regulations a street-legal version of the 911 GT1-98 was spawned, but it is believed that only one variant was produced which was still sufficient to satisfy the regulations.
During the 1998 FIA International GT season the 911 GT1-98 struggled to match the pace of the Mercedes, which also were improved, with the main reason being down to the air-restrictor rules being which were regarded as unfavourable to the turbo engine (the Merecedes being naturally aspirated). The Michelin tyres of the factory team and especially the Pirelli of the private Zakspeed team were also considered inferior to the Bridgestone of Mercedes.
At the 1998 Le Mans however, it was a different story. The BMW V12 LM retired with wheel bearing trouble, and the Mercedes CLK-LM vehicles had oil pump troubles in the new V8 engines that replaced the former V12. The Toyota GT-One, which was considered to be the fastest car, also suffered gearbox reliability problems.
The 911 GT1-98, despite being slower than the Toyota or the Mercedes, fulfilled Porsches slim hopes, taking both first and second place overall thanks to reliability, giving Porsche its record-breaking 16th overall win at Le Mans, more than any other manufacturer in history.
At Petit Le Mans race in Road Atlanta, the 911 GT1 98 of Yannick Dalmas made a spectacular backward flip and landed rear first before hitting the side barriers, as did the BMW V12 LMR at the same race in 2000, and most infamously the Mercedes-Benz CLR at Le Mans in 1999.
The GT1 98 was set up with higher downforce in the race than the previous two years, which reduced its race maximum speed to 310 km/h (193 mph). However, in the 1998 Le Mans 24 Hours test days, the car hit 330 km/h (205 mph) on the Mulsanne Straight on a lower downforce setup.
1999
With Mercedes dominating FIA GT1 in 1998, all other entries including Porsche withdrew for 1999. The GT1 class was cancelled, and the FIA GT Championship was contested with GT2 cars. Porsche could have entered at Le Mans, but chose not to try to defend the win of 98 against new machines from other factories.
Champion Racing brought a 911 GT1 Evo to America to race in the American Le Mans Series, but was only allowed to do so as an LMP (Le Mans Prototypes) class entry, where it proved uncompetitive against actual prototypes such as the BMW V12 LMR.
Gunnar G-99
Following Champions purchase of a 911 GT1 Evo for 1999, Gunnar Racing offered a custom race car to the team with intentions to race in 2000. The car, known as the Gunnar G-99, was a custom-built 911 GT1 with an open cockpit. The chassis was made from scratch yet remained nearly identical to the 911 GT1 mechanically, even using the bulk of the bodyparts. A large rollbar was put over the open cockpit to help protect the driver. A 3.6 litre flat-6 from a Porsche 911 GT3 was used in place of the standard 911 GT1 unit.
However, Champion would instead turn to buying a Lola B2K/10, so the Gunnar G-99 was temporarily abandoned. The car would resurface in the Rolex Sports Car Series in 2002, yet would not be allowed to race until it had a roof again. Therefore Gunnar Racing rebuilt the car with a near identical GT1 roof, and briefly competed in 2003. The car would take a best finish of second in class twice before being retired due to lack of funding.
Street-legal version
 | |
| Manufacturer | Porsche |
|---|---|
| Predecessor | Porsche 959 |
| Successor | Porsche Carrera GT |
| Class | Sports Car |
| Layout | Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive |
| Engine | 3.2 L Flat-6 twin-turbo |
| Transmission | 6-Speed manual |
| Length | 4,890 mm (192.5 in) |
| Width | 1,990 mm (78.3 in) |
| Height | 1,140 mm (44.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,150 kg (2,535 lb) (dry) |
Regulations for the GT1 category stipulated that to be eligible, a total of 25 cars must be built for road use. Porsche developed a fully road-legal version, dubbed "911 GT1 Straßenversion", and delivered one in early 1996 to the German government for compliance testing, which it passed. The engine had to be slightly de-tuned to meet European emissions laws, although its 544 PS (400 kW; 537 hp) and dry weight of 1,150 kg (2,535 lb) proved to be more than adequate; the vehicle could accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 308 km/h (191 mph).
Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger is an American automobile manufactured by the Dodge division of Chrysler (DaimlerChrysler from 1998-2007). There have been several different Dodge vehicles, built on three different platforms and sizes, all bearing the Charger nameplate. The name is generally associated with a performance model in the Dodge range; however, it has also adorned subcompact hatchbacks, full-sized sedans, and personal luxury coupes. Dodge also makes the Challenger and the Viper.
The Dodge Charger LX is a rear-wheel drive four-door automobile introduced in February 2005. Built by Chrysler for its North American Dodge brand, the car was created to continue the Dodge Charger line, and replaced the Dodge Intrepid as Dodges full-size sedan. Dodge Charger (2006-2010) shares the LX platform with the Chrysler 300, the newer third-generation Dodge Challenger, and the discontinued Dodge Magnum. The SRT variants are all-powerful too, comparable in performance to a BMW M6/M5 or Audi RS-series or a Merc AMG. It also trumps expensive Lamborghini Gallardos, Ferrari Italias and McLaren MP4-12C nicely on the drag strips.
History
The first Charger was a 1964 show car, based on the Dodge Polara and fitted with a 426 Wedge V8 engine. The first production Charger, based on the Dodge Coronet, was introduced as a 1966 model. In 1999, Dodge introduced a new Charger R/T concept car. It took many styling cues from the 1960s Chargers, sharing their long nose and rearward cab, but was much shorter at 187 in (4,750 mm), compared to 203 in (5,156 mm) for the 1966 Charger. It was also 650 lb (295 kg) lighter. Although it had four doors where the earlier models had two, the rear doors were intended to be blended unobtrusively into the body.
First generation
 | |
| Production | 2005-2010 |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2006-2010 |
| Engine | 2.7 L (160 cu in) EER V6 3.5 L (210 cu in) EGG V6 5.7 L (345 cu in) EZB/EZD HEMIV8 6.1 L (370 cu in) ESF HEMI V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed 42RLE automatic 5-speed W5A580 automatic |
| Wheelbase | 120.0 in (304.8 cm) |
| Length | 200.1 in (508.3 cm) |
| Width | 74.4 in (189 cm) |
| Height | 58.2 in (148 cm) SRT-8: 57.7 in (1,466 mm) |
| Curb weight | 4160 lb (1887 kg) |
| Designer(s) | Ralph Gilles Freeman Thomas |
| Related | Chrysler 300 Dodge Challenger Dodge Magnum |
| Year | Model | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 to 2010 | SE | 2,736 cc (2.736 L; 167.0 cu in) EER V6 | 190 hp (142 kW) | 190 lb·ft (258 N·m) |
| SXT (G/H/N/P/R Packs) | 3,518 cc (3.518 L; 214.7 cu in) EGG V6 | 250 hp (186 kW) | 250 lb·ft (339 N·m) | |
| 2006 to 2008 | R/T | 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi EZB V8 | 340 hp (254 kW) | 390 lb·ft (529 N·m) |
| R/T with Road/Track Performance Group | 350 hp (261 kW) | |||
| Daytona R/T | ||||
| 2009 to 2010 | R/T | 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi EZD V8 | 368 hp (274 kW) | 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) |
| R/T with Road/Track Performance Group | 372 hp (277 kW) | |||
| 2006 to 2010 | SRT-8 | 6.1 L (370 cu in) Hemi ESF V8 | 425 hp (317 kW) | 420 lb·ft (569 N·m) |
Both the SXT and R/T models were also available as AWD (All Wheel Drive) starting in 2007. The All-Wheel Drive system is derived from the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC technology. From 2007-2008, the AWD system is engaged all the time, routing approximately 60% of the power to the rear wheels and 40% of the power to the front wheels. The 2009 Charger AWD utilized the Torque-on-Demand system manufactured by Borg Warner which disconnects the front axles until extra traction is needed. This results in a slight boost in fuel economy while retaining the same maximum power split to the front wheels.
After three years of production, an update for 2009 models was made. This included moving the decklids "CHARGER" badge from the left to the right, making way for "DODGE" at the left. Tail lamps were also revised.
Daytona R/T
| Color | Year | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Go ManGo! | 2006 | 4000 (US), 200 (CDN) |
| Top Banana | 4000 (US), 250 (CDN) | |
| TorRed | 2000 (US), 250 (CDN) | |
| Sublime | 2007 | 1500 (US), 150 (CDN) |
| Plum Crazy | 1400 (US), 120 (CDN) | |
| Hemi Orange | 2008 | 1650 (US), 100 (CDN) |
| Stone White | 2009 | 400 (US), 75 (CDN) |
The 2006 Charger Daytona R/T debuted at the Chicago Auto Show.Featured with a 5 speed Automatic (Triptronic) Transmission. It featured a high output 350 hp (261 kW) version of the 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi as well as an updated suspension and tires. Visual additions included a special front fascia with a chin spoiler and a black rear spoiler. In a retro touch, the Daytona R/T featured black "Hemi" decals on the hood and rear fender and retro high impact colors.
In 2007, larger 20-inch chrome-clad wheels were introduced. In 2008, a revised stripe package was adopted. In 2009, horsepower was increased to 372 hp (277 kW) by the addition of Variable Camshaft Timing.
SRT-8
| Color | Year | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Go ManGo! | 2006 | 1 |
| Silver | 675 | |
| Black | 2907 | |
| Inferno Red | 1137 | |
| Silver | 2007 | Unknown |
| Black | Unknown | |
| TorRed | Unknown | |
| Plum Crazy | 300 | |
| Silver | 2008 | Unknown |
| Black | Unknown | |
| TorRed | Unknown | |
| Steel Blue | Unknown | |
| Silver | 2009 | Unknown |
| Black | Unknown | |
| TorRed | Unknown | |
| Deep Water Blue | Unknown | |
| Silver | 2010 | Unknown |
| Black | Unknown | |
| TorRed | Unknown | |
| Deep Water Blue | Unknown |
An SRT-8 version of the Charger debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 425 hp (317 kW) version of the 6.1 L (370 cu in) Hemi, it also featured upgraded Brembo brakes, and interior and exterior updates. The engine produces 420 lb·ft (569 N·m) of torque. The 425 net horsepower of the modern 6.1 L Hemi makes it even more powerful than the legendary Chrysler Hemi engines of the muscle car era, the biggest of which was rated at 425 gross horsepower. This makes the 6.1 L Hemi engine the most powerful V8 engine that Chrysler has ever put in a production vehicle with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Super Bee
A new Super Bee version of the Charger debuted at the 2006 New York International Auto Show for the 2007 model year. It shared the SRT-8s 425 hp (317 kW) 6.1 L (370 cu in) Hemi engine, but was available in a special "Detonator Yellow" paint with black decals. It is a limited edition with only 1,000 being produced. A B5 Blue version of the Super Bee was shown at the 2007 North American International Auto Show and went on sale in early 2008, also with a limited run of 1,000. A total of 425 Hemi Orange Super Bees were built in 2009. In 2011, it was announced that the Super Bee will be returning as a 2012 model on the redesigned Dodge Charger with the 392 HEMI engine in "Stinger Yellow" and "Pitch Black"
| Color | Year | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Detonator Yellow | 2007 | 1000 (US) |
| B5 Blue Pearl | 2008 | 1000 (US) |
| Hemi Orange | 2009 | 425 (US) |
| Stinger Yellow | 2012 | TBD |
| Pitch Black | 2012 | TBD |
DUB Edition
Created with DUB Magazine, this version is based on the Charger SXT. It includes a body-colour spoiler and fog lamps, 20-inch alloy wheels with 245/45R20 tires, MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with 13-speaker PUNCHER surround-sound system, a 322w KICKER amplifier, and a 100w KICKER subwoofer. Exterior colors are red, black, silver, cool vanilla, and dark titanium.
A total of 2,180 Charger DUB Edition cars were produced for the U.S. market. They carried a MSRP of $30,999.
NASCAR
Although NASCAR stock cars bear only a slight resemblance to actual street cars, Dodges 2005 and 2006 NASCAR entries were based on the Charger silhouette, replacing the previous Dodge Intrepid. Unlike the Intrepid, the Charger shares rear-wheel drive and a V8 engine with its NASCAR counterparts.
During the 2007 NASCAR season the Charger was used in all non Car of Tomorrow races and the Dodge Avenger was used in all Car of Tomorrow races. The Car of Tomorrow was used exclusively in 2008. However, the Avenger Car of Tomorrow was redesignated as a Charger R/T through the use of different decals. The decals have been revised again for 2011 to reflect the updated nose and tail styling of the production Charger, including the full-width taillight panel.
Engines
The Charger SE and SXT are equipped with Chryslers 3.5 L V6. The 3.5 L V6 produces 250 hp (186 kW) and 250 lb·ft (339 N·m) of torque. In Canada, the base model Charger has a 2.7 L V6, which produces 190 hp (142 kW) and 190 lb·ft (258 N·m) of torque. In 2006, the 2.7 L V6 was also available in the U.S. for fleet sales only. For 2007, the SE package could be had with the 2.7 L engine for all buyers. The Canadian SXT model included the 3.5 L V6.
The R/T version uses the 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi V8. From 2006-2008, this engine produced 340 hp (254 kW) and 390 lb·ft (529 N·m) of torque. For 2009, Variable Camshaft Timing was added, raising power levels to 368 hp (274 kW) and 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) of torque respectively.
The SRT-8 model comes with the 6.1 L (370 cu in) Hemi V8. The 6.1 L Hemi produces 425 hp (317 kW) and 420 lb·ft (569 N·m) of torque.
Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the Charger an overall Good score in frontal crash tests. In side impacts Charger models equipped with optional side airbags are given a Marginal score overall, and models without side airbags are given the lowest overall Poor score.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the Charger five stars on passenger, driver, and rear passenger crash test ratings and four stars in regard to side impact rating.
All models come standard with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) (except in 2.7 L V6 cars where it is optional) with ABS and all speed traction control.
Second generation
 | |
| Also called | SRT Charger |
|---|---|
| Production | 2010- |
| Model years | 2011- |
| Engine | 3.6 L Pentastar V6 5.7 L EZD HEMI V8 6.4 L ESG HEMI V8 |
| Transmission | 5-speed W5A580 automatic 8-speed 845RE automatic V6 Only |
| Wheelbase | 3,052 mm (120.2 in) |
| Length | 5,077 mm (199.9 in) |
| Width | 1,905 mm (75.0 in) |
| Height | 1,482 mm (58.3 in) |
| Related | Chrysler 300 Dodge Challenger |
The 2011 Charger underwent both exterior and interior changes. It features a completely new body with the most striking changes being the redesigned fascia and hood section, modified taillights and a new dashboard. It also takes some styling cues from the 1968-1970 model. It will be built alongside the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 and 300C. The Charger SRT-8 returns as 2012 model, which was previewed at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. Chrysler began putting the Dodge logo with slanted red rectangles on the grilles of 2012.5 Charger models.
Engines
Engines are available with the 5-speed automatic transmission. From 2012 model year the 3.6 L engine is available with an 8-speed automatic that improves fuel economy by 4-mpg on the highway. The 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 produces 292 horsepower (218 kW) and 260 lb·ft (353 N·m) of torque, the 5.7 liter V-8 delivers 370 horsepower (276 kW) and 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) of torque, and the new 6.4 liter V-8 produces 470 hp (350 kW) and 470 lb·ft (640 N·m). of torque. According to the October 2011 issue of Motor Trend, the Dodge Charger SRT-8, weighing 4,361 lb (1,978 kg), sprints from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.3 seconds, and clears the quarter mile (~400 m) in 12.8 seconds at 110 mph (180 km/h). Its mechanically identical to the Chrysler 300 SRT-8. The base price of the Dodge Charger SRT-8 is $46,795.
| Model | Engine | Displacement | Power @ rpm | Torque @ rpm | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | 3.6 V6Pentastar | 3,604 cc (219.9 cu in) | 292 hp (296 PS; 218 kW) @ 6350 rpm | 260 lb-ft (350 Nm) @4800 rpm | 2011- |
| RALLYE (PLUS packs) | |||||
| R/T | 5.7 V8 HEMI | 5,654 cc (345.0 cu in) | 370 hp (375 PS; 276 kW) @ 5250 rpm | 395 lb-ft (540 Nm) @4200 rpm | 2011- |
| SRT-8 | 6.4 V8 HEMI | 6,409 cc (391.1 cu in) | 470 hp (471 PS; 346 kW) | 470 lb-ft (631 Nm) | 2012- |
Police package version
In early 2006, DaimlerChrysler released a new police version of the Charger. It made its debut at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Unlike the civilian version, the police version features upgraded heavy-duty brakes, a severe-duty cooling system, police-performance Electronic Stability Program, police performance-tuned steering, and a gear shifter that is mounted on the steering column instead of in the center console. In place of the center console, Dodge has equipped the police edition with an aluminum plate appropriate for mounting radio equipment, computers, and controllers for lights and sirens. The vehicles electrical system is specifically designed for integration of siren and light controls, and other police vehicle accessories. The Charger is in use with many American police departments,including the LAPD and NYPD.
The 340 hp (254 kW) Hemi V8 is powerful enough to accelerate the car from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.0 seconds and to a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h). In Michigan State Police testing, the Charger V8 easily outperformed all other pursuit vehicles in acceleration, cornering, and braking (except the Dodge Magnum and V6 Charger, which stopped slightly faster in some tests) in the first five years since its introduction.
Chargers are in use with numerous police agencies in North America as both marked and unmarked patrol cars. Law enforcement agencies outside of the US have also purchased the Charger, including police services in Canada, Mexico, Chile, the Czech Republic and the Middle East, including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon.Both V6 and V8 models are being adopted, with highway patrols favoring the 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi V8 engine and cities more likely to purchase the base police package with the 3.5 L V6 fuel-efficient engine. The Charger is also in service with U.S. Federal and military police services.
For 2009, the base Charger police car came with the 3.5 L V6 and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The rear is slightly updated, moving the "CHARGER" badge to the right, and replacing the left with the badge reading "DODGE." The V8 version uses the Charger Daytona R/T engine, rated 368 horsepower (274 kW) and 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) of torque.
Total American sales
| Calendar Year | Sales |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 97,367 |
| 2009 | 60,651 |
| 2010 | 75,397 |
| 2011 | 70,089 |
Recall
On May 7, 2012, a recall announcement was made by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding loss of anti-lock brakes and stability control as a result of an overheated fuse in the PCD. This failure could lead to loss of vehicle control, which increases crash risk. Over 127,350 Chrysler 300s and Dodge Chargers are recalled.
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