The keen observer will notice a close resemblance to the current model in size, profile, and overall shape. In fact, the 2010 Mustang is not an all-new model, but rather a heavily revised version of the current car, with changes concentrated in the areas that called for the most improvement.

The new version uses the roof and A-pillars from the old one. But the front and rear of the pony car are now slightly tapered, and the fender flares have been toned down. Three-segment taillights with sequential turn-signal operation look trick and recall Thunderbirds and Mercury Cougars of the Sixties. A more muscular appearance comes from a power dome on the hood, small haunches over the rear wheels, and more aggressive front and rear fascias. At the same time, the new model, though dimensionally unchanged, appears to be smaller than the current car—which is not a bad thing in today’s pricey fuel climate.

The interior is where Ford invested its greatest effort. A new dashboard made from one giant soft-plastic molding looks and feels much richer than the several hard pieces it replaces. The metallic trim is real aluminum and different in texture on the V-6 and V-8 models. In fact, the shift knob and everything else that looks like aluminum is indeed the genuine metal. A reconfigured console should be softer on your knees when bracing them during hard driving, the optional leather seats show off beautiful stitching, and a navigation system with an eight-inch screen, reverse camera, and Sync 2.0 is optional.

Mechanically, there are no major changes (at least not yet; more powerful engines are supposedly on their way for 2011), but the new GT is an evolution of the current generation’s Bullitt model, which it allegedly outperforms. Small changes to the GT’s powertrain include a cold air intake, a 250-rpm bump to the V-8’s redline, and 3.5-inch exhaust tips out back. The Bullitt connection means 315 horsepower from the 4.6-liter three-valve V-8, and reworked suspension calibrations optimized for standard 18-inch and optional 19-inch tires. A new stability control system has also been implemented; it includes an intermediate “Track” setting in addition to full on and off operation. Spread across two optional performance packages are high-grip summer tires, track-ready brake pads, GT500 anti-roll bars and rear lower control arms, and a shorter 3.73:1 axle ratio.

The V-6 model also gets an uprated suspension with tires that are an inch larger, though the V-6 output remains a flaccid 210 hp. The new bodywork reduced the drag coefficient on both versions by four to seven percent. Ford claims that improvements in window and door seals have reduced wind noise as well.

Both coupe and convertible models go on sale this spring, and prices should not rise much over those of the current models. That should help this upgraded Mustang compete with its all-new competitors.

With the push of a button a legend is reborn and an entire segment is reinvented. This is the all-new Dodge Challenger. This is not some white-knuckle carnival ride, but a thoroughly modern piece of engineering that marries pure power with measured control. Its lean, low profile is already legendary, simultaneously celebrating the past as well as the future – a massive helping of forward thinking topped with a dollop of heritage. From its efficient 3.5-liter SOHC V6 engine to its smart, available 5.7-liter VVT HEMI® V8 engine with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) to its untouchable Lifetime Powertrain Limited Warranty – the best in the business – the all-new 2009 Dodge Challenger is unlike any other.

THIS IS WHY WE WAITED SO LONG

Challenger R/T is decked in I-dare-you-to, from its front and rear spoilers to its striking egg-crate grille and satin chrome fuel filler door. Its 5.7-liter VVT HEMI® V8 with Multi-Displacement System (MDS)[1] gives it stunning credentials in both the power and efficiency categories. The available 6-speed manual transmission delivers precision within the tightest tolerances. The standard 5-speed AutoStick® transmission provides the option for smooth, fully automatic or spirited clutchless manual shifting. The rear decklid spoiler provides downforce upon an engineered driveline that combines an available limited-slip differential, standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes (ABS), all-speed traction control, and the geometrical benefits of a sport-tuned steering and suspension system.

Even the key embraces technology and features an available remote start[1] function. While loaded with advancements like the available High-Intensity Discharge (HID) polycarbonate headlamps, the distinctive note out of its rectangular dual exhaust pipes is pure throwback Hemi.

HEMISTRY

Some might say that engines like the 5.7-liter VVT HEMI® V8 and 6.1-liter HEMI SRT® V8 – power plants that put out more horsepower and torque than any Dodge passenger car since the fabled 426 Hemi engines of the 1960s and 1970s – have already set their legend in stone. Chrysler engineers would disagree. They took the brilliantlypowerful and masterfully efficient 5.7-liter with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) and outfitted it with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) while cranking the compression up to 10.5:1. It began as code name Eagle. It ended up with a new and improved dual-ignition HEMI engine that delivers 370 horsepowerand 398 lb-ft of torque with the 5-speed automatic AutoStick,® while the available 6-speed manual transmission increases output to 375 horsepower and a whopping 404 lb-ft of torque – 30-35 more horsepower. Paired with AutoStick,® the HEMI MDS system uses sophisticated algorithms to seamlessly transition from eight cylinders to four when full power is not required, providing four percent better fuel mileage. The 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8® sends a corralled stampede of 425 horses straight to the rear wheels. Its throwback Hemi Orange engine block is a nod to where HEMI has been; the updated titanium components within signal where HEMI is going.

6.1-LITERSRT HEMI V8

Its 69.8 horsepowerper-liter rating exceeds that of any vehicle ever offered by Chrysler. It puts out 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque thanks to bored-out cylinders, high-flow heads, SRT specific intake and exhaust manifolds and beefed-up valves that respond to a performance-minded camshaft. It’s only fitting that the reinforced block under the hood of Challenger SRT8® is clad in HemiOrange from the original paint code.

5.7-LITER VVT HEMI V8 WITH MDS(AUTO TRANSMISSION)

Its aluminum cylinder heads are milled with hemispherical combustion chambers that benefit airflow and, subsequently, horsepower and torque. The new and improved 5.7-liter VVT HEMI features Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for improved torque over an extended rpm powerband. When equipped with MDS, the computer-controlled variables all add up to improved mileage.

REAR-WHEEL DRIVE. FORWARD THINKING

Horsepower without control is nothing but a wick in a keg of gunpowder. Challenger’s driveline isa veritable cruise missile of advanced control. Challenger’s independent 5-link rear suspension is tuned to provide improved ride comfort and superior handling on rough roads, thanks to lower unsprung mass which helps maintain better tire contact with the ground and reduces rear road noise. It is further tuned for the SRT8® and features a performance-tuned suspension with Bilstein® monotube tuned dampers. From its specially tailored spring rates and suspension bushings to its beefy sway bars, Challenger SRT8 knows how to put the muscle to the pavement. Anti-spin rear differential? Standard. Electronic Stability Program (ESP)? Standard, complete with full-off mode. Brake knock-back mitigation utilizes a lateral g-force sensor to prime the antilock braking system (ABS) pump and reset the pads for less brake travel when cornering. Alongside this system, SRT8’s massive 4-piston Brembo® Performance calipers and brakes with vented rotors provide nothing less than world-class stopping power. The SRT Reconfigurable Display provides performance data on 0-60 times, ¼-mile times, 1/8-mile times and friction circle. [No system, no matter how sophisticated, can repeal the laws of physics or overcome careless driving actions. Performance is limited by available traction, which snow, ice and other conditions can affect. When the ESP warning lamp flashes, the driver needs to use less throttle and adapt speed and driving behavior to prevailing road conditions. Always drive carefully, consistent with conditions. Always wear your seat belt.

BEHOLD THE BUCKETS

It returns to the scene as the only vehicle in its class to offer five-passenger seating. Withinthese well-bolstered confines lies 40 years of interior tech: lit by available LED cup holders and bathed by courtesy lights. The interior features leather-trimmed bucket seats (available on R/T and SE, standard on SRT8®), available heated seats and an eight-way power driver’s seat with power recline. The rear seating delivers serious space and provides belted seating for three passengers with a standard fold-down armrest and cup holders. Challenger’s EZ-access seat system allows for one-handed entry without the inconvenience of contortion. The 60/40 split-folding feature reveals an equally accommodating trunk for flexibility that’s anything but throwback. The spirit of reinvention continues with an available sunroof, an available pistol grip shifter and a steering wheel featuring available integrated audio controls, while Challenger’s “Four Bomb” gauges and available race-inspired pedals nod to the original. The SRT® only 180-mph speedo is for closed courses when you unleash the muscle. Based on Ward’s Middle Specialty segment.

TUNE IN. TURN ON. TECH OUT

The ribbed seatbacks. The available pistol grip shifter. You practically expect to see sideburns in the rearview mirror. Instead, the biggest advance in car audio since the CD player promises to turn the interior of Challenger into an integrated digital playground. The available uconnect gps has a 30 GB hard drive that lets you store photos, playlists, maps, and points of interest, as well as rip, stash, organize and shuffle up to 4,100 music files from CDs or via the USB port and exterior input jack (complete with Gracenote® for easy song titling). uconnect gps operates by touch screen and accepts commands through its integrated microphone for the uconnect phone, allowing for voice tag dialing and verbal access to the onboard phonebook, as well as playlists and a voice recorder. Behind this 6.5-inch integrated touch screen lies a CD/DVD/ MP3 player that also reads DVD video, all while providing GPS Navigation and real-time traffic via a SIRIUS® Satellite Radio tuner. In-dash DVD capability is not available in all states. See your dealer for details.

FROM A FAMILY OF KINGS

Challenger SE’s standard 3.5-liter SOHC V6 has enough power to pin you to its low-back cloth bucket seats. It features an aluminum block with cast-iron liners and four-valve per cylinder aluminum heads. Its sophisticated electronic throttle control system tailors throttle response to pedal movement based on operating conditions for that rarest combination of efficiency (24 mpg highway and muscle (250 hp @ 6400 rpm). Even the ignition system is trick, with platinum-tipped spark plugs that extend scheduled tune-up intervals to 100,000 miles and a coil-on-plug design that helps reduce emissions and increases fuel economy. The fourspeed transmission delivers enough spirit to match the SE’s sophisticated swagger. Challenger’s broad shoulders are framed with a standard chin spoiler, unmistakable performance hood and post-mounted side mirrors. The SE cockpit features standard front bucket seats and a fourbomb instrument cluster with black surrounds and black headliners. Its three-across rear seats put it in rare company – a coupe with five seat belts. Roll with 17-inch machined-face aluminum or available 18-inch aluminum wheels, with other options, including leather trim or sunroof, to give SE everything it takes to stand out in any crowd of Challengers.

SAFETY REINVENTED

You can’t have swagger without confidence, and you can’t have confidence without true structural integrity. The all-new Challenger is reinforced and reinvented with stand-apart safety and security features. Within it you are cradled in a safety cage and surrounded by an advanced multistage air bag system, fully engineered crumple zones, and high-strength side-guard door beams. Active systems like available Electronic Stability Program (ESP), all-speed traction control, antilock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System form a brilliant behind-the-scenes electronically integrated security network. MULTISTAGE DRIVER FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG: Every Challenger provides standard next-generation multistage  driver and front passenger air bags that use special inflators to deploy with either low, medium or high force, depending upon the demands of the incident. STANDARD SIDE-CURTAIN AIR BAG: The standard side-curtain air bags offer additional side-impact protection for outboard front and rear seat passengers. The deployed curtain covers both windows on the side of the impact. SIDE GUARD DOOR BEAMS: In the event of an accident, Challenger’s structural integrity safeguards its occupants. In addition toextended sill reinforcements, its doors employ a one-piece bake-hardened steel panel with a hot-stamped boron steel side door guard beam for improved side impact protection. ENERGY-ABSORBING STEERING COLUMN: The steering column on every Challenger is designed to deform and deflect away from the driver’s seat in order to protect the driver in the event of a frontal impact.

YOUR OLD SCHOOL COLORS

Those looking to offer a tribute to the 1970s’ original need look no further than a Challenger R/T Classic or SRT8® Spring Special clad exclusively in B5 Blue from the Chrysler paint code archives. The R/T Classic’s scripted fender badge is a nod to the  sire that started it all. It features a vented performance hood that increases airflow while cooling the 5.7-liter VVT HEMI® V8. The polished chrome 20-inch Heritage wheels may be right-now in size, but they’re pure throwback in style, along with the wide-side stripe. Clad an SRT8 in B5 Blue and it will be decked with a performance hood that gives its 6.1-liter HEMI SRT® V8 engine some breathing room. Like eye black on a lineman’s cheekbones or paint on a Tomcat’s nosecone, the SRT8 hood is knocked down in a matte black hood stripe and is ready for battle. Its interior, however, turns it right back up with blue accents on its performance-bolstered seatbacks.

ATTACK OF THE TRACK PAK

It lights them up and lays it down, thanks to a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission that’s controlled via a pistol grip shifter, a 375-horsepower 5.7-liter VVT HEMI® V8 that takes its orders from a bright gas pedal and little switch that lets you tell the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to take a break for a few minutes. This is the Challenger Track Pak. It features Hill Start Assist to aid the driver when starting from a stop on inclines by holding the brake for approximately one second for an effortless start up any hill. The axle ratio on the 18-inch wheels is 3.73; opt for the 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and you also benefit from an antilock four-wheel disc performance braking system (ABS) and a 3.91 axle ratio. The performance steering system is tuned to take the turmoil with a variable displacement pump that counters any fluid slosh during cornering. The performance mind-set continues with a rear axle that features an antispin rear differential. It’s fitting that Challenger offers an available retro R/T wide-side stripe or contemporary hood to fender stripe, because there’s no doubt that this reinvented legend has already earned its stripes. No system, no matter how sophisticated, can repeal the laws of physics or overcome careless driving actions. Performance is limited by available traction, which snow, ice and other conditions can affect.

When the ESP warning lamp flashes, the driver needs to use less throttle and adapt speed and driving behavior to prevailing road conditions. Always drive carefully, consistent with conditions. Always wear your seat belt.

COLOR ME GONE IN ANY TRIM LEVEL

Rarely does a vehicle hit the scene without sacrifice, without being watered down by the constraints of timing or public opinion. Rarely does a vehicle like Challenger come along, where it makes a maverick declaration straight from concept to production without a single stutter. It’s not often that a car’s swagger runs from its base model to its alpha male, but whether in SE, R/T or SRT8® trim, the attitude of the all-new Challenger is heard loud and clear. There’s no question about the statement, only the color you want to make it in.

CHALLENGER WHEELS

CHALLENGER INTERIORS

From the sleek optional leather-trimmed interior to the embroidered leather trim of the SRT8 to the stylish simplicity of the cloth interior, Challenger interior materials are as reinvented as the vehicle that employs them. 1. Momentum Cloth/Wallace II Cloth – Dark Slate Gray (standard on Challenger SE, R/T) 2. Royale Leather with Axis Perforated Inserts – Dark Slate Gray (optional on Challenger SE, R/T) 3. Royale Leather with Medium Slate Gray Axis Perforated Inserts –Dark Slate Gray (optional on Challenger SE, R/T) 4. Royale Leather with Radar Perforated Suede microfiber inserts – Dark Slate Gray (standard on Challenger SRT8.)

DECKING THE DECKED

Even if every Challenger was built exactly the same, they would still be totally unique to the scene. You can customize your Challenger to turn heads as you turn corners with Authentic Dodge Accessories by Mopar. The unique T/A Hood has an integrated scoop that pays respect to its ancestor, amplifying Challenger’s athletic stance. A pedestal-style Rear Go-Wing Spoiler evokes Challengers of the past. The Challenger Body Decal kit and the chrome T-Handle Shifter provide a heritage-inspired design and are constructed of production quality material. And premium katzkin® Leather Seats serve up a street-smart interior worthy of such a custom ride, while Door Sill Guards stylishly protect the front door sills from scratches. Chrysler Financial is focused on delivering you a personal, worry-free automotive financing experience. From competitive rates and fast approvals to flexible terms and personalized service, we’re here to take care of you. To find out more, visit us at cf.com. With the Dodge Rewards Visa credit card, you earn points for every purchase you make which can be redeemed for anything at your Chrysler, Jeep® or Dodge dealership – all with no annual fee! The only insurance guaranteed to repair your vehicle using Authentic Dodge Collision Repair Parts by Mopar for as long as you own your Dodge vehicle, and up to $100 off your deductible when those repairs are done at a Dodge dealership – all at rates that are tough to beat. If your business relies on vehicles, Dodge BUSINESSLINK® can save you time, money and hassles. Enhance your Dodge Challenger with Authentic Dodge Accessories by Mopar. They’re designed specifically for your vehicle, for exceptional fit, finish and performance. The Dodge Goods catalog is a handpicked collection of items bearing the powerful Dodge name – from Motorsports apparel and collectible die-cast models to the latest in work and ranch wear. All Boston Acoustics sound systems offer The Boston Sound, renowned for smooth tonal balance, natural frequency response, and distortion-free presentation, even at high volume. The All-New Dodge Challenger includes a Lifetime Powertrain Limited Warranty. Non-Transferable. Not available on SRT and certain fleet vehicles. See dealer for a copy of limited warranty and details. Honoring Those Who Serve.