2013 Dodge Challenger Review
2013 Dodge Challenger Review





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Used Challenger for sale
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Compliant ride
- spacious and comfortable cabin
- strong V6 and V8 engines
- huge trunk
- upscale interior quality
- distinctive exterior styling.
Cons
- Compromised rear visibility
- handling not as sharp as rivals.
What’s new
The 2013 Dodge Challenger is unchanged.
Edmunds says
The 2013 Dodge Challenger is sure to delight muscle car fanatics with its power and attitude, while winning over more fans with its civilized road manners and higher levels of comfort.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2013 Dodge Challenger SXT 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$263/mo
Challenger SXT
vs
$289/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
There's a simple formula when it comes to muscle cars. Make it powerful, make it fast and make it look good. The urge to add to that formula is hard to resist, and many times shunned by the muscle car faithful, but sometimes it further enhances the experience.
The 2013 Dodge Challenger executes that formula with solid determination and benefits from a little added something that is rare among its competitors: comfort. From a smooth and compliant ride to an abundance of interior space, the Challenger isn't a challenge to live with.
Fortunately, this added luxury doesn't require compromises that might alter its muscle car personality. The entry-level V6 is anything but timid, though the 5.7-liter V8 is the obvious power plant of choice. For the rare driver who subscribes to the "too much is almost enough" philosophy, the 6.4-liter V8 will likely satisfy his cravings. Then there are the Challenger's looks. With a sinister front end and a menacing overall stance, it has the don't-mess-with-me attitude that is synonymous with muscle cars.
Pitted against its few rivals, the 2013 Dodge Challenger makes a very compelling case for itself. We still consider the 2013 Ford Mustang to be the top choice for its all-around excellence and bang-for-the-buck value. The 2013 Chevrolet Camaro is also a must-see if for its styling alone. But if you want some extra livability with your muscle car, the Challenger is the best choice here.
Performance & mpg
The 2013 Dodge Challenger SXT is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.
The Challenger R/T gets a 5.7-liter V8 that when paired with the standard six-speed manual transmission cranks out 375 hp and 410 lb-ft. When hooked up to the available five-speed automatic, output drops slightly to 372 hp and 400 lb-ft. In Edmunds testing, a manual-equipped Challenger R/T went from zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds; the automatic raises that to 5.8 seconds. Fuel mileage estimates are 16/25/19 for the automatic, with the manual getting 15/23/18.
The Challenger SRT8 392 gets a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional. In Edmunds testing, a manual-equipped SRT8 392 went from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Fuel mileage estimates are 14/23/17 for either transmission.
Safety
Every 2013 Dodge Challenger comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the SRT8 392 came to a stop in an excellent 106 feet.
Driving
While all 2013 Dodge Challengers are blessed with a ride quality that's comfortable enough to keep your mom happy when you pick her up from the airport, the base tuning of the SXT is pretty floaty. We highly recommend going for the Super Sport group's performance-tuned suspension, which buttons down the ride and brings with it more responsive steering and brakes. Or you could just get the R/T, which comes standard with those upgrades, plus the big V8 that, as expected, will have your mother screaming with anger or delight as you tear away from Arrivals. That goes double for the SRT8 392.
Overall handling is pretty respectable, particularly with the R/T and SRT8 392, though competitors like the Mustang or Hyundai Genesis Coupe are noticeably more agile.
Interior
Unlike the Dodge Challenger's distinctive-looking exterior, the interior is quite bland. A few styling cues, like the large beveled dashboard and distinctive shifter knobs, are reminiscent of Challengers past, but overall, the interior experience pales in comparison to its retro-themed rivals. Rearward visibility, because of the car's chunky rear roof pillars, is also poor.
Despite a slightly confusing audio interface, however, the interior is quite functional and its materials are of good quality, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces. A relatively small-diameter steering wheel that's well-contoured makes for a pleasant interface between car and driver.
The front seats in most Challengers are wide and flat, which doesn't do much for lateral support, but they're exceptionally comfy for long-distance drives. The SRT8's have better bolstering and are also covered in leather and faux suede. The rear seats are surprisingly roomy for two adults, with good headroom and decent legroom. The backseat also features a 60/40 split-folding back, a fold-down armrest and a middle seat for tiny/good-natured folks. At 16.2 cubic feet, the Challenger's trunk is positively enormous for this segment and bigger than those of many midsize sedans.
2013 Dodge Challenger models
The 2013 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat coupe available in three trim levels that each corresponds to a different engine: SXT, R/T and SRT8 392.
The SXT's standard equipment includes a V6 engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry/ignition, full power accessories, cruise control, automatic climate control, rear A/C outlets, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, a six-way power driver seat (with power lumbar adjustment), a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a trip computer and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.
The optional SXT Plus package adds foglights, automatic headlights, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated visor mirrors, Bluetooth connectivity/streaming audio and an upgraded sound system with satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface.
The SXT also offers a number of other packages. The Super Sport group includes 20-inch chrome wheels (with performance tires), a rear spoiler, a 3.06 rear axle ratio, performance-tuned suspension/steering/brakes and steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. An Interior Appearance group includes metal-accented pedals, a car cover, upgraded floor mats and a T-handle shifter. The Electronics Convenience group includes heated mirrors, remote start and displays for tire pressure and outside temperature. The Sound Group II package comes with a 6.5-inch display screen, Boston Acoustics speakers and digital music storage.
The Challenger R/T gets a V8 engine, the SXT's Super Sport group (except with 18-inch alloy wheels), automatic headlamps, foglamps, heated mirrors, a USB/iPod interface, satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity/streaming audio. The R/T Plus package adds the rest of the features of the SXT Plus package that aren't already standard. The R/T Classic package includes the R/T Plus items as well as 20-inch "heritage-style" wheels, black side stripes, functional hood scoops and xenon headlights. The Super Track Pak (not a typo) includes higher-performance suspension/steering/brakes and revised stability control programming. Audio/navigation options essentially mirror those of the SXT. The R/T also offers the Interior Appearance group.
Individual option highlights for the SXT and R/T include a sunroof and a variety of special Mopar trim pieces and styling enhancements.
The Challenger SRT8 392 gets all the R/T's basic equipment, but adds a larger V8 engine, xenon headlamps, unique 20-inch wheels, sport seats, an upgraded trip computer with real-time performance data, hydraulic power steering (versus electrohydraulic), upgraded brakes and suspension and a one-day driver training course at the SRT Track Experience. Optional for the SRT8 are a navigation system and a premium 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2013 Dodge Challenger.
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
Challenger 2013 SXT Rally Redline
1publicservant,01/09/2013
SXT 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
I traded in my 2010 Mustang Premium coupe for a 2013 SXT Challenger due to a defect discovered in the Mustang after my warranty conveniently expired. It's a very different ride. I got the rally redline package with all of the bells and whistles. Black with over the top red stripes and 20" tires with red rims. Leather, heated seats, navigation, BA speakers in the trunk, sun roof, reverse … sensor to compensate for the blind spot when backing up, proximity keys and touch to start. Very comfortable ride, good pick-up in a straight line. It's got chunky handling around corners at higher speeds- my mustang really gripped the road. Handles much better than the ford in inclement weather. I'm happy.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Modern Muscle, Vintage Vibe
ivaskaj,04/28/2014
R/T 2dr Coupe (5.7L 8cyl 6M)
R/T base with the 6spd manual, Sound Group II stereo, HID headlights, and a sunroof.
This thing is quick.
So far, I've seen an avg. of 4.85 seconds on the 0-60 timer in the info center.
The transmission shifts smooth and precise, excellent for stock.
Love the pistol grip.
The torque curve is as flat as Montana, and twice as big.
This thing sounds amazing for a stock exhaust, nice growl … under acceleration, but barely audible at highway speeds.
Excellent ride quality, and it's library quiet at 70 mph.
HID headlights are amazing, both low & high beams.
The stereo is also excellent, plenty of bass.
Never seen less than 19 mpg, and a peak of 23 so far.
5 out of 5 stars
young again my first car was a 1970 Challenger
Carldbrownjr,07/02/2016
SXT 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
I have owned car for 35000 miles and still love it with stripes that my wife and I installed and flowmaster exhaust the car gets compliments every where we go that's why they haven't changed designs like the competition has I've had to replace 3 wheel sensor s at 20$ each 10 minutes each I installed them drove to New Orleans from south Florida average mileage was 26mpg very comfortable … ride we have the plus model which has leather seats and great navigation and stereo don't see selling any time soon trunk is huge with folding rear seats we can carry fishing poles LOVE this car the only thing I have a problem with are the dodge dealership's took it in to have airbags replaced and oil change they knocked out the reading of a tpm I have a issue with a sensor for transmission but I don't have confidence in them
5 out of 5 stars
Flawless after three years
russl57,03/30/2013
R/T 2dr Coupe (5.7L 8cyl 6M)
Last year I had difficulty in deciding whether to buy a Charger or Challenger. I bought the Charger and liked the Dodge product so much that this year I bought a Challenger. Both are RT's. The Charger was a better value but the Challenger is a great car.
A lot of people want to compare the Challenger to the Camaro and Mustang. This is a huge mistake. Each has its advantages and … disadvantages. For pure speed and handling the Challenger will never compete with the Camaro or Mustang. For comfort, room and road presence the Camaro and Mustang are not in the same class as the Challenger.I like all three cars and I am not brand loyal at all. I bought an RT Plus in Granite Metallic, just Beautiful. UPDATE 3-31-16. It has been 3 years since I purchased my Challenger RT. I have not had a Single issue with the car. I only drive it in fair weather and there is 4900 miles on the odometer. It has not been back to the dealer since I bought it. I dressed up the interior with some parts from Fast Hemis.com. I put an active 3" exhaust on it and a free flowing air cleaner. Other than that it is stock. I retired in 2014 and sold my Corvette and kept the Challenger. It is far more comfortable and practical.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat4 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.1%
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More about the 2013 Dodge Challenger
Used 2013 Dodge Challenger Overview
The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger is offered in the following submodels: Challenger Coupe, Challenger SRT8, Challenger SRT8 Core. Available styles include SXT 2dr Coupe (3.6L 6cyl 5A), R/T 2dr Coupe (5.7L 8cyl 6M), SRT8 2dr Coupe (6.4L 8cyl 6M), and SRT8 Core 2dr Coupe (6.4L 8cyl 6M). Pre-owned Dodge Challenger models are available with a 3.6 L-liter gas engine or a 5.7 L-liter gas engine or a 6.4 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 470 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 5-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed manual. The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 100000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2013 Dodge Challenger?
Price comparisons for Used 2013 Dodge Challenger trim styles:
- The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T is priced between $21,990 and$31,999 with odometer readings between 10035 and109672 miles.
- The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger SXT is priced between $18,995 and$23,777 with odometer readings between 33313 and93645 miles.
- The Used 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is priced between $27,590 and$33,995 with odometer readings between 40891 and104103 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2013 Dodge Challengers are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2013 Dodge Challenger for sale near. There are currently 19 used and CPO 2013 Challengers listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $18,995 and mileage as low as 10035 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2013 Dodge Challenger.
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Should I lease or buy a 2013 Dodge Challenger?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Dodge lease specials
Check out Dodge Challenger lease specials
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