SEMA Dodge Challenger wrapup

The Chevrolet Camaro was the official vehicle of SEMA, but you couldn't walk ten feet without tripping over a Challenger at the show. Dodge's reborn pony car has been a big hit so far with the tuner crowd, and it was obvious by all of the variations seen at this year's SEMA.


George Barris' Red Demon – The flagship model of a three-car series, the Red Demon is packing a 725-hp, supercharged 6.1-liter V8, which motivates 20-inch (front) and 22-inch (rear) rollers. However, no amount of power could help the Red Demon escape the long reach of the ugly stick. With an ungainly set of carbon fiber hood scoops, odd 3D roof stripe and a split rear spoiler, we're happy to report that production is limited.


Newport Convertible Engineering Inc – Dodge may have made the decision not to offer the Challenger sans roof, but a number of firms are stepping up to hack the lid off the modern-day muscle car. NCE made an admirable attempt at creating an OEM-like fit and finish, but it's still a bit rough and there's no word on additional bracing to avoid the chassis doing its best wet noodle impression.


Mopar Underground Blacktop – The brawny black brawler is only equipped with a cat-back exhaust, intake, coilovers and wheels, but what it lacks in mods it makes up for with presence.


Class Design Concepts Group 2 Widebody – Mixing a menacing stance with a Vortech supercharger, 15-inch Baer brakes and a KW coilover setup, the widebody Challenger is ready to do battle against its pony car competition.


Mr. Norm's AAR 'Cuda – Drag racing legend Mr. Norm is in touch with his inner speed demon and the result is this 900-hp (claimed) 'Cuda redux with SSBC brakes, forged wheels, Hotchkis suspension and a Plymouth-inspired grille.


Mopar Underground Targa – We're a sucker for road-going racers and particularly those that have a grueling campaign under their belts. The Targa Challenger hits both points and comes equipped with tweaked HEMI V8 putting out 540 hp and 490 lb.-ft. of torque to a Tremec six-speed manual and modified rear diff. The KW suspension and StopTech brakes round things out, making the Targa one of the most desirable Challengers on the floor.


Mopar Drift Challenger – Sam Hubinett is a lucky guy. Not only does he get to slide cars sideways for a living, but he gets to do it in this 850-hp Challenger. While it's hardly subtle, we're sure the paint scheme will catch spectator's eyes and we're digging the fender-mounted roller blade wheels to keep barrier brushes to a minimum.


Hurst HEMI – It's one of the most subtle and attractive Challengers on the floor, and even has those of us less than enamored by the coupe have a soft spot for the Hurst. The 530-hp, Stage 4 package helps too.


Group Five Limited TT G5/R – Two turbos, a tuned ECU and plenty of custom upgrades make the Group Five one of the most heavily modified Challengers on the floor.


Challenger SRT10 Concept – 8.4-liter Viper-sourced V10. Period. The Bilsteins, brakes and custom body panels are nice too. But 600+ hp and 560 lb.-ft. of torque does most of the speaking.