Dodge celebrates 40 years of performance with Furious Fuchsia Challengers, 15 most popular performance upgrades revealed

Back in the day, folks liked their Mopar muscle cars in some pretty funky colors. Plum Crazy and Panther Pink, and all sorts of vibrant colors were a guarantee that you would attract attention. Now Dodge is reaching back to the past with the insanely bright, almost pinkish Furious Fushia color for it's Challenger.

According to Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles, the introduction of the retro color celebrates "four decades of Challenger performance." We'll just stick with black, thanks.

In other Mopar news, it seems that the average Dodge Challenger owner spends about $600 on accessories and performance parts from Chrysler's Mopar catalog. Strangely enough, the most popular item are the brushed stainless steel door sill guards.

See the press release below for the complete list of Mopar's top selling Challenger accessories.

Press Release

Dodge Celebrates Four Decades Of Challenger's Muscle-car Heritage With Limited-edition Furious Fuchsia Models

2010 Dodge Challenger Furious Fuchsia editions commemorate 40 years of Dodge muscle-car performance
Limited-edition Furious Fuchsia exterior answers customers' desire for the return of more Dodge brand high-impact heritage paint hues
2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic edition is available in all-new Pearl White performance seats and Bright White A-line body-side R/T stripes
Dodge Challenger SRT8® Furious Fuchsia edition features unique 20-inch SRT forged aluminum wheels with Satin Black painted pockets, serialized dash plaque, Pearl White leather SRT performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accent stripe and retro-inspired chromed quad exhaust tips
Limited-production run of Dodge Challenger R/T Classic editions and only 400 Dodge Challenger SRT8 editions in Furious Fuchsia available
Auburn Hills, Mich., Feb 8, 2010 - Two of the wildest and rarest 2010 Dodge Challenger models will soon be available to Dodge fans and collectors to commemorate 40 years of Dodge Challenger performance; the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and Challenger SRT8® Furious Fuchsia editions. With its Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat exterior paint and all-new Pearl White leather performance seats, these limited-edition Dodge Challenger models deliver the best of modern American muscle-car characteristics-unmistakable design, world-class handling, powerful HEMI® V-8 engines and technology-now in one of the most significant hues.

"Commemorating four decades of Challenger performance, the new R/T Classic and SRT8 Furious Fuchsia editions modernize one of the most memorable hues from 1970 to create a modern muscle-car that exudes more performance, passion and even more nostalgia," said Ralph Gilles, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Car Brand and Senior Vice President-Product Design, Chrysler Group LLC. "As an ode to our Dodge fans, these highly collectible models feature all-new Pearl White leather performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accents to deliver a customized, yet contemporary look to the heritage-inspired interior. Sum it all up, and Dodge is delivering a muscle-car tribute that no other manufacturer can even match."

The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat is $35,140, while the high-performance SRT8 model is $45,150 (both prices include $725 destination). Both Furious Fuchsia editions will be available for order at Dodge dealerships nationwide in March.

2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia
Based on the powerful 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T, the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia edition features dual throwback A-line body-side R/T stripes in Matte Black or Bright White. Completing the look are "Challenger" fender badges in classic script, large 20-inch polished-aluminum heritage wheels with all-season performance tires, classic egg-crate grille with heritage "R/T" badge, body-color rear spoiler, functional hood scoop and bright racing style fuel-filler door.

On the interior, the trapezoidal theme of the door-panel and gauge cluster, dark headliner and slanted shifter console are inspired by the original Dodge Challenger. Inspiration from the past continues with exclusive Pearl White performance seats accented with Dark Slate Gray and Furious Fuchsia French-seamed stitching as a factory-installed option. Monotone Dark Slate Gray leather performance seats and center console armrest with Furious Fuchsia accent stitching are standard.

When paired with the Tremec six-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic Furious Fuchsia edition includes the performance-minded Track Pak with precision-shift "pistol-grip" shifter, anti-spin 3.92 differential and a performance-tuned dual exhaust with two low-restriction bottle resonators for maximum "throatiness." And when it's time to deliver, the Furious Fuchsia R/T Classic can accelerate from 0–60 mph in less than six seconds with its powerful 376 horsepower (280 kW) and 410 lb.-ft. of torque (556 N•m) 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine.

2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Furious Fuchsia
If the tire-smoking Furious Fuchsia R/T Classic is not exciting enough, the 400 ultra-exclusive 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 versions delivers even more punch with a 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine-with engine block lacquered in original HEMI Orange paint-producing 425 horsepower (317 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 N•m) of torque, performance-tuned ride and handling, benchmark braking and race-inspired interior with unique SRT-designed appointments.

The limited-production Dodge Challenger SRT8 in Furious Fuchsia is based on the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and features several standard equipment upgrades, including all-new Pearl White leather SRT performance seats with Furious Fuchsia accented stripe, unique 20-inch SRT forged-aluminum wheels with Satin Black accents, serialized dash plaque indicating the limited production series of 400 and retro-inspired chromed quad-exhaust tips.

Production of the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and SRT8 Furious Fuchsia Editions
Production of the all-new 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic and SRT8 in limited-production Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat will start in May 2010 at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. These special-edition coupes will be built on the same assembly line as the award-winning and quality-proven Dodge Charger and Dodge Charger SRT8 sedans.

Mopar(R) Announces Best-Selling Performance Parts and Accessories for 2010 Dodge Challenger

Mopar crashes Challenger's 40th birthday party bearing performance parts and accessories

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ --

Mopar offers an array of performance parts and more than 100 accessories for the Dodge Challenger lineup
Complete list of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram performance parts and accessories is available at www.mopar.com
Mopar is bringing a truck-load of performance parts and accessories to Dodge Challenger's 40th birthday party.

"Dodge Challenger is one of our most accessorized vehicles," said Pietro Gorlier, President and Chief Executive Officer - Mopar Service, Parts and Customer Care, Chrysler Group LLC. "Unlike any other automotive aftermarket company, Mopar parts and accessories are specifically designed, engineered and quality-tested to further enhance the performance and appearance of our Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. This results in Dodge Challenger owners spending more than $600 on Mopar accessories."

The 2010 Dodge Challenger is available in three models - SE, R/T and SRT8. With cutting-edge technology and ultimate performance in two available HEMI® V-8 engines, Dodge Challenger delivers on the brand's "bold, powerful and capable" credo.

Following are Mopar's best-selling accessories for Dodge Challenger:

1. Door-Sill Guards: Mopar's brushed stainless steel guards make scratches to the interior sills a thing of the past. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $140

2. Vehicle Cover: Dodge Challenger owners may cover their prized possession with Mopar's vehicle cover. Protection from ultraviolet rays, dirt and other pollutants is available with a washable cover that features a Dodge Challenger logo and elastic edges. MSRP: $323

3. Chromed Fuel-Filler Door: A chromed custom fuel door complements Dodge Challenger's exterior paint colors and provides the retro look of muscle cars from the past. MSRP: $176

4. Rear Deck-Lid Spoiler: Mopar's "go-wing" spoiler attracts additional attention for the owner who is looking for that enhanced heritage look. MSRP: $316

5. Splash Guard Kits: Molded splash guards provide excellent protection for front fenders, rocker panels and rear fascias. MSRP: $52.75/pair

6. Classic Mopar T/A hood: Available with an integrated scoop that adds to Dodge Challenger's aggressive appearance. The scoop is matte black and may be painted to match any exterior. MSRP: $1,275

7. Decal Kits: Mopar offers a variety of graphics that provide long-lasting appeal and are constructed of fade- and weather-resistant vinyl. Among the available choices are a full body-side beltline graphic in matte black or matte silver (MSRP: $190) or a custom strobe stripe beginning on the front of the vehicle and fading out midway through the door (MSRP: $182).

8. Floor Mat Kit: A set of four dark-slate grey mats provide excellent protection for floor surfaces and feature a Dodge Challenger logo. MSRP: $82.25

9. Hitch Receiver: Available for base and R/T models, the 1,000-pound tow-rated hitch has a 2-inch receiver opening. MSRP: $298

10. Interior Trim Bezel: Provides an upgraded look on the center stack bezel and console trim plate with a carbon weave finish. MSRP: $172

On the performance side, Mopar continues to offer key engine and suspension components for any production Challenger. Following are a few of the most popular offerings:

1. Cold-Air Intake Systems: Replaces the factory system for the 5.7-liter HEMI (MSRP: $371) or 6.1-liter HEMI (MSRP: $384) and allows cooler outside air into the engine for gains in horsepower and torque.

2. Cat-Back Exhaust Systems: Deliver a throaty exhaust tone while providing improved horsepower and torque. Available for 5.7-liter HEMI (MSRP: $1,190) and 6.1-liter HEMI (MSRP: $1,745).

3. Stage 2 Coilover Suspension Kit: Allows Dodge Challenger owners to lower the ride height of their vehicle for a low, custom look and a sporty ride. MSRP: $1,750

4. Mopar Strut Tower Brace: Reduces body flex in the front end while improving handling. MSRP: $359

5. Performance Brake Pads: Offer superior braking and pedal feel without brake fade at higher operating temperatures. MSRP: $74

About Dodge Brand

Dodge is a full line of cars, SUVs and MPVs that are agile, daring, sensible and inventive. The product line includes the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey, Dodge Nitro and Dodge Viper SRT10.

Dodge introduced two new vehicles for the 2009 model year: the all-new 2009 Dodge Journey, the brand's first crossover vehicle and the 2009 Dodge Challenger, a modern-day American muscle car. Dodge also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the minivan during the 2009 model year. With more than 65 minivan-firsts introduced since 1983 and more than 12 million Dodge and Chrysler minivans sold, Chrysler Group LLC has solidified its leadership in the segment. J.D. Power and Associates further acknowledged this leadership by naming the Dodge Grand Caravan the Most Dependable Van for 2009. The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan continues to set the mark in the minivan segment with unsurpassed fuel economy of 17 city / 25 highway mpg and minivan-first innovations including the segment's only Stow 'n Go® and Swivel 'n Go® seating and storage systems. The 2010 Dodge Journey and 2010 Dodge Avenger (with ESC) also earned the 2009 Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

Mopar Brand

Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles - a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide.

More than 70 Years of Mopar

When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words Motor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s - the muscle-car era. The former Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth "package cars" equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of "special parts" for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.

Source: Chrysler Group LLC