The Dodge Challenger is another item we got right – whether it be the 1970’s muscle car or upcoming 2011 Challenger model. Oh, there’s one more thing…Freedom.

This ad first appeared during the World Cup – in an attempt to remind each resident of our globe that we beat the British, and if need be we could do it again; so long as there are a few Dodge Challengers around.

Thanks to my buddy Dave for pointing this one out!

Dodge’s final Viper to be produced was a one of a kind gold\orange stripes edition, with special Last Production Viper designations and a distinctive interior as well.

Viper’s production began in 1992, and quickly spawned a huge cult following along with its own NBC TV show, also called Viper. The original Dodge Viper “Roadster” contained a 400 horsepower powerplant. Current (and final) Vipers range in the 600-plus horsepower ACR engines.

We don’t know if Dodge will ever produce some kind of Viper replacement or futuristic sportscar anytime soon. For now, we look back fondly on our fallen Viper brethren, and look hopeful at tomorrow that a new generation will grow to appreciate that big grill front and and 600 American horsepower.

via | Dragtimes

But as gas prices, car prices and customer concern all shot-up exponentially, the Magnum, along with a slew of other vehicles, was put on the chopping block.

Here’s what Dodgepedia had to say about the Magnum back in 2008: There is an armada of engines that can are ready to power the 2008 Magnum. The standard 2.7-liter V6 in the base model can generate up to 178 horsepower, and the optional 3.5-liter V6 can get up to 250 horsepower. Move up to the next trim level and the 340-horsepower 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is standard! The four-speed automatic transmission and the five-speed automatic with manual capabilities are the two available transmissions. The SRT8 is in a league of its own and gets a 425 horsepower 6.1-liter V8 engine. Magnum was a moderate hit, with cult followings and appearances in TV and film, such as 2007’s Southland Tales, pictured above.

On November 1, 2007, Chrysler announced as part of its restructuring plans the Dodge Magnum would be one of four models discontinued after the 2008 model year. In Chrysler’s words: “The Magnum, along with the PT Cruiser convertible, the Crossfire, and the Pacifica were not earning their keep.” Unfortunately, Magnum and Crossfire were the only true losses, as Pacifica and PT are still around today.

But Magnum blazed a design trail, with Journey and Caliber borrowing front and rear end looks from the sports wagon.

But we still love the Magnum, and if you watch your highways every so often, one might just drive by.

Dodge will use the funding to develop a 5.7-liter Hemi-powered Ram Hybrid, capable of traveling up to 20 miles using only the power supplied by a 12KwHr lithium-ion battery.

“This initiative represents how government, automotive industry, suppliers and key partners are reaching common goals and demonstrates how rapidly this type of advanced technology can be brought to market,” said Paolo Ferrero, Chrysler’s Senior Vice President-Powertrain, in a statement released to the media. “DOE-support for domestic advanced technology is an important enabler for Chrysler Group and its key suppliers in order to understand and test customer acceptance and the capability of PHEV systems in a variety of real-world conditions.”

Chrysler also says “reviewing the public’s response to other hybrid pickups – namely the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra” was another key factor in their decision to stop regular hybrid production.

Source: LeftLaneNews

Dodge has come up with an interesting incentive package for folks interested in picking up a Dodge Challenger with a Hemi engine option. It will offer buyers of any 2010 Challenger R/T, R/T Classic, or SRT8 Challenger nearly $2000 in “Mopar Bucks” to spend on factory accessories.

“The Challenger is one of our most accessorized vehicles,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO of Chrysler’s Mopar division. “With this program, Mopar and Dodge are putting $2000 in our customers’ pockets and giving them the chance to accessorize their vehicle.”

With goodies such as upgraded coil-over suspension kits and cat-back exhausts available, it’s easy to see how this incentive will draw in Challenger customers. The $2000 in Mopar Bucks are however, only good on select items, including the above parts, along with performance shifter kits, a Challenger T/A-style hood, a rear “Go-Wing” spoiler, and various exterior graphics.

Dodge also offers Mopar package bundles for the Challenger, including an exterior package at $1,995. There’s also an interior package for $945 for the automatic equipped vehicles and $780 for the manual models. Both interior options are available on R/T sprayed in TorRed, Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal and Bright White.

Look for Dodge’s Mopar Bucks Program to run through April 30.

Based on my research it seems these are not the same items, which is good to know! Because I want to be just as manly as the all new 2010 Dodge Charger.

I also want Michael C. Hall, possibly one of the best actors (on TV at least) of our generation, to explain how Dodge vehicles are on sale, but socks are not discounted. Funny Dodge should choose him for their “Manly” spokesperson – he is talking about being such a “man,” and was famous for portraying an out gay character on the HBO series Six Feet Under. We’re not saying a gay male needs to be stereotyped – in fact all the guy guys I know can probably kick my ass in a game of full contact football, it’s just funny how short everyone’s memories are these days.

The Source: AdvertisingAge

“Dodge proudly introduces the Viper ACR-X, a combination of the record-setting, street-legal Viper ACR and the championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe. The Viper ACR-X utilizes the 600 horsepower ACR as a starting point and with the aid of headers and a low-restriction exhaust system pushes it to a pavement-pounding 640 horsepower. The suspension is upgraded and tuned solely for the track, optimizing its performance on the toughest road courses. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, help stability and improve grip in high-speed corners.”

Come on, don’t let $100,000 scare you away from a Viper ACR-X. It’s actually $30,000 off a Viper Competition Coupe. ACR-X will most certainly become a rare collector’s item once Dodge cuts production of Viper in the near future. So get yours now fellas and ladies – or at least enjoy the gawking.

NASCAR will allow the Challenger to compete in four “New Car” races next season. For the other 31 races, both Allgaier and Keselowski will pilot their Dodge Charger stock cars. Challenger’s first race will be held at Daytona in July 2010, with a possible Talladega test run sometime soon.

via automobilemag

The Chrysler Division itself is headed up by Olivier Francois, the current head of Fiat’s Lancia unit. Jeep (yes, Jeep is still around) will stay under the control of Michael Manley. Gilles, best-known designs include the successful Chrysler 300 and the current Dodge Ram interior, will be in charge of expanding the Dodge lineup. Dodge will most likely take a more performance-oriented direction in the future.

Not only will we witness a new Dodge Ram for next year, but a 2011 Jeep Cherokee as well. Looks like everything is coming up Truck!