2022 Dodge Challenger

Eric Stafford, with CARandDRIVER, wrote...Few new cars could be sent back to the late '60s or early 70s and not look like they are from the future, but the 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is one that could. Sure, the coupes assortment of available driver assists and crisp touchscreen infotainment system would be out of place, but its thundering V-8, gas-sucking fuel economy, and retro appearance would fit right in. Of course, its outrageous horsepower ratings...717 on the regular Hellcat...claimed 10.5-second quarter-mile time, would be as shocking as when Marty McFly shreds the electric guitar at the end of Back to the Future. Even in 2022, the Challengers supercharged Hellcat engine is impressive, and its available widebody treatment makes it look more badass and helps it handle better. Still, it cant keep up with the Chevy Camaro ZL1 or Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 on a road-racing circuit. No worries, though. For folks looking to get nostalgic or dominate the drag strip, the Challenger SRT Hellcat is the machine to get. We have driven several Hellcats and—as expected—never got tired of tapping into the endless power supply. However, launching the unruly beast straight and true is an exercise in extreme car control. Every model had an insidious growl at startup that builds to a hellish howl under heavy throttle. The Hellcat's distinct supercharger whine will send shivers down your spine from either fear or excitement—most likely both. These high-performance Challengers might not be the ultimate tools for a track-attack event, but they're quick as hell in a straight line and handle well enough to hustle down twisty back roads—provided your heavy right foot knows when to let up.