The beast is back as Dodge has officially unveiled the 2012 Charger SRT8 in Chicago.
Featuring a snarling front end, the high-performance model is distinguished by a high-gloss black grille, aggressive side skirts, a dual exhaust system and 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels.
To spruce up the cabin, designers added a flat-bottom steering wheel, sport seats (with perforated suede inserts), faux carbon fiber trim and aluminum accents. Additionally, the car is equipped with heated / ventilated front seats, a 900-watt Harmon Kardon audio system, and Uconnect Touch with an 8.4-inch display.
Under the hood, power comes from a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 with approximately 465 hp (347 kW / 471 PS) and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a five-speed automatic transmission - with paddle-shifters on the steering wheel - that enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in the "high four second range" and hit an estimated top speed of 175 mph (282 km/h). Furthermore, thanks to multi-cylinder deactivation and an active exhaust, Dodge expects the new engine will be more fuel-efficient than the previous 6.1-liter V8 that produced 425 hp (317 kW / 431 PS) and 420 lb-ft (569 Nm) of torque.
To ensure the Charger isn't just about straight line performance, engineers installed an adaptive damping suspension, a heavy-duty steering system (with a new pump and revised gearing), and a Brembo braking system with vented discs that measure 14.2" front / 13.8" rear.
No word on pricing, but the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is schedule to arrive in dealerships this fall.
