New All-Wheel-Drive Model on 2017 Dodge Challenger Lineup

Big news for muscle car enthusiasts. Before the Dodge Challenger’s big redesign in 2018, Dodge is experimenting with a new model, the 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD. This new Challenger model will make the Challenger GT AWD only all-wheel-drive muscle car coupe on the market.

Though Floridians don’t have snowy or icy roads to drive on, most Americans have to keep their muscle cars inside during the winter, but not if they own a Challenger GT AWD.

The Challenger GT’s all-wheel-drive system will be the same high-performance drivetrain that has been available on the Dodge Charger since 2011. Rather than a rear-wheel drivetrain, which transmits the engine’s power to the vehicle’s rear wheels, the engine’s power will be equally transmitted to all four wheels. As a result of the balance in power to all wheels, all-wheel-drive cars have improved handling and traction, especially when the road is snowy, icy or slippery. For those of us in Florida, this can also greatly increase traction in rainy or wet conditions.

However, buyers don’t need to worry about a permanent change in driving experience that people expect of rear-wheel-drive muscle cars. The AWD system is only engaged when sensors detect a need for the additional traction an all-wheel-drive system provides.

The new 2017 Dodge Challenger GT AWD will be equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, which  pushes out 395 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. The Challenger GT is expected to be available in early 2017 and it will have a starting MSRP of $33,395.