10 Amazing Configurations for the 2021 Dodge Challenger: Which One Is Right for You?

If you're looking for power, style, and that nostalgic muscle car feel you've come to the right place. The 2021 Dodge Challenger comes with a range of configurations that give you the freedom to find your perfect ride. But what are the best options for you and what’s the difference between all those trims? Well you're in luck! Let’s break down the 10 fantastic configurations for the 2021 Dodge Challenger so you can pick the one that best matches your inner speed demon.

Overview: Why the 2021 Dodge Challenger Still Packs a Punch

The Dodge Challenger has long been the symbol of raw American horsepower and the 2021 model doesn’t disappoint. From the budget-friendly SXT to the insane SRT Super Stock this car lineup offers everything from comfort to jaw-dropping performance. Each trim brings something unique to the table and we’re gonna dive deep into all the highlights and potential shortcomings in this honest and comprehensive breakdown.

The Configurations: Finding Your Challenger Match

Let’s break it down from the base model all the way to the top of the line so you can find what’s right for your needs and your wallet. We’ve got 10 trims to cover:

1. SXT
2. GT
3. R/T
4. R/T Scat Pack
5. R/T Scat Pack Widebody
6. SRT Hellcat
7. SRT Hellcat Widebody
8. SRT Hellcat Redeye
9. SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody
10. SRT Super Stock

SXT: The Entry-Level Muscle Machine

The SXT trim is the most affordable option to jump into the Challenger lineup. Powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine this configuration produces 303 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers rear-wheel drive as standard or optional all-wheel drive.

Pros

• Affordable entry point to the Challenger lineup.
• Decent fuel economy for a muscle car with 19 city/30 highway MPG.
• Standard tech features like a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

Cons

• The V6 engine doesn’t have that "throw you back in the seat" power. It's like going to a Metallica concert with earplugs.
• No option for manual transmission. Bummer for purists who love that hands-on driving experience.

Opinion

Alex Collantes says "The SXT is perfect for those who want the look and feel of a muscle car but without the ridiculous price tag or crazy horsepower."

GT: Stepping Up the Game

Next up we have the GT. It shares the same V6 engine as the SXT but adds a bit more finesse to the exterior and a sporty suspension. This trim is all about blending performance with daily drivability.

Pros

• Sportier styling with a hood scoop and rear spoiler.
• Improved performance suspension for a more engaging driving experience.
• All-wheel drive available.

Cons

• The V6 engine's "muscle" is still more like a casual flex at the gym. Strong but not really intimidating.
• Price jump for essentially a sportier SXT—might leave you thinking "is this worth the extra cash?"

R/T: The Hemi Enters the Chat

If you’re ready for some real muscle the R/T is where things get spicy. With a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine producing 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque this trim is a massive leap forward in terms of power.

Pros

• V8 power with a satisfying growl that'll make you feel like a kid on a rollercoaster.
• Available with a 6-speed manual transmission for that classic muscle car experience.
• Adds performance steering and suspension for tighter handling.

Cons

• Fuel economy takes a dive to 16 city/25 highway MPG. Let's just say you're trading miles for smiles.
• Can get a bit loud at higher speeds. So maybe don’t try to sneak home late at night.

R/T Scat Pack: More Power More Fun

The R/T Scat Pack kicks things up with a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 churning out 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This is where the Challenger starts getting real serious.

Pros

• Adds Brembo performance brakes for better stopping power.
• Comes with a Line Lock feature for easy burnouts (you know for those times when you need to show off).
• Standard launch control to get the most out of that big V8 engine.

Cons

• Might be too much car for some drivers. Like giving a kid a chainsaw—it’s fun but can get out of hand quickly.
• The insurance costs will probably make you cry a little.

R/T Scat Pack Widebody: A Little Wider A Little Wilder

Take everything great about the R/T Scat Pack and give it a wide stance—hence the name Widebody. This model has wider fender flares and 20x11-inch wheels which offer more grip and better cornering.

Pros

• Wider wheels and tires for improved grip and handling.
• The adaptive damping suspension makes this beast surprisingly agile around turns.
• Looks meaner than your boss on a Monday morning.

Cons

• Larger size can make parking a challenge. Good luck squeezing into tight spaces!
• Those wider tires? They’ll need to be replaced sooner than the standard ones. Ouch on the wallet.

SRT Hellcat: Enter the 700 Horsepower Club

The SRT Hellcat is where things get ridiculous—in the best possible way. With a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine pumping out 717 horsepower this Challenger is a pure adrenaline machine.

Pros

• Did we mention the 717 horsepower? Yeah that’s right this car moves like it's got a rocket strapped to it.
• Comes with high-performance SRT-tuned suspension for sharp handling.
• That supercharger whine is like music to any car enthusiast’s ears.

Cons

• Fuel economy? Forget about it. You’re looking at 13 city/22 highway MPG.
• Driving in the rain or snow can be... let’s say “exciting” due to all that power.

SRT Hellcat Widebody: Because Wider Is Better

Taking the SRT Hellcat and giving it a widebody stance makes the SRT Hellcat Widebody one of the most aggressive-looking Challengers ever built.

Pros

• Widebody design offers more stability and improved handling.
• Comes standard with Pirelli P-Zero tires which grip the road like a cat on a scratching post.
• Adaptive damping suspension for a smoother ride.

Cons

• Wider frame means it may not fit in some garages comfortably. Hope you don’t have a tight parking spot.
• Those massive P-Zero tires aren’t cheap to replace and will burn out quicker than your average set.

SRT Hellcat Redeye: For Those Who Need MORE

The SRT Hellcat Redeye is the souped-up sibling to the regular Hellcat boasting an insane 797 horsepower. It’s like Dodge took the Hellcat and thought "Yeah let’s add more power."

Pros

• 797 horsepower means you'll leave just about everything else on the road in the dust.
• Comes with Track Mode for optimal performance on the raceway.
• Upgraded brakes to make sure you can stop all that power when needed.

Cons

• Honestly you may never be able to use all that power on regular roads unless you’re on the Autobahn.
• Insurance costs will make you wanna take out a second mortgage on your house.

SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody: A Little More Insanity

Just like the regular Redeye but with a widebody design for improved handling. The SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody takes the Redeye's madness and gives it more grip for those who dare to take corners at insane speeds.

Pros

• Widebody design offers better grip and handling especially in high-speed turns.
• Launch control and SRT Power Chiller to help cool down that massive engine.
• Looks like a monster that crawled out of a racetrack.

Cons

• You'll definitely want a radar detector because you're gonna be tempted to test that top speed on open roads.
• Don’t even think about saving money on tires or gas. This beast demands the best.

SRT Super Stock: The Apex Predator

Finally, we have the SRT Super Stock. This is the absolute top-of-the-line Challenger boasting 807 horsepower and a 0-60 time of just 3.25 seconds. It’s practically a drag racer with a license plate.

Pros

• 807 horsepower makes it the most powerful Challenger ever.
• Drag radial tires come standard for optimal grip on the track.
• Comes with a dedicated track mode that adjusts suspension and performance settings for optimal speed.

Cons

• Daily driving? Let’s be real this car is built for the drag strip not for getting groceries.
• Maintenance costs will be through the roof. Hope you have a good relationship with your mechanic.

Which Challenger Should You Choose?

When it comes down to it choosing the right Challenger is all about balancing what you want vs. what you actually need. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• For daily drivers who want style and comfort: Go for the SXT or GT.
• For muscle car enthusiasts who crave power but don't want to go overboard: The R/T or R/T Scat Pack is perfect.
• For the hardcore adrenaline junkies: Any of the SRT Hellcat trims will do but if you want the absolute best go with the SRT Super Stock.

Final Thoughts

"The 2021 Challenger lineup is really about balancing the classic muscle car feel with modern tech and performance," says Alex Collantes. "You can have a sensible daily driver or a beast that’ll make you giggle like a kid every time you hit the gas pedal. It just depends on what kind of crazy you’re into."

So whatever your driving style there’s a 2021 Dodge Challenger out there to match it. Just remember whether you're driving an SXT or the Super Stock they’re all about having fun on the road.