2009 Dodge Challenger SE

The Challenger is Dodge's retro-styled coupe, a modern take on the 1970s muscle car that's all about presence and straight-line punch. It's a big, heavy car that loves highways, where it cruises effortlessly and feels planted at speed, though it's not the nimblest thing in tight corners. The front seats are huge and comfortable, but the rear seat is tight and the thick pillars create serious blind spots, especially over your shoulder. Owners report the Challenger as generally reliable when maintained on schedule, though a few mention glitchy electronics like a dashboard that occasionally loses power. Its 3.5L I6 makes 250 horsepower and pairs with a five-speed automatic, which is enough for relaxed cruising but won't pin you to the seat like the V8 cars will. The SE rides on smaller wheels and softer springs than the R/T, so it's noticeably more compliant over rough pavement at the cost of some cornering grip.