2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

The 2012 Challenger is Dodge's retro-styled muscle coupe, the one that channels the 1970s look while competing with the Mustang and Camaro. It's a big, heavy car, but that size pays off with a planted, confident feel on the highway, and the steering is direct enough for a daily driver. The front seats are genuinely huge and comfortable, and the wide-opening doors make getting in and out easy, though the back seat is tight for adults. Watch for blind spots over your shoulder and the thick roof pillars, and some owners have had the alternator replaced under recall. You get the big 6.4L V8 under the hood instead of the SXT's 3.6L V6, along with upgraded brakes, a limited-slip diff, and a Brembo brake package. The 6.4L V8 sends 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed manual to the rear wheels, and it'll return 17 mpg combined if you can keep your foot out of it. A high-performance suspension with adaptive damping is standard on this trim, so the ride firms up noticeably in corners while staying compliant on the highway.