New Core SRT8 Models Debut for 2013 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300

The 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 are no doubt among the most powerful and dynamic entries in their respective segments, and they’ll soon be among the most affordable, too: As recently announced by the Chrysler Group’s in-house performance division, new “Core” models of the 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 will be arriving in dealerships this summer, offering the full suite of SRT go-fast upgrades at prices some $5,000 lower than last year.

It’s part of a new approach from the SRT group to reach enthusiasts who don’t necessarily need all the upscale amenities usually found in the brand’s portfolio.

“With exclusive content, including the standard premium ‘Ballistic’ cloth interior from the new SRT Viper, SRT-tuned sport suspensions and distinctive exterior accents, the new Challenger SRT8 and 300 SRT8 ‘Core’ models are designed and built with the back-to-basics performance-driving enthusiast in mind,” said Ralph Gilles, president and CEO of the SRT Brand and Motorsports for the Chrysler Group LLC.

And it’s worth pointing out that the Core variants of the 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 and 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8, even with their new pricing, still come standard with the SRT Experience—a one-day performance-driving opportunity in which professional drivers teach SRT owners how to get the most from their new rides.

2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Core: Highlights

Building on a package that has captured the Shopper’s Choice Award from Cars.com for two consecutive years, the 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 gets blackout-style exterior upgrades that include a black grille, black SRT rear spoiler, black “392” fender graphics, 20-inch cast-aluminum wheels (with painted black pockets), and even black brake calipers for its big Brembo stoppers. The look can then be complemented by a choice of two new retro-themed exterior colors—HEMI Orange Pearl Coat and Plum Crazy Pearl Coat—or the carryover shades Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Pearl Coat, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat, Pitch Black, TorRed Clear Coat, Phantom Black Tri-coat Pearl and Redline Tri-coat Pearl.

Inside the cockpit, drivers will find the same premium cloth trim that’s used in the all-new 2013 SRT Viper, along with soft-touch bolsters and door-bolster inserts, and also notice a mini-carbon bezel accent that highlights the instrument panel.

Of course, all of the Challenger SRT8’s performance hardware remains intact, including the 392-cubic-inch HEMI V8 that makes 470 hp and an equal number of foot-pounds of torque. As a result, the 2014 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Core model can rocket from 0-60 in comfortably under 5 seconds, then return to a full stop in a mere 117 feet. The top speed? A blistering 185 mph.

The 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Core variant will open at $38,995—a full $5,780 lower than the previous price of admission to the Challenger SRT8 lineup.

2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core: Highlights

The story is much the same with the Core model of the 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8, which also adds black exterior accents, 20-inch wheels, a premium cloth cabin (but with both matte carbon and Piano Black highlights), and a long list of exterior colors, here including Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Pearl Coat, Gloss Black Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Pearl Coat, Ivory Pearl Tri-coat, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat and Phantom Black Tri-coat Pearl.

SRT engineers also deployed the 6.4-liter HEMI—with its 470 hp/470 lb.-ft. of torque—as well as sport-tuned suspension and braking systems that have been retailored specifically for the 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8. The tale of the tape:

• 0-60 mph—high 4-second range
• Quarter mile—high 12-second range
• 0-100-0—under 16 seconds
• 60-0—120 feet
• Top speed—175 mph

The 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core model will deliver a $5,000 price advantage as compared to the past starting point of the 300 SRT8 family, with the new variant showcasing an MSRP of $43,995.