What year of Dodge Challenger is best?

There isn’t one definitive best year—the choice depends on whether you value classic collectible status, peak modern performance, or practical everyday usability. This guide surveys the Challenger’s evolution to help you decide which year might best fit your goals.

A quick view across eras: what makes each period stand out

Below are the standout years by generation, along with what typically draws buyers to them and what to watch out for.

• 1969–1970: The original muscle car era. Early cars are highly desirable for their pure design and nostalgia; 1970 is especially coveted for horsepower options and the distinctive “Shaker” hood editions.


• 1971–1974: The later first generation. Styling updates and evolving emissions controls mark this stretch; while horsepower dipped from the peak, these years are important for collectors who want ‘early Challenger’ provenance with improved handling and features.


• 2008–2014: The modern revival returns. Retro styling meets modern tech, expanding the market to new buyers while maintaining classic curb appeal; performance options were limited compared to later generations but still compelling for enthusiasts.


• 2015–2019: A performance surge begins. Introduction of the Scat Pack (6.4L) and the legendary Hellcat (707 hp) broadens the appeal, making high-horsepower variants more accessible in a mass-market package.


• 2018–2023: The peak modern horsepower era. The Demon (2018) and the Redeye/797 hp variants (introduced around 2019–2021) deliver extreme performance, while widebody options increase grip and presence. These years are favored by power enthusiasts and collectors seeking the last of the current generation’s extreme capable models.


• 2023 and beyond (end of current generation): Dodge concluded Challenger production after the 2023 model year, making late-model Challengers the final examples of this generation. This context can affect pricing and desirability for collectors and buyers today.

The main takeaway is that “best” depends on whether you chase nostalgia, raw power, or everyday usability. Each period has its own strengths and trade-offs.

Classic era deep dive: what to know about 1969–1974 Challengers

For collectors, the original Challenger line holds the strongest pull, but not all years are equal in investment value. Here are the focal points to consider when evaluating a vintage Challenger.

• 1969: The debut year; fewer cars in circulation make it intriguing to collectors, but later 1969 examples can be more available than 1970s.


• 1970: Often cited as the quintessential year for horsepower and option combinations (including the famous Hemi and 440 Six-Pack variants). These models command premium prices and strong attention from collectors.


• 1971–1972: Generational updates and shifting option availability; these years maintain collector interest but typically sit below the 1970 peak in terms of value and rarity.


• 1973–1974: Emissions controls and insurance changes trimmed performance; these years are more affordable for entry collectors but can require patience when seeking original-condition examples.

In the classic market, provenance, originality, and documentation significantly influence value. A well-documented, numbers-m-matching configuration tends to outperform others, especially for 1970 models with rare option packages.

Modern revival era: 2008–2023 and the horsepower race

The modern Challenger blends retro design with modern reliability, electronic aids, and a ladder of performance options. This section highlights the best-path choices for buyers looking at today’s used-car market.

Before diving into the list, note that the Challenger lineup evolved rapidly in this period, with a clear standout path from value-focused V6 and V8 models to extreme high-performance variants.

• Best value entry into modern performance: 2015–2019 Scat Pack models (6.4L Hemi) strike a balance between price, power, and daily usability, offering meaningful performance without jumping to the top-tier Hellcat price.


• Top-tier performance and social-era extremes: 2015–2019 Hellcat models (707 hp) and the 2018 Demon (840 hp, limited availability) represent the apex of the period’s straight-line speed and track potential.


• Recent high-performance options: 2020–2023 Challenger Redeye variants push horsepower toward 797 hp, with widebody designs and improved handling. These offer the most capable non-demon package widely available.


• End of production and collectibility: The final model year, 2023, marks the end of the Challenger’s current generation, making late-year examples historically significant and often more collectible on the used-car market.

When choosing among modern Challengers, decide whether your priority is lightning-fast straight-line speed (Hellcat/Redeye), broader track capability (widebody packages), or a more affordable high-performance baseline (Scat Pack). Also consider maintenance costs, insurance, and fuel economy, which rise with horsepower.

What to choose based on your goals

Use these guidelines to align your pick with your priorities and budget.

• If you want a classic collectible with iconic horsepower history: aim for a 1970 Challenger, ideally with a documented Hemi or Six-Pack option, confirmed by production and option codes.


• If you want strong performance without the top-tier price: look at the 2015–2019 Scat Pack (6.4L) or late-model V8 R/T variants, prioritizing condition and maintenance records.


• If you crave extreme power and a modern-day thrill ride: target Hellcat, Demon, or Redeye models (2015–2023), accepting higher purchase prices and ongoing maintenance costs.


• If you value rarity and final-generation status: consider a 2023 Challenger as the last model year of the current generation, which can appeal to collectors despite being more expensive to maintain.

Note: As of 2025, Dodge has ended Challenger production after the 2023 model year, which influences pricing and availability. Used-market values are driven by condition, mileage, originality, and whether the car has its original drivetrain and documentation. Always verify vehicle history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Summary

The “best” Dodge Challenger year depends on what you want from the car. For pure nostalgia and rarity, 1970 is the standout classic year. For modern performance, the 2015–2023 era offers a tiered ladder from Scat Pack to Hellcat and Redeye, with the 2018 Demon representing the extreme peak in limited form. If you’re seeking a practical, engaging daily driver with strong performance, later Scat Pack or Hellcat variants are solid choices. With production ending after the 2023 model year, late-model Challengers have become the final chapter of this generation, affecting both desirability and price in today’s market.

What year is the Dodge Challenger the most reliable?

The most reliable Dodge Challenger years are generally 2019 through 2023, with the 2019 and 2020 models often cited as particularly good choices. These later models are less prone to the electrical, alternator, and transmission issues that plagued earlier years. 
More reliable years to consider

• 2019-2023: These model years have fewer complaints than their predecessors. 
  • The 2019 model is noted for its high reliability ratings and modern features like the UConnect system and LED lighting, says MSN. 
  • The 2020 model is considered equally reliable, with the 2019 and 2020 model years being virtually identical except for a few minor changes, according to MotorBiscuit. 
• 2015-2018: These years are still considered fairly good, but some models may have issues with transmission shifting and electrical gremlins. 
• 2017: This model year is also considered a good option with a relatively low number of complaints and recalls. 

Years to be cautious about

• 2011-2014: These years had issues with failing alternators around the 50,000-mile mark, and some 2011-2013 models may have battery drain issues from smart window/door latch problems, notes Alan Jay Automotive Network. 
• 2012: This year is specifically mentioned for having the most complaints compared to other years. 
• 2015: This model year is known for engine problems like misfiring and stalling, often linked to ignition coils, and transmission issues, notes Reddit users. 

What is the best Challenger to buy used?

For the best used buying experience, we recommend checking out 2018-2025 Challengers! Unless you plan to take out an extended warranty, you can probably skip the 2011-2013 Challengers. Dodge's warranty is transferrable, so any remaining coverage will transfer to your used model!

What is the best model of the Dodge Challenger?

The "best" Dodge Challenger model depends on your priorities: the SRT Super Stock or Demon 170 are the most powerful, while the R/T offers a great balance of performance and value with its V8 engine. For a budget-friendly option, the SXT is a good choice, and it's the only trim that offers all-wheel drive.
 
This video introduces the rarest Dodge Challenger models: 24sMarspeedYouTube · Nov 15, 2023
For maximum performance and power

• SRT Super Stock: With 807807807 horsepower, this model is designed for drag racing and comes with performance features like lightweight tires and a track-focused suspension. 
• SRT Demon 170: The most powerful Challenger ever, capable of 1,0251 comma 0251,025 horsepower and a 000-606060 mph time of 2.32.32.3 seconds. 

For a balance of performance and value

• R/T: This is often considered the best value, as it provides the rumble of a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine for a lower price than the supercharged SRT models. 

For a budget-friendly option

• SXT: The base model is a more affordable option that still offers a sporty experience, and it is the only trim available with all-wheel drive for those who need it. 

What year dodge challenger to stay away from?

Years to generally avoid for the Dodge Challenger are 2009, 2011–2013, and 2015, due to issues like airbag defects, alternator failure, and transmission problems. The 2012 model is particularly noted for having the most complaints on sites like CarComplaints.com, with frequent alternator and transmission issues.
 
Model years to avoid

• 2009: Known for problems like engine shutdown and check engine lights, often related to the crankshaft position sensor. 
• 2011–2013: These years had widespread issues including alternator failure, problems with the new eight-speed transmission, and some electrical issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). The 2012 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to the combination of these issues. 
• 2015: Prone to electrical issues, including problems with the cruise control system and harsh transmission shifting. 

Common problems in these years

• Airbag defects: Many models from 2008-2013 had faulty airbag inflators that could rupture. 
• Engine and electrical problems: Common issues include alternator failure, especially in 2011-2014 models, and problems with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which controls many of the car's electrical systems. 
• Transmission issues: Early versions of the eight-speed automatic transmission in the 2012 and 2015 models were known for harsh shifting and other problems. 

How to mitigate risks

• Verify recalls: Before purchasing any used Challenger, especially from one of these years, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to ensure all recalls have been addressed. 
• Check for service alerts: Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) can provide insight into common problems and potential repair procedures. 
• Consider newer models: Newer models, particularly from 2019-2023, generally have a better reliability record.