A day that was once far off on the horizon is now upon us; Dodge has officially announced the discontinuation of the Charger and Challenger models, but not without providing them with a proper sendoff.
The news was broken during Dodge’s annual Speed Week celebration at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan, where a large presentation illuminated the heartbreaking phrase: “2023 Challengers and Chargers will be the last.” Underneath the display was an array of final offerings to be served up for their twilight years.
Seven heritage-influenced models will be offered for the 2023 model year, each sharing a connection to some past Dodge icon. Not much is known about each model, but exact details on six of them are expected to be released later this year with the seventh and final tribute model to be revealed at this year’s SEMA show, November 1st-4th, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
All 2023 Chargers and Challengers will feature a special “Last Call” underhood plaque, featuring the vehicle’s name, silhouette and assembly location. R/T equipped rides will feature a special “345” badge on the fenders, representing the 345 cubic-inch HEMI powering each. Dodge also intends on reviving three heritage colors for both models: B5 Blue, Plum Crazy purple and Sublime green; the modern Destroyer Grey will also come back. Both Charger and Challenger will each offer 14 paint options.
As far as brands go, it wouldn’t be too far off referring to Dodge as a “wildcard” of sorts, always pulling another ace from their sleeves to liven up the muscle car/performance world. And we got a taste of what Dodge has cooked up for the Challenger’s sendoff.
When the modern rendition of the Dodge Challenger hit the streets in 2008, a convertible variant wasn’t an option. Even prior, the Challenger had only been offered as a convertible twice before: 1970-71. While a convertible option can’t be made directly on the assembly line, 2022 and 2023 customers will be able to have their Challenger’s tops professionally dropped. The modifications are done by Drop Top Customs, the oldest convertible coachbuilder in the states, who receive the to-be convertibles via expedited shipping arrangements.
The end result of this custom convertible cropping, available for 2022 and 2023 Challenger R/T, R/T Scat Pack and SRT models, is certainly rad, but isn’t for the monetarily faint of heart. All said and done, the Challenger convertible option will retail for $25,999 with final pricing negotiated and confirmed by the customer’s dealer.
Ordering and pricing details for all 2023 Charger and Challenger models will be announced closer to the on-date sale. It’s the end of an era we’re sad to see go; you can mourn with us as we rewatch our recent Road Test of the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye and Track Test of the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye.
Keyword: Dodge Challenger and Charger to Receive Special Treatment for Final Year