Peter Palmer: First Look: 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A

Originally appeared on Automoblog.net

The Dodge Challenger T/A returns for 2017 and we cannot stop smiling from ear to ear!

The T/A moniker is derived from the iconic Challengers that competed in the SCCA Trans-Am racing series beginning in 1970. Starting this October, customers can order their Challenger T/A in three flavors: T/A, T/A Plus, and T/A 392.

What’s New

All three T/A models receive a new hood with a large center scoop. A satin black painted hood, roof, decklid, rear spoiler, body-side stripes, and fuel door further differentiate the T/A models from other Challengers.

Like the Challenger Hellcat, the T/A features a similar ram-air intake. It channels air into the engine via a conical Mopar air filter and through a hole in the inner headlight housing. In the 2016 Challenger Hellcat, this airflow design is only used on the left side, but in the T/A, both inboard lamps channel air into the engine. Challenger enthusiasts will be able to differentiate the T/A from other models by the LED-illuminated T/A logos within the openings.

For additional retro points, T/A customers can order their Challengers with old-school hood pins.

2017 Dodge Challenger T/A Inboard Air Intake

2017 Dodge Challenger T/A Right Front Three Quarters

Performance

In addition to the dual air intakes, Dodge also equips each T/A with a standard performance exhaust system.

Despite dual intakes and performance exhaust, Challenger T/A and T/A Plus models with the 5.7 L HEMI V8 produce the same 375 horsepower as the Challenger RT. The top-of-the-range T/A 392 with the 6.4 L HEMI V8 produces 485 horsepower, the same as the Challenger 392.

Standard transmission on all T/A models is a six-speed manual but an eight-speed automatic is optional.

Dodge 5.7 L HEMI V8

Handling & Braking

All 2017 Challenger T/A models benefit from Dodge’s Super Track Pak. This standard kit includes Bilstein shocks, sticky tires, high-performance brake lines, three-mode stability control (can be disabled), and a suspension that lowers the car slightly (0.5 inches).

T/A and T/A Plus models are fitted with 20 x 9-inch, 12-spoke forged-aluminum, black Mopar wheels, and wrapped with Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. T/A 392 models are fitted with black, 20 x 9.5-inch forged-aluminum wheels, and wrapped with Pirelli three-season performance tires.

Challenger T/A 392 models receive large, vented front brakes with six-piston Brembo front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, plus specific suspension geometry calibration.

2017 Dodge Challenger T/A Wheel , Brake, and Tire Package

2017 Dodge Challenger T/A Right Rear Three Quarters

Interior

Inside, the base 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A features front seat inserts, covered in retro-looking houndstooth cloth. T/A Plus models replace the cool houndstooth seats with a pair of heated and ventilated leather buckets. T/A Plus models are also fitted with a power tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, an upgraded stereo, and the latest Uconnect infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility.

Every optional interior feature on the T/A Plus is standard on the Challenger T/A 392.

Availability

Customers can start submitting their order for the 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A in October. The base T/A is priced at $38,485, the mid-level T/A Plus starts at $41,235, and the range topping T/A 392 can be yours for $45,090. The Challenger 392 may also be slapped with the gas guzzler tax, but the amount has not been finalized.

To continue the retro vibe, the Challenger T/A will be available in a handful of nostalgic paint schemes like Green Go and Yellow Jacket.

*Rahul Raman is the Founder of CARS 360 Mke, an automotive news outlet. He is a regular contributor to Automoblog and the author of our First Look series.