The Shaker Returns to the Dodge Challenger R/T at SEMA!
In addition to the re-introduction of the Dodge Scat Pack, another piece of exciting news from the Chrysler Group at the 2013 SEMA Show was the introduction of the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker limited edition model. The Shaker hood was one of the key features of the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Barracuda from the early 1970s and to this day, Mopar diehards have attempted to remake the Shaker look on everything from Dakotas to Neons to Chargers to Ram trucks. However, while there have been options to add a Shaker hood to a modern Chrysler Group vehicle through the aftermarket, there hasn’t been a vehicle sold with a Shaker hood – until now.
The Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker is based on the Challenger R/T Classic model which includes the 5.7L Hemi V8 and the buyer’s choice of either an automatic or manual transmission. The new Shaker hood is fully functional, with a system of piping that channels air in through the large scoop poking through the hood to a conical air filtration system and cold air intake setup before heading into the hungry Hemi engine. When you open the hood, the Shaker hood scoop stays attached to the engine and a system of channels helps to funnel water safely out of the engine bay so owners don’t need to worry about getting caught in the rain.
The new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker package looks absolutely awesome but this limited edition package is more than just a fancy hood system. The R/T Shaker comes standard with the Super Track Pak that adds 245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar three-season tires, a special three mode electronic stability control with full “off”, a performance tuned steering system, stickier brake pads and monotube shocks as part of a sport tuned suspension package. Those Challenger R/T Shaker buyers who want even greater performance can opt for any of the 3 Scat Pack stage kits.
On the outside, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker wears new 20 inch 5 spoke rims with painted black pockets and a matte silver face, a body color grille surround, a gloss black fuel door, a satin black decklid spoiler and a unique Shaker style body graphic on the hood, roof and trunklid. Inside, the Shaker Challenger features either black or Radar Red leather seats with an embroidered Shaker logo on the seat backs, the three spoke flat bottom steering wheel from the Challenger SRT, a pistol grip shifter and a limited edition Shaker serial plate on the right side of the dash face.
The 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker will begin arriving in dealerships early next year with a price of $36,995 – just $2,500 more than the Challenger R/T Classic on which the Shaker model is based. This Shaker Challenger is available in Billet Silver Metallic, Bright White, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy, TorRed and vibrant Header Orange but having seen the Header Orange car shown here in person – it would be my clear choice.