2010 Dodge Challenger: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Dodge Challenger is the SE trim’s switch from a four-speed to a five-speed automatic transmission. This is otherwise a light-update year, with a few trim-specific equipment changes and no redesign.
About the 2010 Dodge Challenger
3rd generation (2008-2014), early pre-refresh period; 2010 is the third model year before the broader 2011 mechanical and interior update.
Dodge positions the Challenger as a modern muscle coupe shaped by the look of the 1970 original. The model's appeal is not only straight-line power but also its roomy cabin, large trunk, and relaxed highway character compared with many smaller pony cars. In plain terms, the Challenger is the retro-style American coupe for shoppers who want strong visual presence, usable everyday comfort, and the choice of V6 or V8 power in a wide, substantial two-door body.
The SE is the everyday Challenger, pairing the retro coupe shape with a 3.5-liter V6, a roomy cabin, and a split-folding rear seat. The R/T is the core muscle-car version with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, performance-tuned steering and suspension, and stronger brakes. The SRT8 sits at the top with a 6.1-liter HEMI V8, Brembo front brakes, a firmer Bilstein suspension, heated leather-trimmed sport seats, and a touchscreen audio system.
What changed, by category
2010 Dodge Challenger specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, HO, 3.5 Liter | V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter | V8, HEMI, 6.1 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 15 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 24 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 372 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft | 420 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.2 cu-ft | 16.2 cu-ft | 16.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.6 in | 32.6 in | 32.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | |||
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Built-In Hard Drive | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest difference between the 2010 and 2009 Dodge Challenger?
The biggest difference is the 2010 Challenger SE’s five-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the 2009 SE’s four-speed automatic. The SE also gains standard stability control, while the R/T receives automatic headlamps and minor cabin-lighting updates.
Was the 2010 Dodge Challenger redesigned?
No, the 2010 Dodge Challenger was not redesigned. It keeps the same body, basic structure, engine lineup, and retro styling used in 2009, with only a few trim-level equipment updates.
Did the 2010 Dodge Challenger get new engines?
No, the engine lineup carries over for 2010. The SE has a 3.5-liter V6, the R/T uses a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, and the SRT8 has a 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8.
Is the 2010 Challenger SE meaningfully different from the 2009 SE?
Yes, the 2010 SE has two useful updates: a five-speed automatic replaces the earlier four-speed, and stability control becomes standard. Its 3.5-liter V6 and overall design remain unchanged.
Is the 2010 Dodge Challenger worth considering over the 2009 model?
The 2010 model is most appealing over the 2009 if you are considering the SE, because it has the five-speed automatic and standard stability control. For R/T and SRT8 shoppers, the differences are much smaller because the main V8 hardware carries over.