automotive.com®...where your car search begins

2013 SRT Core Models Debut

Chrysler's SRT performance branch goes back to the basics with three "core" models.

2013 Dodge Challenger Research Click to hide

By Trevor Dorchies | February 07, 2013

What's New

With the exception of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, the remaining three SRT models go back to the basics for the 2013 model year. Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology branch is adding a back-to-basics "core" performance package for those who want a heaping helping of handling, features, and power. There's even some homage paid to the historical Mopar models back in the day with available exterior colors including HEMI Orange Pearl Coat, TorRed Clear Coat and Plum Crazy Pearl Coat. All of which, are available on both the Dodge Challenger SRT8 and Charger SRT8. The 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 core model is available in eight exterior colors. All three SRT8 Core models will hit showrooms this summer.

Who It's For

Those looking for a vehicle that has loads of handling capabilities and power can stop at Chrysler's SRT core vehicles. The 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Charger SRT8, and Chrysler 300 SRT8 are now available with a performance package that caters to the enthusiast. The core package has been expanded from the Dodge Charger Super Bee SRT8 and SRT Viper to now include the three aforementioned vehicles as well. Like always when you purchase an SRT8 vehicle, you get the SRT Track Experience as well which teaches you how to drive on a race track with a copy of your new vehicle. SRT supplies the cars for the track experience so you don't go burning the tires and redlining your brand new vehicle. These SRT8 core models take on the likes of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

Key Features

The 2013 SRT lineup, with the exception of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, is now available in basic form but still brings all the usual performance pieces. Some of these pieces include:

20-inch cast-aluminum wheels that feature black painted pockets and black Brembo brake calipers on the Challenger SRT8.
New exterior colors including HEMI Orange Pearl Coat and Plum Crazy Pearl Coat available on the Dodge Charger SRT8 and Challenger SRT8.
A "6.4L" badge on the front fender of the Chrysler 300 SRT8 model
20-inch cast-aluminum wheels featuring black painted pockets and standard black Brembo brake calipers. The calipers also come in red as well.

What We Think

SRT has yet to fail on delivering a product that's enjoyable to drive and we highly doubt these core models will disappoint. Based solely on exterior looks, these new SRT core models hit the bullseye and the only gripe (besides the five-speed automatic transmission, which will be replaced by the new eight-speed) before was that the models could handle a little bit better. With this core package, however, now you have better handling but the same potent power under the hood. We fully expect this package to quietly do well like the rest of the SRT lineup.

Back to Auto Show Coverage: Chicago 2013