If you’re not already a fan of the Dodge Challenger R/T, Dodge is set to try to draw you in with a special edition version of it. Just like the Charger and Avenger, Dodge is now releasing a Blacktop package for its powerful V-8 coupe.

The Blacktop package adds in a ton of exterior upgrades to give the Challenger an even more menacing look, something that is tough to do. However, this package is not all about simply making the Challenger look good. Dodge also added in a usually optional package to the Challenger R/T Blacktop to help it handle and accelerate more effectively. The latter has never been complained about, but the former is one of the sticking points with the Challenger, it’s not really a good handler.

So, is this package really worth the money that Dodge is charging for it, or is it just another Dodge special edition that will fizzle away?

Click past the jump to find out.

2012 Dodge Challenger R/T Blacktop Edition

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2012 Dodge Challenger R/T Blacktop Edition
• Engine/Motor: V8
• Horsepower: 375
• Torque: 410
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Pros

Cons

Exterior

On the outside, Dodge added in a set of gloss black 20-inch wheels with gloss black center caps, a gloss black front grille surround, and a gloss black fuel filler door. Adding a little more to the package deal, Dodge affixed a set of matte graphite-colored front-to-rear body stripes with red outlines. You also get automatic headlights, “R/T” grille badging, a “HEMI” hood badge set, and a rear body-color spoiler.

You can have the Challenger R/T Blacktop in one of three colors: Pitch Black, Granite Crystal, or Billet Silver Metallic.

This package blows away what Dodge did with the Avenger and really gives the Challenger a custom look that will likely sell extremely well.

Interior

On the inside, just like with the Avenger, there are no Blacktop-exclusive additions to the Challenger R/T. It does, however, come standard with Uconnect, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port in the center console, iPod control, auxiliary input jack, LED illuminated gauges, and mini-carbon instrument panel bezel.

For those that want a little more luxury, you can opt to add the Blacktop package to the R/T Plus trim level and get Nappa leather seats wrapped in Slate Gray or Radar Red, heated front seats, a 6-speaker Boston Acoustics stereo system with a 276-watt amp, parking sensors, alarm, heated mirrors, HomeLink and remote start, if equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine and Driveline

Under the hood is the notorious 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that wallops the concrete with 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of face-lifting twist. Linked up to this monstrous V-8 powerplant is a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, or you can opt for the 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine and Drivetrain Specifications:

Chassis and Suspension

Unlike the Avenger, Dodge did upgrade the Blacktop’s suspension and chassis system. This upgrade comes in the form of Dodge’s Super Track Pack, which includes: 245/45ZR20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car tires, anti-Lock 4-wheel disc brakes with heavy-duty pads, high-performance steering with a variable displacement steering pump. The last additions to the Super Track Pack is a sport suspension system and an electronic stability control system with “Full Off” as an available mode, which allows the back end to slide at will.

Pricing

The base MSRP for the Challenger R/T is set at $29,995 and the R/T Plus model comes in at $31,995. The Blacktop package adds just $1,995 to the base MSRP. This gives the Challenger R/T Blacktop a total MSRP of $31,990 to $33,990.

Conclusion

The Challenger R/T is bad-ass enough and to make it look this awesome by simply adding in a few extra exterior goodies is sweet. Add in the fact that the Super Track Pack comes with it, and this becomes one sweet piece of machinery. To offer all of this for only $1,995 more than the regular sticker price simply blows our minds. We say buy it now before it’s too late!