2009 New York Auto Show: Steve Saleen Unveils SMS 570X Challenger

NEW YORK — Steve Saleen's first car from his new company's ultra-high-performance Signature Series line, introduced at the 2009 New York Auto Show, will produce up to 700 horsepower. The SMS 570X Challenger and 570 Challenger are based on the Dodge Challenger R/T, but have been reworked inside and out for total performance.

The SMS 570X Challenger uses a 6.0-liter Hemi engine mated to a Saleen supercharger to return 700 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Forged engine internals, new valve springs and cams and a ported head strengthen the engine and flow more air into the cylinders. The only transmission is the high-performance SMST six-speed manual.

Standard 570 Challengers use the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with a supercharger, but without the extensive internal modifications. Output is rated at 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque paired with either the standard five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Both the 570 and 570X have upgraded suspensions with new springs, dampers, sway bars and an available strut tower brace. Brakes have also been upgraded, and the cars roll on 20-inch alloy wheels mounted on high-performance tires.

Both cars receive a complete body makeover with the 570X parts made from carbon fiber. The front fascia and side sills are designed to direct cooling air toward the brakes, and the rear spoiler reportedly produces downforce at speed.

The interior is marked with a numbered dash plaque signed by Steve Saleen. Seats are covered in leather and Alcantara, while the steering wheel and shift knob are wrapped in leather. The 570 and 570X also feature Mopar race pedals and aluminum door sill plates. Additional gauges relay air temperature and boost pressure.

The SMS 570 Challenger will start at $64,870 while the 570X Challenger will start at $84,970. Pre-production orders are being taken now.

Inside Line says: The price is steep, but Saleen's 570X Challenger is much more car than a Dodge. — Eric Tingwall, Correspondent