2012 Dodge Charger, Challenger and Chrysler 300 V6 Models Will Get 8-Speed Automatic

[AutoGuide.com]

Having just introduced an all new Dodge Charger, Challenger and Chrysler 300 for 2011, all three models are set to get an important update for 2012 under the hood. The engine will remain unchanged, but models equipped with Chrysler Corp's new 3.6L Pentastar V6 will get a significant jump in fuel economy and notably improved drive quality thanks to the addition of an 8-speed automatic.

As for the R/T and 300C models, they will retain the current 5-speed auto-box, as will a budget-priced Challenger SE model.

Chrysler is expected to add a higher-gear transmission to its V8-powered models in the future as well, replacing the current 5-speed unit. There's also a solid chance the new 8-speed could be used in vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango.

More: 2012 Dodge Charger, Challenger and Chrysler 300 V6 Models Will Get 8-Speed Automatic on AutoGuide.com

[Stoned Hemi 6]

Looking forward to testing the 2012 Charger SRT8 with the paddle shifters. It's going to be a beast!!

[Mentalicca]

From what I had heard, no Challenger for 2012 was getting an 8-speed auto. Possible AutoGuide got the info wrong?

[Rose City GC SRT8]

The 8 speed probably can't handle the torque like the NAG1.

[Tim_K]

8 speeds is ridiculous. I'm a hater of trannies with too many gears in them. 4 speeds is plenty for an automatic. 5 at the absolute most. I see no useful need for 8 speeds, the transmission would constantly be shifting and wearing out.

Can you imagine the rebuild cost on one of those? Is it a 4 speed auto with a Gear Vendors splitter bolted on the back? Or some superfantastic true 8 speed inside?

[moparmafia]

8 gears does sound crazy but that is what they need to keep the rpm's in the sweet spot for the Feds and the mpgs.

[waumo]

Originally Posted by Tim_K

8 speeds is ridiculous. I'm a hater of trannies with too many gears in them. 4 speeds is plenty for an automatic. 5 at the absolute most. I see no useful need for 8 speeds, the transmission would constantly be shifting and wearing out.

I'm in total agreement with you. However I would like to test drive one just to make sure there isn't something I'm missing.

[2ndgen]

Originally Posted by Rose City GC SRT8

The 8 speed probably can't handle the torque like the NAG1.

If you watch the video demo of the ZF 8-speed transmission or read the pdf, it tells you that it can handle up to 1000Nm of input torque (over 700lb-ft).

The new 8 speed ZF transmission is a whole new design that has some significant benefits. Some basic specs (compared to it's predecessor 6speed transmission):
- 11% fuel savings
- no additional weight
- 8 speeds--improves acceleration
- 200ms shifts (improved from 350ms)
- brand new gear design with only 4 gear sets and only 5 shift elements (2 open per gear)
- handles more torque (up to 1000Nm/700lb-ft)
- same cost

I'd say it's a pretty big engineering success.

ZF Friedrichshafen AG | 8-speed-automatic transmission

['09inferno]

Really, what the point? Why not just come out with a CVT? The constant shifting would drive me insane. I already despise the current 6 speed autos in other vehicles

[2ndgen]

Originally Posted by '09inferno

Really, what the point?

+ more fuel efficient
+ higher torque capacity
+ faster shifting + more even gearing gives smoother and stronger acceleration
+ same size
+ same weight
+ same cost
= big win

Originally Posted by '09inferno

Why not just come out with a CVT? The constant shifting would drive me insane. I already despise the current 6 speed autos in other vehicles

Becauses CVTs are less reliable, no more efficient (so far), and cannot handle as much torque.

It sounds like what you want is a direct-drive motor that can go from 0-10000 RPM with no transmission in between. Maybe you should ride trains more often.