Spied: 2008 Dodge Challenger test mule

LEFTLANENEWS.COM - - The Dodge Challenger is no longer just an alluring concept car with a promise of production. With these first photos of two test mules, the Challenger is now clearly a full-fledged engineering reality.

Dodge engineers are using Dodge Charger bodies from the A-pillar- back, and have attached full-on Challenger front-ends, complete with the fenders, hood, and front fascia from the future muscle car. The camouflage is thorough, but the Challenger's concept-inspired clean flanks and old-school nose-piece are easily visible beneath the covering.

These prototypes are wearing the SRT-8's optional 20-inch wheels and 255/45ZR20 Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, with what look like Brembo brakes. It doesn't appear that these mules have any alterations to the Charger's overall length, as the Charger body parts don't show any tell-tale signs of shortening, so we're reserving judgment on the Challenger's final overall footprint.

Dodge announced that the production Challenger would make its worldwide debut at next year's Chicago Auto Show in February, as a 2008 model.