With its retro look, scary-fast V8s and traditionally confusing options packages, Dodge’s 2012 Challenger once more strolls, or rather screams, down memory lane. This 5-passenger midsize coupe is, of course, not your grandfather’s Challenger. A fuel-efficient V6 in the base trim, as well as lots of techno-gadgets, both standard and optional, and modern suspension components lineup-wide have taken that patented '70s look into the present. Once more, this dedicated muscle car comes in three trims, the base SXT (ex-SE), the midlevel R/T and the over-the-top SRT8 392, which is slated to become a separate entity sometime soon. Naturally, all trims are, and (hopefully) forever will be, rear-wheel drive (RWD). As for changes from 2011, in addition to the base SE trim being re-named the SXT, a potent 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system is now available for the SRT8 392 trim, and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are added to trims mounting the optional 5-speed automatic transmission.

Purists have long chastised Dodge for turning its once-favored Charger into a sedan, thus the automaker has opted to retain the Challenger lineup in its original 2-door configuration. Trunk space is a laudable 16.2 cubic feet, though perhaps some of that could be sacrificed for a tad more rear-seat legroom. Finally, a tolerably comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics, a balance now demanded of the retro mania that grips U.S. automakers, complement the Challenger’s looks and performance.

Chevy’s re-invented Camaro and Ford’s venerable Mustang are, as is right and proper, in direct competition with the 2012 Challenger for America’s tire-smoking dollar - a fact that must throw rubber makers and oil emirs worldwide into paroxysms of glee.

Be that as it may, in a nod to today’s obscene gas prices, the 2012 Challenger SXT sports a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that mates with the standard 5-speed shiftable automatic transmission with brake hill-holder for 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque. Expect 18 mpg city/27 highway with the peppy six-banger.

The R/T (Road/Track), meanwhile, combines a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with the standard 6-speed manual transmission for 376 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, to the tune of 15/24. The Hemi V8 sports variable valve timing (VVT) and cylinder deactivation at cruising speeds, while also bearing the capability to burn E85 ethanol fuel (FFV). Additionally, the 6-speed stick shift is bolstered by a limited-slip rear differential and brake hill-holder.

The pavement-challenging Challenger SRT8 392 comes with a standard 470-hp 6.4-liter (392-cubic-inch) V8 engine and 6-speed manual transmission, also with the hill-holder and limited-slip differential. This combo throws down 470 lb-ft of torque, but eats recommended premium gas at a 14/23 clip. Both the R/T and the SRT8 392 can also be delivered with an available 5-speed shiftable automatic transmission that boasts steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and the brake hill-holder feature. Giddy-up with the 5-speed automatic is reduced to 372 hp in the R/T, but mileage improves marginally to 16/25, while no significant change is noted for the SRT8.

Standard amenities in the base 2012 Challenger SXT include 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, power accessories, and telescoping tilt-wheel steering. Cruise control and climate control, as well as a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter knob, complete the cabin ensemble, with a standard 168-watt stereo, MP3-capable single-CD player and USB connection providing entertainment.

The R/T adds little except more horses, though it does sport such standard appearance and convenience extras as a rear spoiler, satellite radio and Bluetooth hands-free communications.

In keeping with its high-power status, the SRT8 392 boasts all of the above, plus standard 20-inch polished alloy wheels and heated mirrors outside, with leather upholstery, heated front seats, a universal remote garage door opener and upgraded cabin trim added inside. Additionally, this potent trim boasts a standard 276-watt audio array starring six Boston Acoustics premium speakers.

In its tradition of offering a dazzling disarray of confusing options packages and groupings, Dodge has outdone itself for the 2011 Challenger lineup. However, a number of options and groupings stand out, such as the 900-watt 18-speaker Harman Kardon system that’s available for the SRT8 392 and the standalone power sunroof offered across the lineup. The SXT Plus Package offers leather-trimmed upholstery, heated front seats, satellite radio and upgraded (276 or 368 watts, depending on the Sound Group chosen) audio, as well as UConnect/Bluetooth voice-activating technology to the SXT trim. Next the available Super Sport Group (SS/T) features 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and a performance suspension for the SXT and R/T trims, while the Electronic Convenience Group offers heated outside mirrors, remote engine start and a universal remote garage door opener, again, to the two lower trims. The R/T, meanwhile, is eligible for the Super Track Pac that boasts heavy-duty 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), performance tires and steering, and a performance-tuned suspension.

Standard safety features abound in the resurgent 2012 Challenger, with four-wheel ABS and traction and stability control bolstered by front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags and front head-restraint whiplash protection. Additionally, standard emergency braking preparation and brake drying are complemented by a post-collision safety system. Safety options across the lineup include front fog/driving lights, automatic headlights and a remote antitheft alarm, while the SRT8 392 is eligible for available high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights.

On a more prosaic note, owners of 2011 Challenger trims complain mostly about poor mileage in the V8s, though most are aware that powerplants of this magnitude are seldom fuel-miserly. Confusing and inter-related options packages and some visibility issues also plague owners of this retro-coupe, while a few also complain about its perceived under-performing 5-speed automatic. On the whole, however, owners revere this revitalized coupe for its sheer muscle and venerated design, while the modern conveniences and V6 efficiency do nothing to harm its legendary image.