If the Evo reincarnated as a muscle car, this would be it, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8. To be unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, this 2012 model year hot Charger gets a blackened snout for a nose job. It really resembles the current Lancer Evo if you ask us, except that Dodge bends in the lower edges of the Mitsubishi’s signature “jet fighter” grille. The rear is an LED fest – the Charger’s new “racetrack” taillamp design consists of 164 diodes!

Under that bulging hood is the new 6.4-litre HEMI V8 that boasts more horsepower and torque plus improved fuel economy over the 6.1L HEMI it replaces. Estimated power ratings are 465 horsepower and 630 Nm of torque, including an estimated additional 109 Nm of torque at 2,900 rpm. Specific figures will be released later.

Economy is aided by Fuel Saver technology, which is a four-cylinder mode with adaptive valve exhaust system. This allows the system to engage over a wider rpm range. An active intake manifold and high lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low end torque while optimising high end power. Paddle shifters for the carryover five-speed auto are standard.

The Charger SRT8 features adaptive damping suspension with two driver selectable “Auto” and “Sport” settings. The SRT-tuned fully hydraulic steering system has been improved with a heavy-duty pump and revised gearing for more direct feel and on-center response.

“World-class stopping power” is courtesy of four-piston Brembo calipers and vented/slotted rotors measuring 14.2 inches up front and 13.8 inches in the rear. Those five-spoke wheels are 20-inch lightweight forged and polished aluminum items.

Gallery after the jump.

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