No longer in Chrysler's shadow, Dodge, Chrysler's performance division is cranking out some truly awesome looking vehicles. We look at some of the champions of the current line up and peer into the future at models waiting in the wings.

If you are a car fan you know that part of the fun of following the market is examining new models as they enter the showroom. There is just something special about a new car: the smell, the look, the price tag! For some 17 million American drivers a new car is in their future, while many others opt for the used car market. Some of the cars on the market today are hot, hot, hot! Let’s take a look at several new and future offerings from Dodge.

Thanks in part to its former relationship with Mercedes [Daimler Benz purchased Chrysler Corporation in 1998 and resold it in 2007] a fresh infusion of great looking Dodge models have hit a showroom near you. Additional models are soon to appear and the makeover that Dodge has been receiving is nothing less than astounding. Here are some of my favorites:

Magnum - Who said that a station wagon should resemble a family hauler? The Magnum sure doesn’t. With an intimidating grille and a rakish exterior, the Magnum is a true man pleaser while also giving women a bit extra room in the back to haul stuff. Throw in a Hemi and the Magnum truly rocks!

Charger – Okay, so the new Charger has four doors. Well, you can’t have everything. You can have macho looks, a powerful engine, and a car that is certain to compete with anything that Japan or Germany throws its way. Word has it that DaimlerChrysler is considering a coupe version. Now, wouldn’t that be cool!

Challenger -- Taking its styling cues from the first generation Challenger from 1970-1974, this sport coupe is a dream come true for many middle-aged guys who couldn't afford the original when it was out and have pined for something substantial ever since. New for 2008, the Challenger combines nostalgia with raw power to deliver a memorable masterpiece -- just what any automotive enthusiast wants!

Caliber - Bye, bye Neon. The Neon served Dodge well, but it isn’t in the same caliber as the Caliber. Pun intended. Introduced in Spring 2006 as a 2007 model, the Caliber has three engine choices: 1.8, 2.0, and 2.4 I4s, a continuously available transaxle, and all wheel drive. In addition, 2.0L diesel engines will be available outside of the North American market – why not here? – as DaimlerChrysler sets to introduce the Dodge name into new markets.

Other Dodge vehicles that are getting noticed include the Ram and Dakota pick up trucks, the Durango SUV and the new Dodge Nitro, the division’s version of the compact Jeep Liberty. Oh, yeah, who can forget the 510-hp V10 Viper? Can you say, Corvette beater?

One word you can’t associate with Dodge anymore is the word, “boring.” Exciting cars, trucks, and SUVs for a market craving these types of hot vehicles. I guess the “ram” insignia really does befit the name.

Heritage and new Dodge Challenger models photo courtesy/copyright Chrysler LLC.

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Matt Keegan was a contributing writer for the Auto Parts Warehouse, a wholesaler of discount Dodge parts and accessories. Please visit The Auto Writer for breaking automotive news and information.