Chrysler has ordered 93 first-generation Dodge Vipers to be crushed, including what is believed to be the fourth Viper ever made. A Chrysler representative sent a letter to South Puget Sound Community College, which currently owns the Viper with VIN# 4, informing them that they must crush the car within two weeks.

Automakers regularly donate unsellable non-street legal vehicles to automotive-engineering programs at colleges and universities, reserving the right to order the vehicles destroyed for insurance purposes. That includes this lot of 93 pre-production Vipers.

The example wearing VIN #4 is unique in that it is a 1992 hardtop variant; Dodge did not actually market a production version until 1996. It lacks emissions equipment and some electronics, as well as a speed limiter. That makes it pretty rare; it has been estimated to be worth $250,000. South Puget Sound Community College is understandably upset about the prospect of losing it. They could not have reasonably recovered its market value, though, because they are prohibited from selling it.

And thousands of people on the Internet are even more upset about it than South Puget Sound Community College is -- they don't want to see it crushed, either. It's to the point that they've started a petition.

This is nothing new; automakers regularly crush pre-production cars they can't legally sell because it's cheaper than storing them. This includes examples that have been worn out through endurance tests, as well as examples created for testing various systems in real life. The same goes for limited production cars; almost all of the GM EV1 prototypes were crushed when their lease periods ended.

While the crushing of EV1s sparked a PR battle that sought to paint the practice of crushing prototypes as something controversial, GM needed to do it to escape liability for possible accidents involving continued private use of the cars. (And GM did donate a few to museums and universities, where some EV1s survive.) In other cases, automakers have sold non-street legal pre-production cars on bills of sale, like four years ago during the paring down of GM's corporate collection, though that's rare.

Chrysler isn't taking any chances, but we'd at least like to see the cars parted out or transferred to museums, where no one will contemplate hooning them.

Chrysler is reportedly planning to temporarily shut down its SRT Viper production facility in Detroit.

The company is said to be laying off 91 workers during the hiatus, which potentially spells trouble for the company's flagship sports coupe.

The fourth-generation Viper was on track to be the last when it was discontinued in 2010, however the nameplate was revived for the 2013 model year. The company reportedly aimed to sell 1,600 Vipers annually, but sales for the first two months of the year failed to reach 100 units, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Following the 2013 reintroduction, the company attempted to reignite sales with several special editions. Buyers can step up to the Viper Time Attack edition, which brings a wide range of track-focused upgrades, while Launch Edition and Grand Touring packages provide further differentiation.

The Viper may be feeling the bite from Chevrolet's 2014 Corvette Stingray, which recently jumped in price thanks to better-than-expected demand. The SRT monster remains a unique proposition for displacement enthusiasts, retaining its 8.4-liter V10 as many competitors switch to smaller forced-induction powerplants.

The Viper plant is reportedly scheduled to halt operations on April 14 and resume production on June 23.

The Viper may be feeling the bite from Chevrolet's 2014 Corvette Stingray,

Late last year, SRT rolled out a special edition version of its Viper called the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package. Based on the Viper GTS, the special edition featured a unique metallic matte exterior along with a number of premium features in the cabin, and only 50 examples were slated to be produced.

Now SRT has announced that its Viper Time Attack model will also get the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package treatment. It makes its world debut today at the 2014 New York Auto Show.

The Viper TA is a track-focused version of the all-American supercar, limited originally to just 159 examples, all of which have been sold. Now that run will be extended by 10 more cars that will make up Vipers 41-50 that are destined to receive the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package treatment.

In addition to the metallic matte paint, the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package also includes black wheels, black badging, a black exhaust bezel, orange brakecalipers, carbon fiber brake ducts and a rear applique.

For the interior, Alcantara is used for the headliner, door bolsters and knee blockers, while orange accent stitching is used on the seats. Carbon fiber accents are added throughout the center stack, door panels and steering wheel, and an exclusive carbon badge adorns the dashboard.

No changes have been made to the drivetrain, which means under the hood sits a handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4-liter V-10 delivering 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque.

Production of the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package cars begins in early 2015.

You've got to hand it to Dodge for having the gumption to put the original Viper into production in the first place. It was, after all, much more of an emotional decision than a practical one, and a move which saw the first production V10 engine placed in a road car – long before the advent of the Lamborghini Gallardo, Audi R8, Porsche Carrera GT or Lexus LFA, not to mention the other Ford, BMW and Volkswagen Group models that used such engines.

It's now been 22 years since the first Viper entered production and the Viper still rolls on several generations later, but we're sad to say that courageous decision has not always been met with overwhelming sales success. In fact parent Chrysler was forced to idle the Conner Avenue plant where the Viper is made back in April due to slow sales. And while production resumed again as planned on June 23, it apparently didn't do the trick.

As a result, Chrysler corporate communications chief Shawn Morgan revealed to Autoblog that the assembly line has been shut down again for another two weeks. The line was up and running for nearly two full work weeks from June 23 until the holiday weekend that started on Thursday, July 3. But instead of coming back online today as planned, it's been idled again for the weeks of July 7 and 14. That means it will be July 21, at the earliest, before the serpentine supercars start slithering down the assembly line at Conner Avenue again. Once it does, however, production is set to resume at the same pace it was before the shutdown.

The hiatus was originally undertaken to help Chrysler sell off its stockpiled inventory of unsold Vipers it had amassed as production outpaced sales. Reports pegged that number at 756 units, but Chrysler tells us that it does not disclose supply of individual models - only "on a company wide basis," according to Morgan. She did confirm to Autoblog, however, that despite the 91 workers who were originally projected to be laid off from the Conner Avenue plant, the final number of UAW-represented workers to be laid off has been reduced to 82. An unspecified number of hourly workers will also receive certain unemployment benefits as well.

Once production of the Viper - which will return as a Dodge product as the SRT brand is brought back into the fold - will resume, we hope it will be here to stay, and that the remaining workers will be able to get back to work with no further interruptions.

The 707-horsepower, 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 in the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat seems a natural to go under the hood of a vehicle that could better handle all that power up to 200 mph and above. And to casual enthusiasts, it would make sense that car might be the Viper.

But as SRT powertrain director Chris Cowland told us this past week, that’s simply not going to happen -- not ever, within the current generation of the Viper.

There are several critical reasons, really, and they all come back to the dimensions of the Hemi.

Because of the Hemi’s tall cylinder heads, there’s simply no way that SRT engineers could package the Apache or its new 6.2-liter supercharged variant under the hood of the Viper, Cowland told us. It would require punching up above the hood, or heavily modifying the hoodline (it’s not just close, it would be several inches) to the point at which it would adversely affect the Viper’s aerodynamics.

Even if engineers were to solve the hoodline dilemma, there’s a width issue; the Hemi won’t actually clear the Viper’s chassis rails; once again, it’s the tall cylinder heads, and the overall width they bring to the engine.

The exhaust manifold and supercharger hardware also add to the dimensional problem, Cowland said, and given that the supercharger runs on a separate cooling loop, that would present separate issues.

“Somebody will do it,” mused Cowland. “It won’t be us.”

The V-10 is actually a relatively low-profile engine, Cowland said, and considering its stout low end, remains the best fit for the Viper, in all ways. Interestingly, the Viper and SRT Hellcat do already share one major powertrain component: their manual transmission. In the Challenger SRT Hellcat it gets an additional external oil cooler, however.

Of course, one engine bay that might fit the Hellcat’s engine is that of the Charger four-door. For now, Cowland deflected a reply on that possibility.

So for now, there will be a Hellcat and there will be a Viper. And with either, there’s definitely no lack of performance burn and bite.

The Dodge Viper SRT supercar muscles into the 2015 model year with a few changes, including some additional horsepower. New variants have also been added to the lineup, with a new Viper GT squeezing in between the base Viper and upmarket Viper GTS, and a new-and-improved Viper Time Attack arriving in 2.0 flavor.

But getting back to the additional horses: No, the 2015 Viper hasn’t received the SRT performance division’s 707-horsepower Hellcat engine but its 8.4-liter V-10 engine is now rated at 645 horsepower, up 5 horses on the previous model year. Torque remains unchanged at 600 pound-feet.

That may not be all that exiting but the refinements that led to the power increase has also seen gas mileage improved an additional mile per gallon for highway driving. The 2015 Viper is now rated at 20 mpg on the highway (figures for city and combined are yet to be released). The Viper’s six-speed manual transmission has also been tweaked, with a revised sixth gear ratio added for the GT and GTS. The revised ratio is said to reduce engine noise at highway cruising speeds.

The new GT variant builds on the base Viper but picks up a driver-selectable suspension system and luxurious interior appointments, previously only available on the pricey GTS. These include the Bilstein DampTronic Select suspension system and standard Alcantara and Nappa leather trim. We know the GT will be priced between the base Viper and GTS, but Dodge is holding back final pricing until a later date. For 2014, the Viper had a starting price of $101,309 while the GTS listed at $122,390.

For track enthusiasts, the Viper TA is back, this time as the Viper TA 2.0. The key improvement is more downforce, brought about by a new rear wing balanced with carbon fiber corner splitters for the front of the car. Engineers also tweaked the spring rates, dampers, sway bars and brake components, the latter of which have been enhanced for improved balance and resistance to heat fade. Dodge claims the TA 2.0 sees an increase in downforce from 278 pounds at 150 mph to 400 pounds at 150 mph compared with the 2014 Viper TA.

Inside, the TA 2.0 uses the standard premium ballistic fabric racing seats from Sabelt, featuring a lightweight fiberglass shell. Both driver and passenger seats can also accommodate a three- or six-point harness for racing belts. Black is the standard trim color but is accented with orange contrast stitching. For the exterior, the TA 2.0 is available in three limited-edition colors: Competition Blue, Yorange, and Venom Black. Production of this particular model will be limited to 32 units of each of the three exterior colors.

The final key change for 2015 is the introduction of the Viper GTS Ceramic Blue Edition. This special edition model will be limited to just 40 units for the 2015 model year and comes exclusively in a special blue color. The vehicle also gets five-spoke Rattler-style wheels finished in black, orange brake calipers, and leather and Alcantara trim for the interior.

Two new colors have been added for the rest of the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT lineup: the aforementioned Yorange and Stryker Purple. To go along with the new hues, there are also Black Venom, Billet Silver, Bright White, Gunmetal Pearl and Adrenaline Red stripe packages.

It's no secret the Dodge Viper SRT isn't exactly selling like gangbusters. Dodge even had to halt production on the car in order to keep existing stock moving along. Though the changes for 2015 aren’t substantial, hopefully they’ll boost showroom traffic.

New for 2015, the iconic Dodge Viper SRT receives a new, mid-priced GT model along with numerous styling and performance enhancements across the vehicle lineup.

“The Dodge brand is committed to keeping the ultimate American-built exotic supercar as unique as ever by offering new packages with some of the most exclusive and high-quality content we’ve ever produced in the Viper,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO — Dodge Brand, SRT (Street and Racing Technology) Brand and Fleet Operations, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our Dodge Viper customers crave new and exclusive options, which motivates our design and engineering teams to create special builds that continue to deliver our successful high-performance formula for street and track driving, while allowing our enthusiasts to stand out in their world-class supercars.”

The Dodge Viper SRT is produced at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

New GT model

New for 2015 is the Viper GT model that builds off the entry-level Viper by adding the driver-selectable suspension system, featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with street and track settings, a five-mode electronic stability control system, and a unique interior with standard Alcantara and Nappa leather seats available in black, Demonic Red or Sepia, with accent stitching for the customer who wants a true Grand Touring performance machine.

The new Dodge Viper GT model will be priced between the Viper and Viper GTS models. Final pricing will be announced at a later date.

New 2015 Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition

The street-legal Dodge Viper SRT TA (Time Attack) 2.0 Special Edition is an evolution of the successful 2014 TA model and provides even more downforce with a new rear wing balanced with aerodynamic additions for the front of the car. The TA 2.0 is specifically built for performance enthusiast drivers who like to exercise their machines at the more than 150 road-race courses across North America.

The TA 2.0 Special Edition Package builds upon the Viper’s ultra-low center of gravity, 50/50 weight distribution and largest contact patch in the production car world. The Viper TA 2.0 uses chassis parts developed specifically by the SRT Engineering chassis dynamics team to attain the most out of the race-car-like chassis and create the most confidence inspiring Viper ever. SRT Engineering developed new spring rates, dampers, sway bars and brake components, combined as a system with the new rear wing and front aero devices, to create one of the most track-capable production cars in the world. The changes keep the Dodge Viper SRT TA 2.0 glued to the track, while the brake system is enhanced for improved balance and to resist thermal saturation during track work.

Key high-performance equipment for the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT TA 2.0 Special Edition includes:

- A new TA 2.0 Aerodynamics Package, which includes new front dive planes, carbon fiber front corner splitters with extended rub strips and a new, larger rear wing to boost downforce at higher speeds – increasing downforce from 278 pounds at 150 mph to 400 pounds at 150 mph compared with the 2014 Viper TA
- Unique race-tuned calibration for the two-mode Bilstein DampTronic suspension system, retuned springs, shocks and road-racing derived sway bars, which offer firmer levels of damping and a smaller spread between modes than what is found on the Viper GTS
Lighter, carbon fiber structural X-brace replaces the standard aluminum brace under the hood and ties the four corners of the engine compartment together, contributing to the 50-percent increase in torsional rigidity and stiffness across the Viper lineup
- Brembo two-piece, 32 millimeters wide, high-thermal capacity rotors and pads, which optimize heat dissipation and provide improved use in extreme track situations
Standard Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires are mounted on ultra-lightweight, multi-spoke Sidewinder II wheels. The brake calipers feature a black anodized finish with the Viper logo shown in TA Orange.
- Inside, the performance driver-oriented cabin of the 2015 Viper TA 2.0 uses the standard premium ballistic fabric racing seats from Sabelt, featuring a lightweight fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger seats can also accommodate a three- or six-point harness for racing belts.

The standard black interior combination includes unique orange accent stitching on the cloth seats, instrument panel (through the cowl), center stack, console, pull brake, shifter boot, shifter head, steering wheel and upper doors.

On the exterior, the Viper TA 2.0 is available in three limited-edition colors: Competition Blue, Yorange, which is new for 2015, and Venom Black.

Production of the 2015 Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition packages will be limited to 32 units of each of the three exterior colors.

New 2015 Dodge Viper GTS Ceramic Blue Edition Package

The new Dodge Viper GTS Ceramic Blue Edition Package features an exclusive Ceramic Blue paint color with black stripes and five-spoke “Rattler” wheels finished exclusively in Black Vapor Chrome.

Unique exterior accents on the Ceramic Blue Edition Package include a GTS sill badge, Satin Black exhaust bezel, Ceramic Blue fuel filler door, orange brake calipers, carbon fiber brake ducts and rear applique.

Luxurious interior accents include Alcantara wrapped headliner, door bolsters and knee blockers; silver accent stitching on the Nappa leather-wrapped door trim, center console and instrument panel and on the Nappa leather and Alcantara seats. Silver accents are also added to the door panel and instrument panel. Carbon fiber accents are added throughout the center stack, door panels and steering wheel, and an exclusive carbon serialized GTS badge adorns the dashboard identifying the production number of the vehicle.

Only 40 units of the Viper GTS model with the Ceramic Blue Edition Package will be built during the 2015 model year.

Stryker Purple and Yorange are new Viper colors for 2015

Available on the 2015 Viper GT and GTS models, new Stryker Purple expands the world-class exterior color palette with enhanced pigments and a “liquid mercury” appearance. The newest color is the perfect choice for enthusiasts who want to take their Dodge Viper SRT to the next level of exclusivity with a vivid and unique finish that reflects light to show off the dramatic curves of the Viper.

Yorange is the newest high-impact color made exclusively for the Viper model and offers a vibrant mix of bright orange and yellow tones.

The application of the exterior paint is a very detailed and intricate process, taking approximately eight hours to complete. The process first starts with a base color coat followed by a tinted mid-coat and topped off with a clear finish. Each coat application adds depth and accentuates the curvature of the Viper’s exterior design.

Awe-inspiring V-10 powertrain

The heart and soul of the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT is its venerable, handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4-liter, mid-front V-10 overhead-valve engine, featuring an ultra-high-flow, lightweight composite intake manifold; high-strength forged pistons; sodium-filled exhaust valves; exhaust system catalysts to ease backpressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses.

Engine calibration and transmission refinements for 2015 raise the horsepower rating for the SRT-engineered V-10 to 645 horsepower, while fuel economy increases one mile per gallon (mpg) on the highway to 20 mpg. Engine torque remains at 600 lb.-ft. – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world.

Approximately 25 pounds have been shaved from the fully dressed engine compared with the previous-generation model (2010 model year).

The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission features close gear ratios and a final-drive ratio of 3.55. Short shifter throws make the 2015 Dodge Viper models extremely engaging to drive. Its top speed of 206 mph is achieved through 6th gear with maximum engine speed (redline) at 6,200 rpm.

For 2015, a revised sixth gear ratio has been added for the Dodge Viper GT and GTS models, resulting in reduced engine noise at highway cruising speeds.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability

Starting with a stiffer structure that provides 50 percent more torsional rigidity than the previous generation model, the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT chassis benefits from numerous enhancements – many learned through racing efforts with Viper GTS-R, Competition Coupe and ACR-X models.

In addition to the aluminum X-brace under the hood that ties the suspension pickup points to the magnesium cowl super casting, an aluminum impact beam at the front of the car contributes to 50/50 weight distribution, while providing excellent crashworthiness. This also benefits torsional rigidity and stiffness.

Structurally, many reworked chassis components take advantage of new materials able to accommodate reduced thickness and complex shapes without compromising structural rigidity. The result is an overall weight savings of approximately 100 pounds versus the previous generation model.

The Dodge Viper model includes a single mode, high-performance suspension, while the GTS model adds a driver-selectable suspension system featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with street and track settings.

All 2015 Dodge Viper SRT models ride on standard Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires with outstanding grip, steering feel and cold-weather performance, regardless of road surface, while also broadening the performance envelope on the street or the track.

Standard safety technologies include electronic multistage stability control and traction control, which helps to maximize traction performance at virtually any speed and driving environment.

All 2015 Dodge Viper models feature a steering-wheel-mounted switch for the standard launch control, allowing for optimal acceleration from standing starts.

Benchmark braking
Brake performance for the 2015 Dodge Viper is engineered to provide short stopping distances, low modulation, outstanding durability and balanced brake performance without fading under extreme conditions.

Each corner features four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers and vented rotors boasting a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm. Brake calipers are forged. All surfaces are machined for full weight optimization. The calipers are among the stiffest available. Heat distortion is nearly eliminated, even under the most demanding braking conditions.

Lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech are standard on the Dodge Viper GTS models for 2015.

The new 2015 Viper TA 2.0 Special Edition Package features a Brembo brake system that increases thermal capacity and optimizes heat dissipation providing improved extreme use. The brake calipers on the 2015 SRT Viper TA 2.0 feature a black anodized finish with the Viper logo shown in TA Orange.

Race-inspired, high-performance interiors

The driver-oriented interior cabins of all 2015 SRT Viper models feature superior craftsmanship, premium material appointments and performance-oriented technologies.

All major interior surfaces are sewn and wrapped, with additional padding applied in comfort areas.

Nappa leather seats with Alcantara inserts are included with the new Viper GT model along with accent stitching throughout the interior. Color combinations include a black interior with black seats, a black interior with Sepia seats, and a black interior with the new for 2015 Demonic Red seats.

On the Viper GTS model, Nappa leather-wrapped surfaces surround the cabin. Laguna leather seats and an Alcantara headliner are now standard. Accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching, including two-tone combinations of Sepia and black, and a Demonic Red and black combination.

Also available with the GTS is a fully wrapped premium Laguna leather interior in all black, all Sepia or all Demonic Red resulting in a luxurious full-dipped look.

Quality fit and finish is showcased across the lineup with details such as the triple paint-finished gun-metal appliqués on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window-switch bezels, shifter base, park-brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab-handle on the center console.

An optional Interior Carbon Fiber Accents Package, which includes carbon fiber trim on the steering wheel, door switches, instrument cluster, grab handle, console shifter and center stack bezel, is also available.

Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer-molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger enjoy thigh support and deep side-bolsters designed to match the extreme lateral acceleration capabilities of the Dodge Viper SRT.

Seating positions provide ample room and performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel stretches 90 mm overall for numerous seating options. Seat height also can be adjusted by up to 40 mm – manually on the Viper and GT models and power-controlled on the GTS.

A 7-inch, full-color, customizable instrument cluster with its full-time analog tachometer is designed specifically for the Dodge Viper SRT.

The dominant center tachometer display features an animated readout that glows red and shows off the new “Stryker” logo when engine rpm approaches redline, safely alerting the driver to upshift.

Drivers can configure the tachometer to display their last shift point and a peak rpm hold marker can be set up for optimum performance. Views include tachometer-only or tachometer with digital speed readout.

The customizable instrument cluster provides an unmatched presentation of the exclusive Dodge SRT Performance Pages’ statistics and feedback to the driver, including 0-to-60 mph; 0-to-100 mph; eighth- and quarter-mile elapsed times; braking distance; instant g-force measurement readouts and top-speed performance.

The 8.4-inch Uconnect radio doubles as a display for Dodge SRT Performance Pages content, such as quarter-mile elapsed time and speed. Data also can be stored for future reference.

Uconnect Access provides new level of connectivity

The 2015 Dodge Viper SRT lineup features the Uconnect 8.4AN system and a suite of Uconnect Access services.

The Uconnect 8.4AN system provides a range of communications, entertainment and navigation features along with an easy-to-use interface that includes steering-wheel controls, touchscreen, voice recognition technology and traditional buttons. The system balances the convenience of an 8.4-inch touchscreen with the reassurance of tactile knobs for common functions such as radio tuning volume adjustment. A menu of touchscreen buttons along the bottom of the screen enable easy access to the radio, media, climate controls, navigation, phone and apps.

As part of the new suite of Uconnect Access services, breakthrough voice-text capability is enabled via voice command.

Pairing the vehicle with a compatible Bluetooth-equipped phone featuring the Message Access Profile (MAP) enables handsfree calling and activates the new voice texting feature, which:

- Announces receipt of a text message sent to the device
- Audibly identifies the sender
- “Reads” the message aloud
- Enables the driver to dictate a free-form response

Leveraging the high-speed data connection built into the car, the driver can access cloud-based voice-recognition technology that converts the spoken word into verbatim text messages. Communication is limited only by the user’s vocabulary – no need to let go of the steering wheel or learn lists of “pre-determined” responses, as required by competitive systems.

Similarly, the Viper’s available navigation system affords the use of continuous, single-sentence instructions, such as: “Navigate to 800 Chrysler Drive, Auburn Hills, Michigan.”

Not sure where you need to go? Ask Yelp. The powerful social media connected search service will provide a recommended list of restaurants, or other landmarks. Choose a destination and, if equipped, the Uconnect system will plot a route on command.

The system also raises the security bar, using its high-speed data connection to establish direct contact with 9-1-1 dispatchers at the push of a button. A second button connects vehicle occupants with Uconnect help, Chrysler Group customer service or roadside assistance. (Both buttons are located on the Viper’s rearview mirror.)

Additional peace of mind comes in the form or theft-alarm notification, stolen-vehicle assistance and a smartphone app. The latter remotely locks and unlocks doors, flashes lights, sounds the horn and pinpoints vehicle location in places such as crowded parking lots.

Once behind the wheel, its sculpted contours welcome a driver’s grip. The steering wheel also is home to a host of fingertip mounted controls for audio, Uconnect features and launch control.

SiriusXM Travel Link, available with the Uconnect 8.4AN system, provides premium data services and information to make every trip more efficient. SiriusXM Traffic, also only available with Uconnect 8.4AN, works with the vehicle’s navigation system to display traffic speed, traffic flow and accident information to assist travel through congested areas.

An expanded SiriusXM channel lineup is available and includes programming exclusive to Chrysler Group, including the new SiriusXM Latino channels, an auto industry first.

A range of Harman Kardon surround-sound systems are available across the Dodge Viper SRT lineup that features the latest in audio system technology. All Harman Kardon audio systems include a high-voltage class D amplifier with tracking power supply and up to 12 channels of amplification. The Harman Kardon system with exclusive Logic 7 surround-sound processing is standard in the Dodge Viper GTS model with a total of 18 speakers, including four subwoofers located behind the seats.

All Harman Kardon systems in the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT lineup include high-performance, high-efficiency GreenEdge technology loudspeakers that are extremely light and include rare earth magnets. The magnets inside each speaker ensure efficient speaker operation and enhanced performance. The audio system is powered by a 35-volt tracking power supply – so the new and improved sound system achieves more than double the acoustic power of the current system.

Refined evolution of SRT’s hallmark – aggressive and functional exterior designs
The timeless exterior design of the 2015 Dodge Viper SRT lineup blends contemporary execution with evolutionary refinement.

Carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels result in significant weight savings, high-speed stability and a .369 drag coefficient while still achieving negative lift.

The forward-hinged hood offers unobtrusive access to several service points underneath. Six standard air extractors on the Viper and GT models (available on GTS model) or two standard air extractors on the GTS model remove heat from the SRT-engineered V-10 powerplant. The “Stryker” badge is positioned in the center of the hood in front of the air intake.

The classical low-stance, extreme cab-rearward proportions and dramatic fender “gills” – another traditional Viper design cue that also helps to extract heat from the engine compartment, comprise the unmistakable silhouette of the iconic supercar.

The 2015 Viper models feature a contemporary take on the traditional “double-bubble” roof configuration that maximizes headroom for the driver and passenger while maintaining a low frontal area – allowing additional room for helmets during recreational competitive driving.

The optional Exterior Carbon Fiber Package includes carbon fiber brake ducts located in the front grille opening, carbon fiber rear brake ducts behind the side glass and a carbon fiber rear applique.

The optional Advanced Aerodynamics Package features carbon fiber front corner splitters and a carbon fiber rear spoiler, which provide 280 pounds of downforce at 150 mph and 460 pounds of downforce at top speed.

Dual-function, bi-xenon projector headlamps are tightly packaged with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals in a sinister “snake eye” configuration.

Functional “blisters” incorporated into the 70 mm projector headlamp lenses create a three-dimensional view that gives Viper a distinctive glare.

The lower-front grille is purposefully designed as an evolution of the traditional Viper low-profile cooling opening configuration and discretely carries a refined V-shape structure.

The exhaust system continues to exit forward of the rear wheels and carries further refinement with cast aluminum, sill-mounted exhaust bezels.

All 2015 Dodge SRT Viper models carry LED tail lamps that integrate stop-and-turn illumination in one element. Snakeskin texture in the lens carries the surface work seen in the gills and hood textures. With dark-masked lenses, the horizontal lamps appear dark until the LED elements fire. Each lamp carries 50 LEDs that provide a unified “crystallized” illumination effect.

The five-spoke, forged-aluminum “Rattler” wheel design on the 2015 Viper model is available with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted Matte Black finishes.

The Viper GTS has a split six-spoke forged-aluminum “Venom” wheel design with three available finishes, including polished face with graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted Matte Black.

The available Sidewinder II wheels are ultra-lightweight, track-ready wheels in Hyper Black or Matte Black finishes. The Matte Black finished wheels are included in the TA Special Edition Package.

Exterior color choices for 2015 consist of the following:

- Viper model: Adrenaline Red, Billet Silver, Black Venom, Bright White, Competition Blue, - GTS-R Blue, Gunmetal Pearl and Yorange (new for 2015)
- TA Special Edition Package is available in Competition Blue, Venom Black or Yorange
- GT model: Adrenaline Red, Billet Silver, Black Venom, Bright White, Competition Blue, GTS-R Blue, Gunmetal Pearl, Stryker Orange and Stryker Purple
- GTS model: Adrenaline Red, Anodized Carbon, Billet Silver, Black Venom, Bright White, Ceramic Blue, Competition Blue, GTS-R Blue, Gunmetal Pearl, Stryker Orange and Stryker Purple

Two distinctive body stripe configurations are offered. The Viper GTS models are available with a pair of tapered stripes starting on the clamshell hood and making their way onto the roof and finishing on the rear hatch. The Viper, GT and GTS models are available with a pair of wide stripes running the length of the coupe from front to rear fascia.

Stripe configurations are expertly applied in the paint booth before the main body color. Only after the paint is cured, a final clear coat is used to ensure the stripes are an integral part of the finished product.

Exterior stripe color packages include: Black Venom, Billet Silver, Bright White, Gunmetal Pearl and, new for 2015, Adrenaline Red.

Standard equipment includes:

- 8.4-liter, overhead-valve, 20-valve, SFI, all-aluminum V-10 engine
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Four-wheel independent suspension, lightweight performance, SLA-type with coil-over shocks, tubular stabilizer bars
- Electronic multistage stability control — three mode (Full On, Rain, Full Off) with traction control and brake assist systems
- Four-wheel Brembo disc brakes with gloss black calipers
- Pirelli P Zero non-run-flat tires – Front: 295/30ZR18 BSW, Rear: 355/30ZR19 BSW
- Sabelt ballistic nylon, Caprice vinyl sport bucket seats from Sabelt
- Uconnect Media Center 8.4AN
- 7-in. customizable, full-color instrument cluster
- Dodge/SRT Performance Pages
- Twelve-speaker Harman Kardon audio system including two subwoofers and surround -sound
- SRT Track Experience — one-day driving experience designed for SRT owners

Optional equipment includes:

- Eighteen-speaker, 32-volt Harman Kardon audio system with four subwoofers and Logic 7 surround sound
- Advanced Aerodynamics Package — carbon fiber front corner splitters and rear spoiler
- TA 2.0 Special Edition Package — Advanced aero package, carbon fiber rear applique, TA sill decals, front fascia Stryker logo decal, unique orange stitching on ballistic fabric seats, instrument panel, center stack, console, pull brake, shifter boot, shifter head, steering wheel and upper doors. Bilstein two-mode suspension with unique spring rates, unique orange color, shock tuning, solid sway bars (front/rear), competition alignment, unique Brembo slotted, vented high thermal capacity two-piece wide annulus rotors and pads, anodized calipers with orange Viper logo, ultra-lightweight Sidewinder II track wheel – Matte Black; tires – Pirelli P Zero Corsa soft compound non run-flat, front: 295/30ZR18 BSW, rear: 355/30ZR19 BSW, carbon fiber X-brace, (only available in Yorange, Bright White or Venom Black exterior colors)

2015 Dodge Viper GT

Standard equipment includes:

- 8.4-liter, overhead-valve, 20-valve, SFI, all-aluminum V-10 engine
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Two mode adjustable suspension (street and race) — four-wheel independent, lightweight performance, SLA-type with coil-over, Bilstein DampTronic Select shocks, tubular stabilizer bars
- Electronic multistage stability control — five mode (Full On, Sport, Track, Rain, Full Off) with traction control and brake assist systems
- Four-wheel Brembo disc brakes with gloss black calipers
- Pirelli P Zero non-run-flat tires – Front: 295/30ZR18 BSW, Rear: 355/30ZR19 BSW
- Sabelt Nappa leather with Alcantara inserts sport bucket seats from Sabelt
- Uconnect Media Center 8.4AN
- 7-in. customizable, full-color instrument cluster
- Dodge/SRT Performance Pages
- Twelve-speaker Harman Kardon audio system including two subwoofers and surround sound
- SRT Track Experience — Includes a one-day driving experience designed for SRT owners

Optional equipment includes:

- Sabelt Nappa leather sport bucket seats with contrast stitching
- Eighteen-speaker, 32-volt Harman Kardon audio system with four subwoofers and Logic 7 surround sound
- Interior Carbon Fiber Accents Package — carbon fiber interior trim pieces, including steering wheel, door switch, instrument cluster, grab handle, console shifter and center stack bezels
- Exterior Carbon Fiber Package — carbon fiber exterior pieces, including front and rear brake duct bezels and rear applique
- Advanced Aerodynamics Package — carbon fiber front corner splitters and rear spoiler
2015 Dodge Viper GTS

Standard equipment includes:

8.4-liter, overhead-valve, 20-valve, SFI, all-aluminum V-10 engine
Six-speed manual transmission
Two mode adjustable suspension (street and race) — four-wheel independent, lightweight performance, SLA-type with coil-over, Bilstein DampTronic Select shocks, tubular stabilizer bars
Electronic multistage stability control — five mode (Full On, Sport, Track, Rain, Full Off) with traction control and brake assist systems
Four-wheel Brembo disc brakes with gloss red calipers and StopTech slotted, vented lightweight two-piece rotors
Pirelli P Zero non-run-flat tires – Front: 295/30ZR18 BSW, Rear: 355/30ZR19 BSW
Sabelt Laguna premium leather sport bucket seats with embossed diamond pattern inserts and contrasting stitching
Uconnect Media Center 8.4AN
7-inch customizable, full-color instrument cluster
Dodge/SRT Performance Pages
Eighteen-speaker, 32-volt Harman Kardon audio system with four subwoofers and Logic 7 surround sound
SRT Track Experience — a one-day driving experience designed for SRT owners
Optional equipment includes:

- Interior Carbon Fiber Accents Package — carbon fiber interior trim pieces, including steering wheel, door switch, instrument cluster, grab handle, console shifter and center stack bezels
- Exterior Carbon Fiber Package — carbon fiber exterior pieces, including front and rear brake duct bezels and rear applique
- Advanced Aerodynamics Package — carbon fiber front corner splitters and rear spoiler
- Laguna Interior Package (Black, Sepia and Demonic Red dipped interiors) — Laguna premium leather surface door panels, instrument panel and center console, unique enhanced GTS Badge, Anodized Gunmetal trim and Alcantara headliner
- Ceramic Blue Special Edition Package — Ceramic Blue paint, carbon fiber brake (front and rear) ducts, rear applique, Satin Black exhaust bezels, Satin Black fuel filler cap, Alcantara headliner and door bolsters and knee blockers, Gunmetal door bezels, interior carbon fiber accents, unique instrument panel badge, silver interior stitching, orange brake calipers with black Viper, Black Vapor Chrome wheel finish