Drive On: Black Is Back At Dodge

Black is back in a big way when it comes to Dodge.

Just as Jeep scored with its all-blacked-out Altitude series of vehicles, Chrysler Group's Dodge division is betting that its equally noir editions of the Avenger, Challenger R/T and Charger R/T to its Blacktop lineup.

They are the Dodge Blacktop vehicles, joining one that's already out there, the Charger SXT Blacktop.

Everything is black -- paint, wheels, crosshair-style grille, spoilers and yes, um, even the tires. The bezels over the headlights aren't black, strictly speaking, but they are darkened. The package starts at $595 in addition to the price of the vehicle.

"The Blacktop package on the Dodge Charger has proven to be a resounding success by combining a customized one-of-a-kind appearance with great value -- a trademark of the Dodge Brand," said Reid Bigland, the Dodge brand's CEO.

They are not entirely about looks. The Avenger comes with Blacktop features inside, such as a six-speed automatic transmission with an "Auto Stick" feature. For another $400, Avenger Blacktop comes with premium leather and heated seats.

Their color? Let us guess.

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Story by Chris Woodyard at USA TODAY on November 7, 2012