Dodge Charger's V8 Model May Be Limited to Hellcat Version

Dodge is considering reintroducing a V8 engine for the next-generation Charger, but it may skip the traditional 5.7-liter Hemi and instead launch directly with a high-performance Hellcat variant. At the Detroit Auto Show, Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis stated that if the V8 were to make a meaningful return, it should do so in Hellcat form. However, he also expressed concern that offering too many powertrain options could overwhelm dealers and complicate sales strategies. The current Charger is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, producing either 420 or 550 horsepower, compared to just 370 horsepower from the outgoing 5.7-liter V8. Although Stellantis has invested $13 billion to upgrade its North American manufacturing and powertrain capabilities, given the significant investment already made in the Hurricane inline-six engine, the brand is more likely to offer only a high-priced, high-output Hellcat V8 as a niche addition rather than fully reviving its V8 lineup.