Dodge and the revived SRT brand are preparing to launch the Copperhead, a striking new sports car expected to take the top spot in their performance lineup. While it revives a name from the late 1990s, the Copperhead will not replace the Viper but will act as a fresh performance icon for Dodge.
Smaller, More Focused Than Current Dodge Muscle Cars
The Copperhead aims to be more agile and track-oriented compared to Dodge’s current heavy hitters like the Charger. Unlike bigger, powerful Dodge models, this car will have a smaller size and advanced technology to boost handling and performance. It’s expected to help Dodge stay competitive against sports cars from Ford and Chevrolet as those rivals continue to raise the stakes.
Underpinnings and Design Hints
Dodge has shown a full-scale model earlier this year, revealing design cues such as a roofline somewhat like the Charger, but the car is said not to share the Charger’s platform. The Copperhead might use the Giorgio platform, which also underpins the Maserati GranTurismo. This platform’s continued use makes engineering sense since it allows shared parts and development costs, particularly if plans to phase it out are delayed.
Styling of the Copperhead is aggressive, with a dark front end dominated by air vents. The hood combines features from past Dodge models, including an S-duct inspired by the Charger Daytona EV and the traditional scoop seen on Charger Hellcats. Aerodynamic touches like a prominent front splitter, brake-cooling vents, and a large rear wing similar to the old Viper ACR suggest track-focused intent.
Powertrain Still a Mystery but Likely V8
The Copperhead carries dual exhausts, confirming a combustion engine. Though Dodge hasn’t confirmed the details, a supercharged V8 seems likely, potentially an updated 6.2-liter Hemi. This engine is capable of high output, as seen in the upcoming Ram 1500 SRT TRX and former Charger Hellcat models.
However, according to Dodge’s brand head Tim Kuniskis, new powertrain options are under consideration, possibly something new to the market. He dismissed hybrid setups for this car, saying they “will age poorly” and don’t fit the goal of timeless performance.
There is speculation the Copperhead might borrow technology from Maserati’s Nettuno V6 engine or its advanced ignition system, but this remains unconfirmed. The powertrain choice is key, as it will influence how the Copperhead positions itself versus rivals like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Camaro successor, and Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC.
Expected Launch and Price
The Copperhead is slated to arrive before 2030, possibly as a 2029 model. The starting price is expected to be over $100,000, potentially higher depending on chosen powertrain and options. Dodge markets it as a “hyper-muscle car,” hoping it will become a standout in the performance world without directly targeting competitors like the Corvette.
Source: caranddriver.com