Dodge is reportedly planning to bring back a supercharged V8 engine for the Charger’s 2028 model year. This move would reintroduce the iconic 6.2-liter HEMI V8 from the Hellcat family, a powertrain many muscle car fans consider key to the Charger’s character.
Hellcat V8 Listed for Both Two- and Four-Door Chargers
An internal Stellantis powertrain document shared by MoparInsiders suggests that Dodge is working on a Charger with the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. Unlike the current Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six versions, the V8 Charger would be rear-wheel drive and available in both two-door and four-door body styles.
The Hellcat engine is said to mate with a ZF 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the Hurricane-powered Chargers, which mainly use all-wheel drive but can operate in rear-wheel-drive mode, this V8 model would offer rear-wheel-drive as standard.
Positioning Above Current Chargers and Possible Volume
This new V8 Charger is expected to sit at the top of the combustion engine lineup, above the six-cylinder R/T and Scat Pack trims. For context, the R/T produces 420 horsepower, the Scat Pack 550 horsepower, and the electric Daytona Scat Pack goes up to 670 horsepower. A returning Hellcat V8 model would likely exceed these figures, though exact power numbers haven’t been released.
Reports indicate production might begin in late 2027, aiming for a 2028 model year launch with a possible annual volume near 12,000 units. However, these details remain unconfirmed and could change.
Challenges Ahead for V8 Charger Return
While the HEMI V8 has recently returned to Ram trucks, adding it back to the Charger involves more work. The new Charger architecture will need to accommodate engine packaging, transmission setup, and a standard rear-wheel-drive layout rather than all-wheel drive.
If Dodge proceeds, this model could provide the Charger generation with a true V8 flagship, restoring an option that many enthusiasts have awaited.
Source: clubalfa.it