If Dodge Brings Again a V8 Charger It Might Be A Hellcat or Nothing : Automotive Addicts

Automotive

It seems like the brand new Dodge Charger has been dwelling beneath a single, big query mark since day one: the place’s the V8? The present lineup leans on a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six and, relying on tune, it’s hardly gradual, however the model’s identification has all the time been tied to big-cube angle and that unmistakable soundtrack. Now, feedback from Stellantis exec Tim Kuniskis are pouring gasoline on the rumor fireplace, suggesting that if a V8 does return to the Charger, a primary Hemi isn’t the transfer.

Kuniskis reportedly advised MotorTrend on the Detroit Auto Present that dropping a V8 into the automobile would most likely imply going straight to Hellcat as a substitute of the acquainted 5.7-liter. That tracks with how Dodge has educated its viewers to suppose for years: for those who’re going to do it, do it loud and do it with a headline-grabbing spec sheet. A light V8 comeback would possibly fulfill a number of purists, but it surely wouldn’t ship the “assertion” second Dodge would wish to justify the engineering, advertising and marketing, and pricing gymnastics in as we speak’s market.

On the similar time, Dodge additionally appears cautious of turning the Charger into an order sheet nightmare. Kuniskis acknowledged issues about overwhelming sellers with too many trims and powertrains, which is a real-world downside that doesn’t get talked about sufficient. Sellers should inventory what they will promote, and clients need readability, not a maze of choices. Nonetheless, there have been breadcrumbs for months, together with Dodge CEO Matt McAlear saying final summer time, “Don’t be shocked if it might match,” when pressed a couple of V8 working its method again into the combo.

For now, the Charger’s gas-powered story facilities on that twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, rated at 420 horsepower in a single model and 550 horsepower in one other, which already places it within the neighborhood of older V8 efficiency numbers. The earlier 5.7-liter Charger was round 370 horsepower, and even the mild-hybrid Hemi within the Ram sits beneath that high inline-six output. Add in Stellantis’ just lately introduced $13 billion push into home manufacturing and up to date powertrains, and it’s not exhausting to see why lovers are studying the tea leaves. If Dodge decides it wants a V8 halo once more, the messaging is getting clearer: it most likely must be a Hellcat to make the comeback really feel worthy of the Charger badge.

Mike Floyd is a finance govt by commerce and a automobile fanatic at coronary heart. As a CFO with a eager eye for element and technique, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering recent insights and distinctive views that transcend the floor. His ardour for vehicles—particularly his favourite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, the place he blends a love for efficiency and design along with his skilled precision. Whether or not he’s breaking down trade developments or spotlighting rising improvements, Mike helps hold the location each sharp and forward-thinking.