Demise of V-8 Dodge Charger Confirmed

Goodbye Hemi, Hello Straight-Six: Introducing the Hurricane!

The recently released electric version of the Dodge Charger Daytona has made its debut, but it is not the only option in the Charger’s future. This news may come as a relief to many within Dodge’s “brotherhood,” as it confirms that internal combustion power will still be a part of the Charger’s lineup. However, it has also been confirmed that the engine powering the Charger will not be a V-8, whether it be a Hemi or any other variation.

At the Charger Daytona press conference, we had the opportunity to speak with Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis about the highly coveted Hemi V-8 engine. In light of Ford’s recent bold move to feature a V8-powered Mustang, and the downturn in demand for EVs coupled with possible loosening of government restrictions, we couldn’t help but wonder if there was any pressure on Dodge to follow suit with a V-8 option for their new Charger. However, Kuniskis was unambiguous in his response.

According to Kuniskis, “We don’t have a V-8 in the plan.” He stated this without any caveats or hesitation. If a Hemi Charger does make a return in the future, it will not be happening anytime soon.

The burning inquiry presently is if devoted Dodge customers will embrace a twin-turbocharged straight-six Charger. The fresh Charger Sixpack is slated to hit the market in the initial quarter of 2025, aptly named after its deployment of the identical 3.0-liter Hurricane six-cylinder motor introduced in Jeep. This enhanced engine will also be utilized in Ram 1500 trucks commencing this year, however within the Charger, it boasts an output of either 420 or 550 horsepower in its high-performance configuration. Although it may not reach Hellcat levels of power, it surpasses all previous naturally aspirated Hemi Chargers.

The highly-anticipated electric Charger Daytona will be hitting the market this summer, boasting an impressive 700 horsepower and comparable straight-line performance to its predecessor, the Hellcat. However, for the devoted Hemi enthusiasts who have been loyal Dodge buyers for nearly two decades, the idea of a six-cylinder electric engine may not sit well. It is doubtful that this demographic would be willing to invest in an electric Charger Daytona, no matter the level of power it possesses.

Amidst the absence of a V-8 engine and lack of plans for a successor to the Challenger, Dodge’s prospects as a muscle car brand may encounter significant obstacles in a transforming automobile industry.

Source: Dodge