Dodge Charger Hellcat to Return with Supercharged V-8 in 2028
Anticipation is building among automotive enthusiasts as a recent leak suggests the iconic Hemi supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine, affectionately known as the Hellcat, is poised for a grand comeback in the 2028 Dodge Charger series. This development, hinted at through internal documents, promises to rekindle the raw power and distinctive rumble that has defined the Charger's performance heritage. Fans can look forward to the reintroduction of this formidable powertrain, which is expected to once again set new benchmarks for muscle car performance.
The internal documents, initially brought to light by MoparInsiders, specifically indicate that the potent Hellcat engine will grace both the two-door coupe and four-door sedan variants of the 2028 Dodge Charger. A key aspect of this reintroduction is the transmission, with the engine exclusively mated to a ZF 8HP95 eight-speed automatic. Furthermore, a significant detail that has ignited excitement is the confirmed rear-wheel-drive configuration for these Hellcat models, distinguishing them from the current Hurricane-powered Chargers, which predominantly feature all-wheel drive. This move emphasizes a return to the classic, driver-focused dynamics that many performance enthusiasts crave.
The 2028 Charger lineup will offer a diverse range of powertrains. Alongside the returning 6.2-liter SRT engine, the 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six will continue to be available in three distinct output levels: the 420-horsepower Standard Output, the 550-horsepower High Output, and the 600-horsepower High-Output Plus, also known as the Super Bee variant. These options will complement the electric offerings from the Charger Daytona, providing a comprehensive selection for various driving preferences.
While the internal document confirms the Hellcat's return, specific output figures for the 6.2-liter engine remain shrouded in mystery. One plausible scenario suggests that Dodge might retain the engine's current impressive 717 horsepower. Alternatively, there's speculation that Dodge could equip the flagship Charger with an upgraded 777-horsepower version of the 6.2-liter engine, a powerhouse already featured in the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX pickup. The exact power output will be a closely watched detail as more information becomes available.
Car and Driver has reached out to Dodge for official confirmation regarding these internal documents and their contents. As of the time of this publication, a response has not been received. The automotive world eagerly awaits further announcements that will shed more light on the specifications and features of the highly anticipated 2028 Dodge Charger Hellcat, promising an exciting future for American muscle cars.
The resurgence of the Hellcat engine within the 2028 Dodge Charger series signals a powerful commitment to high-performance vehicles. This strategic move ensures that enthusiasts will continue to experience the exhilarating roar of a supercharged V-8, delivered with precision through an advanced automatic transmission and a classic rear-wheel-drive setup. The blended offering of traditional gasoline engines and modern electric options confirms Dodge’s forward-thinking approach while honoring its iconic heritage.