Electric Cars

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.

Rebirth of American Muscle: The Charger's Roaring Comeback

Anticipated Reintroduction of the Hemi-Powered Charger

Increasing whispers within the automotive industry indicate that Dodge is moving forward with plans to reintroduce a Hemi-powered Charger. Earlier predictions had hinted at a potential return of the Charger SRT Hellcat, aiming for the 2028 model year, and these speculations appear to be gaining solid ground.

High-Volume Production Plans Revealed

According to insights from a leading automotive publication, Dodge is reportedly poised to commence manufacturing of a new Charger Hellcat featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine by late 2027. The company's confidence in this model is evident, as it has reportedly communicated to its suppliers an ambitious target of producing 12,000 Charger Hellcats annually.

Unveiling at Roadkill Nights

Should these reports materialize, it is highly probable that Dodge will officially unveil the rejuvenated Charger SRT Hellcat next August. The annual Roadkill Nights event, historically a platform for significant Dodge announcements, is expected to host this reveal. This event previously showcased the new Charger Super Bee, which boasts a formidable 600-horsepower inline-six engine.

Dodge's Stance on Future Product Information

When approached for comments regarding these circulating reports, a spokesperson for Dodge maintained a policy of discretion, stating that the company does not disclose future product strategies. This response, while standard, does little to quell the excitement and anticipation surrounding the potential return of the Hemi Charger.

Evolution of the Charger Lineup

The previous iterations of Hemi-powered Charger and Challenger models concluded their production cycle at the end of 2023. The subsequent generation of the Charger, launched in late 2024, initially featured as a battery-electric vehicle, marking a significant shift. Combustion-engine versions of the new Charger began production in late 2025, but notably, they did not initially offer the cherished Hemi V8 engine. Instead, these models are equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, available in various performance calibrations.

Market Performance and Future Projections

Dodge's strategic rollout of its new models has yielded positive results in sales. By September of the current year, sales of combustion-powered Chargers across both body styles demonstrated a remarkable 330 percent increase compared to the previous year, totaling 8,029 units. While this surge is encouraging, current sales figures remain considerably below those of the preceding generation, which sold 75,920 Charger sedans and 44,960 Challenger coupes in its final production year.

Strategic Expansion of Dodge's Portfolio

Beyond the rumored return of the Charger Hellcat, Dodge is actively diversifying its product offerings with the introduction of two additional models. These include a new flagship sports car and a GLH crossover, which will also feature an SRT variant. The GLH crossover is positioned to compete in the sedan and hot-hatch segments, with its non-SRT version expected to be priced below $40,000.

Commitment to Performance Innovation

Matt McAlear, CEO of Dodge, has reiterated the brand's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance. While he did not explicitly confirm details about a V8-powered Charger earlier this year, the Stellantis FaSTLAne 2030 roadmap highlighted the development of a Charger SRT variant. McAlear emphasized that the current developments are not the culmination of their efforts, promising continuous innovation and heightened performance.

Anticipated Features of the New Charger SRT Hellcat

The upcoming SRT Charger Hellcat is expected to showcase an aggressive aesthetic, characterized by a more pronounced hood scoop and a substantial rear wing. Crucially, it will house a Hemi V8 engine, rumored to deliver in excess of 700 horsepower. This engine, a supercharged 6.2-liter unit, is currently employed in Ram's revitalized TRX and the new Rumble Bee, where it produces an impressive 777 horsepower, hinting at the potent performance capabilities of the new Charger Hellca