Dodge CEO Suggests Any New Charger V8 Should Be Hellcat-Powered

Dodge appears poised to bring back a V8 engine option for the Charger, and it might not be the usual 5.7-liter Hemi. Instead, the company’s leadership hints that the Hellcat powertrain could be the only fitting choice for this muscle car's return to V8 power.

Tim Kuniskis, CEO of Stellantis’ American division, shared his perspective during the Detroit Auto Show, telling Motor Trend that if Dodge decides to install a V8 in the new Charger, it would likely be the Hellcat engine rather than the standard 5.7-liter option.

"If you were to put a V8 in the car, you would probably go to Hellcat instead of 5.7," Kuniskis explained.

However, the reintroduction of the V8 hasn't been finalized yet. Kuniskis expressed concerns about offering too many powertrain versions, which could lead to dealers having to choose selectively among numerous configurations.

For months, Stellantis has dropped subtle clues about a possible V8 Charger revival. Earlier this year, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear hinted at the feasibility of a V8 returning. Additionally, Stellantis recently committed $13 billion toward upgrading domestic manufacturing, including new powertrain technologies.

Currently, the Dodge Charger is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, available in outputs of 420 or 550 horsepower based on the tune. By contrast, the previous generation’s 5.7-liter Hemi V8 delivered 370 hp, while the mild-hybrid Hemi in the Ram produces 395 hp.

Expert Insight: While fans would love to see multiple V8 options in the new Charger, the significant investment Stellantis has made in the Hurricane inline-six engine makes it unlikely that it will be abandoned. If Dodge does develop a V8 for the new platform, a powerful Hellcat variant seems to be the most practical and financially sound choice.