.avif)
5 Minutes
Introduction: Dodge Teases V8 Potential for the New Charger
Dodge is quietly signaling that V8 power might return to its latest Charger line. After the STLA Large-based Charger Daytona received a mixed reception, Stellantis North America introduced a Charger Scat Pack aimed at boosting sales. Now, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear has implied that the Charger’s engine bay was designed with enough flexibility that a HEMI V8 could be accommodated—keeping the door open for future high-displacement performance variants.
Platform and Packaging: STLA Large’s Flexibility
The key to this possibility is the STLA Large architecture. Built by Stellantis as a BEV-native platform with support for high-voltage architectures, STLA Large was developed to adapt over time. Its standout advantage is packaging versatility: engineers configured the platform for both transverse and longitudinal powertrains. That explains why the KM-series Jeep Cherokee uses a transverse layout while the Charger’s turbocharged inline-six sits longitudinally. This modularity makes it plausible to shoehorn alternate powertrains—potentially including V8 HEMI engines—into future Charger models.
.avif)
Design and Engine Bay Considerations
McAlear didn’t confirm an exact engine choice, but he suggested it wouldn’t be shocking if a Hellcat-style V8 could be made to fit. The suggestion isn’t just marketing spin: the 6.2-liter Hellcat shares several design cues and dimensions with other HEMI blocks. For example, the Hellcat’s bore and stroke borrow elements from the 6.4-liter Apache and the older 5.7/6.1 displacements, helping compatibility across the family. That shared architecture can simplify packaging and shorten development time for a V8-powered Charger variant.
Images and Visual Notes
(Image placements, captions, and formats from the original source are retained and should remain unchanged.)
Performance: What a V8 Charger Could Mean
Performance implications are enticing. Today’s Charger Scat Pack with a twin-turbo inline-six produces impressive power—comparable to sporty European rivals—yet muscle-car enthusiasts often crave the character and soundtrack of a naturally aspirated or supercharged V8. For context, the Durango SRT Hellcat’s 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI produces 710 horsepower, while the Scat Pack’s turbo I6 sits around 550 hp in its most potent tune. At the extreme end, the Challenger SRT Demon 170’s E85-capable Hellcat achieves a staggering 1,025 hp for drag-strip dominance. A Charger fitted with a Hellcat-derived V8 would restore classic muscle-car performance credentials and likely spike interest among performance buyers.
Transmission and Drivetrain Choices
Another big question is drive layout and transmissions. The full-electric Daytona and the 6-cylinder Scat Pack are AWD by default, and the 2026 Charger Scat Pack is offered without a manual gearbox. The previous Charger also lacked a manual, though Challenger buyers were once able to opt for a stick even with a Hellcat under the hood. If Dodge positions a V8 Charger as a true muscle car, they’ll need to weigh RWD heritage against modern expectations for traction and all-weather usability—plus consider whether a manual should return or if a torque-converter automatic remains the optimal choice for straight-line performance.
.avif)
Market Positioning and Comparisons
Reintroducing HEMI V8 options would be as much about brand identity as sales. Muscle cars built their reputation on big-displacement engines and visceral performance. With U.S. emissions rules shifting and market appetite for high-performance vehicles still present, Dodge may decide that offering a V8 Charger complements the Scat Pack and Daytona variants—covering buyers who prefer V8 sound and torque as well as those seeking modern turbocharged efficiency or electrified performance. Compared to rivals, a V8 Charger would squarely target buyers who prioritize horsepower, torque, and traditional muscle car character.
Specifications Snapshot
- Platform: STLA Large — designed for both longitudinal and transverse layouts
- Current Charger Scat Pack: Turbocharged inline-six, AWD by default, ~550 hp (varies by tune)
- Durango SRT Hellcat reference: 6.2L supercharged HEMI, 710 hp
- Challenger SRT Demon 170: Hellcat on E85, up to 1,025 hp
- Potential V8 packaging: Leveraging HEMI family bore/stroke similarities for easier integration
Conclusion
While Dodge has not confirmed specific HEMI offerings for the Charger, the combination of the STLA Large platform’s adaptable packaging and comments from the brand CEO make the prospect realistic. Whether Dodge opts for a supercharged Hellcat, a naturally aspirated HEMI, or some other high-displacement V8, adding classic muscle power to the new Charger would satisfy purists and expand the model’s appeal. Enthusiasts should watch for future announcements—there’s a reasonable chance a V8-powered Charger could return to the lineup as a statement of performance and brand heritage.
Comments