Dodge's supercharged Hellcat V8, introduced in 2014, revolutionized the horsepower wars with 707 hp, powering models from the Challenger to the Ram TRX. While the Hellcat legacy continues in some vehicles, Dodge's new Charger marks a pivotal shift, built around the twin-turbo Hurricane inline-6 engine instead of the traditional V8.
The gasoline Charger Sixpack comes in two outputs: 420 hp for the R/T and 550 hp for the Scat Pack. These figures represent serious performance for a modern muscle car, with testing confirming their straight-line capability despite increased weight.
Discussions about a V8 return focus on a potential Hellcat-level engine, as Dodge executives suggest only such a powerplant would justify the complexity. Rumors of a smaller-cylinder Hellcat replacement are unconfirmed; the more grounded reality is the existing Hurricane engine's untapped potential.
The Hurricane, producing up to 550 hp, places the Charger in territory once unthinkable for a six-cylinder Dodge. Its turbocharged design offers a strong foundation for future SRT development and aftermarket tuning, allowing Dodge to build performance credibility while managing packaging and emissions challenges.
While the Hellcat name retains emotional weight, Dodge's immediate future is being shaped by the Hurricane. The new Charger proves six-cylinder power is no compromise, and if pushed to its limits, this engine could earn the same cult following without needing eight cylinders.