Dodge is preparing to bring back the supercharged Hemi V-8 to its Charger lineup, with company documents pointing to a 2028 model year introduction. The move would revive the Hellcat nameplate for the gas-powered Charger and send power exclusively to the rear wheels, according to the documents.
The new Charger SRT Hellcat is expected to enter production by the end of 2027, ahead of its 2028 model year launch. The supercharged V-8 would mark a significant shift for a nameplate that has recently been associated with electric and six-cylinder powertrains. Dodge has not yet made a formal announcement, but the documents provide a clear indication of the company's plans.
The return of the Hellcat engine to the Charger would restore a configuration that has been absent from the current generation. The previous Hellcat models were known for their extreme power outputs and rear-wheel-drive dynamics, characteristics that enthusiasts have associated with the Charger's performance image. The new version would continue that tradition, with the supercharged V-8 sending power solely to the rear axle.
This development comes as Dodge balances its electrification strategy with continued demand for high-performance combustion engines. The Charger lineup has expanded to include electric variants, but the addition of a supercharged V-8 suggests the manufacturer sees a lasting market for traditional muscle car performance. The Hellcat badge carries significant weight among performance car buyers, and its return could help sustain interest in the Charger as the automotive landscape evolves.
Details about the engine's output, pricing, and exact availability remain undisclosed. The documents do not specify whether the supercharged V-8 will be offered across multiple trim levels or limited to a flagship SRT Hellcat variant. Production timing suggests the vehicle could reach dealerships in late 2027 or early 2028.
The Charger has long been a cornerstone of Dodge's performance lineup, and the Hellcat version has historically represented the pinnacle of that range. Reintroducing the supercharged V-8 aligns with Dodge's practice of offering high-horsepower options for buyers seeking maximum performance. It also provides a counterpoint to the growing number of electric performance cars entering the market.
For now, the information remains unofficial, but the documents offer a strong signal that Dodge intends to keep the Hellcat legacy alive within the Charger family. Enthusiasts and industry observers will be watching for official confirmation and further specifications in the months ahead.