The Best Dodge Charger V8 Rumor Yet!
Dodge engineers are reportedly working on reacclimating the new Charger with Hemi V8 power, potentially reviving one of the brand's most recognizable vehicles. The play would follow the rollout of the Hurricane inline-six-powered Sixpack variants, which are set to hit the street this summer. Production of the Charger Daytona EV is already in full swing.
Key Points
- Dodge is reportedly developing a new Charger variant with a Hemi V8 engine, targeting a launch in late 2026.
- Fitting the V8 may require major platform changes, including cradle and firewall adjustments, potentially increasing development costs.
- Dodge’s Hurricane-powered Charger Sixpack enters production in May 2025, with deliveries expected by summer.
According to Mopar Insiders, development is underway to fit the new Charger with one of the multiple variants of Hemi V8 engines expected to be produced in Detroit. Dodge has not confirmed the project, but reports suggest the brand is actively exploring how to adapt the platform to accommodate the larger engine architecture.
It's rumored that the Charger's engine bay will require some reconfiguring to accept the 8 cylinder engine. The new Charger is 9 inches longer and 4 inches wider than the old Charger. So if the Hemi could fit in there, it's likely Dodge engineers will need to work on relocating or reconfiguring the location of ancillary components along with making modifications to the engine cradle and firewall, although this is not confirmed.
The Hurricane six-cylinder lineup should offer strong performance, with up to 550 horsepower in Sixpack HO trim. That outpaces the previous-generation 5.7-liter Hemi, which made 372 hp, and the 485 hp offered by the larger 6.4-liter unit. Any V8 return would likely target performance enthusiasts seeking a more traditional experience — and perhaps serve as a flagship offering alongside electrified or turbocharged variants. That's before anyone even starts talking about potential Hellcat-powered versions.
Meanwhile, production of the Dodge Charger Sixpack — the gas-powered version of the new model — is expected to begin in May, with deliveries planned for later this summer. The Sixpack was originally announced as part of Dodge's pivot to the Hurricane engine lineup, which includes both rear- and all-wheel-drive options.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
More by Michael Accardi
Comments
Join the conversation
The new Charger is 9 inches longer and 4 inches wider than the old Charger.
So you think having a bigger engine bay is cause for concern when fitting an existing Hemi engine?
So if the Hemi could fit in there, it's likely Dodge engineers will need to work on relocating or reconfiguring the location of ancillary components along with making modifications to the engine cradle and firewall, although this is not confirmed.
Sorry, but I'm from the generation that stuffed 427's into Cobra's. I see no issues that cannot be overcome here.