Dodge charger returns to V8 roots, reigniting muscle car passion

Dodge is reviving one of its most iconic traditions. The new-generation Dodge Charger is set to reintroduce the HEMI V8 engine, a move confirmed by industry insiders and Car&Driver reports. Available in both coupe and sedan versions, the latest Charger aims to satisfy enthusiasts who have long awaited a return to raw, eight-cylinder power.

Powerful Engines, Proven Heritage

The Charger’s V8 lineup will likely include the familiar 5.7-liter, 6.4-liter, and supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat engine, the latter producing over 700 horsepower. Higher-performance configurations could surpass 800 hp, rivaling even the fabled 1,025-hp Challenger SRT Demon 170. Mopar has already demonstrated that the V8 can fit in the Charger’s engine bay, offering the 354-ci (5.8L) supercharged V8 for track-ready Drag Pak models since last fall.

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Market Timing and Potential

Although Dodge has not officially announced the V8-powered Charger, industry analysts expect a dealership release by late 2026 or early 2027. Naming conventions remain unclear, with Scat Pack and R/T now applied to six-cylinder versions, leaving the Hellcat moniker as a likely candidate for the V8 models.

Investing in Stellantis’ Muscle Strategy

The move to preserve the HEMI V8 reflects Stellantis’ commitment to maintaining brand heritage while exploring high-margin, enthusiast-driven vehicle sales. For investors, the Dodge Charger V8 could signal profitable opportunities in the premium muscle car segment, offering both performance credibility and aftermarket potential.

Anticipation among fans

For car enthusiasts, the Charger’s return to V8 power is more than a spec sheet, it is a celebration of American automotive identity. The roar of the engine, the track performance, and the design heritage combine to create a product that could dominate muscle car discussions for years.