Next-Generation Dodge Charger to Keep its Gas Engine
Ever since Dodge unveiled the electric Charger Daytona SRT concept car in 2022 and declared its intention to move away from gas-powered muscle cars, there has been skepticism about the brand’s commitment to its enthusiastic muscle car fanbase. After all, Dodge is renowned for its supercharged V8s and has sold over two million Challenger and Charger models over the years. As it turns out, the speculations were not entirely accurate. Recent reports confirm that the upcoming generation of the Dodge Charger will provide consumers with a choice between a fully electric version and a gasoline-powered variant featuring the company’s 3.0-liter “Hurricane” twin-turbo inline-six engine.
The current Dodge Charger and Challenger models, renowned for their Hemi V8 engines, are scheduled to cease production by the end of 2023. Dodge had initially emphasized this move as the definitive end of gas-powered muscle cars and dismissed reports suggesting that the next-generation models might retain internal combustion options, stating explicitly that “the next generation will be BEV.” However, former CEO Tim Kuniskis did acknowledge that the STLA Large platform underlying the new vehicles could technically accommodate both electric and gasoline powertrains, but asserted that this wasn’t the intended path for the brand. Nevertheless, it appears that the plan has evolved, aiming to keep pace with the Ford Mustang and offer a diverse range of options throughout the coming decade.
Sources verified the presence of the standard output inline-six engine, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque in its existing Jeep applications. It was observed that there is no manufacturing impediment preventing the inclusion of the high-output version, rated at 510 hp and 500 lb-ft. It is strongly anticipated that this higher-output option will be offered, especially considering that the Ford Mustang currently offers a 500-hp Coyote V8 in the Dark Horse model.
Both the gas and electric Dodge Charger will be manufactured at Windsor Assembly in Canada, where retooling is already in progress, sharing production lines with the upcoming Chrysler Pacifica. One aspect of uncertainty relates to the fate of the Challenger name. Currently, the Challenger is a coupe, and the Charger is a sedan, whereas the Charger Daytona SRT EV concept is a coupe with a roofline resembling a sedan. There had been speculation that the production model would feature four doors. However, leaked body shell images revealed a traditional coupe, which sources confirm as the Charger. Thus, the situation remains to be clarified down the line by Dodge.
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