Will the Dodge Challenger be the First Muscle Car to Phase Out HEMI Engines?
The rumor mill churns again with the rumblings that Dodge may be ready to part ways with its famed V8 engines. However, in spite of downsizing and ongoing electrification efforts, it appears there’s a solution to power the next-generation Dodge Challenger. The last of American muscle is rumored to be the chosen vessel to inaugurate the automaker’s all-new twin-turbocharged straight-six engine that’s destined to offer HEMI-like performance and power.
Online forums are filled with enthusiasts chatting about the possibilities behind what’s known as engine GME-T6 internally. Stellantis, Dodge’s parent company, was initially expected to unveil this inline-six under the hood of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, but a few bumps in the road, including vibration and noise-related issues, slowed down its introduction, thus paving the way for the Dodge Challenger to go first. Buyers can expect a next-generation Challenger model sometime in 2023 as a 2024 model.
Some enthusiasts have taken to calculating specifics online, speculating that the straight-six (in its standard configuration) should be able to match the 5.7-liter HEMI V8’s output of 372 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid assistance is also rumored to be involved, capable of pushing the new straight-six into the 700 horsepower territory, eliminating the need for the hefty 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V8 as well. Rear- and all-wheel drive will be offered as is customary on the Dodge lineup, but according to the same report that’s fueling these rumors, a naturally aspirated six will no longer be an option.
Other models under the Stellantis umbrella are rumored to feature the GME-T6 engine as well, so it’s safe to say that if it finds its way underneath the hood of the Challenger, the same engine will power the Dodge Charger. The Durango’s fate hangs in the balance, with a proposed phasing out by 2025 – although nothing’s been confirmed. The only official confirmation the public had when it comes to Dodge’s future is that the brand is aware its days of hefty V8 engines are numbered as it needs to comply with looming emissions regulations across the globe. Dodge also made it clear that the supercharged Hellcat V8 will retire after 2023.
Hardcore enthusiasts who love to hear that famed HEMI rumble not interested in a downsized Challenger or Charger should act relatively quickly. Dodge is poised to debut a new platform by 2024, eventually retiring the current generation of vehicles shortly after. Electrification will likely take center stage by then, but judging from the instant torque and power other electrified models have been displaying lately, Dodge is sure to blow the competition out of the water when it finally enters the EV segment.
Stay tuned on University Dodge social media to be the first to know when the world’s most devilish automaker is ready to break new ground with upcoming powertrain options. In the meantime, as the brand transitions, explore the best Dodge has to offer with the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Durango models. Stop by University Dodge today and join the Brotherhood of Muscle!