Is Dodge Planning a Charger Hellcat Comeback? What We Know So Far

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2026 dodge charger

The current Dodge Charger might have started on a rocky footing with a battery-electric-only powertrain, but it might have an ace up its sleeve for internal-combustion diehards.

During a press briefing for the 2026 Dodge Charger SixPack models, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear hinted that the beloved 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 might have a home under the hood of the new Charger.

What He Said

During a question-and-answer portion, McAlear was asked if the 6.2-liter V8 could fit in the engine bay of the new Charger, which springs from the flexible STLA Large platform.

McAlear responded by saying, “Theoretically, I’ll let you come up here and take a look and get your tape measure out. But don’t be surprised if it would fit.”

McAlear goes further, “But that’s the beauty of this platform. Some could say we’re lucky. Some could say we’re smart. We did not commit to one technology, one powertrain, and that’s why the beauty of this [platform] is in the multi-energy. A lot went into this platform in the beginning to be able to evolve over time and flex with demand.”

“It’s no secret that we’re absolutely flexing more ICE into production right now.” said McAlear.

If you’re worried about the battery-electric Charger Daytona going away, McAlear insisted that its spot in the Dodge Charger lineup is safe. “We are not walking away from the power, the performance, and the excitement that battery-electric provides,” he said.

Of course, Dodge hasn’t confirmed that the 5.7-liter Hemi, or the 6.2-liter Hellcat V8, will return to Dodge. But looking across the portfolio at Ram Trucks, that is happening in real time. If Dodge follows in Ram’s footsteps, it wouldn’t be a surprise.

And looking further across the Stellantis landscape, Jeep brand CEO Bob Broderdorf triggered similar speculation this week by confirming the Hemi-powered Jeep Wrangler 392 will remain beyond 2025. He also said Jeep is looking at other vehicles (Grand Wagoneer?) that could use a Hemi V8.

Should Dodge bring back the Hellcat? Tell us your thoughts below.

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