Hellcat V8 Could Return to the Dodge Charger in 2028

HEMI’s All-But-Confirmed Return

When Dodge rolled out the eighth-generation Charger, the message was straightforward. Electrification came first, followed by turbocharged six-cylinder power. The all-electric Charger Daytona and the twin-turbo HURRICANE-powered SIXPACK models pointed to a shift in priorities. But there was no V8 in sight.

Fans have been asking for HEMI power to return, and Dodge hasn’t ruled it out. Earlier this year, Tim Kuniskis said that if a V8 comes back, it would need to be a Hellcat. He pointed out that a 5.7- or 6.4-liter HEMI doesn’t really fit anymore, since the new twin-turbo inline-six already beats them on performance.

Now, a new report claims this has gone beyond just theoretical talk.

Development Reportedly Greenlit

Mopar Insiders reports that Dodge has given the green light to develop a Hellcat-powered version of the new Charger. Sources say the project is just getting started, with a goal of launching for the 2028 model year. That timing matches up with the Charger’s first mid-cycle refresh.

Launching a top-performance model during an update isn’t new for Dodge. It brings fresh attention to the lineup and gives engineers time to sort out the details – like packaging, cooling, durability, and emissions – for a supercharged V8 on the STLA Large platform.

The same report says the car would launch as a two-door first, with a four-door possibly following. The publication’s sources don’t expect Dodge to stick with the old 717-horsepower setup. Since the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX already uses updated Hellcat hardware, a 777-horsepower version for the Charger seems likely.

It’s important to note that Dodge hasn’t confirmed any of this yet. For now, it’s still an insider story, so do take it with a dash of salt.

A Good Year for Dodge Fans

If this report is accurate, 2028 could be a turning point for the Charger. Right now, the lineup is all about electrification and turbocharged six-cylinders. Bringing back a supercharged Hellcat would give the Charger back some of its old-school muscle car character.

From a business angle, the move is logical. High-performance halo models tend to be profitable, especially in limited numbers. A Charger SRT Hellcat sitting above the SIXPACK models would follow a proven formula: strong brand impact, controlled production, and pricing that matches its place at the top.

It could also restart the rivalry among American muscle cars. A supercharged Mustang Dark Horse SC that makes "well over 700 hp" is already on the horizon, so it’s high time it faces a worthy challenger. The muscle car horsepower race looks like it still has some life left.

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