Great news for the diehard fans of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles – the next-generation Dodge Charger will continue to offer combustion engine options, despite previous rumors suggesting a shift towards electric cars. Last year, the Charger Daytona SRT concept car, which was unveiled and claimed to be electric, sent shockwaves through the petrolhead community. Many enthusiasts feared that Dodge was abandoning its iconic ICE-powered muscle cars. However, Dodge faced backlash from fans who revered the Charger and the Challenger models, leading to speculation about a potential Hurricane engine replacing the powerful HEMI V8. Until now, Dodge hadn’t confirmed any details.
But fear not, as the show is far from over! A reliable source connected to a supplier with insider information about Dodge’s production plans has verified that the next-generation Charger will indeed offer both an electric variant and a gas-powered version. As previously rumored, the gas-powered version will feature the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six Hurricane engine. This engine made its debut in the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, where it generates a formidable 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque in its base configuration. The high-output variant of the Hurricane engine offers an even more impressive 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque.
It’s highly likely that the Dodge Charger lineup will mirror the Mustang’s strategy, where both the GT and Dark Horse versions coexist. The GT boasts 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, while the Dark Horse delivers 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. However, it’s important to note that the Mustang achieves these performance figures with its 5.0-liter V8 Coyote engine.
To accompany its powerful engine, the next-generation Charger will be underpinned by a platform officially called LB. This platform will accommodate both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Additionally, the ICE-powered Charger will be equipped with the new Stellantis Gen 4 gearbox, which is manufactured at several assembly plants. Unfortunately for fans of manual transmissions, there is no indication that a manual option will be offered in the lineup.
It’s worth mentioning that Dodge plans to phase out the legendary HEMI V8 engine by the end of 2023. However, with Chevrolet transitioning the Camaro to an electric vehicle (EV), the Ford Mustang would become the sole ICE-powered muscle car left on the American market. Dodge, apparently unwilling to cede this territory to its competitors, will continue to offer an ICE-powered Charger to cater to the passionate fans.
Both the gas-powered and electric versions of the Dodge Charger will be produced at the Windsor Assembly plant in Canada, alongside the Chrysler Pacifica. The retooling process has already commenced at the plant, signaling Dodge’s commitment to these upcoming models, as reported by The Drive.
While Dodge has not released a concept car previewing the future Challenger, it remains uncertain what lies ahead for this iconic muscle car. The Charger Daytona SRT EV concept car, which resembles a coupe with sedan-like characteristics, adds an element of mystery about whether the future Charger will satisfy the desires of both Coupe and Sedan enthusiasts. Only time will tell.
In conclusion, the next-generation Dodge Charger will please ICE diehards by retaining combustion engine options alongside an electric variant. With its powerful Hurricane engine, advanced platform, and ongoing production plans, Dodge aims to maintain its stronghold in the muscle car market. So, buckle up and get ready for an electrifying and roaring future with the iconic Charger.