The head of Dodge’s SRT division, Tim Kuniskis, has indicated that the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine will not be part of the upcoming Dodge Charger lineup. During a recent interview, Kuniskis emphasized that the turbocharged inline-six engine currently offered is more powerful than the traditional V8, marking a significant shift in the brand’s performance strategy.
At the recent unveiling of the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX, which features a new supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, Kuniskis highlighted the advancements in Dodge’s engine technology. The new TRX engine produces 777 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase of 75 horsepower and 30 lb-ft compared to its predecessor. This performance boost positions the TRX as a leader in its class and sets a benchmark for future models, including the Charger.
Shifts in Engine Strategy
Kuniskis shared insights with Road & Track regarding the future of the Charger. He stated, “The only way it makes sense to charge for” a V8 in the Charger is to “go all the way up to a Hellcat.” This statement suggests that the focus for high-performance models may pivot exclusively to more powerful engines, sidelining the existing 5.7-liter V8.
The 5.7-liter V8 currently outputs 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, which pales in comparison to the outputs of the turbocharged 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six. The Hurricane engine boasts 420 hp and 468 lb-ft, while the high-performance variant produces 550 hp and 531 lb-ft, outclassing the traditional Hemi engines.
Kuniskis explained that offering multiple engine options could complicate inventory management for dealers. He noted that dealers might struggle to stock various models effectively, saying they would “throw up their arms” at the complexity of choosing which models to offer.
Future Prospects for Dodge Performance
As the automotive industry increasingly shifts towards more efficient and powerful engines, Dodge is strategically positioning itself to compete in this new landscape. While the departure of the 5.7-liter V8 may disappoint some traditionalists, the focus on turbocharged and supercharged engines reflects broader trends in performance and fuel efficiency.
The excitement surrounding the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX and the potential for a new Charger with a Hellcat engine suggests a bold future for Dodge’s performance vehicles. Enthusiasts will be watching closely as the brand continues to redefine what performance means in an evolving market.