New Powertrain for the Dodge Charger R/T
Dodge is emphasizing the performance of the new Charger R/T and Scat Pack models. Both models are abandoning the legendary Hemi V8 engines in favor of a new, more powerful unit.
Here are the key points:
Farewell to the Hemi V8
For the past fifteen years, the Dodge Charger R/T has been inextricably linked to the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine. This long-standing formula has now changed, as the latest model replaces the V8 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine.
While fans are glad the powertrain is not fully electric, the inline-six engine will take some getting used to. Dodge seems to acknowledge this, as the company is actively advertising how much better the new model is.
Dodge opens orders for the new Charger R/T, which costs $10,000 more than the old Hemi
Technical Advantages of the New Engine
According to the manufacturer, the new Charger R/T significantly outperforms its predecessor, generating 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This is 50 horsepower and 73 lb-ft more than the old model.
Thanks to the additional power, the new model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and covers the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds. This is a significant improvement over the old 5.7-liter V8, which needed 5.1 seconds to reach 60 mph and 13.5 seconds for the drag strip.
Management’s Words and Pricing
As explained by Dodge CEO Matt McAlear, the new Charger R/T is significantly better than the previous model because “it’s faster, more powerful, and more capable.” He added that “the Charger R/T is a muscle car that can serve as a daily driver, with an award-winning interior and the largest trunk in its class.”
Dodge also notes that the Charger R/T is America’s most affordable all-wheel-drive muscle car, with a starting price of $49,995. However, as previously reported, the car is significantly more expensive than the 2023 models.
Advertising Campaign for the Scat Pack
In other Charger news, Dodge has launched a new video series to promote the Charger Scat Pack. It is hosted by brand “ambassador” John O’Malley from Boosted Motorsports.
The series consists of five short clips focusing on several key points, including the high-performance Hurricane engine, which produces 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. This allows the model to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 177 mph.
In addition to emphasizing the engine, the clips also demonstrate how the model can switch from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive. Another video is dedicated to handling dynamics.
The transition to the latest turbocharged inline-six engines is part of a global trend in the automotive industry aimed at combining high performance with more efficient fuel consumption. This allows Dodge to preserve the sporting character of its legendary models while adapting them to modern requirements and environmental standards. Despite the higher initial price, the technical improvements and increased capabilities may justify the investment for brand enthusiasts seeking a combination of traditional “muscle” with innovative technologies.