Dodge enthusiasts have long been vocal about one pressing question: will the legendary HEMI® V8 return in the new generation of the Dodge Charger? Following the launch of the 2024 Charger Daytona, many fans were left speculating whether this iconic engine would fit within the confines of the new platform. Recently, at a media event preceding the unveiling of the 2026 Dodge Charger SIXPACK, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear provided a tantalizing hint that the answer might lean towards “yes.”
A significant concern among fans of the latest Dodge Charger generation has been the lack of the robust V8 engine that contributed to the legendary status of previous models. Although the current Dodge Charger (LB) generation has showcased impressive performance metrics with its existing engine options, many enthusiasts feel that something crucial is missing. This sentiment was palpable at the media preview for the 2026 Charger SIXPACK, where McAlear faced the inevitable question: would a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® HELLCAT V8 fit under the Charger’s hood?
McAlear's response to the question was both simple and intriguing: “Don’t be surprised if it would fit.” This statement has sparked a wave of excitement among Dodge fans, suggesting a potential revival of the HEMI engine. The earlier Charger Daytona, unveiled in 2024, had previously been reported as having constraints that would prevent the HEMI from fitting into its engine bay without extensive modifications. Some media outlets indicated that incorporating this engine would necessitate significant alterations, including relocating the firewall and redesigning the car's front end.
However, McAlear's recent comments imply that the platform may possess more versatility than initially perceived. “That’s the beauty of this platform,” McAlear elaborated. “Some can say we’re lucky, some can say we’re smart. We did not commit to one technology or one powertrain. A lot went into this platform from the beginning to be able to evolve over time and flex with consumer demand and changes in regulatory policy.”
The platform that McAlear refers to is the STLA Large architecture, which serves as the foundation for the new Dodge Charger. This multi-energy platform is engineered to accommodate electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid powertrains, and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, providing ample opportunity for future advancements, including the possibility of a V8-powered Charger.
With the current political landscape allowing for greater flexibility in emissions regulations, McAlear confirmed that Dodge is indeed pivoting towards internal combustion engine production. “With the change in the administration, it’s no secret that we’re absolutely flexing into ICE production right now,” McAlear stated. This strategic shift has already been evident with the reintroduction of the HEMI in Ram’s 1500 lineup, and it appears that Dodge might be poised to follow suit with its own iconic models.
As anticipation builds for the potential comeback of the HEMI® V8 in the new Dodge Charger, fans are left eager and hopeful for what the future holds. The blend of heritage and modern technology may soon bring back the power and performance that has defined Dodge for generations.
