Hemi V8 Dodge Charger Reportedly In The Works

A legend (potentially) regains its heart

Rumors are swirling that Dodge is planning to reintroduce the Hemi V8 to the Charger lineup in late 2026, marking a potential return to its high-performance roots. Reports from Mopar Insiders suggest that Stellantis engineers are actively working on making the classic engine fit within the redesigned Charger’s platform. However, while enthusiasts may be eager for a return to old-school muscle, making the change won’t be easy.

Early reports of the newly released all-electric Charger Daytona suggest that sales are relatively weak, with dealers slashing prices by as much as $21,000 in an attempt to rouse some enthusiasm for the new model, CarScoops reported. A return to a tried-and-true drivetrain might help drive interest in the new generation Charger, but we’re a long way off from knowing anything official yet.

A multi-powertrain approach

Dodge has been vocal about offering multiple powertrain options for the next-generation Charger. The 2024 Charger Daytona debuted as an EV, while the gas-powered Charger Sixpack, featuring a twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six, will begin production in May.

Performance specs haven’t been announced yet, but for reference, the previous 5.7-liter V8 delivered 372 hp, while the 6.4-liter V8 produced 485 hp. Those figures no longer stand out, especially with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six expected to offer 420 hp in one variant and up to 550 hp in another.

So, why bring back the Hemi? It could be a strategic move to appease loyalists who aren’t sold on electrification or the downsized inline-six. Reports indicate that both the 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter V8s could return, alongside the potential for a supercharged 6.2-liter variant, raising speculation about a new Hellcat model.

The engineering challenge

Bringing the Hemi back isn’t just a matter of plugging an old engine into a new chassis. Dodge engineers previously told Jalopnik that fitting the V8 would require significant modifications, including adjustments to the cradle and firewall. Such changes would mean a major investment from Stellantis — one that may not be guaranteed given a wave of tariffs and the company’s shift toward electrification.

Despite these hurdles, Stellantis has reportedly resumed Hemi production, with assembly moving to Dundee, Michigan, later this year. This fuels speculation that the automaker is serious about bringing V8 power back to the Charger lineup, even if it arrives after the six-cylinder models hit the streets.

What this means for Dodge’s future

If Dodge does reintroduce the Hemi-powered Charger, it will likely serve as a flagship performance model rather than a volume seller. The Charger Daytona EVs and Sixpack models are already positioned to dominate the market in the near term. However, a V8 revival could cement Dodge’s commitment to its muscle car heritage, even as the industry trends toward electrification.

Final thoughts

For now, nothing is official, and Dodge remains tight-lipped beyond confirming its “multi-energy” strategy. Enthusiasts will have to wait until 2026 to see if the Hemi makes its triumphant return — or if it remains a wishful rumor.