2026 Dodge Charger V8: Hemi Comeback in Future Models

Dodge is reportedly bringing back the Hemi V-8 engine for the Charger, giving enthusiasts another exciting option. Many muscle car fans from the United States and many other global regionsstill prefer the raw performance of a V-8. The new Hemi-powered Charger is expected to arrive in late 2026.

The blog covers the 2026 Dodge Charger V8, its rumored Hemi engine return, performance expectations, and how it compares to existing electric and six-cylinder models.

2026 Dodge Charger V8: Hemi Engine Returns

Reports suggest Dodge is working on reintroducing the Hemi V-8 for the Charger. This news has generated excitement among performance car enthusiasts. Production is expected to begin in the Michigan in summer of 2025, with the new models arriving by late 2026.

Dodge has a strong history with V-8 engines, and the return of the Hemi could mean high-performance versions like the Hellcat might also come back in the future.

Current Powertrain Options

The electric Charger Daytona (including the Dodge Charger Daytona EV model) is available with up to 670 horsepower, offering impressive acceleration. This powertrain comes in two versions, producing either 420 or 550 horsepower. On the gasoline side, Dodge currently offers the 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six engine.

The return of the Hemi V-8 will provide another option for buyers who want a traditional muscle car experience.

2026 Dodge Charger V8: Potential Performance

Although Dodge has not confirmed the exact details, previous Hemi V-8 models give us an idea of what to expect. The supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V-8 could push performance even higher. The last 5.7-liter Hemi produced 372 horsepower, while the 6.4-liter version delivered 485 horsepower.

Given that the Hurricane six-cylinder already produces up to 550 horsepower, Dodge may introduce a high-performance Hemi version to compete with modern muscle cars.

Challenges Of Fitting The Hemi

While Dodge is working on bringing back the Hemi V-8, it will not be a simple process. The vehicle’s platform requires adjustments to the firewall and engine cradle. Engineers have stated that major modifications are needed to fit the engine into the new Charger.

These changes will involve a significant investment from Stellantis. However, Dodge (Read more about Dodge’s New Charger Coming To Europe And ME here) has a history of making bold moves, so they may proceed if demand is high enough.

Comparing The Hurricane And Hemi Engines

Buyers now have to decide whether to wait for the Hemi V-8 or choose a Hurricane-powered Charger. However, many muscle car fans prefer the deep sound and feel of a naturally aspirated or supercharged V-8.

The Hurricane inline-six offers up to 550 horsepower and benefits from modern turbocharging technology, making it more efficient. If you are looking for classic muscle car performance, waiting for the Hemi might be worth it.

Production Timeline And What Buyers Should Expect?

Dodge (including those with the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat model) has already planned production for the Hurricane-powered Charger models to begin in May 2025, with customer deliveries expected that summer. If additional modifications are needed, production could be delayed further.

However, the Hemi-powered Charger is not expected to arrive until late 2026, meaning buyers who want a V-8 will need to wait longer. However, given the excitement surrounding the V-8’s return, many enthusiasts will likely find the wait worthwhile.

Conclusion

Dodge is preparing to bring back the Hemi V-8 for the Charger, offering another powerful choice alongside the existing Hurricane and electric models. Buyers must decide whether to wait for the Hemi or choose an available Charger model now.

The return of the V-8 will require engineering changes, but if successful, it could lead to high-performance models like the Hellcat. The future of the Dodge Charger is shaping up to be exciting.

The 2026 Dodge Charger V8 is expected to bring back the Hemi engine, offering more power and variety for muscle car enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates.