For more than two decades, the Dodge Charger has represented the American muscle car through its aggressive styling, powerful performance and unmistakable exhaust note. The arrival of the all-electric Charger Daytona EV marked a significant shift towards electrified performance, but enthusiasts who prefer traditional petrol-powered muscle cars are still hoping for something familiar. Recent sightings of a gas-powered Charger prototype, a mysterious engine recording and leaked Stellantis documents have renewed speculation about the possible return of the legendary Hemi V8.

Dodge has already confirmed six-cylinder versions of the new Charger, while the electric Daytona offers a different approach to delivering muscle car performance. However, the possibility of a supercharged V8-powered Charger SRT has created fresh excitement. Reports suggest that a high-performance model could arrive for the 2028 model year, potentially bringing Hellcat power back to the Charger range. Although some details remain unconfirmed, the prototype’s unusual exhaust pipes, leaked powertrain information and ongoing development of new performance models suggest that Dodge’s petrol-powered future could be more interesting than expected.

1. Dodge Charger Prototype Spotted With Unusual Exhaust Pipes

The mysterious two-door Dodge Charger prototype that was seen around Arizona recently appears to have sparked off all kinds of speculation that internal combustion engined muscle cars are set to return. A series of images posted to The Moparian on Facebook shows the mule in question, sporting manufacturer plates from the US state of Michigan. While the general design lines look consistent with Dodge’s current thinking, the mule stands out because there is no way for a pure-electric vehicle to be equipped with a long pipe out from underneath its rear bumper to exit. It did look a bit like a prototype that may not be a final production version, but there were no obvious signs to suggest anything else about the car’s setup under the skin at the time.

Dodge Charger Prototype:

• Two-door prototype spotted in Arizona
• Michigan manufacturer plates attracted attention
• Coupe styling follows Dodge’s latest design
• Long exhaust pipes suggest combustion power
• Prototype differs from electric Daytona

The prototype’s exhaust setup is intriguing, as production cars usually feature cleaner rear bumpers with integrated exhaust outlets. However, engineers often use decoy parts during testing, so the rough finish may not reflect the final design. The pipes still offer a glimpse of Dodge’s petrol-powered Charger plans. Its conventional front fascia, unlike the electric Daytona prototype, further suggests a separate petrol model. Dodge has confirmed a six-cylinder version, while a V8 remains a rumour. The Arizona sighting adds to V8 comeback speculation, although the final design, powertrain and launch timeline remain unconfirmed.

2. Mysterious Prototype Recording Sounds Like a Classic V8

Alongside the unusual exhaust pipes, a short audio clip has become a major talking point surrounding the petrol-powered Dodge Charger prototype. The two-second recording, shared by YouTuber TK’s Garage, reportedly captures an engine cold-starting. Although no video accompanies it and its authenticity remains unverified, the deep, old-school growl has led enthusiasts to speculate that it could be a Hemi V8. The sound differs from the expected electric motor whine or smooth six-cylinder rhythm, adding to hopes of an eight-cylinder comeback. While the clip proves nothing, it has fuelled excitement about the possible return of the V8-powered Charger.

Prototype Engine Sound:

• Two-second cold-start recording attracts attention
• TK’s Garage shared the audio
• Deep growl resembles a classic V8
• Recording remains unverified without video
• Possible Hemi connection fuels speculation

The significance goes beyond the sound itself, as the recording has raised questions about what Dodge engineers might be testing. If authentic, it could suggest a different powertrain from the expected turbocharged inline-six, but without independently verified footage, its connection to the test car remains uncertain. For muscle car enthusiasts, the appeal is not just speed but also engine sound and character. A Hemi V8 return would reconnect the Charger with its performance heritage, making it more than just another engine option. Although the recording has yet to confirm a V8 comeback, it has already sparked excitement among muscle car fans.

3. Traditional Styling Separates the Petrol Charger From the Daytona EV

The Charger prototype features several design differences from earlier spy shots, particularly around the bonnet and front fascia. The electric Daytona uses an R-Wing aerodynamic pass-through to improve airflow, while the petrol-powered prototype replaces it with a traditional bonnet, giving it a classic American muscle car appearance. The petrol version also looks more aggressive with its open-air bumper intakes and redesigned front end. These changes suggest Dodge is targeting buyers who prefer internal combustion engines over the electric version producing more than 1,000 horsepower.

Petrol Charger Styling:

• Traditional bonnet replaces aerodynamic pass-through
• Front fascia differs from Daytona EV
• Aggressive bumper creates muscular appearance
• Re-sculpted nose emphasises performance heritage
• Prototype retains Dodge’s recognisable design

Another intriguing detail is the modest bonnet vent above the bulging bonnet’s centre, marked ‘Sixpack’, matching Dodge’s naming strategy for its six-cylinder Charger models. However, this badge does not confirm what’s under the bonnet, as it could be a temporary placeholder while engineers test different powertrain configurations. The vents, exhaust pipes and traditional booted body shape have encouraged fans to search for further clues. Dodge has historically used bold styling to highlight performance, and this prototype appears to continue that approach while retaining the Daytona’s modern proportions. Whether these design features remain unchanged on a potential V8 production model is still uncertain.

4. Dodge’s Hurricane Inline-Six Already Delivers Serious Performance

Dodge has confirmed two petrol variants of the new Charger, both powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged Hurricane straight-six engine already used across the Stellantis family. The standard Charger Sixpack is expected to produce 420 horsepower, while the more powerful flagship delivers 550 horsepower. Both models feature standard all-wheel drive, providing better traction and grip during acceleration. These figures show that Dodge intends to maintain the Charger’s performance reputation while expanding towards electric powertrains. The Hurricane engine introduces a new turbocharged six-cylinder option for performance enthusiasts, although some fans are still hoping for the return of a powerful Hemi V8.

Dodge Hurricane Engine:

• 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine
• Standard Sixpack produces 420 horsepower
• High-output variant delivers 550 horsepower
• Both versions feature standard all-wheel drive
• Hurricane powerplant serves other Stellantis vehicles

The Hurricane four-cylinder engine offers more headline power than the naturally aspirated 5.7-litre and 6.4-litre Hemi V8s found in the previous-generation Charger and Challenger, with turbocharging also improving efficiency. However, its 550 horsepower falls short of the supercharged 6.2-litre Hellcat V8s. For muscle car fans, the difference is about more than power figures, as a supercharged V8’s sound, performance and character are central to muscle car heritage. While the Hurricane delivers modern performance, a Hemi-powered Charger could still occupy the top-of-the-range position, offering a completely different experience.

5. Fratzonic Exhaust Technology Gives the Electric Daytona a Muscle Car Voice

Dodge has taken a different approach to retaining muscle car character in the electric Charger Daytona. The electric model puts out up to 670 horsepower, which is impressive, but electric motors tend not to make the same kind of exhaust note that petrol-powered performance cars do. The automaker’s solution is Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust, a sound system that generates something more visceral. Instead of a traditional combustion engine, the system employs a couple of passive radiators to generate a synthetic exhaust roar that varies as the vehicle accelerates; during early prototypes, the system generated sound levels of 126 decibels. Although the Daytona EV can’t make a comparable mechanical noise in the style of a Hemi V8 engine, it’s a more aggressive sound to lend the electric muscle car a more engaging persona.

Fratzonic Exhaust System:

• Electric Daytona produces up to 670 horsepower
• Two passive radiators generate synthetic sound
• Exhaust note changes alongside vehicle speed
• Prototype testing reached 126 decibels
• System recreates a dramatic muscle-car roar

Dodge recently shared a teaser video on social media showing a production Charger Daytona driving through a dark tunnel with a synthetic exhaust note that mimics a traditional V8’s deep roar and a supercharger’s high-pitched whine. The system recreates the rising pitch of an electric motor alongside the mechanical sound of a Roots-style supercharger, while Stealth Mode allows drivers to switch to a quieter experience. Although this technology makes electric performance more engaging, loud synthetic sounds could raise concerns in cities such as New York, where strict street-noise restrictions apply. Ultimately, simulated engine sounds can enhance an electric car’s character, but they cannot fully replicate the experience of a real Hemi V8.

6. Sluggish EV Demand Strengthens the Case for a V8 Return

The electric Charger Daytona arrived amid challenging EV sales, with weaker-than-expected demand prompting Dodge to consider generous discounts. The brand has also accelerated the petrol Charger Sixpack’s launch, recognising that some buyers still prefer the sound and driving character of petrol-powered muscle cars. Although the Daytona delivers up to 670bhp and features new sound-dampening technology, its electric powertrain offers a different experience. The appeal of engine noise, mechanical grunt and traditional driving feel helps explain the excitement surrounding a potential Hemi V8 return. Offering multiple powertrains could also help Dodge reach a wider range of performance enthusiasts.

Dodge Powertrain Strategy:

• EV demand has been weaker
• Daytona discounts aim to attract buyers
• Petrol Sixpack launch was brought forward
• Traditional muscle car appeal remains strong
• V8 speculation continues gaining momentum

The existing Sixpack engines already deliver strong performance, with the base model producing 420hp and the top version 550hp. However, the continued interest in a Hemi V8 shows that engine character, exhaust sound and muscle car heritage matter as much as power. Stellantis is preparing to increase Hemi V8 production at its Mexican plant before eventually moving it to a Michigan facility to support its return to the next-generation Ram 1500. Dodge has yet to confirm a V8-powered Charger, which would require additional engineering because the platform was not originally designed around a Hemi V8.

7. Charger SRT Development Raises Expectations for a Hellcat Flagship

Stellantis’ Investor Day presentation revealed an updated product roadmap confirming a high-performance Dodge Charger SRT is in development. Positioned above the 420-horsepower R/T and 550-horsepower Scat Pack, it is expected to lead the performance lineup. Although the SRT was shown exclusively to attending press, the Detroit Free Press later reported that it would feature a supercharged 6.2-litre Hellcat V8. This has raised hopes for the engine’s return, but leaked documents and media reports are not official production confirmation. The prospect is particularly exciting because the previous-generation Charger and Challenger Hellcat models were discontinued after the 2023 model year.

Upcoming Charger SRT:

• High-performance Charger SRT confirmed in development
• Positioned above R/T and Scat Pack
• Detroit Free Press reported Hellcat power
• Supercharged 6.2-litre V8 expected
• Official public images remain unavailable

Other descriptions and renderings of the upcoming SRT give more clues about what it might look like. The expected shape includes an aggressive front splitter, a vent in the bonnet, bonnet an SRT-style vents and intense cooling vents behind the front wheels. There’s also a rather large hoop-style wing at the rear that’s reminiscent of the 1969 Charger Daytona. The cues suggest that Dodge plans to make the flagship stand apart from the rest of the chargers both aesthetically and performance-wise. During the recent Ram 1500 Rumble Bee reveal at Stellantis’ proving ground, several automotive writers also spotted a Charger prototype on the test track, sparking rumors of a possible public debut in the near future. The specifics, however, are not yet known, but if the Hellcat engine does make it to production, the SRT could be a very exciting edition to the new Charger lineup, blending timeless styling with the supercharged V8 talent.

8. Leaked Stellantis Documents Point Towards a 2028 Hellcat Charger

Leaked internal Stellantis documents have only added fuel to the Hemi V8 possibility firestorm. The documents, obtained through Mopar Insiders, claim to outline a 2028 model year Dodge Charger using a supercharged Hemi V8. The leaked internal powertrain planning report names a supercharged 6.2-litre as ESD, and also specifies a ZF 8HP95 heavy-duty eight-speed automatic transmission as the proposed powertrain components. It’s important to remember leaked internal documentation doesn’t necessarily mean the announcement of an official public launch but the detail provided has certainly piqued interest. We now have a model year and engine name as well as a specific ZF transmission part number, which is more information than was previously available from the audio file, which has also been circulated. Between this new information, and the Charger SRT documents, it looks likely a Hellcat Charger will eventually be seen.

Leaked Hellcat Powertrain:

• Documents reportedly identify a 2028 Charger
• Supercharged Hemi V8 carries ESD code
• 6.2-litre engine appears in planning documents
• ZF 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission specified
• Leaked details remain officially unconfirmed

Top among the information in the reports is the final drivetrain configuration. The Hurricane-powered Charger models include standard all-wheel drive, but the reported Hellcat configuration would include power only to the rear wheels. And taking a supercharged V8 engine that is very wide to fit in the engine bay alongside an all-wheel-drive system could be challenging packaging wise, even if it makes sense for the kind of performance potential the vehicle would offer. Finally, the reports mention a supercharged engine option available in two body styles, 2-door and 4-door, which will give buyers choices for the potential flagship, assuming it arrives. According to the internal Stellantis code, the coupe two-door is LB29, while the sedan four-door is LB49, and whether it will be delivered at the same time as the coupe for 2028, or rolling out over time, remains unknown, but having two body styles listed suggests a return Hellcat may be offered in at least one of those body styles.

9. Potential Hellcat Power Figures Could Exceed 777 Horsepower

While the excel sheet published in the leaked Stellantis documents did not specify a power number for the 2028 Charger Hellcat, based on the handful of past Charger and Challenger Hellcat models it offered up to 800bhp in the factory form. The figures show the range of performance available with the Dodge supercharged 6.2-litre V8 family. A relevant and recent benchmark to compare to is the revised supercharged 6.2-litre version that is used in the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX, delivering 777bhp. Such a output in a future Charger flagship could be significant uplift from the naturally aspirated 550bhp in the current Scat Pack, although the question remains if the expected Jeep flagship will use the same level of tune in the production Charger. Still, the prospect of such a figure has only made fans more excited about the future.

Potential Hellcat Performance:

• Earlier Hellcats produced 707 horsepower
• Special trims exceeded 800 horsepower
• Ram 1500 TRX delivers 777 horsepower
• Future Charger output remains unconfirmed
• Supercharged performance could top the range

Dodge discontinued the previous-generation Charger and Challenger Hellcat models after 2023, leaving enthusiasts without their familiar combination of supercharged V8 power and traditional muscle car character. Although the Hurricane inline-six delivers impressive performance, it has not fully replaced the Hellcat’s emotional appeal. A potential 2028 model could restore this option while the Sixpack and electric Daytona serve different audiences, creating a broader lineup from the 420-horsepower R/T to the 550-horsepower Scat Pack and potentially more powerful V8 variants. Rear-wheel drive could further appeal to drag strip enthusiasts and fans of classic muscle car dynamics. Until Dodge confirms official specifications, horsepower predictions remain speculative, though the Hellcat’s history and the reported 777-horsepower TRX engine suggest exciting possibilities.

10. Dodge’s Future Combines Muscle Car Heritage With New Performance Ideas

The possible Hemi V8 return is just one part of Dodge’s broader performance plans. Alongside the Charger SRT, the company is developing another potential flagship called the Copperhead, described as a hyper muscle car. Although early reports suggested it would use the Charger platform, Tim Kuniskis, head of American Stellantis brands including Dodge, clarified that it would feature a different chassis from elsewhere in Stellantis’ global network. This raises questions, as front-engine, rear-wheel-drive platforms are relatively uncommon across the group, with Maserati and Alfa Romeo offering potential options. The Copperhead is expected to feature a larger rear wing and sleeker, lower-slung bodywork for a more focused track presence. Its powertrain remains undecided, and Kuniskis has suggested it could feature something not currently offered in Dodge’s lineup.

Dodge’s Future Performance:

• Copperhead development adds another flagship
• Different chassis from the Charger platform
• Larger rear wing creates track-focused styling
• Powertrain remains under active consideration
• Dodge continues exploring performance innovations

The Copperhead could feature electrification, a high-revving combustion engine or a hybrid system, although its final powertrain remains unconfirmed. Its development shows Dodge is exploring new ways to compete in the performance market, while a potential supercharged Hemi Charger return could excite traditional muscle car enthusiasts. The Arizona prototype, cold-start recording and leaked 2028 powertrain documents have fuelled speculation, but the audio’s authenticity, Charger SRT specifications and V8 launch dates remain uncertain. Manufacturing challenges have also affected the new Charger rollout, with Stellantis temporarily pausing production at its Windsor plant due to complications involving international trade policies and tariffs. Production was scheduled to resume on 21 April, although the interruption could delay the Charger Sixpack’s launch. Despite these challenges, Dodge’s combination of petrol engines, electric technology and future performance projects shows that muscle cars remain central to its plans.