The current-generation Dodge Charger was meant to write the next chapter of the model’s life after its long-running predecessor was retired. The car focused on pushing its retro-focused exterior styling and tech-filled interior to younger buyers.

However, sales have been sluggish, and the lack of a V8 has been noticed as more customers left Dodge for models like the Ford Mustang. The performance brand has obviously taken notice, and a new report says it plans to bring the Hellcat V8 back to the Charger.

Better Late Than Never

In the old Charger, the bulk of its sales centered around the antiquated but still potent 5.7-liter V8. According to Automotive News, the 5.7-liter is not getting the call; instead, the 6.2-liter supercharged Hellcat V8 will be getting called up, according to internal planning documents seen by the publication.

The move to potentially stick with this particular V8 makes sense since Dodge could be attempting to draw more attention to the Charger, and a Hellcat-fueled model would be a great way of doing it. In addition, Hellcat-powered Chargers were very strong sellers, and while their popularity often made them the target of organized car theft rings, the steady stream of profits they provided was more than enough to please Stellantis.

The documents also said Dodge plans to build 12,000 Hellcat Chargers per year. This may seem like a mere drop in the bucket at first glance, but it is more than the 9,000 sales Dodge reported so far this year for both the gas and EV versions of the muscle car.

Will The Hellcat’s Return Be Enough To Boost Charger Sales?

The main question here is whether the Hellcat will be enough to help revive interest in the Charger. The V8 is certainly a powerhouse, but Hellcat models are also expensive, and they were always seen as the halo models of the family.

This halo status also allowed them to lure buyers into showrooms, and while some did sign on the dotted line, Dodge and Stellantis are also hoping they can help move some buyers into other Dodge models.

That latter point may not seem like it matters much right now due to the Charger and the Durango currently being the only three models helping to keep the lights on. But sooner or later, Dodge will want to expand into lower price brackets, and the halo effect created by the Hellcat will help fuel those efforts.