How big is a Dodge Challenger engine?

In its modern form, the Dodge Challenger offers engines that range from 3.6 liters up to 6.2 liters in displacement. The smallest engine is a 3.6-liter V6, while the largest are the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 variants used in Hellcat and Demon models. A 6.4-liter (392 cubic inches) V8 also appears in high-performance non-supercharged variants. This article explains what those numbers mean and which Challenger trims use which engines.

Engine sizes in the Challenger lineup

Below is a straightforward list of the core engine displacements that Dodge used in the Challenger, from the base V6 to the top-tier supercharged V8s.

• 3.6 L Pentastar V6


• 5.7 L Hemi V8


• 6.4 L Hemi V8 (392)


• 6.2 L Supercharged Hemi V8

Among the most widely offered configurations, this range covers the everyday version up to the high-performance variants that defined the modern Challenger era.

Engine-to-model mapping

Not every year or trim used all engines, but these are the typical pairings you’ll find across the Challenger’s production span:

• 3.6 L Pentastar V6 — base Challenger SXT and early GT trims


• 5.7 L Hemi V8 — R/T trims (and some earlier packages) for stepped-up performance


• 6.4 L Hemi V8 (392) — Scat Pack and related non-supercharged performance variants


• 6.2 L Supercharged Hemi V8 — Hellcat family (and Demon variants) for peak performance

Note that the top-tier Demon line uses the same 6.2 L displacement but with extreme calibration and hardware, including the limited 170 edition released in 2023.

Summary

In short, the Dodge Challenger’s engine sizes span 3.6 liters to 6.2 liters. The 3.6 L V6 starts the lineup, the 5.7 L and 6.4 L V8s lift performance into the high-performance realm, and the 6.2 L supercharged V8s power the Hellcat and Demon variants, with the special Demon 170 edition reaching near-1,000 horsepower on suitable fuel. The Challenger’s gas-powered run ended after the 2023 model year, capping a legacy of big-displacement V8s.

Is a Dodge Challenger a V6 or V8?

A V-6 engine is standard in these non-SRT Challengers but the real fun comes with the optional naturally aspirated Hemi V-8 engines, which are offered in a variety of displacements and outputs spanning a 375-hp, 5.7-liter to a 485-hp, 6.4-liter.

How big is a Challenger engine?

3.6L PENTASTAR® V6 ENGINE
The 2023 Dodge Challenger comes equipped with a powerful base powertrain option, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine.

Which is faster, RT or SRT?

SRT is faster than RT because SRT models have more powerful engines, more horsepower, and better performance features. For example, a Challenger SRT has a more powerful engine with 475 horsepower compared to the 375 horsepower of the Challenger RT. This translates to quicker acceleration, with an SRT model achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, while the RT model takes 4.3 seconds.
 
SRT

• Higher horsepower: SRT models typically have larger and more powerful engines, such as a 6.4L V8, producing around 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. 
• Quicker acceleration: The combination of more power results in faster acceleration, with some models reaching 0-60 mph in around 3.7 seconds. 
• Advanced performance features: SRT models come with performance-oriented features, including a sport-tuned suspension and other technology, according to Bomnin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Doral and Reddit users. 

RT

• Lower horsepower: RT models have a smaller engine, such as the 5.7L V8, that produces around 370-375 horsepower. 
• Slower acceleration: The RT's acceleration is still quick, but it is slower than the SRT. For example, the 0-60 mph time is around 4.3-5 seconds. 
• More affordable: RT models are often more budget-friendly and offer a balance between performance and practicality. 

Ultimately, the SRT is the faster and more performance-oriented option, while the RT is a more affordable and practical choice for drivers who want good performance without the highest price tag and fuel costs, notes Napleton's Northlake Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.

Is a Hellcat V8 or V12?

The Charger Hellcat is equipped with a 6.2L (6,166 cc) supercharged Hemi V8 identical to the one in the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, with 707 hp (527 kW) and 650 ft·lb (881 N·m) of torque available.