Is a Challenger Hemi a V-6 or V-8?
It is a V-8. The Hemi badge on Challenger models denotes the hemispherical combustion chamber used in Dodge’s V8 engines, and there are no Hemi V-6 Challengers.
The Hemi label traces back to a distinctive engine design that improves airflow and power. In the Challenger lineup, the Hemi designation is reserved for V8 powerplants, while a non-Hemi V6 option exists for buyers seeking different balance of performance and efficiency.
What the Hemi label means for the Challenger
The Hemi badge signals a V8 engine family. Dodge uses the Hemi name for engines with hemispherical combustion chambers, a configuration associated with higher performance in the Challenger lineup.
Hemi-powered Challenger options
Below are the main Hemi-powered options you’ll find in Challenger models, with general performance notes that vary by model year and package:
- 5.7L Hemi V8 — widely used across many Challenger trims; typically delivers roughly 375–395 horsepower and strong low-end torque for everyday performance.
- 6.4L Hemi V8 (392) — a higher-performance option found in Scat Pack and select SRT variants; about 485 horsepower with robust mid-range torque.
- 6.2L supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat family) — the top-tier performance line; base Hellcat produces around 707 horsepower, with Redeye variants around 797 horsepower; limited Demon editions pushed horsepower higher (808 hp on pump gas in the Demon).
In those listings, horsepower varies by year and tuning, but the common thread is clear: these engines are V8, not V6.
The V-6 Challenger option
For buyers who want a non-Hemi Challenger, the available V6 uses a 3.6L Pentastar engine, which is not Hemi and delivers a more modest power output suited for daily driving and improved fuel economy.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 — the standard non-Hemi option on many Challenger trims; typically around 300 horsepower with a focus on smooth, efficient performance.
Choosing a V6 means embracing lower peak horsepower and a different driving character compared with the Hemi V8 variants.
Summary
In short, a Challenger Hemi is a V-8. The Hemi badge identifies a hemispherical combustion chamber in Dodge’s V8 engines, and there is no Hemi V-6 Challenger. If you want V6 power, you’ll be looking at the non-Hemi 3.6L Pentastar option, not a Hemi.
What V is a 5.7 HEMI?
Available in a Supercharged 6.2L V8 option or the standard 5.7L V8—both HEMI® engines optimize airflow, combustion and an efficient burn to deliver robust power, incredible torque and that unmistakable HEMI V8 rumble.
Which challengers are V8?
Dodge Challengers with V8 engines include the R/T, Scat Pack, SRT Hellcat, SRT Hellcat Redeye, SRT Super Stock, and Jailbreak models. These trims are equipped with various HEMI V8 engines, ranging from the 5.7L HEMI in the R/T to the 6.2L supercharged and high-output supercharged versions in the SRT models.
You can watch this video to see a comparison between different Challenger trims and their engines, including the V8 and V6: 1mRacerXYouTube · May 24, 2020
- R/T: Comes standard with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, delivering up to 375 horsepower.
- Scat Pack: Features the 392 HEMI V8, which produces up to 485 horsepower.
- SRT Hellcat: Equipped with a 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8, producing 707 horsepower.
- SRT Hellcat Redeye: Uses a High-Output 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8, with 797 horsepower.
- SRT Super Stock and Jailbreak: Also feature the High-Output 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8, which delivers up to 807 horsepower.
This video showcases the features of the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, a powerful V8 model: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Apr 26, 2025
Is HEMI a V6 or V8?
V8
The HEMI® V8: A True Engineering Legend
With 395 horsepower and 556 lb. -ft. of torque, the HEMI® is still a force to be reckoned with. It's rated for up to 23 MPG on the highway with two-wheel drive and remains a favorite among drivers who want traditional V8 power and that unmistakable exhaust note.
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.
