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Is a Dodge Challenger GT a V-6 or V-8?

The Dodge Challenger GT is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine and all-wheel drive, making it a V6 model with AWD rather than a V-8. For those seeking V8 power, other Challenger trims exist, but they are typically rear-wheel drive rather than AWD.

Powertrain basics of the Challenger GT

Here is a quick breakdown of the GT’s core powertrain components and how they shape performance.

Engine: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission

Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD)

Horsepower/torque: Approximately 300–310 horsepower and around 268 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and calibration

Notes on availability: Manual transmission is not offered with the GT; AWD V6 models are typically automatic only

In short, the GT centers on a V6 engine paired with automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, defining its balance of everyday usability and sporty character within the Challenger lineup.

The Challenger GT in the context of the broader lineup

The Challenger family includes several V8-powered trims that are generally rear-wheel drive. The GT is unique in pairing AWD with a V6, making it the go-to option for all-weather capability without stepping up to a V8.

R/T: 5.7-liter Hemi V8 (primarily rear-wheel drive)

Scat Pack: 6.4-liter Hemi V8 (primarily rear-wheel drive)

Hellcat and higher variants: 6.2-liter supercharged V8 (primarily rear-wheel drive)

GT: 3.6-liter V6 with all-wheel drive

For buyers who want high horsepower and V8 performance, the GT’s AWD V6 setup is not offered with a V8 engine. Those seeking more power typically opt for the V8 trims, noting the handling characteristics differ from the GT.

What this means for buyers

Key considerations for prospective owners: If you want all-wheel drive and a balance of performance with everyday practicality, the GT is the right choice and is powered by the V6. If you want the signature V8 experience, you’ll be looking at the rear-wheel-drive trims (R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat), which offer greater horsepower but with different driving dynamics and fuel economy.

AWD is not commonly offered with the V8 Challenger trims; GT remains the AWD V6 option

Manual transmission is not available on the GT

Vehicle dynamics differ: AWD adds weight and can affect fuel economy versus the lighter RWD V8 trims

In sum, the Dodge Challenger GT is a V6-powered all-wheel-drive model, not a V-8. If V8 power is a priority, you’ll find that on the rear-wheel-drive trims designed for higher horsepower and aggressive performance.

Summary

The Dodge Challenger GT is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 and comes with all-wheel drive, making it the V6 variant with AWD. The Challenger lineup also offers several V8 trims—R/T, Scat Pack, and Hellcat—that deliver substantially more horsepower but are typically rear-wheel drive. For buyers weighing practicality and traction in certain conditions, the GT provides a compelling V6 AWD option within the Challenger family.

Is GT V8 or V6?

2022 Ford GT
But with the new GT, Ford had the guts to ditch the V8 that had blessed the GT40 and GT for nearly 60 years in favour of a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine.

What kind of engine is in a Challenger GT?

The Dodge Challenger GT is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that produces up to 303 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with standard rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.

You can watch this video to see a walk-around of the Dodge Challenger GT and learn about its V6 engine: 1mMirai ClubYouTube · Mar 17, 2024

Engine: 3.6-liter Pentastar V6
Horsepower: Up to 303 hp
Torque: Up to 268 lb-ft
Transmission: TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive

Is a GT a V8 Dodge?

No, a Dodge GT is not typically a V8; it is usually equipped with a Pentastar V6 engine, while V8 engines are found in higher trims like the R/T. However, some newer Dodge Durango GT models do come with a V8 engine option. For Dodge Charger and Challenger, the GT model comes with a V6, whereas the R/T model is the entry-level trim with a V8.

You can watch this video to see the 2026 Dodge Durango GT Premium with a V8 engine: 55sBen HardyYouTube · Sep 25, 2025

Charger and Challenger: The GT trim is equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine that produces around 300 horsepower. The V8 is reserved for the R/T and higher trims.
Durango: Some Durango GT models, like the GT Premium and GT Plus trims, can be equipped with a 5.7L V8 HEMI engine.

Is the Challenger GT a V6 or V8?

The Challenger GT is a V6 model, equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces up to 303 horsepower. The V8 engine is available on other trims like the R/T and higher models.
This video explains the difference between the V6 and V8 engines in the Challenger: 55sRacerXYouTube · Oct 18, 2020

Challenger GT: Comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine.
V8 models: V8 engines are found in other trims, such as the R/T (5.7L HEMI V8) and Scat Pack (6.4L HEMI V8).

You can also watch this video to see a comparison between the V6 and V8 Challenger models: 59sRacerXYouTube · May 24, 2020

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.