Is a Hellcat a RWD?
In short, the Hellcat badge is not tied to a single drivetrain. Most Challenger and Charger Hellcats are rear-wheel drive (RWD), but there are Hellcat-powered SUVs that use all-wheel drive (AWD).
What the term 'Hellcat' means
The Hellcat name refers to Dodge’s 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 and the high-performance trims that use it. It is not a drivetrain. The actual layout—RWD or AWD—is determined by the specific model and generation.
Engine and branding
Since its introduction in 2015, the Hellcat engine has powered coupes, sedans, and SUVs. The badge signals extreme power, but the vehicle’s drivetrain is not defined by the Hellcat label alone.
Drivetrain by model
Rear-drive Hellcat models: the traditional sports cars in the lineup have been rear-wheel drive, prioritizing traction characteristics suited to performance driving. The following examples illustrate the standard configuration for these models.
- Challenger SRT Hellcat — rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- Charger SRT Hellcat — rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody — rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Concluding paragraph: These variants have historically been sold with rear-wheel drive in the U.S. market, with no factory AWD option for the Challenger/Charger Hellcat lineup.
All-wheel-drive Hellcat-powered SUVs
On the SUV side, the Hellcat engine has been paired with all-wheel drive to manage power in heavier, taller platforms and to improve traction in everyday conditions.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk — all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Durango SRT Hellcat — all-wheel drive (AWD)
Conclusion: In these SUV applications, AWD is standard to optimize traction, launch performance, and daily usability with a high-horsepower powertrain.
Notes on availability and market variations
Drivetrain configurations can vary by market and model year. Always check the specific model year and trim to confirm whether a Hellcat-powered vehicle is RWD or AWD.
Summary
The Hellcat badge denotes a high-performance engine rather than a fixed drivetrain. Traditional Challenger and Charger Hellcats are rear-wheel drive, while Hellcat-powered SUVs such as the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and Durango SRT Hellcat use all-wheel drive. For buyers, verify the drivetrain for the exact model year and trim you’re considering.
