Is Hellcat a RWD?
Yes. The Hellcat lineup—covering both the Challenger and Charger variants—delivers power to the rear wheels as standard, and there is no factory all-wheel-drive option for these models. This article explains why that is, how it shapes performance, and what to expect from the lineup.
Drive layout: what powers the Hellcat
The defining feature of the Hellcat is its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, paired with an automatic transmission that routes power to the rear axle. Dodge has kept all Hellcat variants as rear-wheel drive to maximize launch grip and straight-line performance, even as the cars deploy advanced traction and stability controls to tame the torque. There has never been a factory all-wheel-drive Hellcat option.
The rear-wheel-drive setup is central to the Hellcat’s identity, influencing how it accelerates, how it handles on a track or wet road, and how owners manage tire wear and maintenance. Enthusiasts often pair these cars with high-performance tires and track-oriented setups to make the most of the horsepower while relying on driver input to manage torque delivery.
Key drivetrain facts at a glance:
- All current Hellcat variants use rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard.
- Power is sent to the rear axle through an 8-speed automatic transmission.
- There is no factory all-wheel-drive (AWD) Hellcat option from Dodge.
- Torque management and traction control are essential on wet surfaces given the high horsepower and torque figures.
Conclusion: The RWD configuration is a deliberate design choice that underpins the Hellcat’s performance character and driving dynamics.
Model lineup and drive configurations
This section breaks down the main Hellcat models and confirms their rear-wheel-drive status across the Challenger and Charger lineups, including popular variants and notable editions.
- Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat — rear-wheel drive (RWD) with an 8-speed automatic; 707 hp in early versions, with later variants increasing output in the family.
- Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye — RWD; higher horsepower (up to about 797 hp in later models) and broader torque delivery.
- Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak — RWD; a high-output, limited-edition variant with up to 807 hp in some configurations.
- Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat — RWD; traditional powertrain pairing with the Charger’s sedan footprint.
- Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye — RWD; elevated horsepower figure compared with standard Hellcat.
- Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody — RWD; extended fender flares and performance tuning, still delivering power to the rear wheels.
Conclusion: Across Challenger and Charger, Hellcat variants have remained rear-wheel-drive in factory configuration, reinforcing the model’s performance heritage and driving dynamics.
Debunking a common myth about AWD Hellcats
There are occasional rumors about factory AWD Hellcats or aftermarket AWD conversions. It’s important to note that there has been no official Dodge AWD Hellcat option, and factory specs for the Hellcat lineup consistently list rear-wheel drive. Some third-party shops may offer conversions or simulation setups, but these are not factory-backed and can affect warranty and driveline durability.
Conclusion: For buyers seeking the Hellcat experience as Dodge designed it, RWD remains the baseline configuration, with no sanctioned AWD variant from the factory.
Summary
The Hellcat name is synonymous with rear-wheel-drive performance. Dodge’s SRT Hellcat family—spanning Challenger and Charger variants—delivers immense horsepower to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, with no factory AWD option offered. This RWD layout defines the driving character, handling, and ownership experience of the Hellcat lineup, from the standard Hellcat to the Redeye and Jailbreak editions.
Is Hellcat AWD or RWD?
The Hellcat's impressive 0-60 mph and quarter-mile times are only possible under ideal conditions due to the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) drivetrain.
Are Hellcats FWD?
The Hellcat routes power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. It's also available with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Is a Dodge Charger AWD or RWD?
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that combines classic muscle car styling with modern technology and performance. The Charger offers AWD on the SXT and GT trims, which come with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
Are SRTS RWD?
R/T and SRT Hellcat models come standard with rear-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual transmission, allowing you to control your driving experience.
