Is the Dodge Charger RT V-6 or V8?
The Charger R/T is powered by a V8, specifically a 5.7-liter Hemi, not a V6.
Historically, the R/T badge denotes the performance-oriented V8 version of the Charger, while other trims use a V6 or other engines. Over the years, the lineup has included multiple engines across different trims, so it's important to verify the exact powertrain for any given car, especially when shopping used models or checking model-year changes.
How the R/T fits in the Charger lineup
Below is a general guide to how engine choices map to Charger trims. This helps distinguish the R/T’s V8 setup from the V6 options found on other models.
- Charger SXT/SXT Plus: 3.6L Pentastar V6 with roughly 300 hp and 260-270 lb-ft of torque
- Charger GT: 3.6L Pentastar V6 with around 300 hp
- Charger R/T: 5.7L Hemi V8 with about 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque
- Charger Scat Pack: 6.4L Hemi V8 with about 485 hp and 475 lb-ft
- Charger SRT Hellcat (for context): 6.2L supercharged Hemi V8 with about 707 hp
In short, the R/T sits above the V6 trims in performance and uses a V8 powerplant, while the V6-powered Chargers are reserved for the lower and mid-range trims. Model-year updates can shift numbers and available options, so checking the specific car’s engine code is wise when shopping.
R/T specifics
The R/T pairs the 5.7L Hemi V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The configuration is predominantly rear-wheel drive, with a focus on horsepower and torque that delivers a more aggressive driving experience than the V6 trims. Always confirm the exact drivetrain and options for the exact model year you’re considering, since features and packages changed over the Charger’s production run.
Model-year notes
Across years, horsepower and option packages for the R/T remained centered on the 5.7L V8, while the larger-displacement, higher-performance variants (such as the Scat Pack and Hellcat) offered more power. Dodge kept the R/T as the V8-driven option within the Charger family, even as the lineup evolved with new packages and refreshes. It’s also worth noting that the Charger generation continued through the 2023 model year, after which Dodge shifted its emphasis toward electrified models and different platforms.
Summary
Bottom line: If you’re looking at a Dodge Charger R/T, expect a 5.7-liter V8 under the hood. The V6 engines power the SXT, GT, and similar trims, while higher-performance variants use larger V8s. As with any used car, verify the exact engine and drivetrain on the specific vehicle you’re considering and be mindful of model-year variations and the Charger’s retirement from the lineup after 2023.
Which Dodge Charger is a V6?
Trim Levels Chart: Dodge Charger Models
| Dodge Charger SXT | Dodge Charger GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 |
| Horsepower | 292 | 300 |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 264 lb-ft |
| Wheel Size | 17-in | 20-in |
Is a charger RT a V6 or V8?
A Charger R/T is a V8 model, specifically featuring a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. This is in contrast to other Charger trims, like the SXT or GT, which are equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the differences between the Charger RT and GT models: 1mRacerXYouTube · Apr 6, 2024
- Charger R/T: The R/T trim is defined by its V8 engine, providing more horsepower and torque than the V6 models.
- Charger SXT/GT: These trims typically come with a V6 engine, which offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
What's faster, a V6 or a V8?
Generally, a V8 is faster than a V6 due to having more cylinders, which typically creates more power and torque. However, a V6 can be faster than a V8 depending on factors like the vehicle's weight, the engine's specific design (e.g., turbocharging, direct injection), and other components that influence performance.
This video explains the differences between V6 and V8 engines, including their impact on performance and efficiency: 1mHistory of Simple ThingsYouTube · Jun 23, 2025
Why a V8 is often faster
- More power and torque: With eight cylinders instead of six, a V8 engine has more potential for power and torque, which translates to quicker acceleration.
- Higher towing capacity: The extra power in a V8 makes it better suited for towing and hauling heavy loads.
When a V6 can be faster
- Turbocharging: A modern turbocharged V6 can produce performance comparable to or even exceeding a naturally aspirated V8. For example, a turbocharged V6 in a truck might have more horsepower and torque than a V8 in the same model.
- Power-to-weight ratio: A lighter vehicle with a V6 can be faster than a heavier vehicle with a V8, especially if the V6 has a better power-to-weight ratio.
- Modern technology: Advances in engine management systems and other technologies allow some V6 engines to achieve impressive performance metrics that narrow the gap with V8s.
Other factors that affect speed
- Aerodynamics: The overall shape of the vehicle and how it moves through the air plays a significant role in its top speed.
- Gearing: The vehicle's transmission and gear ratios are critical for how well a vehicle accelerates.
- Other engine components: Factors like the engine's displacement, compression ratio, and valve timing also influence its overall power and speed.
Does RT mean V8?
Yes, the Dodge R/T is a V8, specifically equipped with a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. This engine is known for producing significant horsepower and torque, with a 2023 model putting out 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque with the manual transmission. Some R/T variants, such as the R/T Scat Pack Wide Body, can come with a more powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine.
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine sound and performance of a Dodge Challenger R/T: 1mThe Test DriveYouTube · Feb 17, 2019
- Engine: The R/T models feature a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine.
- Power: In a 2023 model, this engine produces 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque with the manual transmission.
- Fuel Saver Technology: This V8 engine can use a fuel-saver technology to switch from eight to four cylinders to improve fuel efficiency when possible.
- Comparison: This is a step up from models with a V6 engine, like the Dodge Challenger GT, which typically produces less horsepower.
This video compares the performance of the Dodge Challenger GT (V6) and the R/T (V8): 1mRacerXYouTube · Oct 18, 2020
