What kind of engine does a Challenger have?
The Dodge Challenger uses gasoline engines ranging from a base V6 to multiple V8 configurations, including supercharged options. The exact engine depends on the model year and trim, and there are no factory diesel or hybrid Challenger variants.
Over its long production run, the Challenger lineup evolved from a practical V6 offering to high-performance V8s, culminating in the track-oriented Hellcat and Demon models. This article outlines the main engine families Dodge has used and how they map to typical trims in recent years.
Engine families used in the Challenger lineup
Below are the core engine families that have powered Challengers across generations, from everyday drivers to performance-focused editions.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6
- 5.7L Hemi V8
- 6.4L Hemi V8 (392)
- 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat family)
- 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Demon, 2018-only; limited production)
In practice, these engines cover the spectrum from everyday usability to extreme performance. The Challenger lineup has not included diesel or hybrid powertrains in factory form.
Current engine options by trim (typical recent years)
These associations show how engine choice typically aligns with trim in recent model years, giving a sense of what you’ll find in most showroom scenarios.
- SXT/GT: 3.6L Pentastar V6
- R/T: 5.7L Hemi V8
- Scat Pack: 6.4L Hemi V8
- Hellcat: 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8
- Hellcat Redeye: 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (higher output)
- Demon (legacy, 2018-only): 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8; limited production
In summary, base models favor the V6, mid-range models step up to naturally aspirated V8s, and the top-tier variants rely on supercharged V8 power. There are no current factory diesel or hybrid Challenger models.
Diesel and hybrid status
Across its history, the Challenger has not offered a diesel or hybrid variant from the factory. Enthusiasts sometimes explore aftermarket modifications, but Dodge did not provide diesel or hybrid Challenger models in the latest production years.
Summary
The Dodge Challenger offers a range of gasoline engines from a 3.6L V6 to multiple V8 configurations, including supercharged Hellcat and Demon variants. The exact engine depends on the model year and trim, with no diesel or hybrid options in the factory lineup. This variety allows the Challenger to serve everyday driving purposes as well as high-performance ambitions in its top-tier editions.
