What kind of engine is in the Dodge Challenger?

The Dodge Challenger uses multiple engines, not a single powertrain: a base 3.6-liter V6 and several Hemi V8s, including supercharged versions in the Hellcat lineup. The exact engine depends on the trim and model year.

From its modern revival in 2008 through the 2023 model year, the Challenger’s engine lineup evolved, offering everything from a practical daily-driver V6 to extreme, supercharged V8s. Dodge ultimately ended production after the 2023 model year, making these powertrains a part of its legacy in modern muscle.

Engine options overview

Here are the core powerplants that powered the modern Challenger across trims and generations. Note that horsepower and availability varied by model year and configuration.

• 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 — around 300–305 horsepower; commonly paired with everyday trims.


• 5.7-liter Hemi V8 — about 375 horsepower; available in RT and related trims.


• 6.4-liter 392 Hemi V8 — about 485 horsepower; used in Scat Pack and some SRT variants.


• 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat family) — 707–807 horsepower depending on version (Hellcat, Redeye, or other high-performance variants).


• 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 Demon — 840 horsepower; limited-production, high-performance model introduced in 2018.

Each option offered distinct performance and daily usability. The V6 provided everyday practicality, while the V8s turned the Challenger into a full-on performance machine with progressively higher power and cooling demands.

Together, these engines defined the Challenger’s range—from approachable daily driving to extreme, track-capable performance. The availability of each engine depended on the model year and trim level, with the most extreme variants appearing on the higher-end SRT lineup.

Engine lineup by era and trim

Modern generation (2008–2023): baseline to Hellcat

In the modern Challenger era, the core engine lineup started with the 3.6L V6, progressed through the 5.7L Hemi, and added the 6.4L (392) in performance-oriented trims. The Hellcat family introduced in 2015 brought a supercharged 6.2L V8 with horsepower ranging from roughly 707 to over 800 hp, depending on the variant (and culminating in special editions such as Demon and Redeye).

Top performance variants

The Hellcat series is defined by the 6.2L supercharged V8. In standard Hellcat form, output sits around 707 hp; Redeye variants push toward approximately 797 hp, while the limited Demon configuration reached about 840 hp. These versions required enhanced cooling, tires, and drivetrain upgrades to manage the power.

End of production and what it means for enthusiasts

Dodge announced that the Challenger would end production after the 2023 model year. As a result, there are no new Challengers for 2024 or later. The legacy engines—especially the V6, Hemi V8s, and Hellcat family—remain a central part of the Challenger’s history and are still sought after in the used-car market and by enthusiasts who value modern muscle performance.

Summary

The Dodge Challenger offered a ladder of engines rather than a single option: a base 3.6L V6, followed by powerful V8s including the 5.7L Hemi, the 6.4L 392 Hemi, and the 6.2L supercharged Hemi in Hellcat variants, with even higher power in Demon and Redeye editions. Production ended after the 2023 model year, making these engines a notable part of the Challenger’s legacy in modern muscle cars.

Which is better, GT or RT?

Performance and Mechanical Differences
R/T Models: Feature power-house V8 engines, like the Charger's 5.7L HEMI V8. GT Models: Typically equipped with V6 engines that balance power and efficiency, ideal for enjoyable daily driving.

What type of engine does a Dodge Challenger have?

A Dodge Challenger has multiple engine options, including a base 3.6L Pentastar V6 and several available HEMI V8 engines, such as the 5.7L, 6.4L, and supercharged 6.2L in various configurations (e.g., Hellcat, Redeye, Super Stock).
 

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: This is the standard engine on entry-level models and is known for providing a balance of performance and efficiency. 
• 5.7L HEMI V8: A popular option that delivers more horsepower than the V6, often with fuel-saver technology that allows it to run on four cylinders at times. 
• 6.4L HEMI V8: A higher-performance V8 option that produces more horsepower and torque. 
• 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8: This engine is available in different versions, such as the SRT Hellcat, which can produce 717 horsepower. 
• 6.2L Supercharged High-Output HEMI V8: The most powerful engine available, found in models like the SRT Hellcat Redeye and Super Stock, with horsepower figures reaching up to 807 HP. 

What year challengers to stay away from?

Years to generally avoid for the Dodge Challenger are 2009, 2011–2013, and 2015, due to issues like airbag defects, alternator failure, and transmission problems. The 2012 model is particularly noted for having the most complaints on sites like CarComplaints.com, with frequent alternator and transmission issues.
 
Model years to avoid

• 2009: Known for problems like engine shutdown and check engine lights, often related to the crankshaft position sensor. 
• 2011–2013: These years had widespread issues including alternator failure, problems with the new eight-speed transmission, and some electrical issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). The 2012 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to the combination of these issues. 
• 2015: Prone to electrical issues, including problems with the cruise control system and harsh transmission shifting. 

Common problems in these years

• Airbag defects: Many models from 2008-2013 had faulty airbag inflators that could rupture. 
• Engine and electrical problems: Common issues include alternator failure, especially in 2011-2014 models, and problems with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which controls many of the car's electrical systems. 
• Transmission issues: Early versions of the eight-speed automatic transmission in the 2012 and 2015 models were known for harsh shifting and other problems. 

How to mitigate risks

• Verify recalls: Before purchasing any used Challenger, especially from one of these years, check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to ensure all recalls have been addressed. 
• Check for service alerts: Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) can provide insight into common problems and potential repair procedures. 
• Consider newer models: Newer models, particularly from 2019-2023, generally have a better reliability record. 

Which challengers have a V8?

Many Dodge Challenger trims have featured V8 engines, including the R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, and Demon models. The specific V8 engines range from the 5.7L HEMI in the R/T to the 6.2L Supercharged HEMI in the Hellcat and the high-output versions in the Redeye, Jailbreak, and Demon 170, which can produce over 800 horsepower.
 
V8 engine options by trim:

• R/T: Comes standard with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. 
• Scat Pack: Features the 392 HEMI V8 engine. 
• SRT Hellcat: Equipped with a 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 engine. 
• SRT Hellcat Redeye: Uses a high-output version of the 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8. 
• SRT Jailbreak and Super Stock: Use a high-output version of the 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8, producing 807 horsepower. 
• Demon 170: Features a 6.2L Supercharged V8 that can produce up to 1025 horsepower. 

Engine notes:

• Production: Production of V8-powered Dodge Challenger models ended on December 31, 2023. 
• Technology: Some V8 engines, like the 5.7L HEMI, include technology to switch between 8 and 4 cylinders for fuel efficiency. 
• Performance: The performance and horsepower of the V8 engines vary significantly across different models and trims.