Which charger has the best engine?

The Charger with the strongest engine is the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody, delivering up to 797 horsepower. Since production ended after the 2023 model year, that figure stands as the peak power in the Charger lineup.

This article examines what “best” means for a Charger engine, outlines the available powertrains from the modern era, and compares their performance characteristics to give readers a clear sense of how horsepower translates in real-world driving.

Defining the best engine in a Charger

When people ask which Charger has the best engine, they often weigh peak horsepower against torque delivery, drivability, and how the power is delivered across the rev range. The best choice depends on whether you want daily usability, straight-line speed, or track-oriented performance, as well as how the car’s weight and suspension affect handling.

Powertrain options in the Charger lineup

Below is a history of the engines that powered the Charger, from the baseline V6 to the extreme supercharged V8s. The numbers reflect typical outputs for the most common configurations in recent years.

• 3.6L Pentastar V6: approximately 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Used in lower trims and most economy-focused configurations; praised for smoothness and efficiency but modest power.


• 5.7L Hemi V8: about 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. A classic V8 option that adds notable performance and a more traditional V8 sound.


• 6.4L Hemi V8 (392): about 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Found in the Scat Pack variants, delivering substantial track-ready performance.


• 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat): about 707 horsepower and 650+ lb-ft of torque. The step into extreme performance with forced induction and a widebody stance optional.


• 6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8 (Hellcat Redeye): about 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. The peak-powered Charger model, offered in select trims and widely recognized as the top engine in the Charger lineup before production ended.

Note: The Charger line saw years of evolution; numbers can vary by model year and specific package. The most powerful factory option was the Hellcat Redeye variants, and higher-power variants exist in the Challenger lineup but not in the Charger family.

Why horsepower alone doesn’t tell the whole story

While horsepower is a clear metric of an engine’s peak output, real-world performance also depends on weight, aerodynamics, gearing, tires, and power delivery. A 485-horsepower V8 in a lighter, well-balanced Charger can feel more aggressive on a road course than a higher-horsepower car with less favorable weight distribution.

As Dodge ceased new Charger production after the 2023 model year, buyers seeking peak Charger power should look to the Hellcat Redeye’s 797 hp option. For broader Dodge performance, the Challenger lineup pushes higher power figures in a different body style.

Historical context and market status

Over its lifecycle, the Charger offered a ladder of powertrains culminating in a two-tier Hellcat strategy that delivered 707 hp in the standard Hellcat and 797 hp in the Redeye. With the brand’s shift toward electrification and new platforms, the Charger’s internal-combustion horsepower crown remains a notable milestone in its performance history.

Summary: The best engine in the Dodge Charger lineup is the 6.2L supercharged Hemi V8 found in the Hellcat Redeye, delivering around 797 horsepower—the highest factory output the Charger offered before production ended. Other engines provided a spectrum of performance, from practical daily driving to serious performance, but the Hellcat Redeye stands as the pinnacle of Charger power.

Which Dodge Charger engine is the best?

10 Best Dodge Charger Engines Of All Time

• 8 3.6L Pentastar V6.
• 7 B-383 V8.
• 6 5.7L HEMI V8.
• 5 6.1L HEMI V8.
• 4 RB-440 V8.
• 3 392 HEMI V8.
• 2 426 HEMI V8. 1969 Dodge Charger RT - Chrysler HEMI V8 engine Mecum Auctions.
• 1 6.2L Hellcat HEMI V8. The 2023 Dodge Charger King Daytona gets the 807 HP Hellcat Engine.

What is faster, SRT 392 or Scatpack?

In fact, both the SRT 392 and the Scat Pack can achieve 0-60 mph times in the low 4-second range. One thing to note is that the SRT 392 comes with additional performance features compared to the Scat Pack.

Should I get a V6 or V8 charger?

A V6 Charger is a good option for daily driving due to its better fuel economy and lower purchase and insurance costs, while a V8 Charger provides superior performance with more horsepower and torque. The V6 is a balanced choice for everyday use, while the V8 is for those prioritizing a powerful muscle car experience with higher performance. 
This video compares the performance of a V6 and V8 Charger: 59sRP ProductionsYouTube · Sep 30, 2015
V6 Charger

• Engine: Typically a 3.6L Pentastar V6, producing around 300 horsepower. 
• Fuel Economy: Better fuel efficiency compared to the V8, making it more economical for daily driving. 
• Performance: Offers strong performance for a daily driver, but cannot match the raw acceleration and torque of the V8. 
• Cost: Generally has a lower starting price and lower insurance costs. 
• AWD Option: V6 models are the only ones available with all-wheel drive (AWD) in many configurations, which can be beneficial in inclement weather. 

This video discusses the performance of a V6 engine in a Charger: 55sRacerXYouTube · Apr 6, 2024
V8 Charger

• Engine: Comes with HEMI V8 options, such as the 5.7L or more powerful 392 cubic inch (6.4L) engine. 
• Fuel Economy: Significantly lower fuel efficiency than the V6. 
• Performance: Delivers a more powerful, thrilling muscle car experience with greater horsepower and torque for faster acceleration. 
• Cost: Higher starting price and potentially higher insurance costs. 
• AWD Option: Not typically available, as the focus is on rear-wheel drive performance. 

This video discusses the performance of a V8 engine in a Charger: 58sOur Ride LifeYouTube · Sep 8, 2024

Is a charger RT or SXT better?

The Charger SXT costs a less than the Charger RT and it offers the same impressive safety features. However, the RT offers slightly better performance and an upgraded interior.