The Hellcat engine unleashes America's most powerful production V8.

The Hellcat engine is more than just a powerplant — it’s a modern muscle icon. Created by Dodge as part of its push to reclaim muscle car dominance, this 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 has become synonymous with brute strength, aggressive sound, and unmatched street performance. Since its debut, the Hellcat engine has reshaped what enthusiasts expect from a factory-built American car.

A Beast Under the Hood

First introduced in 2015 under the hood of the Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat, the Hellcat engine was a response to growing competition from Ford’s Mustang and Chevrolet’s Camaro. But Dodge didn’t just join the race — it blew the doors off with a factory-rated 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

Key specifications:

• Engine type: 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8

• Horsepower: 707–807 HP (varies by trim)

• Torque: Up to 717 lb-ft

• Supercharger: 2.4L (Redeye models: 2.7L)

• Fuel type: Premium gasoline

• Redline: ~6,200 RPM

Variants and Evolution

Since its launch, the Hellcat engine has been upgraded and expanded into several high-performance trims:

• Hellcat (707 HP): The original street-legal powerhouse.

• Hellcat Redeye (797 HP): Enhanced with a larger supercharger and upgraded internals.

• Hellcat Jailbreak (807 HP): The most powerful production Hellcat available.

• Demon (840 HP with race fuel): Built specifically for drag racing.

• Hellcrate: A standalone crate engine available for custom projects and builds.

These variants demonstrate the Hellcat engine’s flexibility — from daily street dominance to competitive drag racing potential.

Performance Like No Other

What makes the Hellcat engine special isn’t just the numbers — it’s how they’re delivered. Thanks to its massive twin-screw supercharger, the Hellcat provides:

• Immediate torque on demand

• A distinct, aggressive supercharger whine

• Consistent power across the rev range

It can launch 4,500+ lb cars from 0 to 60 mph in just over 3 seconds, and some Hellcat-powered vehicles can run the quarter-mile in under 11 seconds right off the showroom floor.

Vehicles Powered by the Hellcat Engine

While originally built for the Dodge Challenger and Charger, the Hellcat engine now powers multiple performance machines:

• Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat & Redeye

• Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat & Redeye

• Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

• Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk (tuned version)

• Ram 1500 TRX (modified Hellcat block)

• Custom builds and restomods via the Hellcrate engine

Why the Hellcat Engine Stands Out

The Hellcat engine gained popularity not just for its specs but also for what it represents:

• Factory Muscle: Delivers supercar power in a muscle car body.

• Affordability: Offers high horsepower at a price far below exotic cars.

• Reliability: Built with OEM-tested parts for longevity and safety.

• Tuning Potential: Easily modifiable for even more power.

In a world shifting toward turbocharged efficiency and electrification, the Hellcat is proudly loud, thirsty, and unapologetically aggressive.

The Future of the Hellcat

Dodge announced the end of the Hellcat era as it shifts toward electrified performance. While production will eventually cease, the engine’s legacy will live on. Hellcat-powered cars are already considered collectibles, and the Hellcrate engine continues to be a top choice for builders seeking monstrous performance in custom vehicles.

Conclusion

The Hellcat engine is not just an engineering marvel — it’s a cultural phenomenon. Representing the final chapter of traditional American muscle in its purest form, this supercharged beast will forever hold a place in automotive history. For those lucky enough to own one — or simply hear its roar — the Hellcat delivers a driving experience that’s visceral, powerful, and completely unforgettable.