Where’s the HEMI?
When the Dodge Charger was revived 20(!) years ago, one can say that there was some initial backlash on the basis that it had two more doors than the original. Of course, that criticism has since faded, partly helped by the slew of performance models that came and went.
The word HEMI has become practically synonymous with the Charger, which is why we understand why there are folks upset that the redesigned model “only” comes with the Hurricane inline-six or pure electric power. Numbers-wise, those powertrains are potent, but a Charger without a V8 feels like denying a birthright.
Order Is Restored…Sort Of
Thankfully, that’s been rectified, albeit with an asterisk attached. Meet the Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak, by Direct Connection, and yes, there’s a HEMI under the hood. The name is a mouthful, but we’re just glad to see a V8 engine reunited with the Charger.
For now, Dodge isn’t saying how much it’s packing, nor do we know the engine capacity and other specs of interest. But for reference, the most powerful ICE-powered Charger doles out 550hp from the twin-turbocharged straight six, while the punchiest EV version rolls out 670hp. We’d like to think that this HEMI version makes at least more than what the current crop offers.
The Catch
Only 50 examples of the Charger Hustle Stuff Drag Pak will be made, so it’s unlikely that you’ll see one in a Dodge dealer near you. Dodge adds that these cars are ‘engineered for grassroots NHRA Sportsman drag racers,’ with each one approved for the Factory Stock Showdown.
It may be an extremely limited-run model, but we must admit that a HEMI-powered Charger does bring balance to a world of downsized engines these days. It also does give a glimmer of hope for those crossing their fingers for a more ‘pedestrian’ V8 Charger.
Maybe if Dodge adds a new trim level and, say, calls it the Hellcat, we reckon there will be more folks flocking towards showrooms. Just a thought.
