The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is, without a doubt, the ultimate predator in the world of American muscle cars, a formidable force on the road as well as the racetrack. With its attention-grabbing style and powerful heritage, this Hellcat version elevates the excitement of driving to new levels.
Let’s examine the jaw-dropping characteristics that make the Challenger SRT Hellcat a true icon in the world of high-performance cars as we rev our engines for a closer look.
Unleashing Muscle Car Fury
Tires are meant to be replaced on the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. One of the few coupes with a V-8 engine that sounds like thunder in the United States. The most understated variant in the Challenger SRT Hellcat series is the 6.2-liter V-8 supercharged engine producing 717 horsepower.
But there’s even more: this engine’s output increases to 797 horsepower in the Hellcat Redeye model. And with 807 horsepower, the Widebody Jailbreak edition of the meanest, nastiest Hellcat Redeye is unleashed. With either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, all Challenger SRT Hellcats assist you in obtaining a suspended license.
The sole available configuration is rear-wheel drive, which is always prepared to unleash tremendous clouds of smoke from each of its enormous, 12-inch-wide rear tires. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and Chevy Camaro ZL1, two more highly modified competitors, are better suited for road courses.
Why is it Considered to be a Supercar?
The Look
The Challenger draws attention wherever it goes. This muscle car has an unmistakable charm that goes beyond its price, garnering attention in school zones and courteous glances from other Challengers and Chargers.
The Speed
The Challenger SRT Hellcat’s entire potential is seen when it is unleashed on a lonesome highway. Its reputation as a speed demon is cemented by its experience of stunning acceleration and unflinching confidence as it reaches speeds that defy common logic.
The Reputation
Operating this Challenger unintentionally makes you a point on the radar of every police cruiser. Its reputation for rebelliousness and tales of audacious endeavors give its character a mysterious quality.
The Most Practical and Reasonably Priced Challenger Hellcat
The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is starting at $74,290. Because of this, the supercharged MOPAR is the most reasonably priced option for obtaining a daily driver-friendly, high-horsepower supercharged muscle car. To put things in perspective, the Jail Break costs $74,290, while the Hellcat Redeye costs about $82,895.
With a fully furnished inside and every convenience, the original Challenger Hellcat is not only the most economical model in the lineup but also the most comfortable. For those who are curious, the Widebody kit can be installed on previous Hellcat models and costs $2,495 in total. It’s also most likely the Hellcat’s most alluring option.
The standard Hellcat, even without the widebody, is a large vehicle. It is also the most usable of all the Challenger Hellcat variants because it does not have the more severe suspension and chassis tuning of the higher-performance versions and has a complete interior.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
With the powerful Hellcat engine, the mad scientists at Dodge’s SRT laboratory did a Samuel L. Jackson and went all Old Testament. While the Redeye’s version produces 797 horsepower, the regular arrangement “only” produces 717 horsepower. The 807-hp Super Stock variant has equipment specifically designed for drag racing.
The latest Challenger SRT Redeye Widebody we tested reached 60 mph (96.56 kph) in 3.6 seconds when paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and it finished the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds at 125 mph (201.16 kph).
As might be predicted, we never grew weary of drawing from their limitless power source after driving multiple Hellcats. But launching the wild beast straight and true requires high vehicular control. Every model starts off with a sneaky growl that intensifies into a terrifying howl when the throttle is applied heavily. You will definitely feel both exhilaration and dread when you hear the unique supercharger whine of the Hellcat.
Though they may not be the best for a track-attack event, these high-performance Challengers can easily handle and accelerate around twisting back roads, as long as your hefty right foot understands when to let go.
Fuel Efficiency
Not any more than its rivals, the Challenger SRT Hellcat doesn’t power-slam gas like a competitive drinker. It gets up to 22 mpg on the highway and 13 mpg in the city. The maximum fuel economy of the Shelby GT500 and Camaro ZL1 is 12/18 mpg on the highway and 14/21 mpg in the city, respectively.
Our latest Hellcat Challenger, which we tested extensively, was not far from its estimated 22 mpg EPA on our 75 mph (120.7 kph) highway fuel economy route.
Inside the Challenger: Comfy Ride and Space
For the 2015 model year, the Challenger inside underwent renovation with improved materials, a driver-centric layout, and simple switchgear. The SRT twins come equipped with standard leather upholstery, distinct gauge colors and badging, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Though the cabin is spacious, the plastics still appear cheap, and there’s not much view in the back. Six carry-ons fit in the trunk of the Dodge, and with the rear seat folded, it could fit an amazing fifteen. While the Challenger lacks a spacious center console bin and a convenient smartphone slot, it is still better than any of the other cars we examined when it comes to storing small objects.
Connectivity and Entertainment
Both variants have an easy-to-use, feature-rich Uconnect infotainment system. These include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, bumpin’ audio, and navigation. The regular 8.4-in (213.36-mm) touchscreen has easily selectable icons that are large enough to be functional with one finger.
Quick modifications to the audio system can be made using the tuning and volume knobs. The map images are old and cartoonish, yet the navigation reacts swiftly to inputs with a large onscreen keyboard.
Features for Safety and Driver Assistance
Numerous driver-assistance systems are offered for the large-bodied coupe. Rear parking sensors are standard on both models; however, most additional safety features are optional and unavailable on the Redeye. Visit the websites of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for additional details regarding the Challenger’s crash test results. Important safety characteristics consist of the following:
- Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert are optional.
- Forward-collision warning system available
- Adaptive cruise control is available.
Pros And Cons of Having Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
| Pros | Cons |
| Wicked Fast: The Challenger SRT Hellcat is not just quick; it’s a force of nature on wheels. The acceleration is not measured in seconds but in heartbeats. | Oh-So-Irrational: Practicality is secondary, while the thrill element is excellent. Constraints on freight capacity and fuel economy may not always coincide with daily convenience. |
| Kick-Ass Looks: Aesthetically, it’s not just a car; it’s a statement. The bold design and menacing presence make it a head-turner on any road. | Oh-So-Irrational: Practicality is secondary while the thrill element is excellent. Constraints on freight capacity and fuel economy may not always coincide with daily convenience. |
| Wake-the-Dead Rumble: The distinctive engine sound is not just noise; it’s an auditory experience that reverberates through your very being, leaving an indelible impression. | Last Year: The marvel’s accompanying painful reality is that its period is coming to an end. The final example of its sort not only brings back memories but also signifies the close of a legendary chapter. |
FAQs
What makes a hellcat unique?
The Chrysler company’s first production-run supercharged Hemi, also their most potent engine at the time.
What is the top speed of an SRT Hellcat?
The SRT Super Stock has the quickest 1/4 mile (10.5 seconds) and 0-60 mph (3.25 seconds) speeds, while the SRT Hellcat Redeye Challenger and Charger models have the highest top speed (203 mph).
What is the lifespan of a Hellcat engine?
Any engine nowadays, even hellcats, should be able to reach 200k with ease with the right care. Maintain it hard (i.e., more regularly, more intensely) if you run it hard.
Conclusion
When evaluated based on contemporary benchmarks for technology and performance, the Challenger Hellcat appears old and impeccably crude in its design. It’s a relic from another time. Dodge deserves praise for sustaining the American muscle vehicle for so long.
Though it isn’t the pinnacle of handling perfection and isn’t a track vehicle, it is incredibly quick and a lot of fun to drive. The only V8 Challenger that Dodge will ever produce is this one. That renders it the best car you can purchase in certain aspects. Just make sure your rear tires and petrol supplies are never running low.
