Dodge CEO Addresses Fans Concerns About New Charger

Dodge fans frustrated by the lack of a HEMI® V8 engine and traditional muscle car features in the Charger Daytona may have reasons to stay optimistic. At the 2025 Detroit Auto Show, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear spoke to Motor1, addressing the car’s inability to perform standing burnouts and a possible future to V8 power.

When asked about the omission of a Line Lock feature—essential for burnouts—McAlear confirmed it is being addressed for a high-performance SRT Banshee variant of the Charger Daytona, due in 2026. “Line Lock is still something we’re focused on for the SRT variant that’ll come out in 2026,” McAlear said.

McAlear also highlighted the unique appeal of the Charger Daytona, urging enthusiasts to experience the car firsthand rather than judge it online. “This is a vehicle that truly doesn’t come through over the internet,” he said. “You have to get behind the wheel.”

While the transition to electrification has sparked debates among Dodge fans, McAlear hinted that combustion engines, including the beloved HEMI V8, might not be gone forever. “Is V8 a bad word? No,” he said. “We’re not telling anybody to fall out of love with the V8. Have we announced anything? No, but we’re just getting started.”

Dodge will continue producing the 5.7-liter HEMI and supercharged 6.2-liter HELLCAT HEMI V8s for the Durango through 2025. The Charger Daytona Scat Pack, a key part of the new lineup, outperforms the 2023 Dodge Charger SRT HELLCAT Jailbreak Widebody while being more affordable.

Looking ahead, Dodge remains focused on the launch of its twin-turbocharged SIXPACK models and the high-performance SRT Banshee, signaling more options for customers. However, the desire for a V8 in its latest muscle car would require significant investment, as re-engineering, development, and execution would take time before such a model could reach the market. With former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares no longer at the helm, the current Stellantis leadership appears open to exploring all options to steer the brand in the right direction.