The new Dodge Charger SRT features a wing reminiscent of the Superbird era, giving it an appearance that's ready for takeoff.
Render of the Charger SRT's wing at today’s Daytona.
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Dodge acknowledges the mixed reactions to the launch of the new Charger—so much so that Dodge CEO Matt McLear mentioned to The Drive in April that it’s “way too early” to label it as a failure or a success. Perhaps.
However, on Thursday in Detroit, Michigan, shortly after the executive team presented the automotive giant’s turnaround strategy, The Drive was informed that the Charger will be getting a refresh. This development seems quite urgent, considering the entire Charger lineup hasn’t even been released yet. We were also given a glimpse of the Charger SRT, which certainly seems impressive.
All electronic devices were confiscated and no photos were permitted, but here’s what I observed (no touching). It’s somewhat hazy; bear with me.
Two Chargers were showcased. One sported a bright neon green color while the other resembled a B5 blue. The neon green Charger, likely the SRT variant, featured amber LED daytime running lights. However, unlike the current Charger, the light strip did not extend across the full front; it was located only at the bottom sides of the recessed headlights. The entire headlight area was tinted, creating a menacing appearance alongside the orange amber LED DRLs. A large front splitter extended from the lower front bumper, and a sizable hood scoop was visibly present, presumably to channel air into a powerful gasoline engine.
The highlight of this vehicle? A massive rear wing reminiscent of those from the Richard Petty Superbird era. It rose from the back and soared high with supports on either side, rather than in the middle.
Both Chargers showcased had vertical black vents on their front fenders. The SRT was fitted with wide wheels that appeared to be diamond-cut. Overall, both cars seemed to represent an evolution of the current model, providing a more aggressive look while preserving the overall design. I didn’t get a chance to view the interiors or rear ends of either vehicle as we were quickly ushered along in under a minute.
What powers the SRT remains entirely unclear, except for the fact that it will run on gasoline. There have been numerous requests for Dodge to incorporate the Hemi V8 into the new Charger. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa told The Drive that the reason Ram received the V8 option before Dodge was due to 40% of truck buyers demanding it before considering a truck brand. This suggests that the V8 may return to Dodge, and it's difficult to argue that he was referring to the Durango. The V8 has never left the Durango, and the Hellcat-powered Durango never actually ceased production. Dodge CEO Matt McLear mentioned to The Drive in March that the automaker will “push the limits” of the Hurricane inline-six. What does that imply? Quite intriguing.
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Other articles
The new Dodge Charger SRT features a wing reminiscent of the Superbird era, giving it an appearance that's ready for takeoff.
Dodge presented reporters with an updated version of the Charger and the Charger SRT, the latter featuring a large rear wing, a hood scoop, and amber LED daytime running lights — the details of what’s under the hood remain a mystery.
