The 2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat is an impressive muscle car with top-of-the-line horsepower, an intimidating two-door body style, and premier handling. Car lovers will know that the Hellcat leads the world’s muscle cars in both speed and power, and this year’s model doesn’t hold back in either category. Those looking for unbeatable power can certainly find it in the Hellcat. Here, we’ll talk about the handling and performance of these attention-grabbing vehicles and offer additional insight into some of the Hellcat’s top features.
Handling
Hellcat by Alexander Nie is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0
Because of its size, the Hellcat’s handling is slightly less in tune than some comparable models. That said, the Hellcat handles with composure and precision, easily delivering in the category despite being slightly outperformed because of its size and weight. Intown maneuvering might not be ideal in the Hellcat, but, once you take the car to the open road, you’ll likely find its handling to be both satisfying and thrilling. The car is capable even on tight curves and can handle at high speeds with surprising agility.
Performance
In this category, the 2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat is unrivaled. Drivers can choose between five available engine and model configurations. Rear-wheel-drive is standard and all-wheel-drive (AWD) is available. You can also choose between the eight-speed automatic transmission or the six-speed manual transmission for increased control on the road. As for the engines, all the offerings provide daring acceleration and speed, but here’s a closer look at some of their performance differences:
The 3.6-Liter V6
The base-level V6 engine offers considerable power, but it doesn’t perform as well as some of the other vehicle offerings in its class. The standard engine delivers 303 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, which is certainly enough to get the job done. If you’re here for the Hellcat’s prodigious power and torque, however, then this engine might not be the one for you. This engine is available on SXT, SXT AWD, GT, and GT AWD models.
The 5.7-Liter Hemi V8
One step up on the Hellcat engine ladder is the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine. This engine, nicknamed the Eagle, supplies 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Impressive, but nowhere near the Hellcat’s ultimate capabilities. This option is available on the R/T model.
The 6.4-Liter Hemi V8
Offering a bit more muscle is the Hellcat 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, or “Apache,” providing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Available on the R/T Scat Pack, this V8 engine begins to deliver on the Hellcat power that enthusiasts are accustomed to. The car pairs historic style and performance with modern capabilities.
The 6.2-Liter Supercharged Hemi V8
With 717 horsepower and 656 lb-ft of torque, the “Hellcat” V8 engine on the SLT model enters into the top echelon of performance. This engine comes close to being in the top 10 horsepower offerings available. Paired with the available manual transmission, drivers can expect exhilarating performance and speed.
The 6.2-Liter High-Output Supercharged Hemi V8
More powerful still is the 6.2-liter high-output supercharged Hemi “Hellcat” engine. This offering boasts an awe-inspiring 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. Also available on SLT Redeye models, this engine even outperforms top industry contenders like the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ and the McLaren 765 LT. Put on the SLT Super Stock, the engine’s ratings rise even higher, reaching a maximum horsepower of 807. This top horsepower number depends on several other factors too, like fuel.
Exterior
The Hellcat presents an imposing image. Reminiscent of historic, early-70s design, the Hellcat’s throwback style adds to its charm and street-worthy style. Its beefy exterior might not make it the easiest to handle, but it does provide a striking home for the world-class engine resting inside. Certain models are available in the wide-body style, which has flared fenders and wider wheels. Increased tire coverage can help improve the vehicle’s handling, too. It comes in 13 available color options, with some retro colors that enhance its throwback body style.
Interior
The interior of the Hellcat is surprisingly roomy and comfortable in the driver’s and passenger’s seats, but its interior storage is reduced slightly to make way for other performance features. You may not be able to store more than a smartphone up front, along with some small items in the center console. Trunk cargo is spacious and capable, with plenty of room for luggage or anything else the driver might want to stow. There are rear seats, which you can stow for added room.
Front seats are heated and ventilated to maximize comfort, and the SRT model has unique badging and comes standard with leather finery. Minimalist features help the car feel light and set to perform.
Technology
Top technology helps you stay connected. Bluetooth technology allows you to link your smartphone to your vehicle. Navigation and an impressive audio system further provide technological support to drivers. It boasts a large 8.4-inch touchscreen monitor. Technology also powers safety features in the vehicle. The Hellcat has rear parking sensors that come standard. Other safety features include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warnings. Different models have different available features, but few are available with the base model.
Security technology works to keep the vehicle safe from theft or damage. Standard on performance line-up models like the R/T Scat Pack, SRT Hellcat, SRT Hellcat Redeye, and the SRT Hellcat Super Stock is a top-tier security alarm. Other models can still opt for the security system by choosing select package options.
The 2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat continues its impressive legacy with a powerful performance vehicle. Despite its classic muscle-car body style, it still handles with relative finesse on open roads. Where it really wins, though, is in its power. With horsepower numbers in the 700s and 800s, the Hellcat earns its reputation as one of the world’s most impressive cars.
Do you have thoughts on this year’s Hellcat that you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Let us know about your questions, opinions, or interests, or stop in to see us to browse our own collection of impressive vehicles. We’re looking forward to seeing you.