2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat

Overview

The 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has mastered Darwin's theory of evolution, transforming into a more fascinating machine year after year. Although a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 is still at the heart of this big-bodied Dodge coupe, the Hellcat engine now comes in three eye-popping potencies: 717, 797, and 807 horsepower. The only other muscle car that even approaches these figures is the 760-hp Ford Shelby Mustang GT500. The two-door Hellcat obviously has a personality disorder, and its available widebody kit, various appearance packages, and predilection for smoky burnouts have made it a YouTube star. Sure, its interior quality doesn't match the lineup's lofty price tags, but the 2021 Challenger SRT Hellcat's visual presence and powerhouse engines do: it's one of the most powerful machines in the world—and looks it.

What's New for 2021?

For 2021, there's a new Challenger Super Stock model that's essentially a detuned version of the drag-race-ready SRT Demon that was limited to a one-year production run. The Challenger Super Stock boasts an 807-hp version of the enhanced Hellcat engine that powers the Redeye. Every SS features a widebody kit, a revised powertrain calibration, and a specially tuned suspension that optimizes quarter-mile performance. It also has lightweight equipment that includes all-aluminum Brembo brake calipers and downsized 14.2-inch rotors as well as 18-inch-by-11-inch wheels wrapped with Nitto drag radials that measure 315/40R-18 at all four corners. The SS also inherits components that were found on the Demon, such as a line-lock feature for heating up the rear tires and a "Race Cooldown" system that ensures the engine stays at an optimum operating temperature.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The mad scientists at Dodge's SRT laboratory pulled a Samuel L. Jackson and went all Old Testament with the almighty Hellcat engine. The standard setup makes "only" 717 horsepower, and the version in the Redeye pumps out 797 horses. The Super Stock benefits from an even more powerful version of the Redeye's Hellcat engine, generating 807 thundering ponies; it also sports dedicated equipment for drag racing. Paired with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission, the last Challenger SRT Redeye Widebody we tested roared to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds at 125 mph. We've driven several Hellcats and—as expected—never had trouble tapping into the endless power supply. However, launching the unruly beast straight and true is an exercise in extreme car control. Every model had an insidious growl at startup that builds to a hellish howl under heavy throttle. The Hellcat's distinct supercharger whine will send shivers down your spine, from either fear or excitement—and most likely both. These high-performance Challengers might lack an incredible track attack, but they're quick as hell in a straight line and handle well enough to hustle down twisty back roads—provided your heavy right foot knows when to let up. Although the Widebody package adds wider wheels and tires for more grip, it didn't convince us that it's ready to corner with the Ford Shelby Mustang GT350 or Chevy Camaro ZL1. The widebody Dodge is composed at the limit, but its electrically assisted power steering (the regular Hellcat has a hydraulic system) is still slow to react and doesn't provide the ethereal feedback of its track-focused rivals. Instead, switching between the three steering settings feels more like choosing among varying numbness levels. Still, the Hellcats make amazing speed between corners, so their powerful Brembo brakes will get a big workout.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2021 Challenger SRT Hellcat doesn't power-slam gas like a competitive drinker—at least, not more than its competition. The EPA estimates it'll earn 13 mpg in the city and up to 22 mpg on the highway. The Camaro ZL1 and Shelby GT500 top out at 14/21 mpg city/highway and 12/18 mpg city/highway, respectively. The last Hellcat Challenger we ran on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, wasn't far off its 22-mpg EPA estimate.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Challenger interior was redesigned for the 2015 model year with a driver-centric layout, straightforward switchgear, and better materials. The SRT twins have standard leather finery, unique badging and gauge colors, and heated and ventilated front seats. Despite its roomy cabin, the plastics still look cheap, and visibility to the rear is poor. Although it has the same trunk volume as the BMW M4, the Dodge held two more carry-ons in its trunk (six) and an impressive 15 with the rear seat stowed—three more than the GT350. None of the cars we tested were particularly adept at storing small items, but the Challenger at least has a big center-console bin, and there's a useful slot to stick a smartphone.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Both models boast a Uconnect infotainment system that is simple to use and filled with features. These include navigation, a bumpin' stereo, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard 8.4-inch touchscreen is usefully large and features icons that can be easily selected with a finger. There are volume and tuning knobs for quick audio-system adjustments. While the navigation responds quickly to inputs with a large onscreen keyboard, the map graphics look dated and cartoony.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

While the Hellcat hasn't been fully crash tested and it underperformed in the test it did complete, the big-bodied coupe is available with a host of driver-assistance technologies. Both models have standard rear parking sensors, but most other safety equipment costs extra and not all of it is available on the Redeye. Key safety features include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available forward-collision warning
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Challenger's coverage aligns with domestic rivals. Compared with BMW and Porsche, it has less limited protection but a better powertrain plan.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs