Dodge reveals flagship Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye
BY TUNG NGUYEN | 29th Jun 2018
DODGE has uncovered its updated Challenger muscle car range with a new flagship SRT Hellcat Redeye variant that packs a 594kW/959Nm punch thanks to upgrades borrowed from the drag strip-orientated, limited-run Demon.
Using a supercharged 6.2-litre Hemi V8 for motivation paired to an eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission with a choice of two final drive ratios – the standard 2.62:1 or optional 3.09:1 for improved acceleration capabilities – the Redeye will shoot from zero to 60mph (97km/h) in as little as 3.4 seconds.
Upgrades in the Redeye include a larger 2.7-litre supercharger up from the standard Hellcat’s 2.4 litres, increased boot pressure, a 300rpm higher rev limit at 6500rpm, two dual-stage fuel pumps and a larger air intake system.
Meanwhile, the standard Challenger SRT Hellcat, also powered by a force-fed 6.2-litre bent eight, receives a lift in output from 527kW/881Nm to 535kW/889Nm.
Fitted as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, the Challenger SRT Hellcat can also be optioned with the eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic, while all supercharged V8 versions of Dodge’s two-door muscle car will sport a new-look front end that features functional dual-bonnet vents, a throwback to the brand’s muscle cars of yesteryear.
Redeye grades gain extra badging, while a bootlip rear spoiler is also available as an option on the SRT Hellcat, and standard features extend to adaptive suspension, six-piston front brakes, launch control, a line lock burnout function, 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment touchscreen and SRT Drive Modes.
A Widebody Package is also available on the SRT Hellcats, as well as the 362kW/644Nm 6.4-litre naturally aspirated V8 R/T Scat Pack grade, which adds 3.5 inches to overall width.
Widened versions of the Redeye will blitz the standing quarter mile in 10.8 seconds, while the standard width car will stop the clock at 11.1s. SRT Hellcat vehicles are 0.1s slower respectively.
R/T Scat Pack versions gain a bulging aluminium hood taken from the outgoing SRT Hellcat, while buyers also now have the option of larger six-pot Brembo brakes, wider wheels and tyres, and suspension upgrades.
Lower grades in the Challenger range, the R/T and new GT RWD, are also fitted as standard with the Super Track Pak that includes performance suspension, enhanced steering, 20-inch wheels, steering wheel-mounted shift paddles and front splitter.
A Performance Handling Group upgrade kit is also available on the two aforementioned variants that, as the name suggests, improves vehicle control with suspension and braking tweaks.
Given that no versions of current third-generation Dodge Challenger – which was introduced in 2008 – have made their way Down Under, GoAuto expects the updated range to also be locked out for Australian buyers, but Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Australia gave no comment.
