A Hellcat is a high-performance trim level for Dodge and Jeep vehicles, renowned for its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine that produces an immense amount of horsepower. It's less a specific car and more a badge representing extreme power, starting with the Dodge Challenger and Charger. The term has become synonymous with American muscle, offering an intoxicating blend of raw acceleration, a thunderous exhaust note, and relatively accessible supercar-level performance.
The heart of every Hellcat is its engine. When it was first introduced in the 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat, it produced 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Later models, like the Redeye and Super Stock, pushed that figure to 797 hp and eventually over 807 hp in the limited-edition Demon. A key feature is an IHI supercharger, which forces more air into the engine to create this immense power. This results in blistering 0-60 mph times consistently under 3.5 seconds.
| Hellcat Model Variant | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | 0-60 mph (est.) | Key Feature |
|---|
| Standard Hellcat (2015+) | 707-717 hp | 650 | ~3.6 sec | Found in Challenger, Charger |
| Hellcat Redeye | 797 hp | 707 | ~3.4 sec | Larger supercharger, better cooling |
| Super Stock | 807 hp | 707 | ~3.25 sec | Drag-oriented, sticky tires |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk | 707 hp | 645 | ~3.5 sec | SUV practicality with Hellcat power |
| Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat | 710 hp | 645 | ~3.5 sec | Three-row family hauler |
Owning a Hellcat is about more than numbers. It's an experience defined by the supercharger's distinct whine and the V8's aggressive roar. While incredibly powerful, these cars often come with advanced traction and stability control systems to help manage the power. However, they are gas guzzlers, with EPA-estimated fuel economy often in the low teens. With Dodge phasing out the Challenger and Charger, the Hellcat has become a legendary chapter in the history of the American muscle car.
