2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Review
2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Review
Posted on September 30, 2021
In the long history of classic muscle cars, the Dodge Challenger holds a uniquely special place. Determinedly old-school in exterior design but packing an enormous punch under the hood, it's the genuine connoisseur's choice of high-performance demon that's equally at home on the track or the highway. As impressive as previous models have been, the great news is that the very latest SRT model takes performance to yet greater heights, as our 2021 Challenger Hellcat review reveals.
Iconic Exterior
The Dodge Challenger has always been instantly recognizable, and the 2021 SRT Hellcat's design doesn't stray too far from the tried-and-tested format. The four circular headlights and dual raised hood inlets set the aggressive tone, while the raised rear provides plenty of space for the exhaust outlets to deliver the mighty V8 roar. There's no doubt that some other high-performance cars can look sleeker, but none of them come close to the Challenger for sheer character.
Searing Power Under the Hood
The Challenger is traditionally available with a range of high-specification powertrains, but the 2021 SRT Hellcat pushes way beyond the impressive almost to the ridiculous. Even at the entry level, the supercharged 6.2L V8 tears down the track with a blistering output of 717 horsepower and 656lb-ft of torque. The huge power is passed to rear-wheel drive through an optional eight-speed automatic transmission, although purists will undoubtedly opt for the six-speed manual gearbox for the old-school hands-on feel.
But if even that powertrain isn't thrilling enough, there are two optimized versions of the same mill making 797 hp on the Redeye trim, or a frankly insane 807 hp on the Super Stock model. But whichever engine you plump for, expect 0-100kmh times of around 3.5 seconds, and a thundering top speed of over 325kmh.
And to complete the powertrain, sports-tuned suspension is backed by premium Brembo brakes with 14.2" rotors to ensure the handling is as secure as it is responsive.
Upscale Interior and Infotainment
The Challenger's exterior might be ruggedly traditional, but the interior offers a thoroughly modern experience. The leather front seats are both heated and ventilated, while the range of materials used is upscale to give a genuinely comfortable drive.
The infotainment system in particular is a surprise. Where other muscle cars tend to shun modern multimedia tech in favour of a back-to-basics experience, the Challenger is equipped with a generous 8.4" touchscreen complete with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and in-built navigation.
Active Safety and Driver Assistance
And lastly, the 2021 Challenger Hellcat is available with a wide range of advanced safety equipment, with key highlights including forward collision warnings, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts.
Dodge Challenger Hellcat Review: The Verdict
With the new SRT Hellcat release, the Dodge Challenger cements its place at the head of the muscle car table. Its visual appearance may be familiar, but the sheer power lurking below the iconic raised inlets is a class above even the beefiest of its competitors. If you love the white-knuckle thrill of driving a high-performance icon, you need to take the SRT Hellcat for a test drive - if you dare.