Chrysler Unleashes 600-hp Dodge Challenger

Chrysler Group LLC has unveiled its most powerful engine ever the supercharged, 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8 rated at more than 600 hp in its new 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT sport coupe.

The standard Challenger SRT gets a 15-hp boost to 485 hp. The Hellcat engine option will rival the output of the company's V-10-powered Viper sports car.

The Hellcat engine will be offered with a 6-speed manual or fortified 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters when the car hits the market late this autumn.

The powerplant features a forged-steel crankshaft, induction-hardened bearing surfaces, forged alloy pistons with powder-forged connecting rods, special aluminum heads and die-cast aluminum rocker covers.

An electronic drive-mode selector enables the driver to choose among three engine, transmission, suspension, traction control and steering behavior presets: default, sport and track. A fourth "custom" button can be programmed to suit the operator's preferences. A valet mode cuts engine power, locks out access to first gear, disables the paddle shifters and blocks access to launch control.

The Challenger SRT Hellcat will be shod with 20-inch, matte-black wheels and 275/40ZR20 tires. A dark bronze wheel finish is optional. Stopping power is provided up front with 390-mm (15.4-inch) Brembo two-piece rotors with six pistons each.

Inside, Chrysler has upgraded the seats and given them standard heating and cooling, installed a new stamped aluminum center console, provided leather-wrapped surfaces and provided a heated steering wheel.

Outside, the Challenger's front end features several performance tweaks, beginning with an aluminum hood. To cool the engine compartment, a large cold-air intake scoop on the aluminum hood is flanked by a pair of hot-air extractors. A ram-air intake in the lower front fascia feeds the engine's air intake box. A "duck-bill" air splitter below the fascia improves air flow under and around the car.

The 2015 Challenger SRT will be produced at Chrysler's plant in Brampton, Ont. Pricing will be announced later.