The V8 might be on the way out but Dodge will reinvent the muscle car.
Meanwhile, enjoy the new golden era of V8 power.
We’ve said it a number of times over the last few years: These are the new “good old times” when it comes to V8 engines and massive power. Stellantis’ Dodge is clearly enjoying these times as they still offer a variety of V8 engines in its 2021 lineup of vehicles. Their collection of muscle cars and trucks will need to evolve soon but Dodge isn’t worried.
As electrification becomes the norm, Dodge will need to make massive adjustments to its powertrain family – will this bring the end of the muscle car?
“There hasn’t been a date drawn in the sand saying you’ll no longer be able to buy an iron block Hemi anymore, but everybody knows it’s coming and they want to enjoy (today) while they can… it will come to an end, but the replacements are going to be so much more exciting,” said Matt McAlear, head of Dodge Sales Operations in an interview with Muscle Cars & Trucks.
As we all know, EVs are far from boring and slow which means that Dodge will get the opportunity to continue providing power-hungry consumers with big muscle. With options like the Challenger, Charger, and Durango, there’s a V8 for everyone and all needs.
“I think more than anything people are looking for the next generation,” said McAlear, on the broad trend of the shrinking muscle car segment. “Everybody knows electrification is coming, we’ll reinvent the muscle car as far as Dodge is concerned. I’m extremely excited about where the future is going, but right now everybody is enjoying ‘the bachelor party.’ This is the last hurrah.”
As the HEMI V8 enters the winter of its life, it’s still not too late to sample some of the greatest most entertaining muscle cars and trucks money can buy today. Don’t wait too long though…