Overview
The 2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, which comes standard with 717 horsepower, is one helluva family sedan. Not only are its big back seat and trunk great for taking more than two people on trips or just out to lunch, it accelerates so ferociously that the same passengers will be cussing up a storm or asking for an airsick bag–or both. For an extra dose of “hold onto your butts,” the Redeye model boasts a ridiculous 797 horses and will hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds on its way to a claimed 203-mph top speed. While all that power might be too much for some, the widebody-only Charger actually handles surprisingly well for its size. Just expect better communication from your in-laws than from its steering. Compared with high-performance, six-figure luxury cars such as the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S and Porsche Panamera Turbo S, the 2022 Charger SRT Hellcat is a great value. Too bad its interior looks like it came from a car that costs less than half its nearly $75,000 starting price—which it does.
What’s New for 2022?
Unlike last year’s model, the ’22 Charger SRT Hellcat now comes standard with a deluxe security alarm. Otherwise the incredibly powerful sedan enters the model year unchanged.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
If it were our money, we’d spend the extra $8600 and get the more powerful Redeye model. It comes with the same desirable standard features as well as some unique content of its own, such as a 220-mph red speedometer and a smattering of Redeye logos. We’d also upgrade the inside with the optional Carbon and Suede Interior package that covers the headliner in microsuede and various trim pieces with real carbon fiber.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Without a doubt, the Hellcat’s main attraction is its supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. If you haven’t heard, it now makes 717 horsepower along with 650 pound-feet of torque. The Redeye model features an enhanced version of the Hellcat engine, which generates 797 horses and 707 pound-feet. Obviously, these ultimate Chargers will leave no one wanting for power, all of which is directed to the rear wheels through a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The regular Hellcat we tested blasted to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 11.9 seconds at 124 mph. The Hellcat Redeye we tested hit 60 mph in 3.5 ticks and covered the quarter in 11.5 seconds at 126 mph. Of course, this unreal performance doesn’t come without a price, and drivers must carefully apply the gas pedal to maintain traction. And those big rear tires are expensive to replace. The standard widebody setup that we drove helps improve the supersedan’s body control and cornering grip thanks to wider, stickier tires and stiffer chassis components. Still, the widebody Hellcat’s front tires don’t communicate as much to the steering wheel as we’d like.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Charger SRT Hellcat is rated at 12 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. That’s actually pretty impressive when you consider how much power this sedan has. Once we test the updated powertrain on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regime, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the Charger’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the SRT Hellcat shares the same design and passenger space as tamer Chargers. However, it has a slew of desirable standard features and some personalized options. Every Charger SRT Hellcat includes a 200-mph speedometer, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. There’s a Carbon & Suede package that adds real carbon-fiber interior trim and a faux-suede headliner for a sportier atmosphere. Interior cubby storage is highlighted by spots to store small items, and we managed to fit seven carry-on bags in the Charger’s sizable trunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Charger SRT Hellcat has an excellent 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Its large screen responded quickly to inputs and the physical knobs and buttons make the interface easy to use. Want to rock out while doing massive burnouts? Dodge offers a thumping 19-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While the high-powered sedan includes basic driver-assistance technology, more advanced assists such as adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking are unavailable. For more information about the Charger’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard blind-spot monitoring
- Standard rear cross-traffic alert
- Standard rear parking sensors
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Dodge covers the Charger SRT Hellcat with a competitive limited and powertrain warranty, but it doesn’t include any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
