Dodge is doubling down on **Muscle Car Evolution** with the announcement of its 2026 lineup, offering both all-electric and gasoline-powered versions of the iconic Charger. This bold move, signaling a significant shift in the muscle car landscape, comes as Dodge aims to cater to a diverse range of enthusiasts. The details have been widely reported across the automotive industry, including by Stellantis Media, Automotive World, Car and Driver, GearJunkie, Motor Illustrated, Dodge Garage, and PR Newswire, solidifying the news’s credibility and reach.
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Electric Revolution: The 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona
Leading the charge into the electric era is the 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona sedan, making history as the world’s first all-electric four-door muscle car. This groundbreaking vehicle made its official first-drive debut at the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) Spring Rally, showcasing its innovative technology and performance capabilities. The Charger Daytona aims to redefine what an electric muscle car can be, blending Dodge’s signature aggressive styling with cutting-edge EV technology.
Daytona Scat Pack: Performance Redefined
The Charger Daytona Scat Pack stands out as the pinnacle of electric performance within the new lineup. Available in both four-door sedan and two-door coupe configurations, it maintains its title as the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car. According to Dodge Garage’s official specifications, the Daytona Scat Pack boasts an impressive 670 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, enabling it to achieve a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. This level of performance rivals, and in some cases surpasses, traditional gasoline-powered muscle cars.
Key features contributing to the Daytona Scat Pack’s exceptional performance include:
- A comprehensive suite of Drive Modes (Sport, Track, Drag, Custom) allowing drivers to tailor the car’s performance to various driving conditions.
- Race Options such as Drift/Donut Mode and Launch Control, designed to enhance the driving experience and provide maximum control during performance driving.
- A PowerShot feature that delivers an extra 40 horsepower on demand, providing a temporary boost of acceleration.
- A patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system that simulates the sound of a traditional V8 engine, adding an auditory dimension to the electric driving experience.
- Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability, ensuring optimal power delivery in all weather conditions.
Internal Combustion Endures: The SIXPACK Charger Models
For those who prefer the roar and feel of internal combustion, Dodge is introducing the gas-powered SIXPACK Charger models. These vehicles are equipped with a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering a compelling alternative to the electric Daytona. This engine, according to Stellantis Media’s press release, will be available in two distinct variants, catering to different performance preferences.
SIXPACK Options: Power and Performance
The SIXPACK Charger lineup includes two models:
- Charger Scat Pack: This high-performance variant delivers 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. According to Car and Driver’s initial road tests, the gas-powered Scat Pack targets a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 12.2 seconds.
- Charger R/T: The Charger R/T offers a more accessible entry point into the SIXPACK lineup, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This model provides a balance of performance and everyday usability.
Both gas-powered models will be available in two-door coupe and four-door sedan configurations, mirroring the options offered for the electric Daytona. Like the Daytona, the SIXPACK Chargers will feature standard all-wheel drive, capable of sending 100% of the torque to the rear wheels when desired, allowing for a more traditional muscle car driving experience.
Design and Technology: A Unified Vision
Regardless of powertrain, the new Charger lineup shares a common design language and technological features, creating a cohesive brand identity. Dodge emphasizes that this approach allows customers to choose the muscle car that best fits their individual lifestyle and preferences.
Shared Design Elements
Both electric and gas models feature a widebody exterior design, giving the Charger a muscular and aggressive stance. The interior is designed with a driver-centric approach, prioritizing ergonomics and ease of use. A notable feature is the “hidden hatch” interior, which provides best-in-class rear cargo and passenger volume, enhancing the practicality of the Charger.
Advanced Technology Integration
The interior of the 2026 Charger is equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment display running Uconnect 5 software. This system offers a range of features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing seamless connectivity for smartphone users. Additionally, the Charger incorporates various safety and driver-assist technologies, enhancing safety and convenience. According to PR Newswire, these technologies include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Availability: SIXPACK Models First
Enthusiasts eager to get behind the wheel of the gas-powered SIXPACK Charger models won’t have to wait long. According to Automotive World, orders for the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack and R/T models are expected to open in August. Specific timing for the electric Daytona models has not yet been announced, but is anticipated to follow shortly after.
Conclusion: A New Era for Dodge Muscle
The 2026 Dodge Charger lineup represents a bold step into the future of muscle cars, offering a compelling blend of electric innovation and traditional gasoline power. With the Daytona’s groundbreaking electric performance and the SIXPACK’s robust internal combustion options, Dodge is providing enthusiasts with the freedom to choose the muscle car that best suits their individual needs and preferences. This commitment to both performance and choice solidifies Dodge’s position as a leader in the muscle car segment, ensuring its continued relevance in an evolving automotive landscape.
