Dodge Charger now offers electric or gas-powered muscle, but still no V8

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Three years ago, Dodge was saying farewell to its previous muscle cars, along with the Hemi V8 that had become synonymous with them. Many were labeled as "Last Call" models.

A new generation of muscle car came along: a clean-sheet Dodge Charger. With a nod toward the future, launched first as an EV. Yes, an electric muscle car with performance right up there with the Hemi. It moved away from a standstill in a big rush of power and torque.

Where it didn't move rapidly was from showrooms into the garages of owners. Many muscle car traditionalists said "no thanks" to battery power, even with fake engine sounds playing from the rear of the car. A more powerful one came along, but that hasn't quite satisfied the faithful so far either.

But internal combustion has come back into the Charger lineup in the form of a turbocharged inline six dubbed Hurricane Six Pack. A catchy name from the past, this time noting the cylinder count. Real engine sounds have been reunited with the Dodge brand's signature model. It's not even a hybrid. The only battery here is the one that starts the engine. The top Charger Scat Pack carries a base MSRP of $56,990.

Power? Oh, it's available. Up to 550 horsepower from a relatively small engine size of 3.0 liters. Sales have outstripped the electric version so far. But where's the V8? Rumors have flown that the new Charger will be reunited with all eight cylinders. So far, only rumors.

When the previous Dodge Charger and Challenger were sent packing three years ago the Hemi V8 was supposed to be sunsetted as well. But it's gotten a new lease on life. However, as of right now, if you want a Hemi under the hood of a Dodge, it's going to have to be a Durango.

That V8 rumble in an SUV with three rows of seats. Like a muscle car with added practicality. There is a V6 Durango, but far more variations with the Hemi. Even the CHP is using them to run down speed scofflaws with a fleet of low-key Durangos in less noticeable colors.

But if you like Dodge muscle, in a car, you can go one of two ways with the Charger. A high-performance EV if that's your thing. Or, a high-performance high-tech six cylinder if that's more your style. Holding out for a new Charger with V8 power? You'll have to wait. Maybe a short time, maybe a long time, or possibly, forever.