Remember when Stellantis pulled the plug on the HEMI V8? Yeah, a lot of us saw it coming, but that didn’t make it any easier. Muscle car fans across the country watched in disbelief as one of the most iconic engines in American automotive history was shelved in favor of inline-sixes and electric drivetrains. It felt like the end of an era. But now? We’re hearing the HEMI is coming back — and it could return as early as 2026. And not just any version. We’re talking about the full lineup: the 5.7L HEMI, the 6.4L ‘392’, and even the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat. If you’ve been missing that deep V8 rumble, the wait might finally be over.
Why Stellantis Killed the HEMI in the First Place: Let’s rewind. Stellantis — like most automakers — started shifting its focus to smaller, more efficient engines and EVs. Enter the Hurricane inline-six. It’s efficient, powerful, and technically advanced. But let’s be real: it just doesn’t stir the soul like a good ol’ V8.
Then came the Charger Daytona EV. Sleek, futuristic… and largely ignored. Despite Dodge dealers offering up to $12,500 in discounts, sales have been underwhelming. The message from buyers is loud and clear: we don’t just want quick acceleration — we want emotion. We want sound. We want the heart-thumping, chest-rattling experience that only a V8 can deliver.
The Market Spoke — Stellantis Finally Listened: After a 29% drop in Dodge sales in 2024, Stellantis had no choice but to listen. That’s a massive fall — from nearly 200,000 units in 2023 to just over 141,000. And it wasn’t just Dodge feeling the squeeze. Jeep, Ram, Chrysler — all saw sales slow. But the V8-shaped hole in Dodge’s performance lineup hit the hardest.
To their credit, it looks like Stellantis is adjusting course. With former CEO Carlos Tavares on the way out, there’s been a noticeable shift in tone. Current RAM CEO Tim Kuniskis — who previously downplayed the HEMI’s impact — is now reportedly working to bring it back. According to leaks and insiders, HEMI V8 production is slated to resume at the Dundee Engine Plant by August 2026. That’s a massive pivot, and it’s one performance fans should be thrilled about.
Why the HEMI Comeback Matters: This isn’t just about bringing back a popular engine. It’s about restoring a legacy — one rooted in American car culture. While the industry chases hybrids and electric dreams, Stellantis seems ready to acknowledge that not every driver wants to trade muscle for mileage.
There’s also a clear marketing advantage here. In a world of increasingly quiet, sterile EVs, the roar of a HEMI might just be the loudest way to stand out. Expect to see new HEMI-powered versions of the Dodge Charger and Challenger, and possibly even Jeep models that need that extra dose of attitude and capability.
And if the rumors are true, Stellantis may pair the HEMI with hybrid tech — giving buyers the best of both worlds: raw V8 muscle and improved efficiency.
The Takeaway: Whether you’re a longtime Mopar fanatic or just someone who misses real engine sound in a world full of EV hums and turbo whooshes, the HEMI’s return is huge news. It’s not just a comeback — it’s a statement. Stellantis is telling us they haven’t forgotten what makes cars exciting. For now, the automotive world waits for 2026 — but make no mistake: the muscle car war is back on. And this time, Stellantis isn’t sitting on the sidelines.
Want to Know What These V8s Will Cost You?: If you’re wondering what kind of deals might be available once these HEMIs hit dealer lots again — or if you’re shopping now and want to avoid overpaying — head to Quotes.EverymanDriver.com. It’s a free tool where you can compare real-time prices on new and used cars from qualified dealers near you. Thousands of smart buyers use it daily to save hundreds — even thousands — of dollars. Don’t miss out. Check it out before your next test drive.
