The 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Comes With and Without the Hellcat Hemi

If you are reading this article, there is a good chance that you are well aware that the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT will feature a Hellcat trimline that offers at least 600 horsepower, but there will also be a non-Hellcat version that is powered by the same 6.4L, 392 cubic inch Hemi that motivates the current 2014 Challenger SRT. It seemed that the SRT Challenger had moved away from the 392 Hemi when the new Challenger R/T Scat Pack models were introduced with that formerly SRT-only engine. The news that the 392 was available outside of the SRT lineup seemed to confirm that the long-rumored supercharged Hellcat Hemi was indeed on the way. However in addition to the introduction of the Challenger SRT Hellcat, there is still a “base” 2015 Challenger SRT with the 6.4L Hemi.

The image above shows the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 in Black on the left and the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat in Red on the right.

While the 392 Hemi under the hood of the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT is fundamentally the same as the one in the 2014 Challenger SRT, the 392 Hemi for the 2015 model year has been upgraded to offer better performance – 485 horsepower and 475lb-ft of torque rather than the 470/470 offered in the current Challenger SRT. Like the Hellcat, the 392 Hemi can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a new 8-speed automatic transmission; although the final drive gearing for the Hellcat models is slightly less aggressive.

In addition to the massive supercharged V8 Hemi, the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT with the 392 wears a different hood and front fascia than what comes on the Hellcat model. Where the Hellcat relies on a hood with a front facing scoop similar to what was used on the past Viper models along with a set of heat extractors, the SRT 392 models have just the central scoop. Also, the aggressive lower front fascia of the SRT Hellcat Challenger is designed for maximum air flow and downforce, the SRT392 Challenger has a fascia that is more similar to what we see on the rest of the Challenger lineup. Of course, the SRT 392 model wears a wicked looking chin spoiler that wraps around to the front of the wheel wells, but in relation to the SRT Hellcat models – the “base” SRT models are slightly less aggressive across the front end.

In terms of functional goodies, the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat gets a massive brake packing with 15.4 inch rotors up front under six piston calipers while the SRT 392 models have a similar Brembo system to what is offered on the current SRT Challengers. Also, the SRT Hellcat Challenger wears seven spoke 20 by 9.5 inch “Slingshot” wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Nero tires while the SRT 392 model wears new “77” eight spoke wheels measuring 20x9 wrapped in Goodyear RSA2 All-Season tires.

Fortunately, those SRT392 Challenger buyers who want the best braking experience and the same high performance wheels from the Hellcat models can opt for the SRT Track Pack, which includes the brakes, tires and rims of the Hellcat package on the base 392 models.

After learning that the 392 Hemi would be featured in the 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack models, Im pretty surprised to see that there is still an SRT model using that same engine. There are unique styling cues inside and out that differentiate the Scat Pack and SRT 392 models along with some other features such as suspension tuning, but does folks who still want the look and feel of the Challenger SRT without the massive price that is likely to accompany the Hellcat Hemi – this new 392 SRT package should be a welcome option.

Click here for a closer look at the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat!