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Chrysler’s SRT brand could offer supercharged 2013 models

The 2012 SRT models including the Dodge Charger SRT8, the Dodge Challenger SRT8, the Chrysler 300C SRT8 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 are just hitting the streets but an exciting rumor has Mopar lovers looking to next year as it has been whispered by the masses that the SRT brand could offer a supercharged package for the 2013 model year.

According to the folks at Motor Authority, they have an inside source who has informed them that late in the 2012 calendar year, the new SRT brand will launch an upgrade package that will use forced induction to boost the power of the 6.4L Hemi from 470hp to somewhere in the range of 540-570hp. This kind of power would afford the Challenger SRT8 to stand a much better chance against the likes of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and with 570 horsepower, the Charger SRT8 and Chrysler 300C SRT8 could certainly stand toe to toe with any performance sedans in the world.

Since this is a rumor based on insider information, we only have so much to go on but it sounds as though the 2013 SRT Charger, Challenger and 300C would use a twin screw supercharger package built by Eaton. It could come as a package that would be purchased and installed through the dealership or it could come as a new factory-built option but in either case; a supercharger upgrade and 540-570hp would certainly help the Chrysler Group stake their claim for America’s top performance brand. While GM has models like the Corvette and Camaro and Ford has their Mustang and Mustang GT500, no American competition currently has an answer for Chrysler’s high performance sedans and SUVs. Also, when the new Dodge Viper hits the streets early next year, we can expect to see the Dodge name begin reclaiming records stolen by the amazing Corvette ZR1.

Sadly for lovers of high performance, road-going Jeeps, this rumor suggests that the supercharged package for the 2013 SRT models only applies to the Charger, 300C and Challenger. However, this rumor comes with an even more interesting twist…as it has been suggested that these supercharged SRT8 models would come with Chrysler’s new 8-speed automatic transmission. Honestly, we think that this portion might be a little farfetched and, if nothing else, including the 8-speed automatic transmission in the supercharged upgrade package would almost guarantee that this would be a factory option and not a dealer installed package – unless all of the 2013 SRT8 models come with the new 8-speed transmission.

In any case, the American horsepower war is alive and well with the current lineup from the Detroit Big 3 offering big power and if these rumors prove to be true – we could be looking at a new era of high performance from the Chrysler Group.

Source: Motor Authority

Other Chrysler News:
Chrysler reports $370 million net loss in 2011 Q2
Chrysler repays TARP loans six years early
Chrysler suspends 9 workers for drinking and smoking during lunch
Changes announced for the 2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392
The Dodge Viper sets the NJ Motorsports Park record
Chrysler launches RedLineDodge.com at the 2011 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals
Ram HD trucks get a new 6-speed transmission in 2012

Comments

Doug S. (not verified)    August 13, 2011 - 11:19AM

I am waiting for a refreshed challenger especially with the upgrade and state of the art 8 speed paddle auto. I suggested to GM last year via email that they consider a auto for the ZL1 and as of last month its a go with the camaro getting the cadillac CTSV auto. I guess their marketing found many older guys want a auto. The mustang GT500 won't offer one anytime soon. I see alot of RT Challengers and with the lower msrp $31k base I see why. Challengers need a refreshed interior (two tone seats) and maybe a dual sunroof like the new Optima has.

Patrick (not verified)    November 19, 2011 - 9:03PM

Can anyone tell me why Chrysler wont put the 6-speed manual transmission in the 300 SRT8? Even as a performance option... Its the same drivetrain as the Challenger so it seems like it would be easy and inexpensive to do. Maybe it's my age showing but I would rather a manual tranny than paddle shifters..The cadillac CTS-V has a manual tansmission and they seem to want to go up against that.

Anonymous (not verified)    April 11, 2012 - 2:57PM

In reply to by Patrick (not verified)

MDS isn't compatible with the six-speed. I would also venture to guess that sales of such a beast would be minimal. I saw a video with Ralph explaining these reasons, as well as the line re-tooling that would be required for such a limited run. (I'd love a six-speed in my SRT Charger!)