The wait is over. Dodge has finally released the official pricing for one of the most anticipated performance sedans of the decade: the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack High-Output (H.O.). With a new turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and a bold mission to replace the HEMI V8, this Scat Pack represents a turning point for Dodge’s muscle car legacy.
But is it worth its price tag of $62,895? Let’s dive into what you get, what’s changed, and what it all means for the future of American performance.
The Heart of the Beast: The High-Output Hurricane Engine
The headline feature of the 2026 Charger Scat Pack H.O. is the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged Hurricane inline-six. This isn’t just a downsized replacement—it’s a modern powerhouse engineered to deliver:
- 550 horsepower
- More torque than the old 6.4L HEMI V8
- A broad, turbocharged powerband with stronger midrange punch
That makes the new Scat Pack not only more powerful than the outgoing 485-hp 6.4L HEMI, but also significantly more capable thanks to forced induction. Dodge is betting that enthusiasts will appreciate the sheer performance, even if the sound doesn’t quite match the legendary rumble of a V8.
Standard All-Wheel Drive
Another huge change: the 2026 Charger Scat Pack H.O. comes standard with all-wheel drive. Previous Scat Packs and most Charger models were rear-wheel drive, leaving them struggling for traction when putting power down.
With AWD, the new Charger can launch harder, grip better, and perform more consistently across different driving conditions. This move brings the Charger closer to rivals like the Audi RS7 or BMW M5, which also rely on AWD to tame big power.
For everyday drivers, it means year-round usability and a car that’s no longer limited to summer tires and dry pavement.
Price Comparison: Then and Now
At $62,895, the new Scat Pack is undeniably more expensive than its predecessor. The outgoing 2023 Charger Scat Pack started in the mid-$40,000s, meaning Dodge has raised the entry price for its performance sedan by over $15,000.
So what explains the jump?
- More Power: 550 hp vs. 485 hp—a 65-hp increase.
- All-Wheel Drive: Standard, not optional.
- Modern Tech: Expect updated infotainment, digital driver displays, and advanced driver-assistance features.
- Market Reality: Prices across the auto industry have climbed sharply, especially for performance vehicles.
Still, some enthusiasts will argue that part of the Charger’s appeal was its value. At nearly $63,000, Dodge is moving the Scat Pack into premium-performance territory.
The HEMI Question
Of course, the elephant in the room is the absence of the HEMI V8. For decades, the HEMI has been the soul of Dodge muscle cars, beloved for its raw sound and visceral feel.
The Hurricane inline-six may outperform the V8 on paper, but the big question is whether it can win over the hearts of muscle car fans.
- Pro-Hurricane: More power, better efficiency, modern engineering, and AWD capability.
- Pro-HEMI: Sound, heritage, and emotional connection.
It’s a debate that’s sure to rage on forums and at car meets for years.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
At its new price point, the Charger Scat Pack H.O. enters direct competition with other performance sedans:
- BMW M3 Competition: 503 hp, AWD, starting around $77,000.
- Audi RS5 Sportback: 444 hp, AWD, starting around $78,000.
- Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing: 668 hp supercharged V8, starting around $94,000.
The Dodge undercuts its European rivals while offering more horsepower than many of them. For buyers who want raw numbers at a lower price point, it’s a compelling package.
Design and Features
The 2026 Charger rides on Stellantis’ new STLA Large platform, which underpins both electric and internal-combustion versions of the car. That means:
- A modernized, aggressive exterior with widebody proportions.
- A futuristic interior featuring large digital displays, premium materials, and customizable drive modes.
- Room for four or five passengers while maintaining muscle car proportions.
Dodge is aiming to blend traditional muscle car character with modern refinement, appealing to both loyal fans and newcomers who want performance with everyday practicality.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack High-Output marks a new era. At $62,895, it’s more expensive than its predecessor, but it brings:
- 550 horsepower (65 hp more than the HEMI Scat Pack).
- Standard all-wheel drive for better launches and daily usability.
- A modern inline-six engine that positions Dodge for future regulations.
The tradeoff, of course, is saying goodbye to the HEMI V8 in one of Dodge’s most iconic trims. For some, that’s unforgivable. For others, the numbers and performance improvements justify the evolution.
So, is over $60,000 a fair price for a 550-hp, AWD Charger, even without a V8? That’s up to you. What’s clear is that Dodge isn’t backing down—it’s redefining what American muscle looks like for the future.
