Dodge Charger Daytona R/T: Is a Gas-Powered Comeback on the Horizon?

2025-05-19

By Kelowna Chrysler

At Kelowna Chrysler Dodge Jeep, we're as passionate about muscle cars as our customers are. And if you've been following the evolution of the legendary Dodge Charger, you know it's been a wild ride. The most recent twist? Dodge is discontinuing the all-electric Charger Daytona R/T for the 2026 model year - fueling speculation (and hope) about a return to classic V8 power.

Let's break down what this means for muscle car fans, collectors, and future Dodge owners right here in Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley.

Why Dodge Is Discontinuing the Charger Daytona R/T EV

The Charger Daytona R/T was intended to usher in a new generation of American muscle--fully electric, lightning-fast, and futuristic in design. With 496 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, it had serious performance credentials. But the market didn't bite.

Here's why:

• Tariffs: The Daytona R/T was built in Canada, and new 25% U.S. tariffs on Canadian-made vehicles drastically impacted its cost competitiveness.
• Market Mismatch: Traditional muscle car buyers weren't quite ready to embrace EVs. The visceral feel and sound of a HEMI V8 just can't be simulated.
• Stiff EV Competition: Dodge was going head-to-head with Tesla, Lucid, and other EV brands that have deeper experience and infrastructure in the electric space.

Despite its tech-forward design and the unique "Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust" (a simulated growl that tried to replace the rumble of a V8), the Charger R/T EV just didn't capture the hearts of longtime fans.

The HEMI V8 Is Roaring Back

The discontinuation of the electric R/T isn't the end of the Charger - it's the beginning of a return to form.

Stellantis, Dodge's parent company, has confirmed that HEMI V8 production will resume in August 2025 at its Dundee, Michigan facility. This includes:

• 5.7L HEMI V8
• 6.4L "Apache" 392 V8
• 6.2L Supercharged Hellcat V8

This is more than a manufacturing decision - it's a response to overwhelming consumer demand for the sound, power, and soul of internal combustion.

At Kelowna Chrysler Dodge Jeep, we're already fielding questions about what's coming next. While official announcements are pending, there are strong rumors that a V8-powered Charger Daytona R/T could debut for 2026, possibly sporting the 5.7L HEMI. Even whispers of a new Hellcat variant are making the rounds.

What's Available Now?

While the Daytona R/T EV is bowing out, there's still plenty of performance in Dodge's current lineup:

• The 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack will remain available with an impressive 670 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, proving that EV muscle still has a place in the garage.
• The Charger Sixpack with the new 3.0L twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six engine will offer a compelling gas-powered option with modern engineering.

Whether you're interested in a cutting-edge electric experience or want to wait for the rumble of a V8 to return, we've got you covered.

A Future Collector's Item?

Don't underestimate the significance of the Charger Daytona R/T EV's short production run. With limited units on the road and an early exit from the lineup, this model is shaping up to be a future collectible. For car enthusiasts and investors alike, now could be the time to lock one in before they're gone for good.

Ask our team about available inventory or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) options.

Final Thoughts from Kelowna Chrysler Dodge Jeep

The story of the Dodge Charger is far from over. If anything, it's about to get louder. The return of the HEMI V8 doesn't just represent horsepower--it's a revival of American muscle tradition. And as your official Dodge dealership in the Okanagan, we're ready to guide you through this new era.

Whether you're looking for today's most advanced EVs or holding out for a gas-powered beast in 2026, Kelowna Chrysler Dodge Jeep is your trusted source for Dodge performance and reliability.

Stop by our showroom or contact us today to learn more about current availability, future releases, or to schedule a test drive in one of Dodge's modern classics.