2019 Challenger Hellcat Boosted to 717 HP, R/T Scat Pack Updated
They may be sulking in the shadows of Dodge’s just-announced Redeye model, but the Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack versions of the brand’s popular Challenger muscle-machine have also been bolstered for 2019.
Perhaps the biggest news here is that Hellcat gains 10 horsepower, bringing its stable to a total of 717. Torque output measures 656 pound-feet. A new and fully functional dual-snorkel hood helps deliver that extra giddy-up, along with a larger-volume intake box.
As before, a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission is available in this car. Multi-mode adaptive dampers, burly Brembo brakes, a launch-assist feature for speedier getaways and line lock so you can easily roast the rear tires are standard in every Hellcat. A rear-seat delete option is available, offered on R/T Scat Pack models as well.
For an even more menacing stance, a Widebody appearance package is on the menu for both these Challengers. Broad-shouldered fender flares bulk up this already meaty vehicle, increasing its width by 3.5 inches. Customers opting for this package on either car also get forged aluminum 20-by-11-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero tires, a combo that should be both stylish and highly functional thanks to the extra grip they provide.
SEE ALSO: 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Will Wake the Dead with 797 HP
R/T Scat Pack models continue to offer a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, a naturally aspirated gem that’s rated at 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. Hiding that engine away from prying eyes is a power-bulge aluminum hood with a dedicated air intake and dual heat extractors. These Challengers also have launch control, line lock, SRT Drive modes and more.
The Widebody package adds stiffer front springs, retuned dampers and larger sway bars at both ends. New fascias front and rear help improve airflow.
According to the folks at Dodge, their latest R/T Scat Pack Challenger Widebody should be about two seconds faster around a race track than its predecessor. That time equates to a whopping 12 car lengths! As for the quarter mile, it can deliver it in 12.1 seconds at 112 miles an hour.
Base price for the Scat Pack should be less than $40,000, making it a relative bargain for the performance it offers.
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Born and raised in metro Detroit, Craig was steeped in mechanics from childhood. He feels as much at home with a wrench or welding gun in his hand as he does behind the wheel or in front of a camera. Putting his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism to good use, he's always pumping out videos, reviews, and features for AutoGuide.com. When the workday is over, he can be found out driving his fully restored 1936 Ford V8 sedan. Craig has covered the automotive industry full time for more than 10 years and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA) and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA).
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