
Hemi Power Could Return as Stellantis Reportedly Plans V8 Engine Revival
In a surprising twist that’s sure to thrill muscle car enthusiasts and truck loyalists alike, a new report claims Stellantis is preparing to bring back production of its iconic Hemi V-8 engines later this year. According to Mopar Insiders, unnamed sources within the automaker say that the 5.7-liter, 6.4-liter, and even the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8s will once again roll off the lines at Stellantis’ Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan.
While the current Dodge Durango and Jeep Wrangler 392 still make use of Hemi V-8s, other flagship vehicles in the Stellantis portfolio—like the redesigned Charger and Ram 1500—have notably dropped the throaty eight-cylinder in favor of downsized or electrified powertrains. But it seems that could soon change.
Mopar Insiders reports that the engines will be built using the well-established Gen III Hemi architecture, which dates back to 2003. Interestingly, there are whispers of a possible larger-displacement variant also joining the lineup. While that remains speculative for now, the overall shift marks a significant change in direction for Stellantis, especially in the wake of former CEO Carlos Tavares’ departure in December. Tavares was reportedly the driving force behind discontinuing the Hemi—a move that drew criticism from traditionalists and performance fans alike.
With Tavares out, and with some softening of political and regulatory pressure on emissions and electrification under the Trump administration’s new guidance, Stellantis appears to be responding to market demand and internal desire to keep the Hemi name alive. The administration has pushed to roll back EV incentives, revise fuel economy targets, and loosen regulatory oversight, giving automakers a bit more breathing room when it comes to powertrain strategies.
Even so, electrification isn’t going away—nor is it being ignored by Stellantis. But a balanced strategy seems to be forming, one that includes both hybrid/electric options and enthusiast-grade internal combustion. Earlier this year, Motor1 spoke with Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, who didn’t shut the door on a Hemi return. He explained that while the current Hemi V-8s aren’t compatible with the new Ram 1500’s electrical architecture, that only “means you can’t do it right away”—not that it’s off the table completely.
If the report holds true, production of the naturally aspirated 5.7-liter Hemi could start as soon as August at the Dundee plant. That would mark a notable shift for Stellantis and potentially signal a renaissance of V-8 performance in vehicles that had seemingly turned the page.
For now, the automotive world will be watching closely. Whether it’s about nostalgia, capability, or the raw appeal of a big, burly V-8, the Hemi still holds a special place in American car culture—and its return could offer Stellantis a powerful opportunity to reconnect with its roots.
Sources: Motor1 via Mopar Insiders