The Hellcat Engine Is Not Dead – but There Is a Catch

So, what are we talking about? Well, the 6.2L supercharged V8 has become a crate engine in Australia. Mopar's local arm has announced a limited number of units, which are available to order as we speak.

This assembly was first seen in the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Down Under, pumping out 527 kilowatts (707 hp/717 ps) and 875 Nm (645 lb-ft) of torque. The ultra-punchy mainstream SUV can still take a swing at the exotic establishment, as it takes just 3.5 seconds to 62 mph (100 kph) and needs just 11 seconds to complete the quarter-mile sprint.

Mind you, this is not the only crate engine Mopar Australia has in its portfolio. The company has also launched the 6.4L 392 HEMI V8. This unit steams out 361 kilowatts or 484 horsepower (491 ps) and 644 Nm (475 pound-foot) of torque. Like the supercharged unit, it comes with a water pump, fuel injectors, coil packs, intake manifold with throttle body, and front sump oil pan.

According to Mopar, these crate V8s are "suited to motorsport and off-road applications," though with a bit of work, they can power a whole bunch of rides, as long as the vehicles in question have enough room under their hoods to accommodate them. Both units are available at Jeep dealers Down Under in limited numbers, so interested parties should hurry up and place a deposit should they want to snatch one up.

But how much would you have to cough out for the crate motors? That would be a cool AU$16,000 for the 392 HEMI V8 and nearly double for the supercharged lump, which is available at AU$29,000. The former pricing equals US$10,663 at the current exchange rates, and the latter translates to US$19,327. Remember that these prices exclude the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and you may also face some dealer markups in some cases.

With Stellantis' US brands looking at the future, which includes a lot of electrification, including for the latest Dodge Charger muscle car, these companies are not interested in the V8 firepower anymore. That's certainly a pity, as most enthusiasts don't care about any traditional model that doesn't feature a V8, which is why rides such as the Ford Mustang still thrive.

You could opt for a used (barely driven) one or search the SH market for that perfect V8 motor and engage in a heart transplant, but wouldn't you rather have the option to buy a new V8-powered Charger instead?