SRT Is Back: Legendary Performance Returns to Dodge, Jeep, and Ram

It’s official: SRT is back. Stellantis has revived the Street and Racing Technology division, the same team behind some of America’s most legendary performance cars—from the Viper to the Hellcat. After years in limbo, SRT will once again shape the future of Dodge, Jeep, and Ram performance. What does this mean for enthusiasts? Possibly a new era of supercharged SUVs, wild muscle sedans, and maybe even a reborn Viper. Let’s look back at the most unforgettable SRT models and explore what could come next.

A Brief History of SRT

The SRT story begins in the late 1980s with the team that developed the first Dodge Viper. In 2004, SRT officially became a standalone performance division, crafting high-horsepower machines that redefined American performance.

Over the years, SRT created some of the most thrilling cars and trucks on the road:

• Dodge Viper – A raw, V-10-powered supercar that became an icon.
• Dodge Neon SRT-4 – A turbocharged compact sedan that consistently outperformed much more expensive competitors.
• Charger and Challenger Hellcats – 700+ hp sedans and coupes that turned tire smoke into an art form.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT – A muscle SUV before that was even a thing.

Learn more about SRT’s history and impact

Why SRT’s Return Matters

According to Stellantis leadership, SRT will once again operate as a dedicated unit. Longtime executive Tim Kuniskis, now Head of Stellantis American Brands, described the revival as a critical part of the company’s strategy:

“SRT was an essential step as we ramp up new product launches, unlocking more performance than ever before.”

This means:

• Dedicated engineering teams focused on powertrain and chassis development.
• Renewed emphasis on performance variants across Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and potentially Chrysler.
• A clearer performance identity for Stellantis brands as they balance electrification and traditional engines.

With Dodge struggling to move electric Chargers off dealer lots, SRT could help inject excitement back into the lineup.

Iconic SRT Models We Still Miss

Dodge Viper and Viper ACR

Arguably the most famous SRT project ever, the Viper made its debut in 1992 and evolved into the fearsome ACR track weapon. Final ACR models delivered 645 horsepower from an 8.4-liter V-10, lapping racetracks faster than many European exotics.

Quick Specs:

• 645 hp 8.4L V-10
• Top Speed (Standard Viper): 206 mph
• ACR Top Speed: 177 mph (with massive downforce)

Though production ended in 2017, many fans still hope for a comeback.

Challenger and Charger Hellcat

The Hellcat V-8 put Dodge back on the map. Whether in the Challenger coupe or Charger sedan, the 6.2-liter supercharged engine redefined modern muscle cars:

• 707–797 horsepower
• 0–60 mph in ~3.5 seconds
• Distinctive, thunderous exhaust note

While the Hellcat era is winding down, it set a new benchmark for American performance.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

Before high-performance SUVs were everywhere, Jeep launched the Grand Cherokee SRT. Its 475-horsepower Hemi V-8 combined muscle car speed with all-weather capability.

Quick Specs:

• 475 hp 6.4L Hemi V-8
• 0–60 mph in 4.3 seconds
• Full-time all-wheel drive

A new version could easily become a best-seller again.

What Could SRT Build Next?

While Stellantis hasn’t announced specific new models, the possibilities are exciting:

• Challenger Successor – A modern muscle coupe blending the new Hurricane inline-six with electrified powertrains.
• Stealth SUV – The upcoming Durango replacement could be the perfect canvas for a Hellcat-inspired performance version.
• Ram TRX Evolution – SRT expertise could keep Ram’s off-road truck ahead of Ford’s Raptor R.
• Grand Cherokee SRT Return – A new generation performance SUV to battle luxury rivals.
• 300 SRT Revival – The comeback of a discreet high-performance sedan delivering over 500 horsepower.

It’s too early to know which, if any, will happen—but SRT’s revival makes all of them possible.

Read more about Dodge’s next-gen performance plans

The Road Ahead

One thing is clear: Stellantis and SRT aren’t content to let performance fade quietly. As the automotive landscape changes, the return of SRT is a promise to enthusiasts that big power, track capability, and attitude still have a future. Whether that means electrified muscle cars, high-output inline-sixes, or something entirely new, the next few years will define what SRT means for a new generation.

FAQs

What does SRT stand for?
Street and Racing Technology, Stellantis’s high-performance engineering division.

Is SRT really coming back?
Yes. Stellantis has re-established SRT as a dedicated performance unit overseeing Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.

Will the Dodge Viper return?
There are no confirmed plans, but many enthusiasts hope the Viper could be revived under SRT.

What engines will SRT use in the future?
Expect a mix of the new Hurricane inline-six, electrified powertrains, and potentially high-output V-8s in some applications.

Will there be more Hellcat models?
While the original Hellcat V-8 is likely ending, SRT could develop new high-power engines and performance packages.