The Charger name is a historical one, borne by many other Dodge Charger models in the past; they have generally been performance models. Introduced in February 2005 for the 2006 model year, this new Charger shares the LX platform of the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum; in fact, the interior of the Charger is almost identical to that of the Magnum.
An SRT-8 version of the Charger debuted at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. Powered by a 425 hp (317 kW) version of the 6.1 L Hemi, it also features upgraded Brembo brakes, and interior and exterior updates. The engine produces 420 ft-lb (569 Nm) of torque. The 425 NET horsepower of the modern 6.1L Hemi makes it even more powerful than the legendary Hemi engines of the muscle car era, the biggest of which was rated at 425 horsepower. This makes the 6.1L Hemi engine the most powerful V8 engine that Dodge/Chrysler has ever put in a production vehicle.
